
Best Museums & Art Galleries in Memphis, Tennessee, United States
1. National Civil Rights Museum
Located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum tells the story of the American civil rights movement.
- Historical Significance: Provides an in-depth look at the Civil Rights Movement and its impact on society.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes numerous interactive exhibits for a more immersive experience.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and resources for students and teachers.
2. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
One of the Mid-South's leading art museums, featuring works from ancient times to contemporary pieces.
- Diverse Collection: Features over 7,000 works spanning 5,000 years of art history.
- Rotating Exhibits: Regularly hosts new exhibitions to keep the collection fresh and engaging.
- Educational Workshops: Offers workshops and classes for both adults and children.
3. Dixon Gallery & Gardens
Beautiful museum and garden complex showcasing American, European, and Asian art.
- Outdoor Spaces: Includes 17 acres of gardens with various themed areas.
- Rotating Exhibits: Regularly hosts new exhibitions from its extensive permanent collection.
- Artistic Landscapes: Gardens are designed to complement and enhance the art on display.
4. Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum
Explores the birthplace of rock 'n' roll and soul music with interactive exhibits and memorabilia.
- Musical History: Delves into the history and cultural impact of rock 'n' soul music.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits allowing visitors to participate in recording sessions.
- Memorabilia Collection: Features a collection of memorabilia from famous artists like Elvis Presley and B.B. King.
5. Memphis Pink Palace Museum
A museum complex featuring art, science, and history exhibits along with an IMAX theatre.
- Diverse Exhibits: Offers a variety of exhibits covering topics like art, science, history, and more.
- IMAX Theatre: Features an IMAX theatre for immersive film experiences.
- Planetarium: Includes a planetarium for stargazing and educational programs.
6. Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Celebrates the history and legacy of Stax Records, home to artists like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes.
- Musical Legacy: Highlights the musical legacy of Stax Records and its impact on soul music.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits allowing visitors to create their own music.
- Memorabilia Collection: Features a collection of memorabilia from Stax Records artists.
7. Memphis Botanic Garden
A beautiful urban oasis featuring various gardens and outdoor art.
- Variety of Gardens: Includes over 96 acres with a variety of themed gardens.
- Outdoor Art Installations: Features outdoor art installations by local and international artists.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for children, families, and adults.
8. Art Museum of the University of Memphis
A museum showcasing contemporary and modern art with an emphasis on regional artists.
- Contemporary Collection: Features a collection of contemporary and modern art.
- Regional Artists: Focuses on showcasing regional artists and their work.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for students, teachers, and the community.
9. Museum of Science and History (MUSE)
An interactive museum featuring science, history, and technology exhibits.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes over 150 interactive exhibits for a hands-on learning experience.
- Temporary Exhibits: Regularly hosts temporary exhibitions on various topics.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for students and teachers.
10. Memphis Zoo
A large zoo showcasing over 3,500 animals from around the world.
- Animal Variety: Features a wide variety of animals from around the world.
- Zoo360 Exhibit: Innovative Zoo360 exhibit allows animals to explore and interact with their environments.
- Conservation Efforts: Committed to conservation efforts for the animals in its care.
11. Germantown Community Theater & Art Center
A community theater and art center featuring local artists, plays, and events.
- Local Artists: Showcases work by local artists in various media.
- Live Performances: Offers live performances of plays, concerts, and other events.
- Art Classes & Workshops: Provides art classes and workshops for all skill levels.
12. Overton Park Art Sculpture Garden & Arboretum
An outdoor sculpture garden featuring over 40 works by local and international artists.
- Outdoor Spaces: Includes a beautiful park with an arboretum and various gardens.
- Artistic Installations: Features over 40 sculptures by local and international artists.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for children, families, and adults.
13. Memphis College of Art
A college focused on visual arts, design, and art education.
- Art Education: Provides undergraduate and graduate programs in various visual arts.
- Gallery Spaces: Features several galleries showcasing student, faculty, and visiting artist works.
- Community Engagement: Engages with the community through workshops, lectures, and exhibitions.
14. Memphis Heritage Tours
Guided tours focusing on the city's history, music, and cultural heritage.
- Historical Sites: Visits historical sites like Graceland, Sun Studio, and Beale Street.
- Music History: Explores the birthplace of rock 'n' roll and soul music.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerses visitors in the local culture, history, and food scene.
15. ArtsMemphis
A non-profit organization supporting the arts and cultural community in Memphis.
- Art Support: Provides funding, resources, and opportunities for artists.
- Community Engagement: Engages with the community to promote arts and culture.
- Arts Education: Offers arts education programs for students and teachers.