Memphis 5 Day Itinerary

Memphis 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Downtown Exploration & Graceland

  • Morning: Check-in at your hotel (recommended: The Peabody Memphis or Hotel Indigo Memphis Downtown). Visit the iconic Peabody Ducks before they march to the fountain.

    • Breakfast: Breakfast Integrated, a popular local spot for breakfast sandwiches and coffee.

  • Afternoon: Explore Beale Street, home of the Blues, and visit the Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum to learn about the city’s musical heritage. Don’t miss Sun Studios where many legendary artists recorded their hits!

    • Lunch: Central BBQ for authentic Memphis-style barbecue.

  • Evening: Visit Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home and estate. Be sure to book tickets in advance as it’s a popular attraction.

    • Dinner: The Arcade Restaurant for an upscale dinner in a historic setting.

Day 2: National Civil Rights Museum & Stax Museum of American Soul Music

  • Morning: Visit the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. It offers a powerful and moving history lesson.

    • Breakfast: The Waffle House or Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken for breakfast.

  • Afternoon: Head to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music to learn about the legendary Stax Records and its impact on music.

    • Lunch: Corky’s Ribs & BBQ or Cozy Corner for more delicious Memphis barbecue.

  • Evening: Spend some time at Overton Park, with the Memphis Zoo and the Dixon Gallery & Gardens as options. End your day at the famous Beale Street for live music and nightlife.

    • Dinner: Hog & Hominy or Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen for a unique dining experience.

Day 3: Memphis Zoo & Mud Island River Park

  • Morning: Visit the Memphis Zoo to see its diverse animal collection, including giant pandas and gorillas.

    • Breakfast: Local Gastropub or Frothy Monkey for a morning coffee and pastry.

  • Afternoon: Take a walk on Mud Island River Park’s Mississippi River model (1:250 scale) to learn about the river’s history and geography.

    • Lunch: Riverfront Restaurant & Bar for riverside dining.

  • Evening: Explore the Memphis Botanic Garden or the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, both located nearby.

    • Dinner: The Second Line or Wine loft for Creole and Cajun cuisine.

Day 4: Memphis Pyramid & Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

  • Morning: Travel to the Mississippi River delta town of West Memphis to visit the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, an incredible attraction featuring a hotel, restaurant, and outdoor activities.

    • Breakfast: A&R Bar-B-Q or Dixie Pig BBQ.

  • Afternoon: Return to Memphis and spend the afternoon exploring the Memphis Pyramid (now home to the Sports & Entertainment Attraction, featuring attractions like Big River Crossing and the Coca-Cola Plaza).

    • Lunch: The Bounty on Broadway or Blue Sushi Salsa for a change of pace.

  • Evening: Take in a Memphis Redbirds (AAA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals) game at AutoZone Park if they’re in town, or enjoy more live music at a local venue like Lafayette’s Music Room.

    • Dinner: Huey’s on Beale Street for burgers and Memphis-style catfish.

Day 5: Departure Day

  • Morning: Grab breakfast at your hotel or at one of the many cafes in the downtown area before checking out.

    • Breakfast: The Cupboard or Biscuit Love for a Southern-inspired meal.

  • Departure: Take a taxi, Uber, or rental car to Memphis International Airport for your departure. Safe travels!