9 Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Memphis! The Birthplace of Blues, the Soul of Americans

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Memphis is synonymous with music, especially known as the birthplace of blues. This iconic city attracts music lovers from around the globe. Memphis is perhaps best known as the home of Elvis Presley, where the King of Rock and Roll spent his later years. Presley was so fond of Memphis that he even created an album titled "Elvis in Memphis." Exploring Memphis is a chance to celebrate not only Elvis but also the legacy of countless legendary musicians. Beyond music, Memphis also offers opportunities to watch sports and learn about the history of racial discrimination and slavery in America. Here are nine must-see attractions to experience the best of Memphis!

1. Graceland

When visiting Memphis, a must-see destination is Graceland. This is the former home of the world-famous musician, Elvis Presley. Today, it has become a popular tourist attraction where fans can explore the facilities with guides available in various languages.

Inside, visitors can enjoy the room Presley used for recording, hundreds of records, costumes, videos, and episodes about his debut. Additionally, his office and living room have been preserved just as they were at the time. Graceland is one of the most popular attractions in Memphis and a place every Presley fan should visit at least once in their lifetime.

There is also a souvenir shop where you can purchase various goods, and it is only about a 5-minute drive from Memphis Airport, making it a highly recommended tourist spot.

2. Sun Studio

After fully enjoying Graceland, head to Sun Studio—a paradise for music lovers. Just a 15-minute drive north of Graceland, this legendary recording studio is a must-visit during any Memphis tour.

Sun Studio is the birthplace of countless music legends and holds special significance for fans of Western music. It’s where Memphis native Elvis Presley began his journey, and visitors can listen to recordings from his debut era.

One of the highlights is the microphone Presley used, which is on display for visitors to hold and take photos with. Guided tours in English provide fascinating stories about the origins of famous musicians and the cultural significance of Memphis’s music history.

3. National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel

A visit to the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel is essential for understanding both Memphis and American history. This historic site, where civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, has been transformed into a compelling museum.

Visitors can explore exhibits that include videos from the era, investigative materials about the assassination, and preserved room interiors, providing a vivid snapshot of the events of that fateful day. Beyond this, the museum delves into Dr. King’s fight against racial injustice and the civil rights movement, making it a meaningful destination for those interested in history and social justice.

If you’re visiting Memphis, this museum offers a powerful opportunity to reflect on King’s legacy and the broader struggle for civil rights in the United States.

4. Stax Museum of American Soul Music

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is a popular destination among music enthusiasts visiting Memphis. This museum repurposes the building of the legendary Stax Records, making it a tourist spot where visitors can fully immerse themselves in the roots and history of soul music in Memphis, the birthplace of the genre.

The museum is associated with numerous soul musicians, including iconic names such as Otis Redding, Steve Cropper, and Sam & Dave. Visitors can enjoy listening to famous soul hits while exploring record covers, musical instruments, costumes, photos, and even beloved cars of these stars.

This museum is a must-visit destination for experiencing the soul of Memphis, offering an enjoyable journey through music.

5. AutoZone Park

AutoZone Park is a must-visit tourist spot for baseball fans in Memphis. It is the home field of the Memphis Redbirds, the local Triple-A Minor League team, where visitors can enjoy numerous games throughout the year at this natural grass stadium.

Among Minor League stadiums, AutoZone Park stands out for its luxurious facilities, which include suites and seating options that cater to all preferences. Guests can either sit in regular seats or relax on the lawn while enjoying the game.

On weekends, the park hosts game-day events and fireworks shows, making it a favorite destination for families. Minor League games are more affordable compared to Major League games, offering a budget-friendly way to experience live baseball. This stadium is especially popular among Memphis Redbirds fans and tourists eager to see authentic baseball up close.

6. The Orpheum Theatre

For an authentic Broadway experience in Memphis, The Orpheum Theatre is highly recommended. Built in the late 1920s, this historic venue is registered as a U.S. National Historic Landmark. Its ornate gold décor throughout the interior is breathtaking, exuding a majestic and solemn atmosphere befitting its history.

The charm of The Orpheum goes beyond its decor. Renowned for hosting countless performances, it also boasts world-class acoustics. Visitors can enjoy outstanding sound quality in a space steeped in history, making it a true sanctuary for music enthusiasts in Memphis.

With bars and restrooms available, guests can comfortably spend an entire day enjoying Broadway shows. This iconic theater remains one of Memphis’ most popular attractions.

7. Beale Street

When sightseeing in Memphis, Beale Street is a must-visit destination for immersing yourself in authentic music. This street is packed with live music venues, and the bars and restaurants lining the street offer various live performances accompanied by guitars and brass instruments.

While there are concerns about safety, you will often see patrolling police officers. Especially at night, the street is bustling with music lovers from all over the world. Many venues offer unique live performances, so bar hopping is recommended to fully enjoy the atmosphere.

In addition to dining establishments, there are souvenir shops for tourists and stores specializing in blues CDs, making it a great place for shopping as well. One corner of the street features a statue of Elvis Presley strumming a guitar, which is a popular spot for taking commemorative photos.

This is an essential tourist spot in Memphis for enjoying great food, drinks, and music.

8. Peabody Hotel

The Peabody Hotel stands out as a top destination for Memphis visitors, and it’s not just for its luxurious accommodations—this hotel is famous for its daily Duck March.

Every morning at 11 a.m., ducks that live on the hotel rooftop take an elevator down to the lobby. They then waddle along a red carpet to the hotel's indoor fountain, where they swim until evening. Known as the Duck March or Duck Parade, it has become a Memphis specialty. At 5 p.m., the ducks leave the fountain, march proudly back along the red carpet, and take the elevator to return to their rooftop residence. The Peabody Hotel is always bustling with visitors who come specifically for this charming event.

The ducks have become a symbol of the hotel, with duck-themed decorations throughout. Duck-themed merchandise is also available for purchase, making it a fun place to stop by during your Memphis tour.

9. FedExForum

For sports fans visiting Memphis, the FedExForum is a must-see venue. Opened in 2004, this state-of-the-art arena is home to the Memphis Grizzlies, the city’s NBA team, and hosts various events year-round.

Whether you’re catching a thrilling NBA game or attending a major concert, the FedExForum offers a world-class entertainment experience. With a seating capacity of approximately 18,000, it’s Memphis’ largest indoor arena and a favorite destination for locals, tourists, and basketball fans.

Keep in mind that big events can cause heavy traffic in the surrounding area, so planning ahead and arriving early is highly recommended to make the most of your visit.

◎ Summary

In this article, we introduced 9 recommended spots to visit in Memphis. Memphis is a city full of charm, known as the sacred ground of blues that attracts music fans from around the world. It also offers the thrill of watching sports like Minor League Baseball and NBA games. Furthermore, it provides opportunities to learn about American history, racial discrimination, and persecution, encouraging deep reflection on issues of inequality. With its mix of music, sports, and history, Memphis is undoubtedly a destination worth visiting at least once.