Are you trying to plan an epic weekend in Memphis, Tennessee? Then you’ve come to the right place! Memphis is one of the largest cities in Tennessee. You’ll find it in southwest Tennessee, along the Mississippi River. While Nashville Tennessee is the ‘Country Music City’, Memphis is known as the birthplace of Blues and Rock n’ Roll. Blues and Rock n’ Roll legends like Elvis Presley, BB King, and Johnny Cash have all recorded hit albums in Memphis. Elvis even lived in Memphis at his iconic Graceland estate.
While spending 2 days in Memphis may sound like not enough time to see everything, we promise it is. With our weekend guide to Memphis, you’ll be able to hit all the absolute must-see spots in the city. We’ve also made sure to include tips on getting to Memphis, how to travel around Memphis and our favorite suggestions for hotels and restaurants in Memphis!
By the time you’re done checking out our itinerary for Memphis and our bonus tips, you’ll be confident in planning your epic weekend in Memphis, TN. While Memphis is probably best known for its music history, we’ve made sure to include some other itinerary stops as well. You’ll see some historic sites, get to explore one of the coolest outdoor areas in the city, and more. So, let’s take a look at our tips and itinerary for your epic weekend in Memphis, TN!
Getting To Memphis
You’ll be happy to know that it’s very easy to get to Memphis. Memphis, like Nashville, is a major city. So, it has its own international airport. That means that you can easily get to Memphis from just about anywhere in the world. There are also tons of direct flights to the city if you’re flying from the US.
It’s also easy to get to Memphis if you choose to drive or take public transportation. Memphis is connected to several major highways. On top of that, there are bus depots and train stations that have stops right in the city. So, no matter how you prefer to travel, you’ll easily be able to get to Memphis.
Getting Around During Your Memphis Weekend Getaway
The best way to get around Memphis is with a car. Memphis is actually a bit spread out, so it’s not super walkable. However, if you’re only planning on staying and exploring Downtown Memphis, you might find it easier. Because of this, Memphis is a very driver-friendly city, and you’ll pretty easily be able to find parking. But keep in mind you may have to deal with your typical large city traffic.
If that’s not your thing, don’t worry. Memphis also has a pretty good public transit system. You can get around in the city on the city buses and trolleys. They also recently started a bike share program.
So, if you hate public transportation, but also don’t want to drive, renting a bike is a great option too! Another cool way to get around in the city is on the Memphis Hop-on Hop-off Bus. Memphis has tons of options to make it easier to explore the city.
Book Your Bus Ticket Here: Getyourguide.com
The Ultimate 2 Day Weekend In Memphis Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Memphis Tennesse’s Music History
On your first day of exploring Memphis on a weekend, we suggest visiting all of the major music history spots. You’ll start the day a little outside of the city, in Graceland, and make your way farther into the heart of Downtown Memphis throughout the day. You’ll definitely want a car or something similar to get around on this day.
But first, head for breakfast at one of our favorite Memphis Breakfast Spots!
Stop 1: Graceland
Your first stop when you’re spending a weekend in Memphis should obviously be Graceland. Graceland is the estate of Elvis Presley, and it’s probably the reason most people come to Memphis. Elvis was one of the biggest recording artists of all time. Even today, even 45 years after his death, he continues to sell platinum records and draw crowds to anything and everything ‘Elvis’.
Even if you aren’t a fan of Elvis, Graceland is super cool to explore. Most of the rooms have unique themes, like the Jungle Room or the Mirror Room. If you do love Elvis, the estate is also full of Elvis memorabilia, and unique artifacts. The estate also has extensive gardens and you can view Elvis’ collection of vintage cars. You’ll need to book entry ahead of time, but it’s totally worth it.
For a true VIP experience, if you have more days to explore Memphis, check out the full-day Memphis and VIP Graceland Tour.
Book Your Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 2: Stax Museum Of American Soul Music
The second stop we suggest for a fun 48 hours in Memphis is the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. While Memphis is best known for its Blues and Rock n’ Roll history, it also has a proud Soul music scene. The museum was started by Stax Records, which was a branch of Atlantic Records.
For those who may not know, Soul is a music genre that was started by Black people in America. It has its roots in Black gospel music, as well as Rhythm and Blues. It started to gain in popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. One of the most famous Soul musicians is Otis Redding, who signed on to Stax Records in 1962.
At the museum, you’ll learn all about the history of Soul music, as well as it’s present and future. As well as exhibits on the genre’s history, you’ll find other cool things to check out in the museum. They have interactive exhibits, a listening booth, and tons more. You’ll want to book your entrance beforehand and give yourself plenty of time to explore.
Book Your Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 3: Sun Studio
From the Stax Museum, you’ll continue to your next destination as you learn about Memphis’ music history. Sun Studio is a short 5-minute drive from the Stax Museum. It’s also a stop on the Memphis Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour. The Sun Studio is known as the ‘Birthplace of Rock n’ Roll’. Inside, you’ll find the first microphone Elvis used when he was just 18, or the recording studio often used by BB King.
Along with the unique music history artifacts in the studio, it’s still a fully functional studio. The studio serves as a museum during the day, and at 7 pm, it is a working recording studio. You don’t have to be a famous musician to record in the studio, but it’s not cheap. Instead, bring a piece of Sun Studio home with you by getting something cool at the unique gift shop.
Book Your Bus Ticket Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 4: National Civil Rights Museum
As you start to wind down the day, you’ll be heading farther into Downtown Memphis. Your next stop is one of the most unique things to do in Memphis. It’s the National Civil Rights Museum, which is about a 30-minute walk away from Sun Studio.
You may think the National Civil Rights Museum is a weird stop for a day of learning about the city’s music history. However, Memphis’ Rock n’ Roll, Blues, and Soul music all have roots in Black music traditions. That contribution, along with so much else, is often overlooked.
So, while you’re learning about the history of Memphis’ music, it’s important to learn about the people who had such a large impact on it. A lot of music coming out of Memphis in the 1960s was heavily impacted by the city’s direct ties to the Civil Rights Movement.
In the National Civil Rights Museum, you’ll hear first-hand accounts of Black people fighting for equality during the Civil Rights Movement. It takes you through the entire history of the movement as well as its impact on the nation and the city of Memphis. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore this Memphis museum.
Stop 5: Memphis Music Hall Of Fame
Just a 10-minute walk away, you’ll find your next fun thing to do in Memphis in a weekend. The Memphis Music Hall of Fame is another great place to learn more about the city’s music scene. Every artist featured in this museum was born and raised in Memphis. The museum honors its achievements in the music industry. It’s been open since 2012 and every year the museum hosts a concert and induction ceremony.
You’ll find a large variety of inductees within the museum. Inductees include Aretha Franklin, Justin Timberlake, Johnny Cash, Al Green, ZZ Top, and the Three 6 Mafia. The music genres of the inductees span from Soul, Blues, Jazz, Rock n’ Roll, Pop, Rap, and Hip Hop. Along with the exhibits about the inductees, you’ll get to see some never before seen memorabilia, artifacts, and video interviews. It’s a really cool thing to do if it’s your first time in Memphis.
Book Your Entry Ticket Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 6: Beale Street
The last stop on the first day of your 2 days in Memphis trip is Beale Street. Not only is Beale Street full of music history, but it’s also one of the most interesting Black history sites in the south. That’s because this historic district was built by Memphis’ Black community after the Civil War. If you only have enough time to see Memphis in a weekend, then you have to have a trip to Beale Street on your itinerary for Memphis.
Along Beale Street, you’ll find the rich culture and home of the Blues. The Blues is a music genre with strong roots in the Black community of Memphis. It evolved from the slave hymns the Black people of Memphis would sing as they worked on building Beale Street. The street is full of unique music venues, bars, and restaurants. You can book a walking tour of the street, or just meander on your own. There’s no wrong way to do it!
Book Your Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Day 2: Uniquely Memphis
The first day of your weekend getaway in Memphis was spent exploring the rich cultural and music history of the city. On your second day, we suggest seeing some of the more unique things to do in Memphis. You’ll want to put on your walking shoes because this day in your itinerary for Memphis is completely walkable if you want.
Stop 1: South Main Arts District
Start the second day of your Memphis weekend trip in the South Main Arts District. The South Main Arts District is a super popular area in Memphis to explore. Not only is it a beautiful spot within the city, but it’s also a pretty famous filming location. You’ll see the district in movies like Walk the Line and Elizabethtown!
While you’re there, you’ll find tons of fun things to do in Memphis‘ famous arts district. We suggest hopping on the trolley for a ride, exploring the boutiques, and taking an Instagram-worthy shot at any one of the murals. You’ll also find some great restaurants and cafes. So it’s a great place to start the last of your 2 days in Memphis. Grab a cup of coffee, and a pastry, and just explore!
Stop 2: Orpheum Theater
After you’re done exploring the South Main Arts District, head to the Orpheum Theater. You can walk from the South Main Arts District, or grab a ride on the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus. However you decide to get there, it’s a must-see attraction if it’s your first time in Memphis. The Orpheum Theater is one of the longest-running theaters in the US. They even still put on shows!
You can see anything from live Jazz bands, Broadway shows, or even ballets. The Orpheum Theater is an iconic thing to do in Memphis on a weekend since that’s when most of the shows take place. Even if you can’t make it to a show, we suggest stopping by to see the famous sign lit up at night. The theater is even said to be haunted by a young girl from the 1920s. So if you get to see a show, look out for this friendly ghost while you’re there.
Book Your Bus Ticket Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 3: The Peabody Hotel Memphis
The Peabody Hotel Memphis is a famous hotel that is just a short 7-minute walk away from The Orpheum Theater. Or take the short bus ride. Not only is it one of the best hotels in the south, but it’s also just really cool to explore. You can of course choose to stay here during your 48 hours in Memphis. But it is pricey. However, you don’t have to be staying in the hotel to see its main attraction.
In the Peabody Hotel Memphis, you’ll find the most famous waterfowl in Memphis. Maybe even in Tennessee. Yes, you read that right. The lobby of the Peabody Hotel Memphis features a huge fountain that is full of live ducks.
Twice a day, at 11 am and 5 pm, the ducks waddle down to the lobby and hang out in the massive fountain. They live the life of celebrities, and people from all over come to the hotel to take pictures of the famous ducks and the massive fountain. It’s a little odd, but this unique thing to do in Memphis is worth a stop.
Book Your Bus Ticket Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 4: The Memphis Pyramid
After seeing the celebrity ducks at the Peabody Hotel Memphis, walk about 20 minutes to the Memphis Pyramid. Believe it or not, the Memphis Pyramid is the 7th largest pyramid in the world. You may be asking yourself why there is a huge pyramid in Memphis at all. It actually started out as a concert venue.
However, today, it’s a huge tourist destination and mall. It’s absolutely massive, and if you love to shop you could easily spend all day here. For our weekend guide to Memphis, you don’t necessarily have the time for that. But we still suggest stopping by just to see it and maybe browse a store or two. It’s also a stop on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus.
Get Your Bus Ticket Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 5: Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
Less than a 20-minute walk away, you’ll find the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum. The museum is part of historic Memphis, which you can take a walking tour of with a trained guide. During this Memphis weekend getaway, you’ll have already learned about the city’s role in Black history in the US. The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum is another piece of that history.
The museum is in an estate that is filled with secret passageways, trapdoors, and hiding spots. It is believed that these were all used to hide enslaved people looking to escape the south. The museum is full of artifacts, stories, and other items relating to the terrible history of the slave trade in the US and the Underground Railroad. It’s a great Memphis itinerary stop to learn more about Memphis’ Black history.
Book Your Walking Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 6: Mud Island River Park
Your last stop during your weekend getaway in Memphis is the Mud Island, River Park. The Mud Island River Park is a 35-minute walk away from the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum. If that’s a bit too long after spending the day on your feet, you can use a ride-share program or taxi to get there.
It’s a beautiful park with an excellent walking trail. As you walk along the trail, you’ll see informational markers. These have historic facts about the city and details about the Mississippi River. While you’re walking, you’ll get to see some beautiful views of Memphis. You can even rent a pedal boat and take a leisurely ride on the river. If you’re interested in exploring the river area more, there are also riverboat rides.
Book Your Riverboat Ride Here: Getyourguide.com
Where To Stay For A Weekend In Memphis
The Guest House At Graceland
If you’re a lover of Elvis Presley, then you’ll want to consider staying at The Guest House at Graceland. The Guest House at Graceland is just a 5-minute walk from Presley’s iconic Memphis home. Although it sounds like one residence, the Guest House is actually a resort hotel. With 450 rooms, it’s pretty big too! Amenities include two onsite restaurants, a nighttime peanut butter and jelly bar, a theater, and an outdoor pool with a pool bar.
The rooms come with either two queen-sized beds or one king-sized bed. There are also more premium rooms that have courtyard views. For your standard room, with either bed option, you can expect to spend around $500 to $600 for two nights. So, while it’s a little bit more on the expensive side, it’s great if you want to stay right on the grounds of Graceland with resort amenities!
Check Rates Here: Booking.com
Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown
For those who want to stay right in the heart of Downtown Memphis on a budget, the Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown is a great choice. The Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown is just 2,300 feet away from the Orpheum Theater. It’s a great home base for exploring Memphis in a weekend. This Memphis hotel is also just steps from popular Memphis attractions like Beale Street, the Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum, and the famous Elvis statue.
They also offer a few different room options. You can get a standard room with either two queen-sized beds and one king-sized bed, or full suites. The suites are slightly bigger and come with a king-sized bed, a sitting area with a pull-out sofa, and views of the city. For a standard room for two nights, you can expect to spend between $300 to $400. That’s a pretty good deal to be right in the heart of Memphis!
Check Rates Here: Booking.com
Downtown Memphis Shellcrest Apartments
Experience a weekend in Memphis like a local when you stay at the Downtown Memphis Shellcrest Apartments. You’ll be just an 11-minute walk away from popular Memphis attractions like Sun Studio, Morris Park, and the Elvis statue. There are also a few restaurants nearby and within walking distance. The apartments are located on a quiet and pretty Memphis street.
At the Downtown Memphis Shellcrest Apartments, they have a few different layouts available. From two-bedroom apartments with garden views to cozy studio apartments. The building has a private garden with a patio that you can enjoy, free wifi, and air conditioning. All of the apartments come with hardwood floors, fully equipped kitchens, and a nice-sized bathroom with robes.
Some of the apartments also have dining areas or private balconies! On top of that, it’s also a great budget-friendly option. You can expect to spend between $200 to $300 for two nights in a two-bedroom apartment. It’s an amazing deal!
Check Rates Here: Booking.com
Where to Eat During Your 2 Days In Nashville
Corky’s Ribs & BBQ
One of the best restaurants in Memphis is Corky’s Ribs & BBQ. Corky’s has been open for over 30 years and in that time has been voted the #1 BBQ Place in Memphis 22 times! That’s how you know they are experts at making delicious bbq dishes. They also have a large menu full of bbq classics as well as some more unique offerings. All of their menu items have a definite southern twist though.
Start your meal with their chocolate-covered bacon appetizer or the catfish nuggets. For your entree, you’ll find bbq staples like pulled pork and chicken sandwiches, racks of ribs, or smoked sausage. They also have sides like mac n cheese, hushpuppies, twice-baked potato salad, and baked beans. If you want classic southern bbq during your weekend getaway in Memphis, head to Corky’s.
Char
If you’re taking a couples trip to Memphis, you may want a more romantic restaurant option. For that, we suggest Char. Char is the best place to enjoy live music paired with fine elegant dining. They serve brunch, lunch, dinner, and even have a happy hour. So you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the atmosphere and menu at Char. Depending on when you visit, you’ll find different menu options.
Their brunch menu includes dishes like crab eggs benedict, chicken biscuits, and custard-fried french toast. Enjoy all of that with a mimosa or bloody mary. For lunch, they offer dishes like shrimp and grits, oyster po’boys, and a grouper sandwich. Dinner is probably their most popular menu with items like pork chops with broccolini and cognac and green peppercorn gravy or the seafood carbonara. Char is definitely the place to eat if you are on a romantic couple’s trip to Memphis.
Boscos Restaurant And Brewing Company
If you decide to do a local brewery tour in Memphis, you may stop at Bosco’s. Boscos Restaurant and Brewing Company is Memphis’ only restaurant and brewery. So if you’re looking for a more unique thing to do in Memphis, this is definitely an option. They’ve been open since 1992 and they’re a popular restaurant in Memphis for locals and visitors.
Boscos’ menu is made to perfectly pair with their home brews, and it succeeds! They serve lunch and dinner daily and offer a weekend brunch. Their lunch and dinner menu includes dishes like crab and fried green tomatoes, wood oven planked salmon, eggplant manicotti, and more. They have plenty of menu options for vegetarians, which is also really nice. On tap, they typically have about six beers that are permanent and then a few seasonal offerings as well.
Book Your Brewery Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
We hope we’ve helped you figure out how to plan a trip to Memphis with our Memphis itinerary and tips! It’s a really unique southern city that is so fun to explore. Whether it’s your first time in Memphis or your tenth, there are always new things to do in Memphis in a weekend. If you’ve used any of our Memphis tips, we’d love to hear about your fun weekend trip to Memphis in the comments!
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