Some cities entertain you. Others teach you something. Memphis, Tennessee did both—and then stayed with me long after I left. Before visiting Memphis, I knew the basics. I knew it was the birthplace of blues, the home of Elvis Presley, and famous for its barbecue. But I didn’t expect how deeply the city would affect me. Memphis isn’t flashy or polished in the way some tourist cities are. It’s honest. It tells its story without sugarcoating anything, and that’s exactly what makes it powerful. From the moment I arrived, Memphis felt soulful. There was music in the air, history in every corner, and a sense that this city had lived through a lot—and was still standing strong. Whether you’re visiting with family, traveling solo, or planning a short getaway, Memphis has a way of meeting you where you are and leaving a lasting impression.
One of the most emotional experiences of my trip was visiting the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968. I had read about this moment in history countless times, but standing there in person was completely different. Walking through the museum felt heavy in the best way. The exhibits are immersive and powerful, guiding you through the Civil Rights Movement in a way that forces you to slow down and really reflect. Seeing the preserved motel room where Dr. King spent his final moments was something I’ll never forget. It wasn’t just history—it felt personal, emotional, and incredibly real. I left the museum quiet, reflective, and grateful. It reminded me why places like Memphis matter. They don’t let history fade or become abstract. They keep it human.
Later that evening, I found myself on Beale Street, and the contrast between reflection and celebration felt uniquely Memphis. Music spilled out of every doorway. Blues, soul, and live performances filled the street, and it felt impossible not to smile. Beale Street isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s the heartbeat of Memphis music culture. Knowing that legends like B.B. King once performed there and made the experience feel almost surreal. I stood outside a club for a while just listening, letting the music sink in. It didn’t feel rushed or commercial. It felt alive. I also was able to experience some great food and drinks while enjoying the beautiful sounds of Memphis. That night, I understood why Memphis is considered one of the most important music cities in the world.
Some of the most memorable parts of my trip came from moments I didn’t expect. Watching the Peabody Ducks march through the grand lobby of The Peabody Hotel was one of those moments. It sounds simple, but there was something oddly charming about it. People of all ages gathered, smiling and filming, completely present in the moment. Those ducks marched into the pool of water like they were performing for us. I also visited the Orpheum Theatre, a stunning historic venue that has stood since 1928. Just being inside made me imagine all the performances and stories that had unfolded there over the decades. Now on my visit to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, I felt a deep appreciation for the artists who shaped not just Memphis, but American music itself. Learning about Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. & The MG’s made me realize how much of today’s music is rooted in what was created here. Which was a lot of music that we still listen to today.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I visited Graceland, but it ended up being one of the most fascinating parts of my trip. Walking through Elvis Presley’s home felt intimate in a way I didn’t anticipate. It wasn’t just about fame—it was about seeing the human side of someone who changed music forever. Seeing his private jet, his personal belongings, and the wall outside where fans still leave messages made it clear how deeply people continue to connect with his legacy. Even if you’re not a huge Elvis fan, Graceland is a must-see. It’s a piece of American cultural history.
What stood out to me was how family-friendly Memphis is. The Memphis Zoo was lively and well-designed, with exhibits that felt engaging rather than overwhelming. Just to see how the zoo housed each animal was amazing. They were housed like they were living in their own environment. The zoo also offers things like feeding the giraffe, the carousel rides, ziplining, and the animal exhibits. I really enjoyed my visit. The Children’s Museum of Memphis impressed me with how hands-on and creative it was—it’s the kind of place kids don’t want to leave. While there the children could do rock climbing, climbing structure (Skyscraper), and the blue block challenge. There are so many other things that a child could get lost in doing. The Pink Palace Museum was another favorite, blending science, history, and culture in a way that works for all ages. The experience of being in the AutoZone Dome was so amazing. Here I was able to see a planetarium show. I was also able to find the first replica of the first self-service grocery store, the Piggly Wiggly. This visit was also something I would do again. And then there’s Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, which honestly deserves its own category. Riding to the top of the observation deck called the “Sky High Ride”and seeing Memphis from above was unforgettable.
Here at Bass Pro I was able to see the indoor swap with alligator pools. It also houses a 103-room hotel called the Big Cypress Lodge hotel. Even though I didn’t stay there it was great to see how this Pyramid housed all these fun things for a family to enjoy. Memphis also gave me space to slow down. Walking along the Mississippi River at Tom Lee Park felt peaceful, especially after busy days exploring the city. The river has a quiet power to it, and standing there reminded me how much history has flowed through this city—literally and figuratively. The walk along the river was beautiful. The way that they have incorporated so much along the walk from the walking trail, the basketball court, the food trucks, and places for the kids to play. I sat there and just soaked in the sounds all around me and watched as the river flowed.
I had a chance to visit Shelby Farms Park. There I rented a bike and explored the trails, completely forgetting I was in a major city. Seeing buffalo on site was unexpected and memorable. Watching the people fish or even walking on trails was so relaxing. I ended the day with a meal at Coastal Fish Company, overlooking the water, was one of my favorite moments of the trip.The restaurant was located right there at Shelby Farms Park so I didn’t have to travel too far for my meal. This restaurant was what I needed with good food and wonderful services. Before going to my hotel I wanted to see the Memphis bridge just to experience what the people told me about it. At night, seeing the Memphis Bridge lit up against the skyline felt like the perfect closing scene to each day. This was so beautiful and relaxing at the same time.
The food in Memphis isn’t just food—it’s tradition. I couldn’t leave without trying classic barbecue, and Rendezvous Barbecue did not disappoint. The ribs were packed with flavor, and the atmosphere felt authentic. B.B. King’s Blues Club gave me live music with my meal, which felt like the most Memphis experience possible. The soul food at Alicenia’s felt like eating at someone’s home. The warmth, the hospitality, and the flavors made it one of my favorite meals. Willie Mitchell delivered that same comforting, soulful experience. I also appreciated the variety—hibachi dining at Benihana and Osaka Japanese Cuisine, Italian classics at Venice Restaurant, and the iconic pizzas from Coletta’s Italian Restaurant. These four restaurants offered great food and wonderful services. If you visit in May, the Memphis in May International Festival brings everything together—music, food, and culture in one unforgettable celebration.
Memphis didn’t just show me attractions—it told me stories. Stories of resilience, creativity, pain, joy, and pride. Every experience felt real, not staged. That honesty is what makes Memphis special. Whether you’re walking down Beale Street, standing at the Lorraine Motel, biking through Shelby Farms, or sharing a meal with locals, Memphis leaves you changed in subtle but meaningful ways. Memphis, Tennessee isn’t just a city you visit. It’s a city you carry with you. And if you’re wondering whether it belongs on your travel list—trust me, it does.