Looking for things to do in Memphis, TN? From its role in the Civil Rights Movement to its deep connection to the blues and rock ‘n’ roll, Memphis is a place with a rich and diverse past that continues to influence the city to this day. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, here are 40 fun facts about Memphis that will give you a new appreciation for this fascinating city and some great ideas of things to do there.

  1. Memphis is the largest city in Tennessee and the second-largest in the Southeastern United States, with a population of over 650,000 people.
  2. The city is located on the Mississippi River and was founded in 1819 by a group of wealthy businessmen.
  3. Memphis is home to the world-famous Beale Street, a historic street that is considered the birthplace of the blues.
  4. The iconic Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and many other legendary musicians recorded their early hits, is located in Memphis.
  5. Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home, is the second-most visited house in the United States, after the White House.
  6. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is located in Memphis and showcases the city’s role in the development of soul music.
  7. The National Civil Rights Museum, located at the site of the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, tells the story of the Civil Rights Movement.
  8. Memphis is known for its barbecue, with many local restaurants serving up slow-smoked meat that has been rubbed with spices and slathered in tangy sauce.
  9. The Memphis Zoo is one of the top-rated zoos in the country and is home to over 4,500 animals from more than 500 different species.
  10. Memphis is home to the Memphis Grizzlies, a professional basketball team that plays in the NBA.
  11. The Pink Palace Museum and Planetarium, located in Midtown Memphis, is a museum that includes exhibits on natural history, science, and technology.
  12. The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is located on Beale Street and tells the story of the city’s role in the development of rock ‘n’ roll.
  13. The city is home to the University of Memphis, a large public university with over 20,000 students.
  14. The Peabody Hotel in downtown Memphis is famous for its daily duck march, where a group of ducks are led through the hotel lobby to swim in the fountain.
  15. The Memphis Redbirds, a minor league baseball team, play at AutoZone Park in downtown Memphis.
  16. The Memphis Pyramid, a large pyramid-shaped building on the banks of the Mississippi River, was originally built as a sports and entertainment arena but is now used as a Bass Pro Shops megastore.
  17. Memphis is known for its “ghost signs,” faded advertisements on the sides of buildings that harken back to a bygone era.
  18. The city’s Central Station, built in 1914, is a historic train station that has been renovated and now serves as a hub for Amtrak and the city’s trolley system.
  19. Memphis is home to the Orpheum Theatre, a historic theater that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances.
  20. The city has a long tradition of political activism, dating back to the Civil Rights Movement and including more recent protests in support of Black Lives Matter.
  21. The Memphis Riverfront, a mile-long stretch of parkland along the Mississippi River, is a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and picnicking.
  22. The Peabody Hotel is known for its daily tradition of having a group of ducks march through the lobby and into the hotel’s fountain. This tradition dates back to 1933.
  23. The National Civil Rights Museum is located at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968.
  24. The Memphis Zoo is a popular choice for those looking for things to do in Memphis, TN. It is home to over 4,500 animals, including giant pandas, elephants, and polar bears.
  25. Memphis is known for its BBQ and one of the most famous places to get it is at Central BBQ.
  26. The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee.
  27. Memphis has a rich musical history, with the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum dedicated to showcasing the city’s musical heritage.
  28. Memphis is home to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, which celebrates the sounds of Memphis soul.
  29. The Pink Palace Museum is a historic mansion that now serves as a museum of natural history, science, and technology.
  30. The Memphis Redbirds are a Triple-A baseball team affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals.
  31. The Blues Foundation, which preserves and promotes the blues, is headquartered in Memphis.
  32. The Memphis Grizzlies are the city’s NBA team, and they play their home games at the FedExForum.
  33. The Memphis Riverfront is a popular spot for biking, walking, and enjoying the scenic views of the Mississippi River.
  34. Beale Street is known for its live music, bars, and restaurants and is considered the “Home of the Blues.”
  35. Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and other legendary musicians recorded, is located in Memphis.
  36. The Memphis Pyramid was once a sports arena and is now a Bass Pro Shops store.
  37. Memphis is home to the Orpheum Theatre, a historic theater that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances.
  38. The Memphis Music Hall of Fame honors the city’s musical legends and is located in the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
  39. The Memphis Farmers Market is open on Saturdays and features fresh produce, local crafts, and live music.
  40. The Memphis Italian Festival is held annually in May and features food, music, and games.

Memphis, Tennessee is a city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of rock and roll and the home of the blues, Memphis is a must-visit destination for music lovers. But there’s much more to Memphis than just music. From world-famous barbecue to stunning museums and beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone in this southern gem. Here are some of the best things to do in Memphis.

If you’re an Elvis fan, then you likely know one of the things to do in Memphis, TN… One of the most iconic landmarks in Memphis is Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley. Visitors can tour the mansion, see Elvis’ collection of cars, and pay their respects at his final resting place. The tour includes a multimedia iPad tour of the mansion, showcasing Elvis’ life and career. For Elvis fans, a visit to Graceland is a must.

Another iconic Memphis attraction is Beale Street, a historic district lined with blues clubs, restaurants, and shops. The street comes alive at night with live music and the smell of delicious barbecue wafting through the air. Beale Street is also home to the Beale Street Music Festival, a three-day music festival held annually in May.

If you’re a fan of the blues, a visit to the Blues Hall of Fame is a must. The museum houses exhibits on the history of the blues and its most famous artists. Visitors can see artifacts from famous blues musicians like B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Robert Johnson. The museum also hosts live music performances and special events.

The National Civil Rights Museum is another must-visit attraction in Memphis. Located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the museum tells the story of the American Civil Rights Movement. The exhibits include interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that bring the history to life. Visitors can see the room where Dr. King stayed the night before his assassination and stand in the spot where he was fatally shot.

For those interested in history, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is a fascinating look at the city’s musical heritage. The museum traces the history of rock and soul music from the 1930s to the 1970s, showcasing the city’s rich musical legacy. Visitors can see exhibits on famous Memphis musicians like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Otis Redding, and learn about the city’s role in shaping the sound of American music.

You’re likely to get hungry as you’re exploring all the things to do in Memphis, TN. For a taste of Memphis’ famous barbecue, head to Central BBQ. Voted one of the best barbecue spots in the city, Central BBQ serves up mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. The restaurant has a casual, laid-back atmosphere and is the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the city.

Another great spot for barbecue is The Bar-B-Q Shop, a family-owned restaurant serving delicious barbecue since 1987. The menu features a variety of barbecue options, including pulled pork, ribs, and brisket. The restaurant also serves up classic southern sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw.

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Shelby Farms Park. Located just outside Memphis, the park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Visitors can hike or bike the trails, fish in the lakes, and even ride horses. The park also hosts events throughout the year, including concerts and farmers markets.

Shopaholics are also in luck when looking for things to do in Memphis, TN. For a unique shopping experience, head to the Memphis Farmers Market. Held every Saturday from April to October, the market features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Visitors can sample local food and drink, listen to live music, and mingle.

Memphis, TN is known for its rich history and cultural significance, but the city is also a culinary destination. With a diverse mix of Southern and international cuisine, there are plenty of options for food and drinks in Memphis.

One must-try food item in Memphis is barbecue. The city is known for its unique style of barbecue, which features slow-cooked meats like ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. Some of the most popular barbecue spots in Memphis include Central BBQ, Corky’s BBQ, and The Bar-B-Q Shop.

Another classic Memphis food is hot chicken. This spicy fried chicken originated in Nashville but has become a staple in Memphis as well. Hattie B’s, a popular Nashville hot chicken chain, has a location in Memphis where you can try this fiery dish.

If you’re looking for something sweet, Memphis has a few options. The city is known for its banana pudding, a creamy dessert made with vanilla pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers. You can find this classic Southern treat at places like The Arcade Restaurant and Hog & Hominy.

For drinks, Memphis is famous for its bourbon and whiskey. The Old Dominick Distillery is a local distillery that produces a variety of spirits, including bourbon, vodka, and gin. You can take a tour of the distillery and taste some of their products.

Beer lovers can also find plenty of options in Memphis. Wiseacre Brewing Company is a popular local brewery that serves up a variety of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. The brewery also has a taproom where you can sample their beers and enjoy some food from a rotating list of food trucks.

Overall, Memphis is a food and drink lover’s paradise with plenty of options to satisfy any craving. From classic Southern barbecue to international cuisine and craft beers, there’s plenty of things to do in Memphis, TN.