Memphis 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Memphis

Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. This iconic restaurant is known for its delicious Southern fried chicken.
  • Head to National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. It offers a powerful and moving experience, providing insights into the American civil rights movement.

Afternoon:

  • Visit Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home, now a museum. Here you can explore his mansion, memorabilia, and exhibits dedicated to “The King” of Rock ’n’ Roll.
  • Lunch at Arcade Restaurant. Established in 1919, it offers a wide variety of Southern cuisine.

Evening:

  • Take a stroll along Beale Street, the home of the blues. Enjoy live music at some of the legendary clubs like B.B. King’s Blues Club or Rum Boogie Cafe.
  • Dinner at Central BBQ. This local favorite serves up mouthwatering barbecue dishes.

Overnight Stay:

  • The Peabody Memphis: A historic hotel located on the famous Peabody Duck March route, this luxurious hotel offers a unique experience in downtown Memphis.

Day 2: Discovering More of Memphis

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Café Eclectic. This popular eatery serves delicious breakfast dishes, from pancakes to eggs benedict.
  • Visit Memphis Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals representing more than 500 species. Don’t miss the famous penguin exhibit!

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Cozy Corner Restaurant and Deli. Known for its ribs and barbecue spaghetti, this is another must-visit spot for Southern cuisine.
  • Explore Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum. This Smithsonian Affiliate museum tells the story of the musical movement that changed America and the world – rock ’n’ soul.

Evening:

  • Take a sunset river cruise on the Mississippi Riverboat Queen. Enjoy dinner as you cruise down the mighty Mississippi.
  • Visit Mud Island River Park to walk along a scale model of the lower Mississippi River.

Overnight Stay:

  • If you prefer budget accommodations, consider Airbnb or Hotel Indigo Memphis Downtown. Both offer comfortable stays at more affordable prices.

Things to Know:

  • Memphis has a humid subtropical climate, so pack accordingly.
  • The city is known for its barbecue, blues music, and soul food, so be sure to try these local favorites!

Transportation:

  • Renting a car is the best way to get around Memphis, but Uber and Lyft are also available. The city has a trolley system called MATA that can help you navigate downtown.

Tips:

  • Don’t forget to tip in restaurants – service industry workers depend on tips for their income.
  • Be respectful when visiting historical sites, as these places hold significant importance to many people.
  • Enjoy your trip to Memphis and take time to appreciate the unique blend of history, music, and Southern hospitality!