Memphis is the second most populated city in Tennessee behind Nashville. The city is particularly famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland and is frequently visited by music fans from around the world. Memphis is also known for its rich history due to its connection with slavery and the Civil Rights Museum.
Here is a list of some of the must-visit attractions when you plan to visit this beautiful city.
Graceland: The Home of Elvis Presley
Graceland has become one of the most popular pilgrimages for fans of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. The tourists come to tour Graceland to admire the memorabilia and visit his tomb sitting in the Meditation Garden. During your tour, you can also see the King's famous jungle room, pink Cadillac, and even gifts sent to him from his diehard fans. Even though the place may feel crowded but it is a must-visit for even fans who are not big fans of Elvis Presley.
National Civil Rights Museum
Memphis played an important part in the Civil Rights Movement, especially after the assassination of Marting Luther King at the infamous Lorraine Motel on April, 04th 1968. The museum consists of over 260 artifacts, over 40 films, and several interactive media to take you through the centuries of history. You will also get to see King's motel room where he spent his final hours.
The National Civil Rights Museum is a must-visit place for everyone and you will find the experience surreal and incredibly moving. You should spare at least 2 to 3 hours to do justice to this incredible place.
Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
Built in 1849, the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum takes the visitors back to the pre-Civil War era. The main house was once used as a shelter for slaves along the Underground Railroad. The owner of the house, Jacob Burkle was a part of the anti-slavery movement and offered safe refuge to the people escaping slavery. Although the museum is small it offers a valuable history lesson and insights into the conditions of the slaves during that era.
Sun Studio
Sun Studio is known as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll. It is the place where the first rock song was recorded in the early 1950s. On your guided tour, you will hear stories of some of the most legendary musicians who recorded their music at the studio. You can see things like the microphone used by an 18-year old Elvis to record his first song. Tours of the studio are available every hour.
Peabody Hotel and Ducks
During your stay in Memphis, one of the best places to stay is Peabody Hotel. The hotel is one of the most recognizable places in Memphis and is known for its luxurious facilities. The location of the hotel is close to several of the popular attractions in Memphis and the inside of the hotel is a marble lobby that has featured in several local commercials and films.
In addition to the awesome hotel, every day at 11 AM and 5 PM, the ducks march down the hotel lobby surrounded by people taking their photos like they are celebrities. The place can get crowded as it is one of the most popular tourist attractions and therefore you may want to go a little early to find a place with a good vantage point.
Beale Street
Every city has a street that embodies the heart and soul of the city's culture. Beale Street is that street for Memphis. The street got its start in 1841. Famous musicians like BB King and Alberta Hunger got their start here. The atmosphere on the street is buzzing and it is home to popular attractions like the Orpheum Theatre, the W.C Handy House Museum, and the New Daisy Theater. The street is also home to everything from cheap nightclubs to expensive restaurants.