Memphis is an amazing travel destination in Tennessee. Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in Memphis, Tennessee, so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in Memphis, Tennessee, and the best places to visit in Memphis, Tennessee.
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Alcenia’s
A visit to Alcenia’s Desserts & Preserves after a long tiring day in Memphis is a must-try. You won’t get disappointed with the offers.
This is the best place for travelers who love to try different delicious cuisines. If you are with your family, friends, someone special, and even your kids, don’t miss out on visiting this lovely place!
Whatever you want to call it—soul food, southern cooking, meat-and-three dinners, home cooking. These things are all available in Alcenias!
At Alcenia’s, everyone is welcome. Whether you’re a vegetarian, dieting, or have other dietary restrictions. They would love to have you join them for dinner, whether you are a single person, a family with children, or a big group. Fantastic!
If you are wondering what to taste, you will have a lot of options. Fried chicken, salmon croquettes, catfish, pork chops, meatloaf, and waffles are some of their best sellers!
Checking out their impeccable fried green tomatoes, cha-cha cabbage, yams, and hot-water cornbread is a must-try. They also offer a variety of amazing desserts and other comfort food classics!
In Alcenias, all of your cravings will be satisfied. Book a visit today and enjoy your meal!
Address: 317 North Main Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Autozone Park
AutoZone Park is the best spot if you are looking for an impressive stadium downtown in Memphis!
The unique park is perfect for a vacation getaway with your loved ones. It offers many fun activities and adventures which you will enjoy.
In addition, AutoZone has many features to keep even the most active kids entertained, making it ideal for family outings. Kids can enjoy batting cages, inflatables, a 24-foot climbing wall, and hot-shot basketball activities!
If you are looking for more, AutoZone Park got you! The Bird Bath water gun race and other carnival activities with great rewards on the Boardwalk await you!
Meanwhile, adults and other vacationers can also enjoy this amazing place. The park offers souvenirs such as free bobbleheads and t-shirts. If you are with your special someone, you can enjoy watching fireworks in the area!
Aside from outdoor activities, you can also find different food stalls in this fantastic park. Grabbing some hotdogs, peanuts, and cold beer is the best thing to do while enjoying the things around you.
The park is perfectly situated downtown. It is close to Beale Street, numerous restaurants, five-star hotels like the Peabody and the Madison, and the trolley line.
AutoZone Park has immersive experiences for you to enjoy. Have fun!
Address: 200 Union Ave., Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Beale Street
Beale Street is one of the top attractions in the city of Memphis!
It is a street with a remarkable history and is frequently cited as one of America’s most recognizable streets. This is the perfect place to have a quick getaway from your workload.
Unsurprisingly, Beale Street draws millions of tourists worldwide yearly. Given that it has music playing from every open door, tributes to music legends along its cobblestone walkways, and reminders of the city’s rich history everywhere you turn.
Before enjoying your nightlife in the unique street, head to Hard Rock Cafe. Grab a delicious appetizer, and you are good to go.
When you get there, as people line the sidewalks, watch as the Beale Street Flippers transform the cobblestone street into a runway for aerial somersaults. Bring your camera so you can capture every moment.
Another best Beale Street experience is grabbing Silky’s signature drinks. Expect a gallon-sized cocktail served in a bucket.
Dancing with the friendly locals is another fun thing to do when you visit Beale Street. They usually gather around the park for free concerts. Participants of all ages gather for a groove session in the Memphis tradition. Sounds fun!
Enjoy your visit to Beale Street!
Address: 203 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Crystal Shrine Grotto
Crystal Shrine Grotto is the best spot if you’re up to visiting a crystal and art-filled grotto, a reflecting pool, engaging seating, and climbing structures!
One of Memphis’ most secret treasures is located inside Memorial Park Cemetery: the Crystal Shrine Grotto. This might be new to your experience, but you will surely appreciate the stunning place.
This grotto dates back to the 1930s and is situated in Memorial Park Cemetery’s center and next to Isaac Hayes’s grave. But don’t be concerned—nobody is buried in this cemetery section.
Suppose you want to explore a unique destination in Memphis. In that case, Crystal Shrine Grotto is the perfect place to visit with your whole family. Every surface in this cave is covered in crystals, and choral music is piped in.
In addition, inside the cave, many scenarios show the conception, life, and death of Jesus.
The grotto surrounds a magnificent meditation garden with a wooden bridge, a pond, a fountain of youth, a wishing well, and fake animals. There are many things you can explore here!
Meanwhile, you don’t have to worry if you plan to visit the place with your kids. They can enjoy climbing in the surrounding landscaping, a great spot along the hillside.
Crystal Shrine Grotto offers free admission anytime. You can also enjoy having photography activities in the area. Have fun!
Address: 5668 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN 38119-0885, United States
Graceland
Heads up, Elvis Presley’s fans!
Graceland Mansion is an excellent spot to visit after having a tiring day exploring different attractions in Memphis.
On June 7, 1982, Elvis Presley’s Graceland opened to the public. Since that day, every vacationer who wants to feel Elvis Presley’s life keeps visiting the fantastic place.
What’s unique about the place is you can explore the mansion and Graceland’s museums and exhibits at the same time. Aside from that, it also offers many fun outdoor adventures!
Explore the mansion. Every area reflects Elvis’ personality, from the inviting Living Room to the vibrant Jungle room.
It is also possible to write tributes to Elvis. On the Graceland wall, you can sign the wall or write whatever you want for the famous singer!
In addition, you can get up close and personal with Elvis Presley’s jumpsuits. It includes a gold lamé suit and ’68 Special clothes at Elvis Presley’s Memphis at Graceland.
Exploring the Wall of Gold is another fun thing to do. You will have the chance to see the wall of awards and Gold Records in Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum.
This place is also a perfect spot for kids since they recently established an exhibit featuring an ever-rotating lineup of displays. Relax and have fun!
Address: Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116, United States
Memphis Botanic Garden
Tranquil gardens that provide stunning scenery all year long that’s what Memphis Botanic Garden offers you.
Every day the Memphis Botanic Garden is available to the public, allowing visitors to stroll among the many gardens. It lies east of downtown, providing tourists with a respite from the city’s activity.
In this fascinating place, you will find many specialty gardens that look at diverse plants, flowers, and tree families.
Over 96 acres of land, there are 30 specialty garden regions. The Asian Garden, which includes plants indigenous to nations like China, Japan, and Taiwan, is a favorite among visitors.
The vibrant Iris Garden and Daffodil Hill, which boasts up to 300,000 lovely blossoms, are also popular tourist attractions.
An arboretum section is also available at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Not to add, the garden hosts activities and performances that are appropriate for both adults and kids.
It’s a lovely, enjoyable area for people of all ages. Children may explore and play, and the rest of the travelers can also have fun.
They also offer some exhibits like Alice and Wonderland displays. Something a family and kids would enjoy!
Book your trip to Memphis today if you’re up to witnessing the beauty of the Memphis Botanic Garden!
Address: 750 Cherry Rd, Memphis, TN 38117, United States
Memphis Rock’ n’ Soul Museum
The Memphis Rock’ n’ Soul Museum in Memphis is an excellent escape if you’re in the area.
Downtown Memphis, Tennessee’s Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is located at the intersection of legendary Beale Street. It is one of the world’s most important crossroads for music.
The museum is situated on the plaza of FedExForum, Memphis’ top sports and entertainment venue. It also serves as the home of the NBA Memphis Grizzlies and big-name concerts.
Wondering what fun activities you can enjoy here? There’s a lot! Rock ‘n’ Soul gives Shelby County locals a fascinating viewpoint on their region’s enormous musical influence on the entire world.
This museum is home to a beautiful collection of artifacts, ranging from clothes and records to vintage Wurlitzers. A good area to go if you enjoy the soil and the color blue.
If you are into music, consider visiting this unique destination. From the rural music of the 1930s to Memphis’ musical heyday in the 1970s, the museum offers a whole experience of Memphis music.
Since all you can do is a tour and appreciate the place, you can do that with your family and friends. Having a museum date with your special someone sounds great too!
Have a wonderful experience in The Memphis Rock’ n’ Soul Museum!
Address: Just South of Beale at FedExForum, 191 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Memphis Zoo
Whether watching wildlife is your favorite thing, Memphis Zoo is another excellent spot you should visit!
The Memphis Zoo is frequently ranked as one of the best zoos in Tennessee. Here, you will have the chance to see the animals closely in their habitat.
This is a top-notch zoo that will captivate both children and their parents. It features gigantic pandas from China and a Teton environment rich with grizzly bears and wolves.
Seeing a Northwest Passage habitat home to polar bears and river otters is a must-try!
If you visit the zoo with your kids, they will love it. Children will love the exhibits at the Memphis Zoo because they can get close to creatures like polar bears, hippos, and pandas.
The zoo is also a perfect destination if you are with your special someone. There is no more ideal location for a little cheesy romance than the carousel at the Memphis Zoo.
After a long tiring day, the zoo is the ideal location to spend the day observing the animals.
In addition to the fun, the zoo is accessible for a few nighttime visits. It features a skating tent and Christmas decorations in the winter. Sounds great!
Address: 2000 Prentiss Pl, Memphis, TN 38112, United States
National Civil Rights Museum
While in Memphis, don’t miss a trip to the National Civil Rights Museum. You will have fun and learn a lot at the same time.
Opening in 1991, the National Civil Rights Museum had a $27.5 million refurbishment in 2012. It functions as the beating heart and pillar of downtown Memphis today.
The museum also holds lectures and unique music, cuisine, and entertainment occasions. Expect good concerts like the MLK Soul Concert Series and Night at the Lorraine.
Sadly, a tragic history happened in this location. The civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated here in 1968.
Don’t be discouraged because the museum hosts several events with notable civil rights activists and academics each year on King’s birthday, January 15 and April 4, respectively.
And because this is Memphis, local musicians play stirring musical works in front of the balcony where King was killed. You will definitely enjoy this event, especially if you are a music lover.
If you’re in Memphis, the National Civil Rights Museum is a must-see and can be one of the main attractions you travel to the city for. It’s unique.
Exploring the iconic Room 306, where Martin Luther King, Jr. laid his head, is a must-try. So don’t miss out!
Address: 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Orpheum Theater
Watching impressive performances in Orpheum Theatre will make your Memphis vacation complete. The beautiful theater hosts theatrical productions and musicals.
For you to know, one of the few surviving “movie palaces” from the 1920s in America was the Memphis Orpheum Theater. It was built in 1928.
Once you visit the place, expect to see some impressive decorations. You will see elegant curtains, sculpted moldings, opulent crystal chandeliers, and a sizable pipe organ.
Have fun exploring the Broadway productions, concerts, comedy performances, and special events presented at the theater every year.
Rest assured, this lovely place offers a rich culture and history. The Orpheum has hosted many great performers, and Memphis continues to value its arts, entertainment, and culture there.
For some, it seems cozy and is smaller than some cinemas. But the place is absolutely beautiful and well-kept.
You can have fun with your family, friends, and even kids and appreciate the events you will attend.
The staff was quite accommodating, and there were plenty of concessions. Snacks and beverages were available to you in your seats.
In addition, the historic Orpheum is the ideal location for gatherings, marriages, group outings, business events, and neighborhood-based initiatives.
Visiting Orpheum Theatre for once in your life is the best thing to do. Enjoy!
Address: 203 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Shelby Farms Park
Shelby Farms Park is one of the top destinations in Memphis, Tennessee.
The park, located in Memphis, Tennessee, serves as both a bustling community center and a getaway from the stress of the city.
Shelby Farms Park offers activities for all ages and abilities, whether you explore the park on foot, by bicycle, in the open air, or on the water.
The unique attraction offers more than 40 miles of paved and unpaved routes that are well-liked for jogging, hiking, and biking. You can do a lot of things here!
There are more than 20 bodies of water in the park, which offer a variety of fishing options. You can also see many buffalos around the area.
The award-winning Woodland Discovery Playground allows kids to explore and have fun. Meanwhile, the Water Play Sprayground is great for them to splash around.
If you are looking for more fun adventures, you have many options. Consider going horseback riding, treetop excursion, or playing paintball or laser tag. Fantastic!
Even your furry friends’ companions can have fun! The pathways in the park are open to dogs as long as they are on their proper leash.
You can also grab a snack in Lake’s Edge Gift Shop or explore the different restaurants around the park. Have fun!
Address: 6903 Great View Dr. N, Memphis, TN 38134, United States
Southland Casino
In Southland Casino Racing, you will have plenty of fun activities. In the Mid-South, it provides the largest and newest casino.
This place is an excellent travel destination spot for family and friends who love playing different games.
Two and a half football fields long, the brand-new casino floor has 2,400 slot machines, 50 live table games, and sports betting.
If you’re tired of playing and want to grab some delicious food, that option is available at Southland Casino.
You can dine at The buffet at the Kitchens, Sports Bar & Grill, Ignite Steakhouse, and The Fry House. In addition, The Grind, the Chairman’s Bar, Charred Oak Bar, and Ignite Steakhouse Bar are some of the restaurants and newest dining options.
Meanwhile, options are available here if you are looking for a place to stay. The 300 rooms in the 20-story, blue-glass high-rise hotel include 60 and 12 penthouse suites.
You will find friendly and accommodating staff that will cater to your concerns. Security staff are available too.
The most thrilling gaming experience in the area is available at the brand-new Southland Casino Hotel, only 7 minutes from Downtown Memphis. So don’t miss out. Grab the opportunity and have fun!
Address: 1550 N. Ingram Blvd. West Memphis, United States
Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Stax Museum of American Soul Music is the best option if you are looking for a perfect spot to visit in Memphis if you love music.
This museum honors the musicians who made recordings in this illustrious location and other American soul greats.
You can find Isaac Hayes’ customized Cadillac Eldorado in the museum’s collection of more than 2,000 objects, interactive exhibits, videos, and galleries. This car was bought as part of his renegotiated contract with Stax in 1972.
The quality of the displayed items and the introduction movie presented before the self-guided tour received high marks from the visitors. You should see it for yourself too.
Another feature that recent travelers have praised is the Express Yourself dance floor, where you can break a move when you need a break from reading. Many of the better Memphis tours include a stop at the studio as a highlight.
If you are concerned about what memories to bring home, Stax Museum got you. You can shop their extensive selection of CDs, DVDs, and other Stax items.
You won’t be let down by Stax. Some of their exhibitions have changed. The staffs are generally very welcoming. Have fun!
Address: 926 E McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38126, United States
Sun Studio
Sun Studio is one of the most iconic places in Memphis, Tennessee.
This is where Elvis Presley, then age 18, made his debut recording. It is renowned as “The Birthplace of Rock’ N’ Roll” and the music industry’s most well-known recording studio in the world.
During your guided tour, you’ll learn about the renowned musicians who made recordings here.
You can also have the chance to hear never-before-heard music and see artifacts from the studio’s glory days.
The tour guides were amusing and knowledgeable, which added to having a fun experience and adventure in the place.
Meanwhile, since the spot is very popular, tourists advise visiting as soon as the studio is open to avoid waiting in line for a tour place.
Regarding restrictions, there will be admission fees depending on the age of your companions. Note that kids younger than 5 years old are not allowed on tour.
In addition, it also offers free shuttle service to and from the Rock ‘n’ Soul museum on Beale Street, free parking, and a gift store.
The studio is generous since you can also avail yourself of the free shuttle if you are from the Sun Studio and want to go to Graceland.
Address: 706 Union Ave., Memphis, TN 38103, United States
The Overton Park Shell
In Tennessee’s Midtown Memphis, the lovely and large Overton Park is home to the Overton Park Shell.
The park has miles of trails and a golf course, making it a perfect setting for those with a creative spirit and still youthfulness.
You have a lot of outdoor adventures to choose from once you visit this place.
The Bike Gate plaza is a warm welcome in the same area on the city’s extensive path network. You can enjoy cycling activities here.
The forested trails in Overton Park are a favorite, with runners across the entire city. The 1.4-mile limestone loop provides a cushioned surface for running.
In addition, the roughly four miles of dirt trails that weave through the 126-acre Old Forest are popular with both runners and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Overton Park Shell also offers you some calm and relaxing areas. The park’s formal gardens are a great spot to unwind and take in the scenery.
The gardens are shaded by crape myrtles and lined with symmetrical plantings. Bring your camera so you can take a picture with your loved ones.
This is good news for every fur parent. Overton Park allows dogs on leashes. Overton Bark is a 1.3-acre enclosed dog park where dogs can run free.
Have fun, and plan your trip to The Overton Park Shell today!
Address: 1928 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, United States
Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Help animal shelters out! Most pets in animal shelters are there because their owners don’t care for them and let them breed without control. A female dog can have about two litters of puppies a year. There are usually between six and ten puppies in a litter. If one female dog and her offspring were allowed to keep breeding, they would have around 67,000 puppies in 6 years. The facts about cats are much more alarming. A female cat can have up to three litters a year, and each litter usually has between four and six kittens. One cat and her kittens could have 420,000 kittens over 7 years.
Volunteering to spend time with the animals can help them live better lives and have a better chance of being adopted because you are keeping them socialized and preventing them from going stir-crazy in their kennels, which can happen when the shelter is overcrowded, and each animal isn’t getting the attention they need.
Consider giving your used towels and bedding to rescue organizations or the humane society if you’re short on time but still want to contribute. The animals at the shelter are constantly in need of warm bedding. If your kids stop using their infant blankets, a puppy or kitten might feel cozy inside them. Rescue groups and humane societies always need cat and dog food, cat litter, leashes, collars, and toys.
Volunteering at a local animal shelter and giving back to the community is one of the most fulfilling things you can do. Get started with this list of animal shelters in Memphis, Tennessee.
