Memphis Pink Palace Museum
Everything you see and do in Memphis makes more sense when you begin here. The marble, 1922 Pink Palace Mansion built by Piggly Wiggly grocery store magnate Clarence Saunders houses the IMAX Crew Training International Theater, Sharpe Planetarium, and exhibits that include Memphis history, geology, America’s first self-service grocery store, Clyde Parke Miniature Circus, and visiting displays. 3050 Central, 901-320-6320 http://www.memphismuseums.org/
Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art
World-class collection of 19th century Chinese art and rare Judaic art. Permanent exhibit includes creations for Chinese nobility during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911): intricately carved jade sculptures, crafted enamelware, rare objects carved in ivory, and impressive ceremonial and historical pieces. Also includes fossils, minerals, contemporary European art glass, and Russian lacquer boxes. 119 S. Main, Concourse Level. 901-523-ARTS http://www.belzmuseum.org/
Children’s Museum of Memphis
Hands-on excitement and fun! Be a pilot in a real airplane cockpit, explore the Mississippi River, watch a train zoom down the tracks, generate your own tornado or earthquake, drive a fire engine and police car, disco dance, climb inside a tree house and skyscraper, become a "star" on stage, and more! Educational programs offered all year. 2525 Central, 901-458-2678 http://www.cmom.com/
Chucalissa C.H. Nash Museum
Just minutes from Downtown, visit an oasis of nature in southwest Memphis. Explore mounds built by American Indians 1,000 years ago, hike the nature trail, and visit the certified arboretum. Contains exhibits on American Indians past and present, a hands-on archaeology lab, and museum store. 1987 Indian Village, 901-785-3160 http://www.chucalissa.memphis.edu/.
Cotton Museum at The Memphis Cotton Exchange
The Cotton Museum shares the story of the cotton industry and its influences on daily life, the arts, and development of this region. See the Memphis Cotton Exchange restored to its 1939 heyday, with the original trading board and Western Union office. Enjoy films, artifacts, and the beautiful 135-foot mural by David Mah Studio. 65 Union, 901-531-7826 http://www.memphiscottonmuseum.org/
Davies Manor Plantation Museum
Shelby County's oldest log house open to the public. Dogtrot-style log home, circa 1830, with period furnishings in a country setting that includes trails and several outbuildings. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Tennessee Civil War Heritage Trail. Open April thru mid December. Off-season by appointment only, 901-386-0715 http://www.daviesmanorplantation.org/
Ernest Withers Collection Museum and Gallery
Honors the life and vast archives of the world-renowned photographer whose career spanned more than 60 years, capturing early Memphis music, Negro League baseball, Beale Street, and the broad spectrum of Civil Rights history. New exhibits quarterly. 333 Beale, 335-8841 http://www.witherscollection.org/
Fire Museum of Memphis
Fun for all ages! Slide down a firehouse pole, sit in real fire trucks, and experience a virtual house fire. Essential lifesaving information, antique trucks, firefighting history, and one of the largest U.S. collections of firefighting toys. A life-size talking horse tells how firefighting began. Outside, a poignant 27-foot-tall memorial honors fallen Memphis firefighters. 118 Adams, 901-320-5650
http://www.firemuseum.com/
Memphis Redbirds Baseball
This unique, not-for-profit baseball team is the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. The Redbirds play April–September at AutoZone Park in the heart of Downtown, named Best Minor League Ballpark in 2009 by Baseball America. 200 Union, 901-721-6000 http://www.memphisredbirds.com/
Memphis Riverboats
A wide variety of sight-seeing cruises with concessions and commentary on the sights and history of the Mississippi River. Evening music cruises with dinner, holiday cruises, and private charters. Wheelchair access on most trips. Closed January-February except by appt. Foot of Monroe at Riverside Drive, 901-527-BOAT, 800-221-6197 http://www.memphisriverboats.net/
Mississippi River Museum
World-class museum with 18 galleries showcasing 10,000 years Lower Mississippi Valley history. More than 5,000 artifacts, plus traveling exhibits and special events. Full-scale reproduction of the front third of an 1870 steamboat; re-creation of a Civil War battle; full-scale reproduction of a Union gunboat; galleries following Delta music; and 4,000-gallon aquarium. Open April-October. Mud Island River Park, 125 N. Front, 901-576-7241, 800-507-6507 http://www.mudisland.com/
National Civil Rights Museum
Located at the Lorraine Motel, the assassination site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the museum chronicles key episodes in, and the legacy of, the American civil rights movement from 1619 to present day. The museum's collections, exhibitions, research, and educational programs exist to broaden the understanding of, and inspire participation in, civil and human rights efforts globally. 450 Mulberry, 901-521-9699, http://www.civilrightsmuseum.org/
National Ornamental Metal Museum
The only museum in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to the exhibition and preservation of fine metalwork. Changing exhibitions range from jewelry and hollowware in precious metals to architectural wrought iron. Metal-working demonstrations and classes in on-site smithy. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the spectacular view of the Mississippi River from the grounds. 374 Metal Museum Dr, 901-774-6380, 877-881-2326, http://www.metalmuseum.org/
Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
Explore this way station on the Underground Railroad at Burkle Estate. A secret cellar and trap doors reveal the escape route of runaway slaves. Startling displays of ads, auctions, and artifacts help tell the story of the slave era this 1856 antebellum hideaway. 826 N. Second, 901-527-3427 http://www.heritagetoursmemphis.com/
Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
A center of culture in the heart of Memphis. Outstanding collections of fine art dating from antiquity to present and superb international traveling exhibitions. Permanent collection includes Italian Renaissance and Baroque paintings and sculpture and European and American paintings. Brushmark Restaurant and Museum Store. Full schedule of films, lectures, family activities, and special events. 1934 Poplar, 901-544-6200, http://www.brooksmuseum.org/
FedExForum
Home to the NBA Memphis Grizzlies and University of Memphis Tigers basketball, the Midsouth's premier sports and entertainment facility includes a Memphis-themed motif, restaurants, outdoor entertainment plaza, suites, club boxes, party areas, and more. It also houses the Smithsonian's Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum and plays host to a wide range of concerts and special events. Corner of Beale and Third, 901-205-1234, 866-648-4667 http://www.fedexforum.com/
Memphis Grizzlies NBA Basketball
This Western Conference team began in 1995 as the Vancouver Grizzlies, migrated to Memphis in 2001 and now plays regular season home games October–April in the state-of-the-art FedExForum. FedExForum, corner of Beale and Third, 901-205-2525, Tickets: 901-888-HOOP http://www.grizzlies.com/
AutoZone Park
Home of the Memphis Redbirds, the St. Louis Cardinals' AAA affiliate, this state-of-the-art stadium offers behind-the-scenes tours that include the press box, clubhouse, and training facilities. Voted Top Minor League Ballpark in 2009 by Baseball America, AutoZone features a picnic terrace, baseball-themed children's play area, party decks, and luxury suites. Corner of Third and Union, 901-721-6050, http://www.memphisredbirds.com/
Mississippi RiverKings Hockey
Proud members of the Central Hockey League, two-time President’ Cup champions, and the longest-running professional sports franchise in the Midsouth takes to the ice for thunderous play and exciting games October-March. DeSoto Civic Center, I-55 and Church Rd, 662-342-1755 http://www.riverkings.com/
Stax Museum of American Soul Music
The world's only soul music museum is located at the original site of Stax Records, with 17,000 square feet of more than 3,000 videos, exhibits, stage costumes, musical instruments, records, photographs, and other memoribilia. Learn the story of American soul music, highlighting artists Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Aretha Franklin, Al Green, and hundreds of others. 926 E. McLemore, 901-946-2535 http://www.staxmuseum.com/Graceland
Experience Elvis’s fascinating journey to superstardom at his home, Graceland, a designated National Historic Landmark. Exciting videos, displays of authentic clothing, personal mementos, his amazing showcase of gold and platinum awards, and more. New exhibits include Elvis in Hollywood, Elvis Presley: Fashion King, and From Tupelo to Memphis. Stay at Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel. 3734 Elvis Presley Blvd, 901-332-3322, 800-238-2000 http://www.elvis.com/
Sun Studio
Guided tours of the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Hear session outtakes, touch Elvis’s first microphone, see loads of memorabilia, and relive the history of the musical careers launched here: Johnny Cash, B.B. King, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, and other legends. America's only recording studio designated a National Historic Landmark. 706 Union, 901-521-0664, 800-441-6249 http://www.sunstudio.com/
Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
This Smithsonian Institution exhibition tells the story of music pioneers who overcame racial and socio-economic barriers to create the music that shook the world. A comprehensive Memphis music experience, from the rural music of the 1930s through Memphis’s musical heyday in the '70s to its global musical influence today. Audio-guided tour and gift shop. FedExForum, corner of Beale and Third, 901-205-2533, http://www.memphisrocknsoul.org/
Beale Street Entertainment District
Home of the Blues at the crossroads of Rock 'n' Roll, playing the blues for more than a century. Four historic blocks of nightclubs, specialty shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues host millions of visitors annually. Live music nightly, special events, and annual festivals. The No. 1 tourist attraction in the state of Tennessee!. 901-526-0115, 901-529-0999, http://www.bealestreet.com/
Center for Southern Folklore
In the heart of Downtown, the Center's Folklore Hall showcases folk art, photography, and live performances. The Folklore Store is a colorful, one-of-a-kind regional marketplace for folk art, crafts, books, music, and photographs. Tastes of authentic Southern cuisine. Live music, catered parties, and tours. The Memphis Music & Heritage Festival rocks out every Labor Day weekend. 119 & 123 S. Main, 901-525-3655 http://www.southernfolklore.com/
Backbeat Tours
Tours as unique as our hometown. Conveniently located Downtown on Beale Street, offering daily sightseeing bus and walking tours — including the live-music Memphis Mojo Tour, the highest-rated tour of the city — as well as Cocktail Tours and evening walking tours of Haunted Memphis. All led by professional guides who use music, comedy, and song to create a one-of-a-kind touring experience. Office: 901-272-2328, Tickets: 800-979-3370 http://www.backbeattours.com/
W.C. Handy Home
Recapture the flavor of old Beale Street at the turn-of-the-century home of the “Father of the Blues,” William Christopher "W.C." Handy. A small, wood-frame house displays artifacts and memorabilia that give insight into this musical genius’s life and music. 352 Beale, appt. only: 901-527-3427.
Gibson Guitar Factory and Showcase
Experience the incredible craftsmanship that goes into every guitar. Factory tours include up-close looks at the intricate process of building guitars. See magic in the making! Special group rates and times available. One block south of historic Beale Street, the Gibson Retail Store offers the largest selection of Gibson and Epiphone instruments in Memphis. 145 Lt. George W. Lee, 901-544-7998 http://www.gibsonmemphis.com/
Tunica
Just 30 miles south of Memphis, the South's Casino Capital shimmers with Vegas-style gaming, including nine world-class casinos, 6,000 luxurious hotel rooms, fine-dining restaurants and buffets, headline entertainers, championship golf and tennis, award-winning museums, lavish spas, and outlet/antique shopping. U.S. Highway 61, 888-4TUNICA http://www.tunicamiss.com/
Southland Park Gaming and Racing
Enjoy the excitement of live greyhound racing, simulcast greyhound and thoroughbred racing, multi-line, multi-denomination, multi-reel games, electronic craps, video poker and poker room, blackjack, and live entertainment. Indulge in the World Market Buffet and the new Bourbon Street Steakhouse Grill. Eat, play, and win big —minutes from Downtown Memphis! I-40 & I-55, Exit 279A, West Memphis, AR, 870-735-3670, 800-467-6182 http://www.southlandpark.com/
Shelby Farms Park
The largest metropolitan park in the country provides picnic shelters, as well as meeting rooms.Includes 31 fishing lakes; walking and biking trails; bird watching; 54-acre lake for sailing, wind surfing, and pedal boating; off-leash dog area; herd of American bison; disc-golf course; horse stables; Agricenter International’s exhibition center and Show Place Arena; and farmers market. 500 N. Pine Lake, 901-767-PARK http://www.shelbyfarmspark.org/
Tom Lee Park
Named to honor a black riverworker who heroically saved 32 people from a sinking steamboat in 1925, this 30-acre park stretches one and a half miles along the eastern banks of the Mississippi River. Home to a number of festivals and concerts, the parkhosts the five-mile River Walk and includes two Tom Lee Memorial monuments. Riverside Drive between Beale and Georgia.
Elmwood Cemetery
Historic 1852 cemetery with a unique collection of Victorian funeral art. Many influential Memphians are buried in the area's first garden movement cemetery. Eighty acres of rolling hills, stately trees, statuary, and beautiful gardens surround the quaint Victorian Gothic office. Relax with a picnic in the beautiful blend of nature and art. Audio tours and walking maps. 824 S. Dudley, 901-774-3212 http://www.elmwoodcemetery.org/
Overton Park
This 342-acre public parkwas one of the city's first parks, dating to 1902. Nine-hole golf course, 1.4-mile fitness trail, playgrounds, open play fields, wooded trails, picnic pavilions, Rainbow Lake formal gardens, and Veterans Plaza. Also home to Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Memphis Zoo, and the Levitt Shell, where Elvis performed his first paid concert. 2080 Poplar, golf course: 901-725-9905
W.C. Handy Performing Arts Park
This outdoor amphitheater, located in the heart of Beale Street was dedicated to the “Father of the Blues,” William Christopher "W.C." Handy, in 1931. The park plays host to live music, festivals, and catered events. 200 Beale, 901-526-0115 http://www.bealestreet.com/
Mud Island River Park
America’s premier Mississippi River Park, a unique historical, cultural, and educational facility dedicated to telling the Mighty Mississippi's story. Walk the 1/2-mile scale model of the Lower Mississippi. Visit the museum. Enjoy green spaces to jog, bike, and picnic, or experience the water firsthand in a canoe, kayak, or pedal boat. Concerts and reception venues. Open April-October. 125 N. Front, 901-576-7241, 800-507-6507 http://www.mudisland.com/
Martin Luther King Riverside Park
This 379-acre public park on the banks of the Mississippi River was one of the first parks in Memphis, dating to 1902. It offers a nine-hole golf course, boat ramp and marina, scenic river views, lake, playgrounds, ball field, four lighted tennis courts, picnic areas, and three pavilions. South Parkway at Riverside, 576-4296.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
Bordering the Mighty Mississippi, two-thirds of this 13,467-acre park is bottomland hardwood forests. The park also contains two lakes, miles of hiking trails, a museum and nature center, boat ramp, 200 species of birds, and other wildlife. Cabins, camping, swimming, and picnic facilities also available. 910 Riddick, Millington, 901-876-5215, 800-471-5293 http://www.tnstateparks.com/
Levitt Shell at Overton Park
This open-air theater first opened in 1936 giving Memphis a venue for entertainment under the open skies. Elvis Presley's first paid concert happened here in 1954. The Mortimer Levitt Foundation, a family charity dedicated to reviving band shells, brought this unique venue back to life in 2008. The Levitt Shell presents 50 free, family-friendly concerts each year in the spring and fall. 1930 Poplar in Overton Park behind the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, 901-272-2722 http://www.levittshell.org/
Mississippi River
Memphis's signature "welcome sign" in the west plays host to numerous festivals, concerts, contests, and other major events throughout the year.Interactive water sports available, and parks along the riverfront make Ol' Man River the perfect backdrop for picnics, kite flying, strolling, and other outings. The River Walk provides a panoramic view of Memphis's crown jewel.
Lichterman Nature Center
A nature center for the 21st century is located in the middle of metropolitan Memphis. Explore 65 acres of forest, lake, and meadow, and learn about preservation. Includes the Back Yard Wildlife Center, three miles of trails, boardwalks across the lake, picnic facilities, gift shop, and environmental and interactive multimedia exhibits. 5992 Quince, 901-767-732 http://www.memphismuseums.org/
Memphis Botanic Garden
96 acres of specialty gardens in the heart of Memphis. Features My Big Backyard children's garden, monthly art exhibits, special events, seasonal plant sales, Farmers Market (April–October), wine tastings, summer camps, and educational programs. Fratelli's in the Garden Cafe located in the Visitors Center. Facility rental for weddings, parties, and special events. 750 Cherry, 901-576-4100 http://www.memphisbotanicgarden.com/
Victorian Village Historic District
This Downtown Memphis neighborhood is known for its grand 19th century Victorian homes and mansions, which sit among stately trees and shaded lawns. Visit the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum at 680 Adams. Drive by private homes and churches on Adams, Jefferson, and Washington between Orleans and Neely streets and relive elegant times of old. 901-523-0235 http://www.victorianvillageinc.org/
Overton Square Theater District
On stage in the heart of Midtown Memphis, professional and local theater troupes perform in venues that range from a state-of-the-art performance hall to a former movie theater (where Elvis used to go)! Between Madison and Union on Cooper, 726-4656 playhouseonthesquare.org
Cooper-Young Historic District
Historically hip Midtown neighborhood centered around Cooper, Young, and Central features antiques and specialty shops, vintage clothing stores, and award-winning restaurants and bars. The first Thursday each month is Night Out: retail bargains, food and beverage discounts, and live music. Every September, the Cooper-Young Festival hosts hundreds of artisans, stage performances, and refreshments. 901-276-7222, http://www.cooperyoungfestival.com/
The Pinch District
Memphis's first neighborhood, settled by Irish immigrants in the mid 1800s, is reborn as a shopping and entertainment area. Given its name from the gaunt appearance of the immigrants who resided there after fleeing the great potato famine in Ireland, The Pinch includes live music, pubs, coffee shops, specialty stores, and more. North Main and Jackson, east of The Pyramid.
Soulsville USA
Historic neighborhood birthplace of musical luminaries as Aretha Franklin, David Porter, Memphis Slim, Memphis Minnie, and others. Home to Royal Studios, where Hi Records recorded soul greats Al Green, Ann Peebles. The 17,000-square-foot Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the only soul music museum in the world, stands at the original site of Stax Records. 926 E. McLemore, 901-946-2535, http://www.soulsvilleusa.com/
South Main Historic Arts District
Where culture, style, and charisma fuse. Anchored by historic Central Train Station on the south and Orpheum Theatre on the north, the city's official historic arts district offers a diverse neighborhood of fine arts, specialty shopping, restaurants, bars, and live music. Monthly Art Trolley Night, every last Friday. Outdoor Memphis Farmers Market every Saturday, mid April through October. 901-578-7262, http://www.southmainmemphis.net/
Dixon Gallery and Gardens
Set amid 17 acres of formal and informal gardens, this former private estate is home to a renowned collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings, 18th- century porcelain, exhibitions of fine and decorative arts, beautiful gardens, and a full schedule of art and horticultural programs. The museum store offers unique gifts and jewelry, many created by local artisans. 4339 Park, 901-761-5250 www.dixon.org.
Woodruff-Fontaine House
This restored 1870s French Victorian mansion in the Victorian Village Historic District showcases 18 rooms exhibiting 19th and early 20th century furniture, textiles, and decorative arts. Gingerbread Playhouse and museum shop in the mansion. 680 Adams, 901-526-1469 www.woodruff-fontaine.com.
Memphis Zoo
The 76-acre zoo provides naturalistic homes to more than 3,500 animals representing 500 species. Get nose-to-nose with polar bears and sea lions in the Northwest Passage. The breathtaking CHINA exhibit features giant pandas Le Le and Ya Ya, and experience Yellowstone with grizzly bears and gray wolves at Teton Trek. Overton Park, 2000 Prentiss Place, 901-276-WILD www.memphiszoo.org
Memphis Trolleys
Restored to the elegance of their 1912-1940 predecessors,today’s trolleys run from the South Main Historic Arts District to the Pinch District, along the picturesque riverfront, and from Downtown to the Medical Center. Passengers may board at any of 35 handicapped-accessible stations. Enjoy the sights of Downtown as you travel to your next trolley-served attraction, 901-274-6282 www.matatransit.com.
The Orpheum Theatre
Built in 1928, the 2,500-seat Orpheum is one of the few remaining elegant movie palaces of the ‘20s. A $5 million renovation in the early 1980s included refurbishing ornamental plasterwork, crystal chandeliers, and original furnishings plus remodeling backstage and technical areas. The theater presents a variety of events, from Broadway shows and concerts to films and dance performances. Main at Beale, 901-525-7800, Tickets: 901-525-3000. www.orpheum-memphis.com.
The Peabody Memphis
Mobil Four-Star, AAA Four-Diamond historic Downtown landmark first opened in 1869. Local developer Jack Belz restored the legendary hotel to its original splendor, kicking off Downtown’s revitalization when it reopened in 1981. The South's Grand Hotel includes the famous march of the Peabody Ducks, newly renovated rooftop Duck Palace, gift shops, restaurants, retail, and history. 149 Union, 901-529-4000, www.peabodymemphis.com.
