Memphis is a city that oozes music – the city is called “Home of Blues, Soul and Rock ‘n’ Roll”
Music and civil rights
Memphis is where blues music grew up, where rock ‘n’ roll was born, soul music exploded and where important strides were made in the struggle for civil rights. This living history hits you right away on a stroll through Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home. Or on a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum, located on the site where Martin Luther King Jr. lost their lives.
Southern charm
Memphis is located in the southwest corner of Tennessee, on the Mississippi River and a few miles from the Mississippi state line.
Like most places in the Mississippi Delta, it is full of authentic Southern charm and hospitality. When you visit any Memphis attraction (there are more than 60!), you’ll be greeted like family.
Attractions in Memphis
The attractions and landmarks that give Memphis character and identity dazzle with historic buildings, riverfront promenades and diverse neighborhoods where visitors can mingle with locals and experience world-class nightlife (especially live music), as well as a host of new hotels.
Explore the Bass Pro Shops at Pyramid to see its unique cypress swamp and alligator habitat.
Take the nation’s largest freestanding elevator to the top for an unforgettable view of Memphis. From Bass Pro’s glass observation deck, enjoy views of the mighty Mississippi River and Big River Crossing
Canoe, kayak, or enjoy a river boat trip to explore the many interesting places along the river.
Beale Street, where big names like W.C. Handy and B.B. King performed and helped perpetuate the style of music known as Memphis Blues. In 1977, the US Congress officially recognized Beale Street as the “Home of the Blues” Don’t miss Rum Boogie or B.B. King’s Blues Club.
Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum (curated by The Smithsonian Institution)
Sun Studio, where Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash started their music careers.
The Stax Museum of American Soul Music, located on the site of the original Stax recording studio where Booker T and the MGs and Otis Redding recorded their music.
Enjoy Memphis!