Memphis, Tennessee, USA 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Graceland

  • Arrival: Fly into Memphis International Airport (MEM). Rent a car or use rideshare services for transportation.

  • Morning: Settle into your accommodation, ideally located in Downtown Memphis for easy access to attractions. Recommended hotels: The Peabody Memphis, Hotel Indigo Memphis Downtown, or the Marriott Memphis Downtown.

  • Afternoon: Visit Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home and the heart of Elvis fans worldwide. Explore the mansion, museums, and Medison Hall with exhibits dedicated to Elvis’ life and career. (graceland.com)

  • Evening: Dine at Corky’s Ribs & BBQ for some authentic Memphis barbecue. (corkys.com)

Day 2: National Civil Rights Museum & Beale Street

  • Morning: Spend the morning at the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. It’s a powerful and moving experience that offers valuable insights into American history. (civilrightsmuseum.org)

  • Afternoon: Explore Overton Park with its Memphis Zoo, Brooks Museum of Art, and the Dixon Gallery & Gardens.

  • Evening: Stroll down Beale Street, Memphis’ most famous street, known for its live music clubs, historic buildings, and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a meal at Kansas City Barbecue or Blues City Cafe. (bealestreetmemphis.com)

Day 3: Stax Museum of American Soul Music & Sun Studio

  • Morning: Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, which showcases the history and impact of Stax Records on soul music, culture, and Memphis. (staxmuseum.com)

  • Afternoon: Head to Sun Studio where legends like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King recorded their first hits. Take a guided tour to learn more about the studio’s rich history. (sunstudio.com)

  • Evening: Dine at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken for some down-home Southern cooking. (gusfriedchicken.com)

Day 4: Memphis Zoo & Mud Island River Park

  • Morning: Spend the day at the Memphis Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals and numerous exhibits, including a penguin exhibit, zoological gardens, and the award-winning Gorilla Forest.

  • Afternoon: Visit Mud Island River Park to learn about the Mississippi River’s history through interactive exhibits and walk along the 1/2-mile long “Riverwalk.” (mudisland.com)

  • Evening: Dine at Char, a modern steakhouse offering locally sourced cuts of beef, seafood, and seasonal dishes. (charmemphis.com)

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning/Afternoon: Spend your last few hours in Memphis exploring any remaining sights or shopping for souvenirs at local stores like Huey’s, Memphis Music, or Crosstown Concourse.

  • Departure: Return your rental car and depart from Memphis International Airport (MEM). Until next time!

Tips:

  • Memphis is known for its hot and humid summers, so pack accordingly.
  • Be sure to try Memphis’ iconic barbecue and soul food during your stay.
  • Take advantage of the free trolley service in Downtown Memphis for transportation between attractions.
  • Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for attractions like Graceland, Stax Museum, and Sun Studio to save money.
  • Don’t forget to tip for live music performances on Beale Street.