Best Times to Visit in Memphis, Tennessee, United States
1. Beale Street
Famous street for blues music and nightlife. Best visited during the WFC Beale Street Music Festival or during summer nights when the clubs are buzzing.
- Live Music: Offers live music from local and international artists
- Nightlife: Known for its vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and clubs.
- Historic District: Part of the National Register of Historic Places
2. Graceland
Elvis Presley's former home turned museum. Best visited during Elvis Week in August or on holidays like Christmas when it's decorated.
- Elvis Memorabilia: Houses an extensive collection of Elvis' personal items and memorabilia.
- Iconic Home: Preserves the iconic home where Elvis lived from 1957 until his death in 1977.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours of the mansion and grounds.
3. National Civil Rights Museum
Historic museum located at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Best visited during Black History Month or on anniversaries related to civil rights.
- Civil Rights History: Preserves and interprets the history of the American Civil Rights Movement.
- Iconic Landmark: Located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.
- Memphis Impact: Highlights Memphis' significant role in the Civil Rights Movement
4. Sun Studio
Historic recording studio where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and many others recorded. Best visited during Sun Studio tours or on special events.
- Music History: Where the careers of many music legends were launched.
- Recording Studio Tours: Offers tours showing where legendary recordings took place.
- Iconic Artifacts: Houses memorabilia from artists who recorded there, such as Elvis Presley's first microphone.
5. Memphis in May International Festival
Annual festival celebrating music, barbecue, and culture. Best visited during Memorial Day weekend.
- Music: Features a World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and concerts.
- Cultural Events: Showcases various cultural events including the Great River Run and Beale Street Music Festival.
- Memphis Celebration: A citywide celebration honoring Memphis' heritage, music, and barbecue.
6. Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Museum dedicated to the history and culture of soul music. Best visited during the Christmas season or on special events like Soulsville USA Weekend.
- Soul Music History: Houses artifacts, instruments, and recordings from Stax Records artists.
- Iconic Label: Where legends like Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and Isaac Hayes recorded.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to record their own music.
7. Memphis Zoo
One of the best zoos in the U.S., featuring over 3,500 animals. Best visited during spring or summer for optimal animal viewing.
- Wide Variety of Animals: Home to more than 3,500 animals representing over 500 species.
- Exhibits: Features exhibits like the Zambezi River Hippo Camp and Penguin Passage.
- Conservation Efforts: Supports global conservation efforts for threatened and endangered species.
8. Mud Island River Park
Outdoor park featuring a scale model of the Mississippi River. Best visited during spring or fall for pleasant weather.
- Mississippi River Model: Features a half-mile long scale model of the Mississippi River.
- River Walk: Offers a self-guided river walk with historical and geographical information.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides outdoor activities like picnicking, biking, and fishing.
9. Overton Park
Large urban park offering various attractions like the Memphis College of Art and the Dixon Gallery & Gardens. Best visited during spring or fall for beautiful scenery.
- Art and Culture: Home to the Memphis College of Art and the Dixon Gallery & Gardens.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and tennis.
- Peaceful Retreat: Offers a peaceful retreat from the city with its gardens and nature trails.
10. Memphis Botanic Garden
Large botanical garden featuring various themed gardens. Best visited during spring for blooming flowers.
- Variety of Gardens: Features over 96 acres with themed gardens like the Japanese Garden and the Teton Treetops Garden.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and events for visitors of all ages.
- Relaxing Environment: Provides a relaxing environment perfect for a peaceful stroll.
11. Memphis Redbirds Games
Minor League Baseball team playing at AutoZone Park. Best visited during the baseball season (April to September).
- Baseball Experience: Offers a unique minor league baseball experience.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Provides a family-friendly atmosphere with various activities and entertainment.
- AutoZone Park: Played at the modern AutoZone Park, with its scenic view of the Mississippi River.
12. Riverfront Development
Newly developed waterfront area with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Best visited during summer evenings for outdoor dining.
- Dining and Shopping: Offers a variety of dining and shopping options.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides outdoor activities like biking, walking, and river cruises.
- River View: Offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.
13. Museum of Science and History (MOSH)
Science and history museum with interactive exhibits. Best visited during school holidays or on weekends.
- Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits that make learning fun.
- Science and History: Covers both science and history topics.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages.
14. Bluesville Music Festival
Annual blues music festival held in August. Best visited during the festival.
- Blues Music: Featuring performances from local and international blues artists.
- Outdoor Event: An outdoor event held in Tom Lee Park along the Mississippi River.
- Celebrating Blues Culture: Celebrates Memphis' rich blues culture and heritage.
15. Memphis Grizzlies Games
NBA team playing at FedExForum. Best visited during the basketball season (October to April).
- Basketball Experience: Offers a unique NBA experience.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Provides a family-friendly atmosphere with various activities and entertainment.
- FedExForum: Played at the modern FedExForum, with its state-of-the-art amenities.