One of my favorite things about Tennessee are the state’s cities; Each one has so much culture and history to it, but Memphis seems to have the most out of the rest. Known for its own style of BBQ, blues and where Elvis Presley made a name for himself, It’s phenomenal how much you can soak in on one trip here.

 

While Memphis itself is small compared to its sister city, Nashville, there are so many things to do here! How much time you should allot depends on what you’re interested in… 1-3 days would be enough. As for myself, we decided to just spend one day in the city, as we wanted to drive over to Arkansas as well over the long holiday weekend. I didn’t think we’d be able to do everything we wanted within 24 hours, but we sure as heck did! Here are some of the best spots that you should add to your list while planning your visit!

Take a Tour of Graceland, Home to ‘The King’ Himself

If you only have time to do one thing in Memphis, Graceland should be a high priority for you if you are a fan of Elvis. I had high expectations, but was still blown away at how much there is to do and see here! After all, it is the second most-visited private residence, right after the White House.

Getting to walk through his home is so fascinating… You may think at first that the house seems small for someone of his status of fame and fortune, but you’ll soon realize that there is so much to this home. And not only do you get to see where he resided, but also his final resting place. At the end of the home tour, you’ll find the Presley family’s memorial sight where they were buried… It was really moving to get to experience.

It’s important to know that there are many other exhibits that you can check out here besides his home, that are included with admission! From his cars to his outfits, you can easily spend 2-4 hours here altogether.

Get your Memphis-style BBQ Fix at Central BBQ

There are many, many great spots where you can get fantastic BBQ in Memphis. In fact, I had a really hard time picking a place because I was given so many different recommendations! After doing lots and lots of searching, it seemed that Central BBQ was the name that would pop up the most, so there we went. There are multiple locations too, so it’s easy to get there no matter what part of the city you’re in.

 

Expect a line out the door, but don’t expect long of a wait! While we were at first intimidated by the long line of hungry customers, we got in there so speedy quick! I’ve also seen others share the same experience. Whether you’re into ribs, brisket, or wings, they have a lot of different options to choose from on their menu. And get ready, because it is so. much. FOOD! Both my fiance and myself got a half rack of ribs with two sides, and every inch of our table was filled up!

 

We really enjoyed their food here (especially their BBQ sauce!) Even thinking about it is making me hungry again!

Pay A Visit to the Infamous Peabody Hotel Ducks

Did you ever think you would visit a hotel where everyone goes just to check out some ducks swimming inside? I didn’t think I would either! In the lobby of this swanky hotel, you’ll find a large fountain, where a few ducks will swim freely in from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. But these aren’t just any ducks… they are all named, have their own little “walk of fame” outside, and are escorted to and from the fountain everyday!

If you get there at 11 a.m. or 5 p.m., there will be a ‘parade’ where you can watch the ducks be escorted. During our visit it was only open to hotel guests due to some COVID-19 protocols, but it seems to be worth carving a small bit of time out for if you’re in the area. Also while you’re at it, make sure to get the rubber duck cocktail from the bar; It’s fruity and comes with a small little rubber duck! It’s the small things that get me excited…

Tour where the Million Dollar Quartet formed at Sun Studio

This is another tour that should not be missed for any music lover! Big names like Elvis, Johnny Cash and where the Million Dollar Quartet came together, recorded in this historical studio. What’s even cooler is that it is still functioning, and has recently recorded for Maroon 5, Aly & AJ and other modern bands.

The beginning will start off with some history of how the Sun Studio was shaped into what it is today, and after you will head into the recording room where the magic is made. The studio itself still has a retro feel to it, and is pretty amazing to see in person!

Grab A Drink & Party On Beale Street

If you’ve ever had a good time on Broadway in Nashville or Bourbon Street in New Orleans, then you will have just as much of a great time here! In fact, this legendary entertainment district comes second in America, right after NOLA. Feel free to roam the street while sipping on some booze, and yes, it is totally legal there to do that!

 

There are all kinds of great bars and restaurants, but make sure you visit at least one of their famous blues/jazz clubs while you’re there! The music is the best part of Beale Street, and where you really start to feel the rich culture of Memphis.

Jam Out to Jazz & Blues at B.B King’s Blues Club

Once again, the choices of music clubs were hefty, but I went with my trust of the internet to check out B.B King’s. And yes, thank you Pinterest for directing me there!! They have food, drinks, and of course, music… but the atmosphere is the best thing here. There are different local bands that will play, and the crowd will hoot and holler all night! It was so fun to get to experience. Make sure to grab some food while you’re here too, because I ate the best shrimp and grits EVER here!

Even though this was what we were able to fit in 24 hours, there are SO many other cool things to see and do: One being the Civil Rights Museum, one of the top rated museums in the country and where you’ll find the location of Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination. Other neat attractions are the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the Blues Hall of Fame, and more. So if Memphis isn’t already on your bucket list… I bet you’ll be adding it now! 😉