memphis trip itinerary

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

Weekend In Memphis: An Epic 2 Days In Memphis Itinerary

August 11, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you trying to plan an epic weekend in Memphis, Tennessee? Then you’ve come to the right place! Memphis is one of the largest cities in Tennessee. You’ll find it in southwest Tennessee, along the Mississippi River. While Nashville Tennessee is the ‘Country Music City’, Memphis is known as the birthplace of Blues and Rock n’ Roll. Blues and Rock n’ Roll legends like Elvis Presley, BB King, and Johnny Cash have all recorded hit albums in Memphis. Elvis even lived in Memphis at his iconic Graceland estate.

While spending 2 days in Memphis may sound like not enough time to see everything, we promise it is. With our weekend guide to Memphis, you’ll be able to hit all the absolute must-see spots in the city. We’ve also made sure to include tips on getting to Memphis, how to travel around Memphis and our favorite suggestions for hotels and restaurants in Memphis !

By the time you’re done checking out our itinerary for Memphis and our bonus tips, you’ll be confident in planning your epic weekend in Memphis, TN. While Memphis is probably best known for its music history, we’ve made sure to include some other itinerary stops as well. You’ll see some historic sites, get to explore one of the coolest outdoor areas in the city, and more. So, let’s take a look at our tips and itinerary for your epic weekend in Memphis, TN!

Getting To Memphis

You’ll be happy to know that it’s very easy to get to Memphis. Memphis, like Nashville, is a major city. So, it has its own international airport. That means that you can easily get to Memphis from just about anywhere in the world. There are also tons of direct flights to the city if you’re flying from the US.

It’s also easy to get to Memphis if you choose to drive or take public transportation. Memphis is connected to several major highways. On top of that, there are bus depots and train stations that have stops right in the city. So, no matter how you prefer to travel, you’ll easily be able to get to Memphis.

Getting Around During Your Memphis Weekend Getaway

The best way to get around Memphis is with a car. Memphis is actually a bit spread out, so it’s not super walkable. However, if you’re only planning on staying and exploring Downtown Memphis, you might find it easier. Because of this, Memphis is a very driver-friendly city, and you’ll pretty easily be able to find parking. But keep in mind you may have to deal with your typical large city traffic.

If that’s not your thing, don’t worry. Memphis also has a pretty good public transit system. You can get around in the city on the city buses and trolleys. They also recently started a bike share program.

So, if you hate public transportation, but also don’t want to drive, renting a bike is a great option too! Another cool way to get around in the city is on the Memphis Hop-on Hop-off Bus . Memphis has tons of options to make it easier to explore the city.

Book Your Bus Ticket Here: Getyourguide.com

The Ultimate 2 Day Weekend In Memphis Itinerary

Day 1: explore memphis tennesse’s music history.

On your first day of exploring Memphis on a weekend, we suggest visiting all of the major music history spots. You’ll start the day a little outside of the city, in Graceland, and make your way farther into the heart of Downtown Memphis throughout the day. You’ll definitely want a car or something similar to get around on this day.

But first, head for breakfast at one of our favorite Memphis Breakfast Spots!

Stop 1: Graceland

Your first stop when you’re spending a weekend in Memphis should obviously be Graceland. Graceland is the estate of Elvis Presley, and it’s probably the reason most people come to Memphis. Elvis was one of the biggest recording artists of all time. Even today, even 45 years after his death, he continues to sell platinum records and draw crowds to anything and everything ‘Elvis’.

Even if you aren’t a fan of Elvis, Graceland is super cool to explore. Most of the rooms have unique themes, like the Jungle Room or the Mirror Room. If you do love Elvis, the estate is also full of Elvis memorabilia, and unique artifacts. The estate also has extensive gardens and you can view Elvis’ collection of vintage cars. You’ll need to book entry ahead of time, but it’s totally worth it.

For a true VIP experience, if you have more days to explore Memphis, check out the full-day Memphis and VIP Graceland Tour .

Book Your Tour Here: Getyourguide.com

Stop 2: Stax Museum Of American Soul Music

The second stop we suggest for a fun 48 hours in Memphis is the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. While Memphis is best known for its Blues and Rock n’ Roll history, it also has a proud Soul music scene. The museum was started by Stax Records, which was a branch of Atlantic Records.

For those who may not know, Soul is a music genre that was started by Black people in America. It has its roots in Black gospel music, as well as Rhythm and Blues. It started to gain in popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. One of the most famous Soul musicians is Otis Redding, who signed on to Stax Records in 1962.

At the museum, you’ll learn all about the history of Soul music, as well as it’s present and future. As well as exhibits on the genre’s history, you’ll find other cool things to check out in the museum. They have interactive exhibits, a listening booth, and tons more. You’ll want to book your entrance beforehand and give yourself plenty of time to explore.

Stop 3: Sun Studio

From the Stax Museum, you’ll continue to your next destination as you learn about Memphis’ music history. Sun Studio is a short 5-minute drive from the Stax Museum. It’s also a stop on the Memphis Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour . The Sun Studio is known as the ‘Birthplace of Rock n’ Roll’. Inside, you’ll find the first microphone Elvis used when he was just 18, or the recording studio often used by BB King.

Along with the unique music history artifacts in the studio, it’s still a fully functional studio. The studio serves as a museum during the day, and at 7 pm, it is a working recording studio. You don’t have to be a famous musician to record in the studio, but it’s not cheap. Instead, bring a piece of Sun Studio home with you by getting something cool at the unique gift shop.

Stop 4: National Civil Rights Museum

As you start to wind down the day, you’ll be heading farther into Downtown Memphis. Your next stop is one of the most unique things to do in Memphis . It’s the National Civil Rights Museum, which is about a 30-minute walk away from Sun Studio.

You may think the National Civil Rights Museum is a weird stop for a day of learning about the city’s music history. However, Memphis’ Rock n’ Roll, Blues, and Soul music all have roots in Black music traditions. That contribution, along with so much else, is often overlooked.

So, while you’re learning about the history of Memphis’ music, it’s important to learn about the people who had such a large impact on it. A lot of music coming out of Memphis in the 1960s was heavily impacted by the city’s direct ties to the Civil Rights Movement.

In the National Civil Rights Museum, you’ll hear first-hand accounts of Black people fighting for equality during the Civil Rights Movement. It takes you through the entire history of the movement as well as its impact on the nation and the city of Memphis. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore this Memphis museum.

Stop 5: Memphis Music Hall Of Fame

Just a 10-minute walk away, you’ll find your next fun thing to do in Memphis in a weekend. The Memphis Music Hall of Fame is another great place to learn more about the city’s music scene. Every artist featured in this museum was born and raised in Memphis. The museum honors its achievements in the music industry. It’s been open since 2012 and every year the museum hosts a concert and induction ceremony.

You’ll find a large variety of inductees within the museum. Inductees include Aretha Franklin, Justin Timberlake, Johnny Cash, Al Green, ZZ Top, and the Three 6 Mafia. The music genres of the inductees span from Soul, Blues, Jazz, Rock n’ Roll, Pop, Rap, and Hip Hop. Along with the exhibits about the inductees, you’ll get to see some never before seen memorabilia, artifacts, and video interviews. It’s a really cool thing to do if it’s your first time in Memphis.

Book Your Entry Ticket Here: Getyourguide.com

Stop 6: Beale Street

The last stop on the first day of your 2 days in Memphis trip is Beale Street. Not only is Beale Street full of music history, but it’s also one of the most interesting Black history sites in the south . That’s because this historic district was built by Memphis’ Black community after the Civil War. If you only have enough time to see Memphis in a weekend, then you have to have a trip to Beale Street on your itinerary for Memphis.

Along Beale Street, you’ll find the rich culture and home of the Blues. The Blues is a music genre with strong roots in the Black community of Memphis. It evolved from the slave hymns the Black people of Memphis would sing as they worked on building Beale Street. The street is full of unique music venues, bars, and restaurants. You can book a walking tour of the street, or just meander on your own. There’s no wrong way to do it!

Book Your Tour Here: Getyourgu i de.com

Day 2: Uniquely Memphis

The first day of your weekend getaway in Memphis was spent exploring the rich cultural and music history of the city. On your second day, we suggest seeing some of the more unique things to do in Memphis. You’ll want to put on your walking shoes because this day in your itinerary for Memphis is completely walkable if you want.

Stop 1: South Main Arts District

Start the second day of your Memphis weekend trip in the South Main Arts District. The South Main Arts District is a super popular area in Memphis to explore. Not only is it a beautiful spot within the city, but it’s also a pretty famous filming location. You’ll see the district in movies like Walk the Line and Elizabethtown !

While you’re there, you’ll find tons of fun things to do in Memphis ‘ famous arts district. We suggest hopping on the trolley for a ride, exploring the boutiques, and taking an Instagram-worthy shot at any one of the murals. You’ll also find some great restaurants and cafes. So it’s a great place to start the last of your 2 days in Memphis. Grab a cup of coffee, and a pastry, and just explore!

Stop 2: Orpheum Theater

After you’re done exploring the South Main Arts District, head to the Orpheum Theater. You can walk from the South Main Arts District, or grab a ride on the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus . However you decide to get there, it’s a must-see attraction if it’s your first time in Memphis. The Orpheum Theater is one of the longest-running theaters in the US. They even still put on shows!

You can see anything from live Jazz bands, Broadway shows, or even ballets. The Orpheum Theater is an iconic thing to do in Memphis on a weekend since that’s when most of the shows take place. Even if you can’t make it to a show, we suggest stopping by to see the famous sign lit up at night. The theater is even said to be haunted by a young girl from the 1920s. So if you get to see a show, look out for this friendly ghost while you’re there.

Stop 3: The Peabody Hotel Memphis

The Peabody Hotel Memphis is a famous hotel that is just a short 7-minute walk away from The Orpheum Theater. Or take the short bus ride . Not only is it one of the best hotels in the south, but it’s also just really cool to explore. You can of course choose to stay here during your 48 hours in Memphis. But it is pricey. However, you don’t have to be staying in the hotel to see its main attraction.

In the Peabody Hotel Memphis, you’ll find the most famous waterfowl in Memphis. Maybe even in Tennessee. Yes, you read that right. The lobby of the Peabody Hotel Memphis features a huge fountain that is full of live ducks.

Twice a day, at 11 am and 5 pm, the ducks waddle down to the lobby and hang out in the massive fountain. They live the life of celebrities, and people from all over come to the hotel to take pictures of the famous ducks and the massive fountain. It’s a little odd, but this unique thing to do in Memphis is worth a stop.

Stop 4: The Memphis Pyramid

After seeing the celebrity ducks at the Peabody Hotel Memphis, walk about 20 minutes to the Memphis Pyramid. Believe it or not, the Memphis Pyramid is the 7th largest pyramid in the world. You may be asking yourself why there is a huge pyramid in Memphis at all. It actually started out as a concert venue.

However, today, it’s a huge tourist destination and mall. It’s absolutely massive, and if you love to shop you could easily spend all day here. For our weekend guide to Memphis, you don’t necessarily have the time for that. But we still suggest stopping by just to see it and maybe browse a store or two. It’s also a stop on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus.

Get Your Bus Ticket Here: Getyourguide.com

Stop 5: Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum

Less than a 20-minute walk away, you’ll find the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum. The museum is part of historic Memphis, which you can take a walking tour of with a trained guide . During this Memphis weekend getaway, you’ll have already learned about the city’s role in Black history in the US. The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum is another piece of that history.

The museum is in an estate that is filled with secret passageways, trapdoors, and hiding spots. It is believed that these were all used to hide enslaved people looking to escape the south. The museum is full of artifacts, stories, and other items relating to the terrible history of the slave trade in the US and the Underground Railroad. It’s a great Memphis itinerary stop to learn more about Memphis’ Black history.

Book Your Walking Tour Here: Getyourguide.com

Stop 6: Mud Island River Park

Your last stop during your weekend getaway in Memphis is the Mud Island, River Park. The Mud Island River Park is a 35-minute walk away from the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum. If that’s a bit too long after spending the day on your feet, you can use a ride-share program or taxi to get there.

It’s a beautiful park with an excellent walking trail. As you walk along the trail, you’ll see informational markers. These have historic facts about the city and details about the Mississippi River. While you’re walking, you’ll get to see some beautiful views of Memphis. You can even rent a pedal boat and take a leisurely ride on the river. If you’re interested in exploring the river area more, there are also riverboat rides .

Book Your Riverboat Ride Here: Getyourguide.com

Where To Stay For A Weekend In Memphis

The guest house at graceland.

If you’re a lover of Elvis Presley, then you’ll want to consider staying at The Guest House at Graceland . The Guest House at Graceland is just a 5-minute walk from Presley’s iconic Memphis home. Although it sounds like one residence, the Guest House is actually a resort hotel. With 450 rooms, it’s pretty big too! Amenities include two onsite restaurants, a nighttime peanut butter and jelly bar, a theater, and an outdoor pool with a pool bar.

The rooms come with either two queen-sized beds or one king-sized bed. There are also more premium rooms that have courtyard views. For your standard room, with either bed option, you can expect to spend around $500 to $600 for two nights. So, while it’s a little bit more on the expensive side, it’s great if you want to stay right on the grounds of Graceland with resort amenities!

Check Rates Here: Booking.com

Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown

For those who want to stay right in the heart of Downtown Memphis on a budget, the Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown is a great choice. The Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown is just 2,300 feet away from the Orpheum Theater. It’s a great home base for exploring Memphis in a weekend. This Memphis hotel is also just steps from popular Memphis attractions like Beale Street, the Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum, and the famous Elvis statue.

They also offer a few different room options. You can get a standard room with either two queen-sized beds and one king-sized bed, or full suites. The suites are slightly bigger and come with a king-sized bed, a sitting area with a pull-out sofa, and views of the city. For a standard room for two nights, you can expect to spend between $300 to $400. That’s a pretty good deal to be right in the heart of Memphis!

Downtown Memphis Shellcrest Apartments

Experience a weekend in Memphis like a local when you stay at the Downtown Memphis Shellcrest Apartments . You’ll be just an 11-minute walk away from popular Memphis attractions like Sun Studio, Morris Park, and the Elvis statue. There are also a few restaurants nearby and within walking distance. The apartments are located on a quiet and pretty Memphis street.

At the Downtown Memphis Shellcrest Apartments, they have a few different layouts available. From two-bedroom apartments with garden views to cozy studio apartments. The building has a private garden with a patio that you can enjoy, free wifi, and air conditioning. All of the apartments come with hardwood floors, fully equipped kitchens, and a nice-sized bathroom with robes.

Some of the apartments also have dining areas or private balconies! On top of that, it’s also a great budget-friendly option. You can expect to spend between $200 to $300 for two nights in a two-bedroom apartment. It’s an amazing deal!

Where to Eat During Your 2 Days In Nashville

Corky’s ribs & bbq.

One of the best restaurants in Memphis is Corky’s Ribs & BBQ. Corky’s has been open for over 30 years and in that time has been voted the #1 BBQ Place in Memphis 22 times! That’s how you know they are experts at making delicious bbq dishes. They also have a large menu full of bbq classics as well as some more unique offerings. All of their menu items have a definite southern twist though.

Start your meal with their chocolate-covered bacon appetizer or the catfish nuggets. For your entree, you’ll find bbq staples like pulled pork and chicken sandwiches, racks of ribs, or smoked sausage. They also have sides like mac n cheese, hushpuppies, twice-baked potato salad, and baked beans. If you want classic southern bbq during your weekend getaway in Memphis, head to Corky’s.

If you’re taking a couples trip to Memphis, you may want a more romantic restaurant option. For that, we suggest Char. Char is the best place to enjoy live music paired with fine elegant dining. They serve brunch, lunch, dinner, and even have a happy hour. So you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the atmosphere and menu at Char. Depending on when you visit, you’ll find different menu options.

Their brunch menu includes dishes like crab eggs benedict, chicken biscuits, and custard-fried french toast. Enjoy all of that with a mimosa or bloody mary. For lunch, they offer dishes like shrimp and grits, oyster po’boys, and a grouper sandwich. Dinner is probably their most popular menu with items like pork chops with broccolini and cognac and green peppercorn gravy or the seafood carbonara. Char is definitely the place to eat if you are on a romantic couple’s trip to Memphis.

Boscos Restaurant And Brewing Company

If you decide to do a local brewery tour in Memphis , you may stop at Bosco’s. Boscos Restaurant and Brewing Company is Memphis’ only restaurant and brewery. So if you’re looking for a more unique thing to do in Memphis, this is definitely an option. They’ve been open since 1992 and they’re a popular restaurant in Memphis for locals and visitors.

Boscos’ menu is made to perfectly pair with their home brews, and it succeeds! They serve lunch and dinner daily and offer a weekend brunch. Their lunch and dinner menu includes dishes like crab and fried green tomatoes, wood oven planked salmon, eggplant manicotti, and more. They have plenty of menu options for vegetarians, which is also really nice. On tap, they typically have about six beers that are permanent and then a few seasonal offerings as well.

Book Your Brewery Tour Here: Getyourguide.com

We hope we’ve helped you figure out how to plan a trip to Memphis with our Memphis itinerary and tips! It’s a really unique southern city that is so fun to explore. Whether it’s your first time in Memphis or your tenth, there are always new things to do in Memphis in a weekend. If you’ve used any of our Memphis tips, we’d love to hear about your fun weekend trip to Memphis in the comments!

How to Spend Three Days in Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is a vibrant city, culturally diverse and strongly linked to many historic events over the last century. Whether you are talking about the Civil Rights Movement, the iconic Elvis Presley or the rise of Memphis soul, the city has many an amazing tale to tell.

Like Nashville, Memphis is home to an immense amount of incredible live music. Avoiding the beautiful tunes is almost impossible and Beale Street is one of the best stretches of live music bars in the country.

With the help of our three days in Memphis itinerary, you will explore Memphis musical history, civil rights and sample some of the best eats in town.

Where to Stay in Memphis

Downtown Memphis is the place to base yourself during your travels. Not only will you be within walking distance of the famous Beale Street, many attractions on this itinerary will also be a short trek away. There are several mid-range hotels to suit most budgets, along with many vacation rentals in the downtown district.

A secondary option would be Midtown. Close to Overton Park, the Zoo, museums and laid-back nightlife, you can escape some of the tourist crowd by staying here. 

The Best Time of Year to Visit Memphis

While there is no bad time to go to Memphis, you can certainly increase your enjoyment and ability to get around the city by avoiding the winter months. However, without the tourist crowd, you will enjoy cheaper accommodation and less waiting time at popular attractions.

Spring and the fall are the best times of year to visit Memphis. In the spring, the trees come back to life and Beale Street kicks up a gear ahead of the summer months of festivals and fun. Fall sees crowds diminish, and with plenty of sun you will have the comfort, time and space to move around with ease.

In the summer, temperatures in the city can climb up into the 90s (32c) which can put some people off. However, many of the city’s festivals occur in June and July, along with even more concerts.

Day 1: Graceland, Ducks, and Beale Street

With the tunes of Paul Simon’s Graceland playing over the radio, begin your three days in Memphis at the city’s most iconic attraction, Graceland. The stunning mansion that was once the home of Elvis Presley. 

Graceland is split into two sections, the home itself which you can tour and the museum. Start with the home and explore the interior full of self-portraits and mirrors. It is an eccentric place, befitting of such a famous figure.

Afterwards, head over to the sprawling museum space that is dedicated to the life and times of Elvis. Discover jumpsuits, golden suits and other stage wear used by the great man across his sparkling career.

Other highlights include Elvis’ spectacular pink Cadillac, among other such cars at Presley Motors, and the Room of Inspiration. 

After an introduction to Elvis Presley, make your way over to the place in which he got his start, the Sun Studio. This studio discovered such revered artists as Johnny Cash and Jerry Lewis, along with Presley. The Sun Studio is still an operating recording studio to this day.

The best way to experience the studio that produced many classic hits and put Memphis on the map is to sign up for a walking tour . Your musically talented guide won’t just spill the beans on the studio’s illustrious history, but he or she will whip out a guitar for some chords or show their wares on the piano. You’ll hear all the tunes of yesteryear and feel a wonderful sense of connection to the place where these songs originally came to life.

Keep in mind that tours can’t be reserved in advance and are sold on a first come, first served basis.

As the wheels of the day turn the afternoon into evening, make your way to the Peabody Hotel. Twice a day, at 11am and 5pm, the famous grand march of the ducks takes place.

Now, these aren’t just any old ducks playing around in the fountain. They transition to and from nature at the hands of a professional caregiver. For three months, they live a life of duck luxury at the Chateau du Canard. Twice a day, they commute from their cozy home on the roof to the fountain guided by the resident Duck Master.

The position of Duck Master is a revered job and not one that just falls into your lap. The last Master came to work every day for half a century. As the ducks float in the fountain, they splash each other and say hello (in duck) to the adoring crowd. 

Once the parade is complete, the ducks waddle back to the elevator for the trip back to their home in the sky. 

As the dinner plate is taken away and you’re ready for a night out in Memphis, turn your attention to Beale Street. Memphis’ version of Nashville’s lower Broadway, Beale Street is home to endless bars playing soul, blues and country into the early hours.

When the sun falls and moon rises, Beale Street becomes pedestrian-only and open containers are allowed. The neon signs flash brightly against the old buildings that have been the bridge between obscurity and stardom. Like Bourbon Street and the Honky Tonk Highway, the action on Beale is just as entertaining as the bars themselves.

So if you aren’t enjoying the live tunes, you’ll be able to take in some top-notch people watching along the journey. Having said that, bars you have to check out during your Memphis adventure include the Blues Hall, an intimate live music venue, and the Rum Boogie Cafe. Both are connected and you can make the most of both with just a single cover charge.

Where to Eat

From the Sun Studio, you’ll have just a short walk to your lunch at Edge Alley. Serving new American fare, enjoyed refined southern comforts that add a healthy spin to your favorite dishes.

Once the ducks have safely returned to the elevator, head across to the Capriccio Grill inside the Peabody Hotel. Normally, hotel restaurants are at best ok, but Capriccio bucks the trend. From classic southern cuisine to modern takes on international dishes, this restaurant has you covered.

Day 2: The Zoo, Civil Rights, and Midtown

Begin day two in Memphis by waking up and stretching out in Overton Park, the largest park in town. Kick back with a coffee under the shade and watch the locals begin their day. Once you’re up and about, then you can take a few steps over to the zoo, one of the best things to do with kids in Memphis.

The Memphis Zoo is home to over 3500 animals, spanning more than 500 species. They all combine to make this one of the best zoos in the United States. Each exhibit does an exceptional job of replicating the animal’s natural habitat, creating a fascinating place to learn about each species.

Memphis Zoos’ top attraction is the panda exhibit. Only a handful of zoos in the country are home to giant pandas. Beyond the fluffy creatures, there is an expansive aquarium, one of the first parts of the zoo that opened along with the African Veldt, where zebras, elephants and ostriches roam.

After exploring the zoo, head towards downtown Memphis and the Lorraine Motel, the location of Martin Luther King Junior’s assassination. Now transformed into the National Civil Rights Museum, you will take a thorough trip through the major moments that shifted the Civil Rights Movement along with several lesser-known events that changed the course of history.

The power of the museum also stems from the tragic location. As you learn about Dr King’s death, you will stand where he stood. Before following the trail of information to try to understand how it all came to be.

The highly rated museum is jarring (as it should be) but educational covering everything from the Freedom Rides to sit-ins and the impact young people had on national civil rights. It will leave you with a greater understanding and appreciation of the movement and the impact it continues to have on the modern day.

From the National Civil Rights Museum, you will have a brief journey to your afternoon adventure on the Mississippi River. The Memphis Sightseeing Tour with Memphis Riverboats is a 90-minute journey down the biggest river in America. With live historical commentary, you will discover the history of the river, along with Memphis and the state of Tennessee.

The 10-mile round trip offers exceptional views of the city along with the landscape up and down the Mississippi River. With drinks and snacks on board, kick back on your classic paddleboat and enjoy the ride. 

As the sun sets on Memphis, there is no better place to capture the blazing sky than at Big River Crossing. At just under a mile (1.6km) from one side to the other, this crossing is the biggest bridge along the entire Mississippi River. Under the setting sun, cross from downtown Memphis to Arkansas and back, taking note of the state line marked on the bridge.

Watch the sun sink below the horizon, lighting up the river and return to downtown Memphis as the neon lights of Beale Street spring to life once more. 

Another night on Beale Street could very well be on the cards, and we won’t stop you. But if you are looking for something different, you can head a block over to South Front Street or towards Memphis’ Midtown. The Overton Entertainment District may not go as hard as Beale Street but you will find plenty of laid-back bars, live music at Lafayette’s while you can enjoy a late-night snack at Local’s Kitchen which does curbside pickups until 2am on the weekends.

If you want to see who’s playing when you are in Memphis, check the calendar on Memphis Travel .

Alternatively

For an afternoon out of Memphis, take a scenic one-hour drive to the Holly Springs National Forest. In a rustic, country landscape, explore lush pine and hardwood forests, with plenty of outdoor activities to embark on. Hiking trails abound, providing anything from a casual stroll to a leg-burning trek. As for anglers, there are several lakes to throw out your reel along with the rushing Tippah River. You can also get out on the water on a kayak or swim from the many beaches on a sunny day.

Instead of an afternoon river cruise, another option is to reserve a two-hour dinner cruise on the gorgeous boat, complete with live entertainment. After your meal, grab a refreshing beverage and embark to the top deck, where you can cruise the Mississippi River under the night sky.

Start your morning well with a trip to Sunrise Breakfast, a Memphis institution. The southern comfort food is some of the best breakfast in town. The eclectic diner will keep your eyes entertained and may remind you of your grandma’s living room. Their large plates hit the spot and will have you powering through the adventures to come.

No trip to Memphis would be complete without sampling the goods at Central BBQ. Right across from the National Civil Rights Museum, you’ll see a line coming out the door. Once you’ve tried their mouthwatering ribs, it will all make sense. 

Before beginning your night on the town, have dinner at Bishop. This restaurant comes with wonderful craft cocktails and an extensive wine list. Pair that with their amazing seafood selection and vegetarian options. 

Day Three: Soul Music and Mud Island

Home to the famous Stax Records, the Stax Records Museum is the perfect place to begin your final day in Memphis. The recording studio played a massive role in creating the sounds of soul music during its heyday in the 1960s and 1970s. 

Stax was once home to such artists as Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes and Booker T. With soul music being so entwined with black culture, your visit to the Civil Rights Museum will also help you understand the history of the studio. Once a place where it was all about the tunes, as the Civil Rights Movement grew, racial tension within the studio came to a boiling point.

Emotion and lived experiences poured into the lyrics and as the landscape of blues changed, those that couldn’t keep up with the times shifted to other genres. The rise of soul music from an economic point of view came to a crashing end and Stax went bankrupt. 

Stax Museum may have a focus on the musical legends that recorded here, but the studio’s story is intrinsically linked to the events and times in which it lived. Tours of the museum will explore the multi-faceted home of Memphis soul. Stax remains a place of live music to this day and if you’re lucky, your experience will line up with a free live concert.

From the Stax Museum, soak up the nature of Memphis by making your way to Mud Island. What was once literally a mud island has come on in leaps and bounds to feature parks, recreational activities and gorgeous downtown views.

One of the top attractions is the Memphis sign, which is sure to make for the perfect picture to commemorate your travels. 

Rather than the Stax Museum, another great alternative is the Rock ‘n Soul Museum. This museum was set up by the Smithsonian Institute, telling the story of music in Memphis, from humble beginnings to the current day.

In a city shaped by the tunes of six-string guitars and the hauntingly beautiful voices of Memphis blues and soul, discover the world of early Memphis musicians who had to overcome enormous obstacles to show their talents to the world. Along the way, it will become clear how these efforts also affected culture near and far. Click here to buy your tickets online and in advance — entry is $11 per person.

For your morning meal on day 3, venture to the Arcade restaurant. This local eatery is the oldest in Memphis and has been welcoming guests since the year 1919. Not much has changed here. Their sweet potato pancakes are still a local favorite and the storefront is as instagrammable as ever.

Before crossing the river to Mud Island, dine out at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. In a throwback brick building, the exterior may leave a lot to be desired, but that’s because they are too busy perfecting their fried chicken recipes. It isn’t a simple takeout restaurant either, as they make each piece to order, coming out crunchy, juicy and delightfully spicy.

Final Thoughts 

It is hard not to think that Memphis is underrated. It may be overshadowed by Nashville by some or out of the picture for others, yet it is a wonderful excuse for an exciting three-day vacation.

Memphis is a walkable town, and easy to get around. Many of the attractions and activities in this itinerary are within walking distance of each other. You can forego renting a car and jump on an e-bike whenever you need to switch things up.

There is an endless list of amazing restaurants, museums that will make you think, and of course, the home of the one and only Elvis Presley. 

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Thanks so much!

You can follow along on my travels through my social media accounts below

Sorry you didn't find this article useful!

Help me improve it by leaving your comments below

All feedback is anonymous and emailed directly to me. If there's anything I can do to improve the quality of this article, please do let me know and I'll make the suggested changes within 24 hours

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

Related Posts

How to Spend One Week in Mauritius: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

How to Spend Two Weeks in Belize: An Itinerary for First-time Visitors

21 Thrilling Things to Do in Tennessee

How to Spend Three Magnificent Days in Tbilisi, Georgia: A 2023 Itinerary

How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Delhi: An In-Depth Itinerary

How to Spend Three Magical Days in Cusco, Peru: A 2023 Itinerary

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Meet Lauren Juliff

48 Hours in Memphis: The Ultimate Itinerary

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

Welcome to Memphis, where live music flows fast, and the barbecue is renowned the world over. But there's more to the city than eating your weight's worth in pork ribs and jamming to rock 'n' roll and blues—although we're totally for that, too. The city has a dynamic past, having kick-started the careers of music legends like Elvis Presley and Isaac Hayes and playing a monumental role in the Civil Rights Movement.

To help you plan your next trip to the Home of the Blues, we've come up with an itinerary that gives you a taste of the city's culture and history . From where to find the best barbecue in the city (spoiler alert: there isn't one) to must-do studio tours, here's how to make the most of two days in Memphis.

Day 1: Morning

10: a.m.: After landing at Memphis International Airport , make your way over to your hotel to drop off your bags. If there's one thing Memphis is known for, it's music. Get in touch with the city's claim to fame by booking a stay at the Central Station Hotel , located in a 105-year-old—and still operating—train station in the South Main district. Opened in the fall of 2019, the hotel broadcasts a curated playlist of tunes throughout the space and houses a sizable selection of vinyl in a private lounge designed for audiophiles. And come nighttime, there's a live DJ to keep the tunes flowing after a stroll down Beale Street.

11 a.m.: Once you've checked in or stored your bags, it's time to eat. Of course, no trip to the city is complete without sampling Memphis-style barbecue. Slow-smoked, dry, and smothered in a sweet sauce, the barbecue here is unbelievably delicious. There’s a lot of debate about where to find the best in the city; some swear by Cozy Corner , while others will point you to Central BBQ (their pork ribs truly are out-of-this-world). But locals will tell you that you must try the barbecue spaghetti. Head to Neely's Interstate Bar-B-Que for a plate.

Day 1: Afternoon

1 p.m.: When you're feeling properly stuffed, journey over to Soulsville USA, the birthplace of soul music. The Stax Museum , located at the original site of Stax Records, pays tribute to the iconic record label and its legendary artists: Otis Redding, Booker T. and The MGs, Carla Thomas, and more. Dive into the history of soul music, walk through a replica of Stax's recording studio, and explore the museum's wealth of memorabilia: Tina Turner's sparkly yellow stage costume, the original Otis Redding record of "Respect," and Isaac Hayes' Cadillac—mini-refrigerator, TV, and 24-carat windshield wipers included.

3 p.m.: While Soulsville is the birthplace of soul music, Memphis is the birthplace of rock 'n' roll. Be sure to take a 45-minute guided tour of Sun Studio , a still-operating recording studio where the likes of B.B. King, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley were discovered. You can stand in the studio where the King himself recorded the hit that launched him to fame—a cover of Arthur Crudup's "That's All Right"—and sing into the same microphone that he and countless other rockstars have sung into. The last tour begins at 5:30 p.m.; adult tickets are $15 each.

Day 1: Evening

7 p.m.: For an intimate or celebratory dinner, book a table at Bishop , located in Central Station. The brasserie-style eatery serves up French cuisine with a southern flair, such as escargots topped with country ham and bone marrow popovers. Order a few small plates to share with the table, or go heartier by opting for the lamb shank or hollandaise-topped flounder. For burgers and beer, head next door to Earnestine & Hazel's . They might only serve one type of burger—your typical patty topped with cheese, onions, and pickles—but they do it right. The space is said to be one of the most haunted spots in the U.S. (the jukebox is allegedly possessed), so come at your own risk. If you're not particularly in the mood to get spooked, head to Loflin Yard . They offer Southern-style sandwiches and smaller-sized portions of brisket tacos, smoked wings, and spicy tenders—all of which pair perfectly well with a cocktail or two. This indoor/outdoor locale boasts live music, events like trivia and bingo, ax throwing, lawn games, and more.

9 p.m.: It's no secret that Beale Street is the go-to spot for musical entertainment in the city; you can find live music—in genres like classic rock 'n' roll, blues, and jazz—at pretty much any bar or club here. Learn what the hype is all about and get a taste of that famous Tennessee whiskey. The original location of national chain B. B. King's Blues Club is right here and one to add to your bar-hopping itinerary. In the mood for something a bit quieter? Head to the Absinthe Room for cocktails, jukebox tunes, and games like pool and shuffleboard.

Day 2: Morning

8 a.m.: If you stayed out late, we wouldn't blame you if you wanted to sleep in and recharge. But, if you're the kind of traveler who likes to get up and go, consider eating breakfast right across the street at the city's oldest restaurant (and one that Elvis used to frequent). Opened in 1919, Arcade Restaurant is a '50s-style diner that serves all the classics, including French toast, omelets, country fried steak, and sweet potato pancakes. You're in for a busy day, so fuel up with a hearty meal and a cup of coffee or tea.

10 a.m.: Just seven miles (about a 15-minute drive) from downtown is the place that Elvis called home: Graceland . Whimsical and more-often-than-not flamboyant, the second most-visited house in the U.S. cost just $102,500 when the King bought it in 1957. Even if you don't consider yourself a fan, it's worth a look to see the infamous Jungle Room with its flood of plastic plants and animal prints, waterfall, and green shag carpet on the floor and ceiling. You can take a peek inside his private jets for a few extra bucks or sign up for the Elvis Experience tour to get a glimpse at his iconic Pink Cadillac and flashy jumpsuits right up close. Tickets start at $42.50.

Day 2: Afternoon

Andrea Zucker 

1 p.m.: Graceland offers hungry patrons a couple of different dining options (we certainly wouldn't say no to a peanut butter and banana sandwich), but if you're ready to head back downtown, check out local favorite Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken . A Memphis tradition, they're a go-to for hot and spicy fried chicken. Order baked beans and mac and cheese on the side, and, if you're feeling really hungry, a slice of chess pie.

2 p.m.: One of the most important museums you will ever see in your lifetime, the National Civil Rights Museum is just a few blocks away. It's centered in and around the Lorraine Motel, the site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination. Through interactive media, artifacts, and exhibits, the Lorraine Building gives visitors a comprehensive—and sobering—overview of the civil rights movement, beginning with slavery in America and ending at rooms 306 and 307, where Dr. King spent the last few hours of his life. The story continues across the street at the Legacy Building, the former boarding house of James Earl Ray; here, you can learn about his arrest, trial, and conviction, as well as conspiracy theories and human rights movements across the globe.

5 p.m.: For a pre-dinner nibble, make a pit stop at Phillip Ashley Chocolates . A real-life Willy Wonka, Chef Ashley's gourmet sweets have delighted the likes of celebrities at Grammys and Academy Awards after-parties with their delectable taste and artful design. The chocolatier constantly comes up with unique flavors (like white French blue cheese and all dark chocolate with pomegranate, cherry, and molasses) that will make your mouth water. They are almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

Day 2: Evening

Courtesy of Restaurant Iris 

6 p.m.: It's your last night in the city, so don't be afraid to go all out with a fancy meal at Restaurant Iris . Housed in a bungalow in East Parkway, this fine dining establishment features French-Creole cuisine with menu items like wild mushroom cannelloni and duck confit carbonara. The cocktail menu is exquisite, as is the extensive wine and spirits list. Get some molasses bread with house-made butter to split with the table, and you're in for a treat.

8 p.m.: Round out your trip with live music at Lafayette's Restaurant and Bar, which claims to have launched the careers of legends like Bill Joel and KISS. They host both local and touring musicians, with a focus on rock, jazz, and blues. Check out the website to see the scheduled lineup of events.

Memphis Gay Guide and Events Calendar

The 10 Best Museums to Visit in Memphis

A Travel Guide for Visiting Graceland on a Budget

20 Top Things to Do in Memphis

10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Memphis, Tennessee

13 Best Things to Do With Kids in Memphis, Tennessee

Rock 'N' Soul Museum in Memphis: The Complete Guide

Visit Memphis in Style and on Budget

The 12 Best Things to Do in Midtown Memphis

48 Hours in Manchester: The Ultimate Itinerary

10 Things To Do For $10 Or Less In Memphis

Your Trip to Memphis: The Complete Guide

Tourist Destinations in the Southern U.S.

The Best Staycation in Every State

The Top 12 Day Trips From Birmingham

A Complete Guide to the Mississippi River Road Trip

• Stay Inspired

Get exclusive stories delivered right to your inbox.

Please use a valid email address.

Check your email — trip inspiration will be hitting your inbox soon.

Travel is good for the soul.

We'll email you inspiration.

• Chattanooga
• Pigeon Forge
• Sevierville
• Explore all cities & regions
• Eat & Drink
• Outdoor Adventure
• Scenic Trips
• Explore all Experiences
• Things to Do
• Places to Stay
• Event Calendar
• Trails & Byways
• Trip Inspiration
• Tennessee Music Pathways
• Kid Reviewed
• TN Playcation
• Explore all ways to plan

4 Days in Memphis Itinerary

Browse this built itinerary to experience Memphis music, food, culture and more.

If you've got vacation time coming up and are looking for a great getaway, put Memphis on your list. Experience culture, music, soul and some of the best food you’ll ever tasted. Check out the four-day itinerary below.

Metal Museum

Kick off your trip in an unexpected way by making your first stop the Metal Museum . Nestled on the bank of the Mississippi River , this is the only museum in the country dedicated to the craft of artisan metalwork. Experience a variety of temporary exhibits, as well as the permanent collection that features hand-crafted pieces of art. The Metal Museum boasts a functioning blacksmith and, in Mark Twain’s opinion, one of the most spectacular views of Ol’ Man River in existence.

Memphis Zoo

Get wild and crazy at the Memphis Zoo , a fantastic attraction for kids of all ages, with more than 3,500 animals representing 500 different species. Check out the Zambezi Hippo Camp - home to the hippos, Nile crocodiles, flamingos and more. Grab a schedule so you can catch all the zookeeper chats, and give yourself 3-4 hours so you can see everything.

South Main Historic Arts District

Finish out your day with dinner and drinks in the South Main Arts District in Downtown Memphis. Savor ribs at Central BBQ or book a reservation for amazing cocktails, pasta, steak and sharing plates at Catherine & Mary's .

The Cheesecake Corner

Save room for dessert from The Cheesecake Corner . This popular after-dinner spot is the perfect place to settle in with a nice glass of wine and a slice of decadent cheesecake. There are at least a dozen flavors to choose from, like caramel apple, butter crème, coconut pecan, strawberry daiquiri and cookie dough., the servings are enormous – plenty to share.

Earnestine & Hazel's

Cap off the evening with a drink and live music at Earnestine and Hazel’s . Touted as one of the country’s top dive bars, this mainstay is a popular hangout for locals and visitors.

Arcade Restaurant

There’s no better way to start the day than consuming a hearty breakfast at Arcade Restaurant . Dig into a stack of sweet potato pancakes or devour a freshly made omelet at this South Main eatery. This was one of Elvis’ favorite hangouts, and he would often sit at his favorite spot (last booth on the left), grab a bite to eat and jot down song ideas.

Elvis Presley's Graceland

You can’t come to Memphis without making the trek to Elvis Presley’s Graceland . Explore the personal side of Elvis Presley with an interactive iPad tour of the Graceland Mansion. Hosted by John Stamos and Elvis' daughter, Lisa Marie, you'll hear personal stories and accounts as you make your way through the living room, his parents' bedroom, TV room, pool room and the famous Jungle Room. After your tour, check out Elvis Presley's Memphis Entertainment Complex, full of 10 Elvis exhibits and attractions celebrating his life and career including Presley Motors & Presley Cycles, immersive experiences and Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum.

See where Elvis made history – Sun Studio . This is the place where music greats like Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and, of course, the King himself, got their start. Local musicians make excellent tour guides as visitors peruse a large collection of memorabilia and artifacts, including original recordings, a replica of Sam Phillip’s tape machine and handbills. The tour concludes in the studio itself, which still looks much like it did on that fateful day in 1954 when Elvis recorded his version of “That’s All Right” and rock ‘n’ roll was born. If you’re careful, you can even take your picture with one of the microphones that Elvis used during his recording sessions.

Fancy's Fish House

Get dressed up for a marvelous dinner at Fancy's Fish House . They serve daily caught fish and seafood and lavish seafood towers as well as stunning views of the Mississippi River. Start your meal off right with oysters Rockefeller or the catfish sliders topped with a remoulade sauce, pickled jalapenos and sliced cabbage. The sweet corn hushpuppies and the crab cakes with its lemon zest and creamy mustard sauce are also crowd favorites. Choose from entrees like Louisiana redfish, crab stuffed starry flounder, salmon and lobster rolls. The food is so good, you'll want to check out Fancy's brunch which includes popover eggs Benedict, red eye gravy shrimp and grits and baked French toast bananas foster.

National Civil Rights Museum

See artifacts and learn the history of the Civil Rights Movement and human rights movements worldwide at the National Civil Rights Museum . The Museum has memorialized the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. King was murdered, and also preserved Room 306 where Dr. King stayed the night before his assassination. History dating from 1619 to 2000 is shared through videos, text, images, and multimedia elements.

Withers Collection Museum and Gallery

Ernest Withers was a prolific photographer during the 1950s and '60s. He was able to capture moments that no other photographer could at that time, going behind the scenes of the Negro baseball leagues, up close and personal with Dr. Martin Luther King, and covering the Emmett Till murder trial. See his firsthand account of the Civil Rights Movement from behind the lens at the Withers Collection Museum and Gallery .

B.B. King's Blues Club

We’ve got two options for dinner to round out day three. If you want a rockin’ good time, head down to Beale Street and check out B.B. King’s Blues Club for live bands and casual Southern fare like corn and jalapeño fritters, shrimp Louie salad and black-eyed pea hummus. For a more relaxed time, go upstairs (using the unmarked entrance on 2nd Street) and settle in at Itta Bena. Named for B. B. King’s hometown in Mississippi, this upscale eatery's menu focuses on Low Country classics like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup and Gulf snapper with andouille hash.

Memphis Botanic Garden

The Memphis Botanic Garden , a 96-acre retreat, offers 23 specialty gardens and is open all year long. Memphis’ temperate climate allows for a variety of species throughout this magical space. Kids will love My Big Backyard , an educational play area with a tree house, classroom, picnic tables and a wading creek. For adults, check out the Live at the Garden concert series which has featured headliners like Earth, Wind and Fire; Pat Benatar; Seal; and Duran Duran.

Dixon Gallery and Gardens

The picturesque Dixon Gallery and Gardens is part art gallery, part botanic garden and all splendid. The interior space showcases visiting exhibitions covering everything from modern works from local Memphis artists to famed expressionists, while the exterior area boasts vast gardens, an arboretum and numerous sculptures. The Dixon also features weekly educational programs and family days.

Hog & Hominy

Keep enjoying the sights and sounds of East Memphis by dining on the patio at one of many popular restaurants. Hog & Hominy is a casual hangout that features a bocce ball court and rustic Italian cuisine. Chefs Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman have filled the menu with wood-fired pizzas, creamy gelato and handcrafted cocktails.

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

Spend the afternoon browsing the many art exhibits hosted by Brooks Museum of Art . From contemporary to traditional and even ancient art, Brooks has a widespread catalog of sculptures, paintings, wood carvings and more on rotation. The museum also plays host to a wealth of traveling exhibitions as well.

At Acre , Chef Wally Joe fuses his Chinese background with classic Southern ingredients and techniques. This labor of love took almost five years of design and construction and features Koji chicken with Brussels sprouts, grilled octopus and even a whole suckling pig with all the fixings (with advance notice). Either way you go, you’ll get a delicious taste of Memphis in a trendy, up-and-coming part of town.

Places in this article

Mississippi River

The Metal Museum is the only institution in the United States dedicated exclusively to the preservation and advancement of the art and craft of fine metalwork. It is located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River.

South Main Historic Art District

Earnestine & Hazel's

Memphis' oldest restaurant.

Elvis Presley’s Graceland

Home of the King of Rock ‘n' Roll!

Take a guided tour of the Birthplace of Rock -n- Roll, listening to the iconic songs that were recorded in that very same studio.

The Withers Collection Museum and Gallery features the amazing historical photographs of the world-renowned photojournalist, Dr. Ernest C. Withers, covering Civil Rights, Music, Sports and Memphis Life Style.

Beale Street Historic District

The music and entertainment pulse of downtown Memphis, Beale Street at the turn of the 20th century served as a haven for African Americans migrating from small towns.

B.B. King's Blues Club - Memphis

Eat Drink Dance

The 96-acre property in the heart of Memphis includes 30 specialty gardens, a TUFC Level 4 & ArbNet Level 2 Arboretum, and a 2.5-acre children's garden.

The Dixon Gallery & Gardens

Fine art museum and public garden space.

The quality of Hog & Hominy's food and service are exactly what Memphians have come to expect from these two renowned chefs.

Central BBQ

To find the best restaurant in town — go where the locals go

Add These Tennessee Fall Festivals to Your Calendar

Herald in the autumn months by experiencing these Made in Tennessee fall festivals.

Inspiration just for you

We have a hunch these experiences might be right up your alley.

Spring & Summer Festivals in Tennessee

It's time to start planning for a spring and summer vacation.

Get in Touch (Literally) With Nature at the Tennessee Aquarium

Chattanooga is filled with Tennessee experiences. Just ask lifestyle blogger, Anna Liesemeyer of In Honor of Design, who recently took her family to experience them.

Experience These Knoxville Restaurants

Get a Made in Tennessee taste in Knoxville.

A Made in Tennessee Journey to Knoxville

Culture, creativity, and a wealth of music options, Knoxville beckons with its laid back sophistication.

Tennessee Appalachian History Comes to Life at Museum of Appalachia

A visual feast of the treasures that wait at Museum of Appalachia.

Sign up to receive trip ideas and inspiration from Tennessee Tourism.

No thanks, I’m not into adventure Read our Privacy Policy

Cookeville-Putnam County Visitors Bureau

Your Middle Tennessee Adventure Starts Here.

The Inn at Apple Valley

Southern Charm in the Smokies, 1-800-233-3443

Discovery Park of America

Visit Discovery Park of America this spring.

Whitewater Rafting on the Ocoee River

Offering three different trips down the Ocoee

Where the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll Lives

Get your free 2024 Tennessee vacation guide

Discover the best of Tennessee as told by the people who make it so special.

Get Tennessee Inspiration Sent Straight to your inbox

Build your family’s

Join my community

Subscribe to my newsletter to get updates!

Home > United States > 3 Days in Memphis Itinerary: Perfect 72 Hours in Memphis

3 Days in Memphis Itinerary: Perfect 72 Hours in Memphis

By Dymphe / January 12, 2023

Going to spend 3 days in Memphis ? Then you're going to have a great time! Memphis is a very nice city in the United States with great things to do.

If you're going to the city for 3 days, you have enough time to see all highlights and do fun things. For example, you can spend a long weekend in Memphis, which is great!

Have breakfast at some of the amazing cafes. Visit museums, famous landmarks, and great streets! If you're going to Memphis for 3 days, you can do it all!

This itinerary for 3 days in Memphis shows you exactly how you can make the most out of your time there!

I'll start with some information about how to get there.

After that, I'll give you some tips for when you're traveling to Memphis. Furthermore, I give information about where to stay. Then, I'll start the itinerary.

The itinerary includes all the well-known things you have to see when you're in Memphis, and more! Your 72 hours in Memphis will be great for sure.

After the itinerary, I'll explain how to move around in the city!

Table of Contents

Getting to Memphis

If you're going to spend 3 days in Memphis, there are various ways to reach the city. You can travel here by bus, train, airplane, or car.

There are several bus companies that have routes to the city of Memphis.

Traveling by bus is often a very cheap way to reach the city. So this is convenient if you want to spend 3 days in Memphis on a budget.

But the journey takes longer than other means of transportation. And also, it is often less comfortable to travel by bus.

One of the bus companies that offer routes to the city of Memphis is Greyhound.

Examples of bus routes you can take with this company are the following. You can travel from Nashville, Atlanta, and Chicago. But there are a lot more cities in the United States that you can come from!

You can also travel to the city of Memphis by train. The train is very convenient if you're going to spend a long weekend in Memphis. You can reach the central station of Memphis from various cities in the United States.

Traveling by train is a fast option to reach the city of Memphis. Furthermore, it is often more comfortable than traveling by bus! For that reason, this is one of the best ways to get there for your 3 days in Memphis.

Another way to get to the city of Memphis is by Airplane.

If you're coming from a place that is farther away and you want to spend 3 days in Memphis, this is the best way.

You can find the airport about 7 miles (or 11 kilometers) from Downtown Memphis.

There are many flights that go to Memphis International Airport. These include flights from within the United States, as well as flights from Europe, Asia, and more.

To get from the airport to the city center of Memphis, you have to drive about 15 minutes. Or you can take a bus that takes about 30 minutes.

Often the most convenient way to reach the city of Memphis is by car.

If you are coming from a place that is near Memphis this is often the fastest way to travel.

Besides that, a car allows you to bring a lot of luggage, which is very convenient.

Also, you can use your car when you're 3 days in Memphis. The car is a great way to get around in Memphis, which makes it an even more convenient way to get to Memphis.

Travel Tips for Your 3 Days in Memphis

Traveling to Memphis is a lot of fun. Your time in Memphis will be great for sure!

But here are some tips to make your trip of 3 days in Memphis even better.

First, some of the famous places in the city are far away from each other. For example, Graceland is not in Downtown Memphis, so you cannot walk between these places.

For this, you need another way to move around. So a car, public transportation, or a taxi are great during the 72 hours in Memphis.

Another tip for traveling to Memphis is to listen to music from the city when you are going here. That way you'll have an even better experience! For example, you can listen to music by Elvis Presley!

Where To Stay

There are many places where you can stay when you are in Memphis.

When you are only 3 days in Memphis, you want to stay at a place that is most convenient for sightseeing.

That's why I recommend staying in Downtown Memphis. There you can find most of the sights of this itinerary. Furthermore, there are lots of stores and restaurants in this part of the city. This makes your 3 days trip to Memphis more comfortable!

A great place to stay in Memphis is The Peabody Memphis. This is a luxury hotel that is very famous.

Also, the rooftop of the hotel is incredible! You find here the name of the hotel. Furthermore, the rooftop of The Peabody Memphis is home to many parties in summer. Grab a drink, dance, and see the beautiful view from the rooftop!

Another lovely hotel in Memphis is Westin Memphis Beale Street. You find this hotel on Beale Street.

This makes it a very convenient place to stay, as it is in the middle of Downtown Memphis.

What's great is that the rooms are very luxurious and modern. Furthermore, the hotel has many facilities, which makes staying here very pleasant.

Itinerary for 3 Days in Memphis

Now you know how to get to Memphis and where to stay. Furthermore, you got some important information about your trip. So it's time for the itinerary!

If you follow this itinerary for 3 days in Memphis, you're going to have a wonderful time in the city.

You'll see all the famous sights, visit museums, and have delicious food. You're even going to visit the oldest restaurant in Memphis and you'll see where Elvis lived. In short, you're going to have a wonderful time in this pretty city in Tennessee!

Day 1: The First Day in Memphis

Let's start with the first day of this itinerary for 3 days in Memphis. Today, you're going to see famous landmarks, visit a museum, have great food, and more! It's going to be a very nice day, so let's begin.

Breakfast at Hustle & Dough

Your first day in Memphis starts with breakfast! You're going to have breakfast at Hustle & Dough .

This is a lovely place where you can have delicious food. There are many delicious toasts you can have here for breakfast.

For example, the avocado toast is amazing. Another very good toast is the almond butter toast.

Furthermore, you can also have yogurt & granola with fresh fruit. Or you can choose for the multigrain grits bowl!

What I love about this place is that there's so much to choose from. There are also delicious pastries and the pastries you can have here change every now and then.

Furthermore, if you're having breakfast here, you should definitely have some coffee too.

Hustle & Dough shares their space with Vice & Virtue. This is an amazing coffee roaster. They use great beans for their coffee and their coffee is incredible.

If you don't like coffee, you can also have delicious tea here.

Also, Hustle & Dough is a lovely place with a great atmosphere. It looks very beautiful and there are comfortable seats. So that's another reason why having breakfast here on your first day is great!

Visit Graceland

Graceland is one of the most famous places in Memphis. This makes it a great sight to start with when you are 3 days in Memphis.

Graceland is a large mansion where the famous singer Elvis Presley lived.

You can find the building at Elvis Presley Boulevard.

Nowadays, Graceland is a museum that is open to the public. And it is also a National Historic Landmark in the city of Memphis.

After the White House, Graceland is the house in the United States with the most annual visitors. More than 600,000 people visit it every year!

Not only is the house great because Elvis Presley lived here, but it also looks beautiful!

The architecture of the building is great to see, and the interior of the mansion is also wonderful.

In total, there are 23 rooms in Graceland. These rooms all are beautiful to see. There are a lot of details that are very unique.

Also, you can see other objects of Elvis Presley at Graceland. This includes his two airplanes!

You can also see Elvis' car collection here.

Ride the Memphis Trolley

Now it's time to move around in the city! You can do so by a Memphis Trolley! This is one of the most fun things to do during a long weekend in Memphis.

The Memphis Trolley is part of the public transportation network of Memphis.

It is a great way to move around the city. That's because it is very convenient, but also because the trolleys are wonderful to see!

The trolleys are very historic, which makes it great to ride them.

Each trolley is a restored vintage streetcar. They come from the city of Porto in Portugal. That city used them at the beginning of the 20th century.

What's great is that the trolleys have a variety of colors. These colors are very bright, which makes them look very happy!

All these features make the trolleys very unique, and a great activity for your 3 days in Memphis!

There are three lines. Main Street Line, Riverfront Loop, and Madison Avenue Line. Because of that, you can board one in lots of parts of the city, which is very convenient!

Lunch at The Arcade Restaurant

You're going to have lunch at one of the most amazing restaurants in Memphis. It's the Arcade Restaurant!

The Arcade Restaurant is one of the most famous places for lunch in the city. That's because it looks amazing from the outside. The place has a large sign that appears in many photos.

Furthermore, the place also looks lovely from the inside, it's a pretty fifties diner. So going here is definitely fun and unique!

Moreover, this is the oldest restaurant in Memphis! This place exists since 1919 which is very impressive.

The founder of Arcade Restaurant is Speros Zepatos. He came from Greece. Back then, Arcade Restaurant had another location.

In 1925, Arcade Restaurant got its name and another location.

Furthermore, the son of Speros Zepatos changed a lot in 1950. He made another design of Arcade Restaurant and changed it into a fifties diner! That's how it still looks today.

It's so fun to know a bit more about the history of this restaurant as it's so old.

But that's not all. The food in the Arcade Restaurant is great too.

For example, you can have delicious pizza at the Arcade Restaurant.

You can choose one of the pizzas on the menu, but you can also create your own! I love that about this place, as it allows you to eat what you like the most.

Also, the sandwiches here are very good as well. And you can have a great salad at the Arcade Restaurant too.

Moreover, there are delicious extras as well, such as fries and pancakes. The Arcade Restaurant has definitely something for your liking.

This is one of my favorite places for lunch in Memphis for sure. That's because of how pretty it looks, its history, and the delicious food.

Explore Beale Street

One of the most famous streets in Memphis is Beale Street. This street is a must-see for your 3 days in Memphis. You can find it in Downtown Memphis.

You find here lots of interesting restaurants and stores. Furthermore, you find here all kinds of nightclubs.

The whole district surrounding the street is one of the most iconic of the United States. Also, it is a National Historic Landmark.

That's because the place is very historic. Many famous people had live performances here, which made the place famous as well!

Beale Street is a place where many music genres come together. There is blues, jazz, R&B, rock 'n' roll, and more!

You'll have a lot of fun here for sure, which is great!

When you are in Memphis, you should stroll through the street and see the different venues!

What's great about this street as well is that there are many events throughout the year. These events are great to attend, and when you happen to visit during an event, I recommend going there.

For example, during May, you find here the Beale Street Music Festival . This is a great festival with live performances.

Another great event is during New Year's Eve. During that time, the clubs of the city have live music.

Walk by the Orpheum Theatre

One of the best things at Beale Street is the Orpheum Theatre. This is a must-see for your 72 hours in Memphis.

This is a theater that is very old and has a large history. That's why it is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Orpheum Theatre has a very iconic outside that is very recognizable. This alone makes it great to visit when you're 3 days in Memphis.

But it is also great to attend a show at the theater. There is a large variety of different shows. There are comedy performances, dance shows, movie screenings, and more!

See the Elvis Statue

Another great place at Beale Street is the statue of Elvis Presley.

The statue features the artist Elvis Presley who is very famous. And who played a large role in the history of Memphis.

After seeing his house Graceland, it is great to see this statue!

Go to the National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum is a very interesting and educating museum. You should definitely see it when you are 3 days in Memphis.

This museum focuses on the civil rights movement and shows every part of it. It covers the period from the 17th century till the present day.

In the museum, you find hundreds of artifacts and lots of exhibits with multimedia. For example, there are 40 films.

Besides that, there are many events that you can attend when you are in Memphis.

Also, you find the museum at the place where the Lorraine Motel was in the past. This is the place where the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. took place.

You can visit the museum every day of the week from 9 AM to 5 PM, except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays. On average, you'll spend about 1.5 hours in the museum.

Dinner at Catherine & Mary's

You had an amazing first day in Memphis with many activities. You had breakfast at a lovely place, and you visited Graceland.

Besides that, you explored more of Memphis, went to a museum, and more! So I'm sure you're hungry now. It's time for dinner!

You're going to have dinner at Catherine & Mary's . This is a very good restaurant in the city.

The chefs and owners of this restaurant are Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman. They are from Memphis and they already opened other restaurants before this one.

For example, they also opened a restaurant in Charleston.

Because of this, the chefs already have a lot of experience.

Furthermore, they had great training as well. For example, they even went to the Italian Culinary Institute in Calabria.

In 2016, they also opened Catherine & Mary's.

I'd especially recommend having pasta here. The pasta dishes are amazing!

Day 2: Exploring More of the City During Your 3 Days in Memphis

It's time to start your second day in Memphis!

Breakfast at Bedrock Eats and Sweets

Let's start your second day in Memphis with breakfast! One of the best places for breakfast is Bedrock Eats and Sweets . I'd recommend having breakfast here today!

Bedrock Eats and Sweets focuses on healthy food. They say there are enough bad things on earth, and they think that your food shouldn't belong to these things!

They think that you shouldn't eat processed, refined or modified food. For that reason, you can get dishes here with local vegetables, organic fruit, and more!

Moreover, the food at Bedrock Eats and Sweets isn't only healthy, it's also very delicious. The taste of the food is also very important according to this place.

I love the fact that Bedrock Eats and Sweets focuses on healthy food. That's because I love healthy food and it makes this place unique.

The owner of this place is Brandi Marter. She's also the chef of Bedrock Eats and Sweets. She's very kind and will make you feel welcome.

Bedrock Eats and Sweets also looks very nice. Having breakfast here on the second day of your 3 days in Memphis is great!

Discover the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum

On day 2, you should definitely go to the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum . You can find the museum in Downtown Memphis at Beale Street.

This is a museum that is all about music, and rock and soul music in particular.

Here you can learn about some of the earliest musicians that overcame obstacles. They changed the cultural world with their music.

It is the perfect place to learn about the whole history of music in Memphis.

There are lots of permanent exhibits that are great to see.

For example, you'll find here an exhibit that is about rural culture in Memphis.

Another great exhibit at the museum is one that focuses on soul music in particular.

Furthermore, there is a section of the museum that is all about rural music. Here you can learn about blues, country, and gospel music.

The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Lunch at Lunchbox Eats

After visiting the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum, it's time for lunch! On the second day of your 3 days in Memphis, you're going to have lunch at LUNCHBOXeats.

There are several reasons why having lunch at this place is great. First, LUNCHBOXeats has an amazing outdoor patio! If the weather is great, it's amazing to have lunch on the patio. It's a very relaxing place and spending some time there is great.

Besides that, the food at drinks at LUNCHBOXeats is great too. There are many delicious sandwiches that you can have.

Also, you should definitely try one of the homemade desserts too! They are so good.

Moreover, what I love about LUNCHBOXeats, is that there's always a lemonade of the day. The flavors are different every day, so it will always be a surprise how it tastes!

It's definitely fun to go there and let the lemonade surprise you. This makes LUNCHBOXeats very unique.

See the Memphis Zoo

After lunch, it is time to see another lovely sight of Memphis, the Memphis Zoo .

You can find the Memphis Zoo in Midtown Memphis.

Here you find many different animals that are lovely to see. In fact, there are more than 3500 animals at the zoo. Moreover, these animals are of more than 500 different species.

The Memphis Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country, which makes it a great place to see during your 3 days in Memphis!

The exhibits of the zoo all replicate the natural habitat of the animals that are in them. This makes it an even better place to visit.

For example, one of the exhibits is Northwest Passage. Here you can see animals that live in British Columbia in Canada and those that live in the PNW. You find here sea lions, polar bears, and more.

Another exhibit is China. Here you find animals that live in the country of China.

For example, you can see here giant pandas. This makes it a very special place to visit, as there are only 4 zoos in the United States with those animals.

Besides that, you find an Aquarium in the zoo. This is one of the oldest parts of the zoo. Here you can see animals that live in the sea. For example, you find here turtles, eels, lionfish, piranhas, and more.

Another interesting part of the museum is African Veldt. Here you can see all kinds of animals that live in Africa. For example, you'll find here zebras, African elephants, ostriches, and more animals.

Whatever animal you want to see, you'll likely find it here!

Visit the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

After seeing the Memphis Zoo, you should go to the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art .

You find this great museum next to the Memphis Zoo. Both places are inside Overton Park.

The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is a museum that focuses on all kinds of artworks. You'll find here art from all over the world and from many periods in time.

For example, you'll find here works from the Italian Renaissance. And there is Impressionist art, Baroque art, contemporary art, and more.

Some of the most notable artists whose work is on display in the museum are Renoir, Pissarro, and Benton.

In total, there are 29 galleries in the museum. These galleries feature a variety of types of art. For example, there are paintings, sculptures, prints, decorative arts, and more.

What's great about the museum as well is that there are many changing exhibitions. These exhibitions all focus on another type of art, another period of time, or another subject.

This means that every time you go back to Memphis and this museum, you can expect something new, which is great!

Furthermore, the museum is open every day of the week, except for Monday and Tuesday. And what's great is that you can visit the museum for free on Wednesday!

Dinner at The Beauty Shop

After your second day in Memphis, it's time to have dinner! Today, you're going to have dinner at the Beauty Shop.

This is an amazing restaurant and lounge where you'll have a great evening.

I'd definitely recommend having a look at the menu of the Beauty Shop. There are so many dishes on the menu, and I'm sure there's a dish you'll love.

Furthermore, the atmosphere in the Beauty Shop is very good. It's a very nice place to spend some time.

What's also great about The Beauty Shop is that you can sit outside. Especially when it's summer, this is great!

The place looks very pretty from the outside too. For example, on the windows, you can see the words "Look Good. Eat Good" which is so cute!

Day 3: The Last Day of 3 Days in Memphis

The third day is one of my favorite days of this itinerary for 3 days in Memphis. Today, you're going to see beautiful nature. Also, you're going to visit an amazing museum. You're going to have great food and you'll discover even more of Memphis!

Breakfast at By the Brewery

Let's start today with breakfast at By the Brewery! By the Brewery is one of my favorite places for breakfast in Memphis.

That's because there are so many delicious dishes you can have in the morning!

For example, you can start the day with one of the delicious biscuits. You can get a biscuit, or you can get a biscuit bowl, which is great too.

Moreover, if you love chocolate, you should definitely have the muffin with Nutella.

But there's more to choose from here. One of the things I love the most is the fresh fruit cup. Furthermore, you can also have a yogurt bowl.

Also, there are great drinks as well at By the Brewery. For example, you can have coffee, juice, or iced tea!

The interior at By the Brewery is beautiful. There are many seats where you can sit down. Furthermore, on one of the walls, there's a quote about biscuits which is very pretty.

Walk Through the Tom Lee Park

Now let's go to Tom Lee Park! This is a park that is in Downtown Memphis, so going here is very easy to do. You can walk there!

From here you can overlook the Mississippi River, which is beautiful to see!

Besides that, the park is great for a relaxing stroll. Or if you want to go running, this is a great place too!

Also, you can sit on one of the benches and come to yourself when you are here. That's very relaxing.

Another thing that's great about the park is that you can see the skyline of the city of Memphis from here. You can even see the Memphis Pyramid from the park! If you want to take a photo in the city, this is a great place for that.

The name of the park comes from Tom Lee. He was a river worker in Memphis.

One day, the steamboat M.E. Norman sank on the Mississippi River. Lots of people fell into the river and almost drowned.

Tom Lee saved more than 30 people from the water by pulling them into his small boat.

In the park, you can see a monument that is about him!

Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music

One of the best things to do in Memphis is a visit to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. This is a lovely museum that focuses on soul music and everything that relates to that! You should definitely go here during your 3 days in Memphis.

You can find the museum at 926 East McLemore Avenue. This is the place where Stax Records was in the past. Stax Records is what gave the museum the name.

Stax Records is an American record label that you can find in the city of Memphis. This record label was very important in creating Southern and Memphis soul music.

In the past, it went bankrupt. After this, the studio of Stax Records had another purpose. Nowadays, you can find the museum here.

At the museum, you can find various objects and lovely exhibits.

One of the best exhibits of the museum is a Mississippi Delta Church. This is where Southern gospel music had its beginnings. At the museum, you can find a replica of the interior of the church.

Besides that, there is one exhibit where you can see all the albums and singles that Stax released. This is an impressive sight to see!

Furthermore, you can find here interactive exhibits such as the Express Yourself exhibit. This is an exhibit where you can dance to soul music.

Besides these exhibits, you can often go to events at the museum, which is great! That way you can come back here every time, and you may see another event that is worth attending!

The museum is open every day of the week, except for Monday. Moreover, you can visit between 10 AM and 5 PM, so that's very convenient for your 3-day trip to Memphis!

See the Memphis Botanic Garden

After seeing the Stax Museum of American Soul Music you should go to the Memphis Botanic Garden!

The Memphis Botanic Garden is a great botanical garden with lots of beautiful plants. If you like plants, this is the most fun activity on this itinerary for 3 days in Memphis!

You can visit the botanical garden every day of the year!

What's great about this place in Memphis is that you can go here for a relaxing stroll through the gardens.

There are many gardens at the Memphis Botanic Garden. Each of these gardens focuses on a certain part of horticulture.

For example, at the Tennessee Bicentennial Iris Garden, you can see a lot of iris flowers from lots of places.

Another great garden at the Memphis Botanic Garden is the Rose Garden. Here you can see beautiful roses. There is a large variety of roses in the garden. In fact, there are 75 different ones!

Furthermore, the Herb Garden is a great garden to visit as well. Here you find hundreds of types of herbs!

Also, the Anne Heard Stokes Butterfly Garden is very special. Here you find a lot of plants that attract beautiful butterflies!

Go to Jerry's Sno Cones

After seeing the Memphis Botanic Garden, it's time to go to Jerry's Snow Cones!

Jerry's Snow Cones is a must-see when you're 3 days in Memphis. This is an amazing place where you can have delicious food.

What I love most about Jerry's Snow Cones, is its amazing history! It all started in 1920. Back then, this place was a Sinclair gas station.

People say that besides being a Sinclair gas station, Jerry's also made snow cones. These snow cones were very delicious. Children ate the snow cone when their parents visited the place for their car.

About 40 years later, the Sinclair gas station closed. But there were two people who opened a car wash and snow cone shack instead! These two people were a couple.

That was also the moment when the place got its name, Jerry's Snow Cones.

For a long time, it was a car wash that served snow cones too. People loved the snow cones and someday, a movie scene took place here!

From that moment, the place became more popular. Nowadays, you can have delicious snow cones at this place! I love the story of this place!

Furthermore, the place doesn't only serve snow cones. There's more! For example, there are delicious churros and brownies.

Another thing I love about Jerry's Snow Cones is how beautiful it looks. It's definitely one of the most colorful places in the city!

The building is pink, blue, and green. It looks so pretty! That's also one of the reasons why you should go here on your third day in Memphis.

Furthermore, you can sit outside while admiring the beautiful building. But you can also sit indoors if you prefer that.

I'm sure you will love Jerry's Snow Cones!

See the famous Sun Studio

Now it is time to go to one of the most famous places in the city of Memphis!

Sun Studio is a recording studio in the city that is a very famous place.

The studio claims to be the birthplace of rock & roll. That's because they recorded the first rock and rolls single here. At least, what people think is the first rock and roll single.

Besides that, Sun Studio was the studio where many famous artists started out.

For example, Elvis Presley recorded his first song here. Elvis recorded two singles here right after he graduated from high school.

Elvis said these singles were a gift for his mother and he only wanted to know what he sounded like. But there was a cheaper place to make recordings nearby, which makes it a questionable claim.

Another famous singer who started here is Johnny Cash, but there are many others.

What's great is that you can still visit Sun Studio when you are in Memphis. It is now a tourist attraction that many Elvis fans go to! And you should too when you are in Memphis for 3 days!

Stroll through Victorian Village

Victorian Village is an area in Downtown Memphis that is definitely worth visiting. When you are 3 days in Memphis, I recommend going to this place! It is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll while looking at the beautiful things you see.

At the Victorian Village, you can find a lot of Victorian-style houses. These houses are wonderful to see!

In the middle of the 19th century, when Memphis was growing, wealthy people built houses here to live in. These houses were large and in the Victorian Style. They built these houses in the outskirts of Memphis, but nowadays it is part of Downtown Memphis.

The building period of these houses was from 1846 to 1890. Moreover, there are a lot of different architectural styles here.

Many of the houses of this part of Memphis are not standing anymore. But you can still see some. Some of the mansions are now museums.

One of these is the Magevney House. This is one of the oldest homes in the city of Memphis, which is very interesting to see.

Another one of the best houses here is the Mallory-Neely House. This is a large mansion that looks a bit like a castle, which is amazing to see!

Dinner at Tamboli's Pasta & Pizza

The 3 days in Memphis are almost over. You had 3 amazing days with many activities. And today was a very busy day as well. So I'm sure you're in the mood for dinner!

If you follow this 3-day itinerary for Memphis, you'll have dinner at Tamboli's Pasta & Pizza.

One of the things I love the most about this restaurant is that they use local ingredients. They care a lot about supporting local farmers.

Furthermore, they want to be sure that you have the best food they can make. For that reason, they handcraft all ingredients in the food.

The food at Tamboli's Pasta & Pizza is incredible.

There are delicious starters. I'd especially recommend having the fresh-baked focaccia as a starter! It's with salt and rosemary.

Furthermore, the pizzas at Tamboli's Pasta & Pizza are amazing. If you love pizza, you should go have one here for sure.

Every pizza at Tamboli's Pasta & Pizza has a sauce that's made at the restaurant. It's very fresh which I love!

Furthermore, the pizzas you can choose from are great.

What's also amazing about this restaurant is that there's a vegan pizza with cheese too! This is a very delicious pizza and the vegan cheese tastes amazing. I'd recommend trying it!

Moreover, there are padella pizzas too.

Furthermore, the restaurant doesn't only serve pizzas, there are pasta dishes too! They serve fresh pasta which is very nice.

In short, this is an amazing place to have dinner on your last day in Memphis!

Getting Around in Memphis

Getting around in Memphis is easy to do and there are many ways to do so!

First of all, you can walk to many of the sights that I cover in this itinerary. There are lots of great places in Downtown Memphis, which makes it easy to walk to many of them.

But if you want to go to a further place in Memphis, you need another way to get around.

One of the best ways to get around in Memphis is by car. This is often the fastest way to go through Memphis.

With a car, you can go everywhere whenever you want. Moreover, you can stop at a place if you want to see it.

Renting a car can be a very convenient option. Or you could use your own car of course.

If you don't want to get around in Memphis by car, you can use the city's public transportation.

There is an extensive network of buses and trolleys. This is also a very easy way to see all the sights of this 3 days in Memphis itinerary!

Not only are the trolleys a great way to move around, but it is also a very fun activity. That's why you should do that when you are in Memphis, regardless of whether you have another means to travel.

Besides that, you could also get around Memphis by taxi. This is a convenient, but more expensive, way to see the sights of the city!

Save this post to Pinterest if you like it!

Blog comments (0)

Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

• Trip Planning

With so much information to sift through, there’s an art to planning a trip to Memphis. Where to stay? What to do? Where to eat? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the exciting options. Luckily, we know the River City like the back of our hand and are here to help.

No fake or phony here. Memphis deliver authentic experiences and the word is getting out, with a plethora of attractions, culinary and cultural options, and exciting places to stay. Most importantly, we’re known for our hospitality and we welcome people like you from around the world every day. Let’s get started on planning your visit to Memphis.

Whether you want to stay close to the action, near a favorite attraction, or somewhere historic, there’s a perfect lodging option for you. Memphis offers something for everyone, from five-star accommodations to comfortable options that won’t break the bank.

Memphis is a big city, but don’t let that intimidate you. We’ve got you covered with all the maps you’ll need to find attractions, parking, hotels, dining spots and more.

Transportation

Whether you’re traveling by foot, car, bike, or just looking for a good walking tour, having the right transportation information is essential for a smooth trip. Memphis is Uber and Lyft friendly, making it easy to get around even if it’s your first time visiting. You can also use taxi cabs or take a ride on the riverboat on the Mississippi River.

Nightlife and events

Looking for live music? You won’t have to look far once you’re here.

With so much going on in Memphis, it might be easy for you to miss something—unless you check out this list of nightlife and events , that is.

You might also be interested on: Moving to Memphis Tennessee: All You Need To Know

5 Memphis Spots Serving the Perfect Drink

WAMM in Rotation: 5 Songs for April ’24

Memphis music is truly unstoppable. Each month welcomes more and more incredible new projects. Here are just 5 we’re highlighting […]

Memphis Mayor Organizes Summit of Black Mayors for Collaboration

Memphis – known as a city of innovators and change-makers. Unwilling to accept the status quo or keep things as […]

WAMM in Rotation: 5 Songs for March ’24

#bringyoursoul to be featured on our social media.

Ready to Share Your Story?

Memphis is a city of doers, dreamers and believers Share a piece of your originality, positive change and soul!

• New Zealand

How to Spend a Weekend in Memphis, Tennessee: a 3-day itinerary

Due to the global pandemic, travel looks different right now depending on where you're going from/to. Please check for travel restrictions and adhere to all local guidelines before planning a trip to any destination you may read about on this site.  Please note: this post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something by clicking the links, I will get a small compensation, at no extra cost to you.

Sharing is caring!

Home of the blues and soul, the birthplace of rock n roll, a major player in the Civil Rights Movement, BBQ recipes that have lasted generations, and a historic hotel with ducks…this is Memphis. Even if you’re only spending a weekend in Memphis, you’ll feel like part of the community instantly because what makes Memphis special is its people and their love for this city.

So let’s dive in to an itinerary for a weekend in Memphis, perfect for 48 hours or a Friday to Sunday trip. Don’t forget your blue suede shoes!

How much does a weekend getaway to Memphis cost?

Expected cost of a weekend getaway to Memphis

for one person for one weekend

$300 – hotel

$140 – food

$135 – activities

$40 – parking

An estimated total is $615 for one person if traveling alone. However, if you’re splitting any of these with a group (meaning the hotel, food, or parking), the cost per person will be lower. If you opt for below average accommodation (less than $150 per night) this will also be cheaper.

Where should you stay in Memphis?

Memphis has a lot of great neighborhoods, but I know safety is a common concern for travelers. That said, downtown is a great location near Beale Street, the Civil Rights Museum, and the beautiful and well-preserved South Main Street.

Here are some recommended hotels:

• Central Station ($145+ per night) –  A beacon of old and new Memphis, Central Station still functions as a train station but has a quirky, music-centric hotel atop. It features custom music speakers in every room, a 30-ft record wall, and 8 & Sand, their immersive listening lounge bar.
• Moxy Memphis ($109+ per night) – I can’t resist a sustainable property and the Moxy Memphis fits the bill! Plus, they have a beautiful outdoor “porch” where you can cozy up after a long day next to their bonfires.

Outside of downtown, we enjoyed our stay in the Midtown neighborhood with lots of fantastic local eats and a fun, revitalized spot called Overton Square!

While there aren’t a ton of hotels in this area, the Airbnb scene is vibrant with many old restored apartments to call your home base for your trip to Memphis.

We stayed in this beautiful 2-bedroom !

How can you save on your trip to Memphis?

Unfortunately when it comes to saving in Memphis, capitalizing on some of our usual money saving travel tips is tricky because Memphis maintains its small-town, community feel without actually being that small of a city.

What I mean is that you won’t find a CityPASS here…so no big attraction pass to save on museum entries, and Groupons are scarce.

That said, there is one secret pass that will save you $27 and that is The Backstage Pass . This music pilgrimage pass covers your entry into the Memphis Rock n Soul Museum, Sun Studio, Graceland, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. It costs $89 and can be purchased at the Rock n Soul Museum or Stax.

My other favorite tried and true tip is to use that Student ID , friend! It will get you a discount at the Civil Rights Museum.

Another tip to keep in mind is that parking in downtown is free on Sundays so don’t sweat the parking meter or parking app! You can also save on transportation costs by parking at a “Park and Ride” lot then taking public transportation into downtown (via the streetcars).

Finally, while you certainly can save money by cooking your own food or packing breakfasts/lunches, I highly recommend indulging when in Memphis. They are known for their food and honestly even just the meals over one weekend aren’t enough! It’s just that good.

Related read → 35+ tips for saving money while traveling

What’s the best way to get around Memphis?

You really do need a car in Memphis…it’s a driving city.

However, parking can get expensive, especially in downtown (except on Sundays when it’s free). So, check out Memphis’s bike share program called Explore Bike Share, which costs $5 for a single ride or $12 for a week.

There are also three streetcar lines that run in downtown, on the riverfront, and on Madison and looks especially gorgeous on South Main. It costs $1 each way. Be sure to check out a map of where the streetcars run .

Some context for your trip

Of course, you’re going to be learning a lot about Memphis in the next few days, but if you’re like me, it can be helpful to know a little context going in. And I’ll be honest, I didn’t know ANYTHING about Memphis before visiting. I watched Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis and that was my context ( I do feel like that movie gave some *missing* context to our visit to Graceland, though ).

Still, here’s some info about Memphis that I wish I had known about ahead of time. Historically, Memphis has Egyptian elements – it was named for an Egyptian city, it sits along a major river (the Mississippi, not the Nile), and even has its own pyramid (the 6 th largest in the world!)…it’s a Bass Pro Shop now but hey, it still counts!

Music in Memphis is not only a part of history, but still connects the city to this day. Rock n roll, soul, blues, modern rap…they’re all crucial to the Memphis we know and love. We’re going to learn about the history of music and of course, listen to a lot of it along the way!

Finally, Memphis tells the story of Black America through not only the Civil Rights Movement, but also the thriving Black culture. As you stroll Beale Street, listen to music, and taste all the BBQ, you have to acknowledge and credit the Black community for their role in all of these things. Memphis tells a story of race through music, art, and food so we’re going to do our best on this itinerary to prioritize learning about it and continuing to support the Black community of Memphis.

Before we dive in, just wanted to share that I’ve compiled this itinerary into a handy download. It’s totally free and super useful to have on your phone (or printed out) when you travel. Just enter your email into the box below so I know where to send it.

Map of your Weekend in Memphis

Memphis Day 1 – context, cuteness, culinary explosiveness, and concerts

Welcome to Memphis! If you can arrive in Memphis with enough time to have a half-day that would be ideal! Of course, if you don’t have time for the full itinerary as it’s laid out, feel free to move things around.

Before you do anything, I recommend stopping by Stax Museum of American Soul Music to pick up the Backstage Pass for everyone in your party as you’ll start using it at locations tomorrow. You can also get it from the Rock n Soul Museum, but Stax has free parking behind so it’s a bit easier to get to.

Allow yourself to learn at the National Civil Rights Museum

We’re going to start off at the National Civil Rights Museum to provide some context for trip. I know we’re starting with a heavy one first, but it’s really important to learn about this history going into the weekend rather than learning it after the fact. And don’t worry we’ll be countering the heaviness with some cuteness later today!

The museum is located at the Lorraine Motel, which is where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. It will take you through an unabridged, chronological Black experience from slavery to the incredible non-violent mobilization of adults and students to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and the aftermath.

I was truly impressed with how dynamic the museum was. Not only is it a curation of artifacts and accompanying information, it’s an experience to make visitors understand the Black experience (which is obviously impossible unless you experience it first-hand, but they do a great job in trying).

For example, when learning about the Middle Passage, which is the awful sea journey captive Africans were forced to take to the Americas for the slave trade, you not only see examples of how captives were forced to sit during the grueling voyage, but you hear sounds of a captive being whipped in agony. It’s truly awful, powerful, and accomplished exactly what it was supposed to in driving your feelings.

You also experience similar demonstrations of sit-ins, Freedom Rides, the March on Washington, and more.

This museum is powerful and the one absolutely 100% necessary visit on this trip. If you need to adjust this itinerary or cut things out, let this be the ONE thing you prioritize to do. It’s that important! Tickets cost $18 per person, or $16 for students. I recommend booking a timed ticket ahead of time so you can enter more quickly.

Address: 450 Mulberry Street

Witness the cutest duck march of all time at the Peabody Hotel

I know that first stop was a somber, heavy one, so before we enjoy some BBQ and music, let’s witness one of the cutest things Memphis has to offer – the Peabody Duck March !

Here’s the story. Back in 1933, the manager of the Peabody Hotel and his buddies were out hunting using live duck decoys (it was legal at the time) and after drinking a bit too much whiskey, they thought it would be funny to put the ducks in the Peabody fountain, located in the hotel lobby. What they weren’t expecting was that the public LOVED the ducks!

@periodicadventures The Peabody Duck March happens every day at 11am and 5pm but get there early for a got viewing spot because it gets very crowded #peabodyducks🦆 #peabodyhotel #thepeabodymemphis #thepeabodyhotel #thepeabodyhotelmemphis #thepeabodyducks #duckmarch #thingstodoinmemphis #thingstodoinmemphistn #memphistn ♬ Star Wars – The Imperial March Theme – Geek Music

The mallard ducks live in the fountain during the day and each night traipse a red carpet to the elevator to ride up to the roof, where their enclosure is. In the morning they do the reverse march back to their fountain.

The public can watch both marches (one at 11am and the other at 5pm), but for this Memphis itinerary, we’re going to watch the evening one from the lobby fountain!

Here’s what you need to know about watching the march!

You’ll want to arrive EARLY like at least 45 minutes, but preferably an hour. Bring something to do because it’s important to claim your spot early. It gets packed, especially on the weekends.

Depending on when you arrive, you may have time to visit with the ducks in the fountain before claiming your spot. Tell me these aren’t the cutest things you’ve ever seen?!

While you can sit in the lobby or watch from the balcony around the fountain, the best spot is really down by the elevator. They’ll put up crowd control dividers and indicate where you are allowed to stand so pick a spot and be patient.

Soon, the ducks will march! Just try to watch this without a smile on your face! Impossible!!

Address: 149 Union Ave.

Intro to BBQ in Memphis with dinner at Blues City Café

You’re probably getting hungry now. It’s been a long day of travel and exploring so let’s grab the Best Meal on Beale at Blues City Cafe .

Located just a couple blocks from the Peabody Hotel, you can walk here and work up that appetite for a final few minutes.

Hailed as the place to “put some South in your mouth,” Blues City BBQ has been around since 1991 and even has a Band Box stage where musicians like BB King, Jerry Lee Lewis, Booker T., Smashing Pumpkins, and Jack White have played!

The meal to try is their Best Meal on Beale where for only $26 you get a full platter of a half rack of their famous ribs, catfish, baked beans, coleslaw, fries, and Texas Toast! We even got some hushpuppies with ours! Two people can definitely share unless you’re ravenously hungry.

Loved what you tasted? Next door, they have a shop where you can pick up some of their seasoning or BBQ sauce!

Address: 138 Beale Street

Get your party on at Beale Street

It’s Friday night 🎉 so of course Beale Street is the place to be! Beale Street was established in 1841 as an area for black culture and commerce. Despite an epidemic of yellow fever and losing a charter, a former enslaved man, Robert Church, acquired the land and helped bring it back to a thriving place for gathering, business, shopping, music, and food!

Beale Street was the birthplace and location of many important firsts, fights, and moments for the black community. The first radio station programmed entirely for the Black community, called WDIA, was based on Beale Street, as was Ida B. Wells’ anti-segregation newspaper, Free Speech . It was also the location of non-violent marches by Memphis sanitation workers who were on strike, where Martin Luther King Jr. joined them to support – a precursor to his assassination.

Beale Street also played a major role in music as the sound of blues was developed here with artists including B.B. King, Fats Domino, and Little Richard frequenting the night clubs.

There is a lot to do on Beale Street so you can easily pick and choose your poison.

Here are some things to do:

• grab an ice cream sundae or other dessert item from A. Schwab, an old general store and soda fountain.
• hang out with some goats at Silky O’Sullivan’s
• find the “I love Memphis” mural
• read about the history and important figures from all the signs
• try some local beer at Ghost River Brewing Company
• listen to music at one of the many venues including B.B. King’s Blues Club, Tin Roof, Rum Boogie Café, or Club Handy

Day 2 – Elvis, Rock n Roll, and historic food

Today is all about rock n roll in Memphis, not just Elvis, but also the birthplace of rock n roll and other artists who made this genre into the powerhouse it is today. We’ll be tracing the footsteps of these hall of famers with, of course, some amazing food in between!

The best breakfast I’ve ever had at the Arcade Restaurant

I’m not exaggerating when I say that breakfast is by far the most important meal for me when I travel. I am always on the lookout for the top breakfast spots with classic staples or unique twists on breakfast foods.

Suffice it to say that deeming this spot the best breakfast I’ve ever had is no small award to dish out. The Arcade Restaurant was established in 1919 and was frequented by Elvis (they even have a special Elvis booth you can sit in now).

As a classic diner, it may not look like the best breakfast of all time, but please allow it to pleasantly surprise you.

We tried the sweet potato pancakes (which I’ve loved in New Orleans ) and French toast…which I’ve loved everywhere. If you have to pick one, absolutely go with the French toast! It was hands down the best I’ve ever had. It’s fried so it was perfectly crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth delicious on the inside!

Luckily for us breakfast lovers, they even have a breakfast sampler where you can try 2 eggs, 1 piece of French toast, 1 slice of bacon, 1 sausage patty, and 1 sweet potato pancake! YES PLEASE.

Be sure to also try their coffee and walk by Elvis’s booth on your way in – it’s the last one on the left against the windows.

Address: 540 South Main Street

A very Elvis morning at Graceland

This next activity is a great choice whether or not you’re an Elvis fan. Graceland is known as Elvis Presley’s mansion, but now it’s also home to the Elvis Presley Entertainment Complex, which has 10+ exhibits/museums, 2 restaurants, and a soundstage where artists still perform (Weird Al was there the night before we visited).

Tickets to Graceland can seem pricey (I don’t deny this) at $77 per person but that ticket comes with access to an audio tour of the mansion led by John Stamos, and admission to all museum exhibits including Elvis’s planes. It’s one of those things where it hurts a little to pay that admission but it’s a fun, do-it-at-least-once type of opportunity.

I highly recommend opting for the first tour of the day at 9am so you have unobstructed views of the mansion. You can buy timed tickets ahead of time online, or use that Backstage Pass.

When you arrive, proceed in the Ticketing Center where you’ll start the tour with a short video then you’ll board buses to Graceland Mansion. While the beginning of this operation is guided, once you’re in the mansion you can go as slow or fast as you want, assuming crowds aren’t backing things up.

Not only are the grounds of Graceland beautiful, but it is fascinating to see how lavishly decorated (and differently decorated) each room is. I loved the peacock stained glass, brightly colored den, and bohemian style billiards room!

The tour ends at the mediation garden where Elvis and his family are laid to rest.

Once you’re back at the Entertainment Complex, you can start making your way through the exhibits from his cars, to his jumpsuits, to his military years, to his career records! Don’t forget to visit his planes including the Lisa Marie, which you can go inside.

Address: 3797 Elvis Presley Blvd.

A relaxing lunch at Casablanca

One thing I loved about Memphis was how unsuspecting all of their restaurants were. They weren’t showy or even crowded sometimes, but the food was incredible every single time.

That was the case for Casablanca . This Mediterranean restaurant might not seem like an obvious choice for Memphis food, but it was so delicious!

With three locations in Memphis, we enjoyed our lunch in their Midtown spot. We tried shawarma, hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, and their house made tea (sweetened and unsweetened). Everything was perfect!

And we even had their house made chocolate mousse, which I’m pretty sure will be living in my head rent-free for a long time!

Casablanca address: 1707 Madison Avenue #103

Other options for lunch include Vernon’s Smokehouse or Gladys’s Diner at Graceland (if you don’t want to leave just yet), or Boscos Squared or Memphis Pizza Café , both located in Overton Square in Midtown, a lovely preserved area thriving with local shops, restaurants, and businesses.

Take a break on Memphis Riverboats

Alright at this point, you might be a little museum-ed out ( yes that’s a word now ). So, let’s switch it up by taking a beautiful cruise down the Mississippi River with Memphis Riverboats . We’ll get outside, listen to some music, and admire Memphis from afar.

Afternoon sightseeing tours, which last 90 minutes, cost $26 per person and happen at 2:30pm, though you’ll want to arrive closer to 1:30-2 pm to have time to park, walk over, and secure your seats on the boat. I recommend the top deck because you’ll get unobstructed views of the bridges and surrounding sights!

You can buy alcohol and snacks aboard the boat so plan accordingly. We had no problem bringing our water bottle on, but they do say that outside food and drinks are not allowed.

I don’t want to blather on and on about the cruise because this article is already getting super long, but it’s a relaxing trip and a great break to prevent museum overload!

Learn about the greats at Sun Studio Tour

For the final activity of the day, we’re visiting one of the many iconic recording studios in Memphis, Sun Studio . This is officially the birthplace of rock n roll because the first ever rock n roll song was recorded here (called Rocket 88 by Jackie Brenston) in 1951. It features the first ever distortion sounds made by a busted amp.

Sun Studio is also where Elvis famously got his start with a record called That’s All Right, a cover of Arthur Crudup’s song, he released in 1954.

This recording studio was also home to recording artists Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash! It’s also still a functional recording studio and has been used by artists like U2 and B.B. King.

Tickets for the tour can only be purchased in person the day of and they can sell out. If you’re traveling to Memphis during a busy time (i.e. holidays), you’ll want to pop into Sun Studio before lunch to purchase your tickets ahead of time (they open at 10 am).

Tours are guided and there are set times, so you’ll be aiming for one of the last two tours of the day at 4:30 or 5:30 pm. Be sure to touch the door handle of the old entrance on your way out for good luck!

Address: 706 Union Avenue

A tasty BBQ invention for dinner

I love trying new foods when traveling (I think most people do). It’s part of what makes a destination so unique and really showcases the history and people of place. That’s what this dinner choice is for.

We’re headed to The Bar-B-Q Shop to try their famous BBQ spaghetti, which they are the creators of!

We were so lucky and grateful to speak with the owner, Eric Vernon, who is a third generation owner of the restaurant. When we shared we were excited to try the BBQ spaghetti, he clued us in that the best way to eat it is on the Texas Toast, which was a horribly messy endeavor but it was SO GOOD.

You’ll want to order a combo plate that includes pulled pork or brisket and the BBQ spaghetti, this way you can try more of their delicious menu!

I really loved how homey The Bar-B-Q Shop was. Everyone was taken care of even though they were understaffed. Families were jovial and couples were having a great time (us included). You can just feel the difference in community here, which Eric pointed out as well – that what makes Memphis special is not their big activities, but their people, relationships, and community.

It’s almost impossible to describe in writing, but you’ll discover it soon enough on your trip to Memphis.

Memphis Day 3 – a little soul for the soul

For the final day in Memphis, we’re continuing our music journey at the Rock n Soul Museum, created by the Smithsonian Institution, and at Stax Museum of American Soul Music, which is part of the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.

But first, coffee…at Bluff City Coffee and Bakery

Did you really think after all that hoopla about breakfast, that I would pick a breakfast spot with only drinks…of course not.

Bluff City Coffee and Bakery has breakfast sandwiches with lots of veggie and vegan options. You’ll want to get your sandwich on their homemade biscuits – we loved the rosemary scallion and garlic cheddar.

To pair, I’d recommend the mocha (my drink of choice), the Golden Kelli (espresso with honey, cinnamon, and milk), or Haley’s Comet ( as a scientist , I appreciate this name), which is their signature latte with espresso, Chai, caramel apple syrup, and milk. And yes, they have alternative milk options like soy, almond, and oatmilk!

While there are a few locations, the location on South Main is in a beautiful, historic spot. You’ll see lots of preserved buildings, even just from the Bluff City Coffee & Bakery window. And to pair with that, peep the Newman collection historic photos of old Memphis displayed in the shop.

Address: 505 South Main Street

Discover the evolution of music at Rock n Soul Museum

You know how we visited the Civil Rights Museum to provide some context for this trip? Well this museum is a piggyback on that.

The Rock n Soul Museum tells the story of how rock, blues, and soul were developed from songs of struggle from farmers in the early 1900’s. It shared how differences in Black and white experiences shaped the evolution of these musical genres.

You’ll learn about the influences of the Grand Ole Opry, segregation, and religion, specifically gospel.

The museum only takes about an hour to get through, and it will help you understand the next stop a bit deeper.

Tickets are $13 for adults, but don’t forget to use the Backstage Pass here, and they open at 10 am.

Address: 191 Beale Street

Defy racial boundaries at Stax Museum of American Soul Music

We’ve covered rock n roll and a bit of blues, so now it’s time for soul, baby!

Stax Records is such an influential spot because they truly defied racial boundaries that were common at the time elsewhere. The founders were siblings Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton, both white, who brought on interracial bands and musicians like Booker T. and the M.G.’s.

Otis Redding, Sam and Save, Albert King, Carla Davis, and Isaac Hayes, all recorded hits for Stax Records in the 1950s and 60s.

The museum shares the story of how soul was created from gospel sounds. It showcases their role as a racial oasis and even tackles how social issues, namely the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., changed everything.

The museum takes about an hour to an hour and a half to get through and tickets cost $13 for adults, but you can use your Backstage Pass here.

Address: 926 E. McLemore Avenue

Farewell lunch

At this point, you’re welcome to head back home. But, if you have a little extra time, might as well grab some lunch at another Memphis staple. I’d recommend Central BBQ , which is right across the way from the National Civil Rights Museum. They’re known for their slow-smoked, fall-off-the-bone ribs.

Another spot I wanted to visit, but unfortunately ran out of time, was Dyers , a burger place on Beale Street known for their 100 year old cooking oil. Okay yeah, that kind of sounds gross, but where else can you taste that! Their grease hasn’t been changed in decades and has even been moved when Dyers moved locations!

Finally, you can also try Gus’s (World Famous) Fried Chicken , which has locations all over the US, but was started about 40 minutes from Memphis. It was the Memphis location, opened in 2001, that solidified Gus’s as the world famous restaurant they are today!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this itinerary! Memphis is truly special and I know you’ll feel it too when you visit.

Thank you to Memphis Heritage for hosting me on this trip. As always, all opinions are my own.

More time in the South? Check out these posts:

• Things to do in Chattanooga, TN
• What do in Johnson City, TN
• Top activities in Gatlinburg for adults
• Best things to do in Clarksville, TN
• What to do in Knoxville, TN
• How to spend one day in Atlanta, Georgia
• 100 epic things to do in Georgia
• Weekend itinerary for Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia
• 3 or 4 day New Orleans itinerary
• Places to visit during fall in the United States

Save to Pinterest

My Travel Essentials

• Travel Insurance  – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing .
• Travel Card  – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
• Get Your Guide  – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
• Booking.com  – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com , the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
• Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
• Give the Gift of Travel  – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
• Staycation Idea  – Check out Resort Pass , which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

previous post

Alanna Koritzke

Recent PhD graduate and hyper-planner of Periodic Adventures, my goal is to share travel inspiration, budget tips, detailed guides, and fun travel stories!

Related Posts

7 Most Beautiful Gardens in Portland Oregon

How to Spend a Delightful Day Trip to Cleveland, Ohio

Best 35 Attractions and Places to Visit Near Tucson, Arizona in 2024

Mohana and Aninda

What a lively city! There seems to be so much to do and eat. The food looks amazing, especially the BBQ spaghetti which we would love to try.

It was such a special city and absolutely, the BBQ spaghetti was a must-try!

I just went to Memphis in April and loved it. I didn’t know what to expect but there’s so much to see and do in the city. I was there almost a week and wasn’t bored. The ducks were definitely cute to watch and I left a bit more of an Elvis fan so I’d say it was a good trip

Agreed! I wasn’t sure what to expect either but was so impressed!

Thank you for this comprehensive guide to Memphis. This has picked my interest in the city. So much history…

There really is so much history in Memphis! Worth the trip for sure.

Memphis is such a fun town. I have to admit though, I do hate that you now have to not only pay to get onto Beale Street, but you also have to pay to get into every bar. 🙁 Anyway, I loved your post. You offered up some great ideas for a fun weekend!

Ahh true. I think we went early enough in the night that they weren’t charging yet, so maybe that’s a hack.

ANUKRATI DOSI

That is such an informative post! Loved reading it.

Thanks so much!

Wow what a terrific weekend guide! I’ve driven through Memphis a few times but haven’t spent much time there yet. I’m saving this for a future trip 🙂

Thank you Nikki! I hope you have the chance to visit!

Linda (LD Holland)

Sadly we have not yet visited Memphis but the music history would draw us for sure. I love the idea of using bikes to get around in the city. And your tip that we should not miss the National Civil Rights Museum. We won’t pass on great bbq to fuel our adventures in Memphis.

The music history was so interesting and definitely take your time at the National Civil Rights Museum, it was truly incredible.

What a great post filled with so much valuable information! I hope to visit one day. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks so much Sierra! I hope you do.

It’s an excellent and comprehensive Memphis itinerary. I haven’t been to this city yet, but it’s on my list of places I want to see. I plan to visit National Civil Rights Museum, take photos from the Peabody Hotel roof, and enjoy Beale Street at night.

All great things to do in Memphis!

Pingback: 49 Fun & Best Things to Do in Memphis, Tennessee

Post a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Memphis Trip Planner

Top attractions in memphis.

Other notable attractions

Top searches in Memphis

Popular road trips from memphis, all road trips from memphis.

• Memphis to New York City drive
• Memphis to Orlando drive
• Memphis to Nashville drive
• Memphis to New Orleans drive
• Memphis to Chicago drive
• Memphis to Washington DC drive
• Memphis to Las Vegas drive
• Memphis to Branson drive
• Memphis to Atlanta drive
• Memphis to Saint Louis drive
• Memphis to Gatlinburg drive
• Memphis to Toronto drive
• Memphis to San Antonio drive
• Memphis to Los Angeles drive
• Memphis to Savannah drive
• Memphis to Dallas drive
• Memphis to Boston drive
• Memphis to Louisville drive
• Memphis to Niagara Falls drive
• Memphis to Chattanooga drive
• Memphis to St. Augustine drive
• Memphis to Mexico City drive
• Memphis to Charleston drive
• Memphis to San Diego drive
• Memphis to Philadelphia drive
• Memphis to Houston drive
• Memphis to Montreal drive
• Memphis to Miami Beach drive
• Memphis to Little Rock drive
• Memphis to Hot Springs drive

Explore nearby places

• West Memphis
• Olive Branch
• Collierville
• Independence

All related maps of Memphis

• Map of Memphis
• Map of West Memphis
• Map of Marion
• Map of Southaven
• Map of Bartlett
• Map of Horn Lake
• Map of Germantown
• Map of Cordova
• Map of Millington
• Map of Olive Branch
• Map of Nesbit
• Map of Lakeland
• Map of Hernando
• Map of Collierville
• Map of Eads
• Map of Drummonds
• Map of Arlington
• Map of Atoka
• Map of Byhalia
• Map of Wilson
• Map of Tyronza
• Map of Parkin
• Map of Oakland
• Map of Dyess
• Map of Coldwater
• Map of Independence
• Map of Lepanto
• Map of Covington
• Map of Tunica
• Map of Senatobia
• Map of Moscow

Memphis throughout the year

• Memphis in January
• Memphis in February
• Memphis in March
• Memphis in April
• Memphis in May
• Memphis in June
• Memphis in July
• Memphis in August
• Memphis in September
• Memphis in October
• Memphis in November
• Memphis in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Memphis?

Get inspired for your trip to Memphis with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Memphis Itinerary
• 2-Day Memphis Itinerary
• 3-Day Memphis Itinerary
• 4-Day Memphis Itinerary
• 5-Day Memphis Itinerary

Q&A about Memphis

Weather in memphis, add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

One Day in Memphis Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Memphis, Tennessee

Ah, Memphis – the biggest city on the mighty Mississippi. This may not be the city you think of first when you think of a vacation in the United States, but you would be doing yourself a great disservice if you were to miss out on a chance to visit it. The place is indeed very fascinating, with very special significance for the African-American community. It is also a great example of Southern charm and hospitality, but it also has a rich history and loads of culture you can explore, so you really don’t have to worry about what to see when here. Because of all that and so much more, rest assured your one day in Memphis will be fantastic.

Plan your trip to Memphis

1. What’s the best time to visit Memphis? 2. A few facts about Memphis 3. One Day in Memphis Itinerary 3.1. Start your day with Elvis… 3.2. … and then just continue with Elvis 3.3. Stop for lunch 3.4. Learn about the Civil Rights Movement 3.5. Hang out with Peabody Ducks 3.6. Visit the Rock and Soul Museum 3.7. Spend the evening on Beale Street 4. Where to stay in Memphis? 5. Day trips from Memphis 6. Extra tips for visiting Memphis

What’s the best time to visit Memphis?

The best time to visit Memphis in one day, at least as far as the weather is concerned, would be autumn . Summers are hot and quite humid, but if you don’t mind that, this season is also a good choice. Spring brings about powerful storms, and winters are relatively mild, but still not exactly what you would call ideal weather. October would be the closest to that, as September can still be quite hot, and November usually sees an increase in rain.

Festivals and events abound in Memphis, and there are plenty of things to do and see all through the year. Elvis Week is in August, for example, and Memphis Soul Music Festival is a must if you’re here in June. Apart from that, though, there are many festivals dedicated to music (jazz and street music) and all kinds of food, so you really shouldn’t be bored, no matter when you come.

A few facts about Memphis

As mentioned in the introduction, Memphis is the largest city on the Mississippi River , but it is not the biggest one in the state of Tennessee – that title belongs to Nashville. Nevertheless, it was one of the most important cities in the South before the Civil War.

Officially, Memphis was founded on May 22, 1819, although the area had been explored by the Spanish, the French and the English from the 16th century. The city is also the place where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was murdered in 1968.

But most importantly, Memphis is a city of music . Apart from its own Memphis blues, the musical tradition here encompasses rock’n’roll, soul, country, jazz and many other styles. Iconic musicians like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, and Aretha Franklin, just to mention a few, are all in some way connected to the city. So read on and learn what to see in Memphis if you want to find out all about its musical heritage.

One Day in Memphis Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Memphis. And in case you aren’t keen on walking, the discovery bus tour will help you see the best of Memphis.

Start your day with Elvis…

A trip to Graceland is almost obligatory when you come to visit Memphis, even if for just one day, and since the mansion is not exactly in the city centre, it may be best to come and visit in in the morning, while you’re still fresh. Also, you could beat the crowds that way. The home of Elvis Presley is now a fascinating museum, with absolutely everything from the King’s life. You can even tour his custom jets! No Elvis fan should miss this, but even if you’re not a music fan, this is very much worth a visit.

… and then just continue with Elvis

The relationship between Memphis and Elvis goes much deeper than just one museum, though. Once you’re done with Graceland, head to Sun Studio , the place where Elvis recorded his first song. However, this place is much more than the King’s recording studio – many consider it to be the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll . Greats like Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, B.B. King and many others also recorded here, so the cultural impact this place has had on the US and the world, in general, is huge.

Stop for lunch

After all that rock ‘n’ roll, you’ll probably be getting hungry. What to do for lunch? Fortunately, downtown Memphis has quite a few great places to eat, and it’s also a great place from which to continue this one day itinerary. Head to Gus’s World Famous Chicken for some spectacular fried bird and to see why people around here simply adore this kind of food.

If you’re looking for something more elegant, Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar is a great choice – lovely interior and exquisite food guarantee a memorable meal. The Majestic Grille is also a great choice, especially if you’re a meat lover.

Learn about the Civil Rights Movement

If you went to one of the aforementioned places for lunch, you’ll be close to the next item on this one-day Memphis itinerary. The National Civil Rights Museum stands at the place where the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. took place. It is an incredible and very moving museum which will tell you all about the civil rights movement and show you less known stories of the people who participated. Dr. King’s room can also be seen, and the famous Greyhound bus is also displayed. An enlightening experience, especially for kids if you have them along.

Hang out with Peabody Ducks

At 5 pm, you should be just in time to check out the famous Peabody Ducks on their way back to their home at the top of the magnificent Peabody Hotel .

This is a big tradition and the best choice if you’re wondering what to see in Memphis for free because you don’t have to pay anything to watch the duck elegantly march to the sound of music. It’s also another great thing to do with kids in the city, but keep in mind that it can get crowded here, so you may want to come a bit early.

Visit the Rock and Soul Museum

Memphis Rock and Soul Museum is another place where you can see exactly how much music means to this city. Not only that, but the place was set up by the Smithsonian, which can tell you a whole lot about the quality you get inside. One of the best features of the museum is that you can listen to old jukeboxes and sing and dance along. Loads of fun! You can stroll through the museum at your own pace, just be aware that they close at 7 pm.

Spend the evening on Beale Street

After a whole day of museums and sightseeing, it’s time to relax. Beale Street is the perfect place for that because not only is it close to downtown Memphis but it also has loads of bars, clubs and restaurants you can visit.

The street is also known as the home of the blues , and you will be able to enjoy a lot of great live music here.

What to do here? Well, as far as the places you can go to are concerned, B.B. King’s Blues Club is pretty much a must when you’re around. Absinthe Room is a very nice and cozy place to stop for a drink, with great atmosphere and a great view of the street below, and Club 152 is the best place if you’re planning to dance the night away. But if you look around Beale Street a bit, you are sure to find plenty of other interesting places.

Where to stay in Memphis?

River Inn of the Harbour Town

50 Harbor Town Square, Memphis, TN 38103

For the ultimate luxury in the city of Memphis, book a room in River Inn of the Harbour Town . This five-star boutique beauty has three restaurants and will welcome you with champagne when you come. The rooms are amazing, with warm colors and loads of classy wooden elements giving them that elegant vibe, and the hotel overlooks the Mississippi. Ideal!

BOOK A ROOM HERE

The Guest House at Graceland

3600 Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis, TN 38116

Not only will you be just five minutes away from Presley’s mansion if you book a room at The Guest House at Graceland , but you will also have access to two great restaurants and a fantastic outdoor pool. The area around the hotel is absolutely beautiful, full of greenery and ideal for a walk, and the rooms boast modern design and can offer you loads of space. You can’t go wrong with this hotel.

La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis Downtown

310 Union Avenue, Memphis, 38103

With La Quinta by Wyndham , you will get your money’s worth, that’s for sure. Indoor pool, free coffee, free airport shuttle… those are just some of the services they offer. The hotel looks awesome from the outside, is fairly close to the city centre and has extremely nice and capable staff. The interior is great, the rooms are nice and comfortable, so you can rest assured you will enjoy your stay here.

Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown

100 North Front Street, Memphis, TN 38103

They will take good care of you at Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown , no doubt about that. Free newspapers, free shuttle, free breakfast, free local calls… But there’s also a great rooftop pool, plus the hotel is located right on the trolley line and is very well connected to all the main attractions in the city. The rooms are very comfortable and fairly big, with high-speed internet, and the staff is always at your service. Absolutely no complaints!

Day trips from Memphis

But maybe you’re not spending just one day in Memphis, maybe you’re spending more. In that case, you will definitely want to explore the great state of Tennessee on one of the great day trips from the city. But where to go? Consider these destinations!

Elvis Presley’s childhood home

For the King’s fans, this is an absolute must. You will head out to the town of Tupelo to see Elvis’ home, but you will learn so much more about him. Apart from the Elvis Museum , you will see his schools, museums dedicated to him and even the place where his mother purchased his first guitar and the church he went to! If you’re at all interested in this remarkable man, this tour will be a fantastic day out.

Mississippi Delta

Another day trip from Memphis for music fans. This one will take you to several fascinating museums, and you will learn all there is to know about the development of the blues genre. Apart from the B.B. King Museum , you can also visit the Grammy Museum and the Delta Blues Museum, as well as some other places important for music around here. Not to mention that the landscape will be beautiful too, since this is an incredibly rich and fertile land.

It takes about three hours to get from Memphis to Nashville by car (just take the I40 all the way), so you may want to get an earlier start if you want to explore the state capital properly. But spending one day in Nashville is very much worth it because the city is brimming with things to see and places to visit, suffice to say that this is Athens of the South. However, music plays a huge role in this city’s life too, so you can be sure you’ll never be bored here.

No, not the British university city, although this place was named after it. The US town of Oxford is located about one hour south of Memphis and a day trip to this place will take you across the state border into the state of Mississippi. This Oxford is also a university town, and William Faulkner , the famous writer, used to live and create here. It is a lovely and fairly peaceful place where you can relax and spend a lovely day out.

Extra tips for visiting Memphis

– Trolleys are a lovely way to explore the downtown area. They are quite beautiful and not very expensive, so you really should get on at least once.

– Hotel prices surge during summer. You can get a much better deal (not to mention that the weather is much more bearable) if you come and visit Memphis in autumn.

– If you’re a music fan, go for the Backstage Pass. It’s a ticket that allows you to visit Graceland , Sun Studio , Stax Museum and the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum for 20% lower price.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Memphis Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures
• New Orleans, Louisiana to Memphis, Tennessee
• Memphis, Tennessee to New Orleans, Louisiana

NEW! Mississippi Delta Explorer

• From $3,999
• 6 Guided Tours
• Dates & Pricing
• New Orleans, Louisiana to Memphis, Tennessee Memphis, Tennessee to New Orleans, Louisiana

NEW! Mississippi Delta Explorer Map

Southern heritage and quaint towns

Discover Darrow, the gateway to the grand homes of the Lower Mississippi, and explore the fascinating towns along the banks of the Mississippi that preserve the memory of the American South’s early history. Learn about Natchez’s French and Acadian heritage and pay your respects at the Vicksburg battlefield. Savor delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as Memphis’s famous barbecue, as you celebrate musical legends in the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll.

SPRING SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Memphis Rock & Soul

From $999 | 2 Nights

Post: The Best of “The Big Easy”

Post: Best of the Bayou: Acadian Lafayette

Sign up to receive updates from viking.

Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content.

Company Information

• Order a Brochure
• Special Offers
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Advisors
• Media Center
• Health & Safety Program
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Manage Cookies

Viking River Cruises

• Mississippi

Viking Ocean Cruises

• Scandinavia
• British Isles & Ireland
• North America
• Caribbean & Central America
• South America
• Mediterranean
• Quiet Season Mediterranean
• Australia & New Zealand
• World Cruises
• Grand Journeys

Viking Expeditions

• Great Lakes
• Longitudinal World Cruises

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Bundle & Save
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Orlando Leyba 2024 (San Francisco) | Punch Line Comedy Club - San Francisco

Get ready for a night of laughter and entertainment at Orlando Leyba, taking place at the renowned Punch Line Comedy Club in San Francisco on May 24, 2024. Located at 444 Battery Street, San Francisco, CA, 94111, this comedy extravaganza is sure to have the audience in stitches. Orlando Leyba's unique style and comedic talent will have you rolling in the aisles. The show will feature a fantastic lineup of hilarious acts that will leave you wanting more. Be sure to mark your calendars as tickets for Orlando Leyba will be available for purchase from March 7, 2024, at 18:00 until May 25, 2024, at 04:45. Don't miss out on this unforgettable evening of laughter and fun!

Provided by DarcellaKimberly | Published Apr 16, 2024

Are you interested in Orlando Leyba 2024 (San Francisco)?

Recommended products for orlando leyba 2024 (san francisco) | punch line comedy club - san francisco, four seasons hotel san francisco, san francisco proper hotel, a member of design hotels, moscow  san francisco, the ritz-carlton, san francisco, the st. regis san francisco, canopy by hilton san francisco soma, more contents about san francisco.

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier

• Book a Flight
• Manage Reservations
• Explore Destinations
• Flight Schedules
• Track Checked Bags
• International Travel
• Flight Offers
• Low Fare Calendar
• Upgrade My Flight
• Add EarlyBird Check-In
• Check Travel Funds
• Buy Carbon Offsets
• Flying with Southwest
• Book a Hotel
• Redeem Points for Hotels
• More Than Hotels
• Hotel Offers
• Best Rate Guarantee
• Rapid Rewards Partners
• Book a Vacation Package
• Manage My Vacation
• Vacation Package Offers
• Vacation Destinations
• Why Book With Us?
• FLIGHT STATUS
• CHANGE FLIGHT

Enter code SAVE25NOW in the Promo Code box when booking. Offer is valid only for continental U.S. flights. The 25 percent promotion code savings are valid for one-way or round trip Wanna Get Away® and Wanna Get Away Plus® fares booked with Rapid Rewards points during the Booking Period, flown during the Travel Period, and are applied before taxes and fees. Seats and days are limited. Savings are reflected in the price when entering the multiuse code SAVE25NOW in the Promo Code box on Southwest.com and swabiz.com. This discount is only available through Southwest.com and swabiz.com. Discount is valid on new reservations only. Discount will apply only for flights booked during the Booking Period and flown on the dates within the Travel Period. If one segment of the trip is outside the Travel Period and one is within the Travel Period, only the portion of travel falling within the Travel Period will be discounted. Changes made to the itinerary after purchase will eliminate qualification for this promotion. The discount is only valid with the provided promotion code and is not combinable with other promotion codes or fares. All reward travel is subject to taxes, fees, and other government or airport-imposed charges of at least $5.60 per one-way trip. Applicable taxes, fees, and other government or airport-imposed charges can vary significantly based on your arrival and departure destination. The payment of any taxes, fees, and other government or airport-imposed charges is the responsibility of the Passenger and must be paid at the time reward travel is booked with a credit card, flight credit, or Southwest gift card. When traveling on reward travel, you will receive all fare product features except for earning Rapid Rewards points. Any change in itinerary may result in an increase in points used. Points bookings are subject to change until ticketed. If you cancel your reservation at least ten (10) minutes prior to the scheduled departure of your flight, any remaining unused points will be returned to your Rapid Rewards account. All Rapid Rewards rules and regulations apply and can be found at Southwest.com/rrterms . Offer is not redeemable for cash, and may not be used in conjunction with other special offers, or toward the purchase of a gift card or previously booked flight, or changed to a previously booked flight. Discount is not valid on group travel, Southwest Vacations®, and government fares.

Help Center

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell/Share My Info

© 2024 Southwest Airlines Co. All Rights Reserved.