Weird & Unusual Attractions in Memphis, Tennessee, United States
1. Graceland - Elvis Presley's Home
Explore the iconic home of 'The King', with unusual memorabilia and jumpsuits collection.
- Elvis Artifacts: View over 200 artifacts personally owned by Elvis
- Musical Instruments: Discover his collection of guitars, pianos, and other instruments
- Holographic Elvis: Experience an interactive hologram performance
2. Memphis Pyramid - Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid
A massive pyramid housing a Bass Pro Shop, restaurants, and a hotel with a fish aquarium.
- Architectural Marvel: One of the largest freestanding pyramids outside Egypt
- Fish Aquarium: Over 40,000 fish in a massive free-standing cylinder aquarium
- Outdoor Activities: Offers archery ranges and boat rides on a simulated lake
3. Beale Street Musical Walk of Fame
A unique tribute to Memphis music legends with star-encrusted sidewalks.
- Music Legacy: Honors more than 70 artists who contributed to Memphis' musical heritage
- Historical Significance: A must-see for music lovers visiting Beale Street
- Interactive Experience: Each star has a QR code, scanning which takes you to an audio interview with the artist
4. Peabody Duck March
A quirky tradition where ducks march through the hotel lobby daily.
- Unique Tradition: This tradition has been going on since 1933
- Duck-tails Attire: The ducks wear red capes and matching top hats during their march
- Free to Watch: Open to the public, it's a free spectacle that takes place at 11 AM and 5 PM daily
5. Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Explore the history of soul music with artifacts from Stax Records.
- Iconic Record Label: Housed in the original Stax Records building
- Soul Music Artifacts: Includes instruments, costumes, and memorabilia of soul music legends
- Interactive Exhibits: Experience the Stax recording studio, with opportunities to record your own songs
6. Dixon Gallery & Gardens
Enjoy a blend of art and nature at this stunning gallery and garden.
- Art Collection: Features European, American, and Asian artwork
- Historic Home: Set in a historic mansion with extensive gardens
- Outdoor Sculptures: Discover sculptures nestled amidst the beautiful garden setting
7. Memphis Zoo - Zodiac Skyway and Siberian Tiger Forest
Experience the unique Zodiac Skyway monorail and walkthrough tiger exhibit.
- Aerial Views: Offers a bird's eye view of the zoo using the monorail system
- Endangered Species: Works towards conservation efforts for Siberian tigers
- Exhibit Interaction: Walkthrough exhibit allows a closer look at the Siberian tigers
8. Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel National Historic Landmark
Learn about the American Civil Rights Movement at this historic motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.
- Historical Significance: A poignant reminder of the struggle for civil rights
- Multimedia Exhibits: Immersive exhibits explore the history and impact of the Civil Rights Movement
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours led by knowledgeable docents
9. Sun Studio
The birthplace of rock 'n' roll and home to Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and more.
- Rock 'n' Roll History: Over 60 years of rock history documented in this studio
- Interactive Exhibits: Experience recording studios where music legends made their mark
- Tours and Workshops: Offers tours and workshops for aspiring musicians
10. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
Explore American art from the 18th century to contemporary works.
- American Art Collection: Holds one of the largest collections of American art in the South
- Temporary Exhibits: Features rotating temporary exhibitions
- Art Education Programs: Offers art education programs for all ages
11. National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel
A museum dedicated to the American Civil Rights Movement, located at the site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination.
- Historical Significance: A poignant reminder of the struggle for civil rights
- Multimedia Exhibits: Immersive exhibits explore the history and impact of the Civil Rights Movement
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours led by knowledgeable docents
12. Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum
Learn about the history of American music with a focus on rock 'n' soul in Memphis.
- Music History: Traces the roots and evolution of American music
- Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits allowing visitors to learn about musical instruments and recording techniques
- Local Music Legends: Highlights local music legends like B.B. King, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash
13. Memphis Botanic Garden
A beautiful oasis in the city with various gardens, pavilions, and sculptures.
- Horticultural Displays: Showcases a variety of plants and flowers from around the world
- Sculpture Garden: Features over 50 sculptures by notable artists
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, tours, and workshops
14. Memphis Zoo - Predator's of the Past
A unique exhibit showcasing extinct and endangered species, including the Tyrannosaurus Rex.
- Extinct Species Exhibit: Features fossils and recreations of extinct species
- Endangered Species Conservation: Works towards the conservation efforts for endangered species
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits and activities to educate visitors
15. Memphis Peggy's Emporium of Curiosities
A quirky antique shop filled with oddities and curiosities.
- One-of-a-kind Finds: Find unique treasures you won't find anywhere else
- Rare Antiques: Browse an extensive collection of antique oddities and curiosities
- Curated Selection: A carefully curated selection that caters to the eccentric taste