If you are visiting Memphis or just getting to know the city, there are a few places that should not be missed during your stay. While there are certainly other wonderful attractions in the area, these ten will give you a look at the very best of Memphis.
1. The Mississippi River

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The Mississippi River is the second longest river in the United States and the largest by volume. It serves as Memphis' western border and is the reason why Memphis is known as "The River City" and "Bluff City." The banks of the Mississippi provide nearly five miles of parks which are perfect for outdoor recreation. In addition, riverboat cruises, canoe rentals, and other water activities are available.
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2. Beale Street
Beale Street is perhaps the most famous street in Memphis and is home to more than 25 clubs and shops. Whether you want to find Memphis souvenirs, enjoy authentic Memphis soul food, listen to live music, or party into the night, Beale Street has everything you need. Day or night, there is always something going on down on Beale.
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3 The National Civil Rights Museum is a one of a kind facility that showcases the struggle for civil rights in the United States. The museum is housed in the renovated Lorraine Motel which is the very hotel where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968. It is the unique focus of this museum that attracts thousands of visitors every year from all over the world.
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4. The Peabody Ducks
The Peabody Ducks are arguably one of Memphis' most unusual attractions. Each morning, a parade of five ducks marches into the fountain in the Peabody Hotel's grand lobby to the sounds of John Philip Sousa's King Cotton March. Each evening, the ceremony is reversed and the ducks return to their rooftop home. This may sound strange, but it has been a Memphis tradition since 1932.
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5. The Rendezvous Restaurant
Memphis is a city famous for its melt-in-your-mouth barbecue. But perhaps the most famous barbecue restaurant in town is the Rendezvous. In business since 1948, the Rendezvous has been featured in novels, movies, and national news stories. In addition, many celebrities have been known to dine there. In fact, in 2006, President George W. Bush and the Japanese Prime Minister visited the restaurant for lunch.
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6. AutoZone Park
AutoZone Park is the baseball stadium for the Memphis Redbirds, a AAA minor league team affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals. This state of the art park is considered by many to be one of the finest ballparks in the nation.
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7. Sun Studio
Sun Studio was recording home to many artists such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Ike Turner, and more. Today it still functions as a recording studio, but also as a tourist attraction for music lovers from all over the world. Tours of this National Historic Landmark are given seven times each day, so there is plenty of opportunity for a visit.
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8. The Memphis Zoo
The Memphis Zoo has been one of the city's most popular attractions for 100 years. Its numerous and impressive renovations over the last several years have made the zoo better than ever. The zoo now houses more than 3,000 animals on its 70 acres, including lions, bears, elephants, and most recently, giant pandas on loan from China.
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9. Pink Palace Museum
If you want a glimpse into Memphis history, the Pink Palace Museum is the place to go. It is one of the largest museums of its kind in the southeast and houses and impressive collection of exhibits designed to teach visitors about the cultural and natural history of Memphis and the Mid-South. In addition, the museum also offers a planetarium and four story IMAX theater.
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10. Graceland
Without a doubt, Graceland is one of Memphis' most popular tourist attractions. Visitors to Graceland are given the opportunity to tour Elvis' mansion, visit his grave, and even view his collection of automobiles and airplanes. For fans of Elvis or even music in general, there is no doubt that a visit to Graceland is a must while in Memphis.

More things to do...

There is an abundance of free things to do in Memphis and the Mid-South. Here are some of the best freebies our city has to offer.
Peabody Ducks
Each day at 11:00 a.m. a procession of mallard ducks makes its way from the roof of the Peabody Hotel down to the Grand Lobby. Once there, a red carpet is rolled out and John Philip Sousa's King Cotton March begins to play. The ducks then march into the ornate fountain in the center of the lobby. At 5:00 p.m., the ceremony is reversed when the ducks return to their rooftop home. Though this may sound like an odd ritual, it has been a Memphis tradition since the 1930's.
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Elmwood Cemetery
Elmwood Cemetery is Memphis' oldest active cemetery and is abundant with Memphis history. Its residents include Confederate and Union generals, mayors, governors, madames, outlaws, and spies. Additionally, the grounds of Elmwood are adorned with tombstones that are crumbling and moss-covered and tombstones that are gothic and breathtaking. The cemetery is open daily from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
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South Main Historic District
The South Main Historic District in Downtown Memphis is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. Park your car so that you can walk through the district and stop in at its many boutiques, art galleries, and unique eateries. If you would rather not walk, there is a free trolley tour of the district on the last Friday of every month from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
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Mississippi River
Most of us long-time Memphians have come to take the Mighty Mississippi for granted. But the river is magnificent and a great place to visit for a walk, a picnic, or just some relaxation. The grassy banks, bumpy cobblestones, and paved walkways of the riverside can accommodate a variety of activities. For a romantic outing, take a moonlit stroll. Always remember to use caution when nearing the water's edge.
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Crystal Shrine Grotto
Memorial Park is located at 5668 Poplar Avenue in Memphis. Nestled within this neatly manicured cemetery is the Crystal Shrine Grotto. The grotto, or cave, contains three dimensional scenes depicting the life of Jesus Christ. Regardless of your religious beliefs, you will likely appreciate the amazing artwork in the grotto.
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The Art Museum of The University of Memphis
The Art Museum of The University of Memphis is one of the city's hidden cultural treasures. The museum features both permanent exhibits and revolving temporary exhibits. Some of the permanent collections include the Egyptian Antiquities collection, the Works on Paper collection, and the African collection. The museum is open Monday - Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The museum is closed during university holidays and between temporary exhibits. These dates can be found on their website.
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Mud Island
Mud Island is located at 125 North Front Street in downtown Memphis. The free area of the "river park" features a ½ mile model of the Mississippi river that empties into a wading pool replica of the Gulf of Mexico, complete with sprinklers for the kids to run through. To make this a free trip, use the footbridge instead of the monorail to access the park and skip the museum. This is a great free destination for a hot day (don't forget the kids' swimsuits!).
A. Schwab's
A. Schwab's is a dry goods store located at 163 Beale Street. The oldest surviving business on Beale, Schwab's has not changed much since it opened in 1876. Creaking hardwood floors and nickel candy are just part of its charm. An eclectic variety of goods such as voodoo accouterments, underwear, walking sticks, and souvenirs plus a museum upstairs, make A. Schwab's one of Memphis' best free destinations.
Wolf River Nature Area
The Wolf River Nature Area is another one of Memphis' lesser-known gems. The nature area is located on Wolf River Boulevard, just off of Germantown Road. It features tree-lined walking trails, nature stations such as Turtle Bayou, meadows, butterfly gardens, and information on wildlife conservation. The Wolf River Nature Area is usually fairly secluded and is a great place to exercise, to reflect, or to learn.
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Graceland
No, Graceland has not done away with its admission fees. However, one of the most popular parts of Graceland is, and will always be, free. That famous entrance adorned with musical notes and the outlines of Elvis are the destination of many fans. If you aren't interested in the mansion tour or don't want to pay the fees, just head down Elvis Presley Boulevard and have your picture made in front of those renowned gates.
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Free Days
Several Memphis area attractions offer free admission on certain days of the week. Take advantage of these free days and visit The National Civil Rights Museum, The Memphis Zoo, The Brooks Museum of Art, and other popular destinations.
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Memphis Landmarks and Monuments

(Memphis, Tennessee - TN, USA)

THE PYRAMID

The city's rich history, frequent regeneration and reinvention mean there's plenty of monuments and landmarks to be found in Memphis.

Memphis boasts grand mansions, memorial statues and parks, as well as grand cemeteries and entire neighborhoods that exist as testimony to the legendary music they've inspired - all this perched high above the mighty Mississippi River.

Address: One Auction Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee TN, 38105, USA Tel: +1 901 521 9675
Built in 1991, the 32-story Pyramid is taller than the Statue of Liberty, making it an unmissable feature of the city's skyline. It is the third largest pyramid in the world and has a base the size of six football pitches. The Pyramid formerly featured a 21,000-seat capacity arena and was home to the MBA Memphis Grizzlies. Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, this major Memphis entertainment complex hosted sporting events, family shows and concerts. As of 2010 the Pyramid has been leased by Bass Pro Shops for a megastore.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - advance reservation necessary
Admission: charge

STATUE OF ELVIS

Address: Beale Street, Memphis, Tennessee TN, 38103, USA
The Statue of Elvis is one of the most famous landmarks in Memphis and serves as a reminder of the city's iconic Rock 'n' Roll star. Located on Beale Street in downtown Memphis, the Statue of Elvis measures around 3 meters / 9.5 feet and is a popular photo opportunity.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

COTTON EXCHANGE BUILDING

Address: 84 South Front Street, Memphis, Tennessee TN, 38103, USA
The historic Cotton Exchange Building, in the downtown district of Memphis, dates back to the 1920s, when cotton growing was an important industry in the area. Now home to offices and local businesses, Memphis' Cotton Exchange Building is a particularly impressive structure and features a public café in the basement area.
Open hours: restricted access
Admission: free

HISTORIC ELMWOOD CEMETERY

Address: 824 South Dudley Street, Memphis, Tennessee TN, 38104, USA
Tel: +1 901 774 3212
Set in 80 acres / 32 hectares of peaceful natural surroundings, Historic Elmwood Cemetery is a tranquil retreat from the city. Architecturally, the cemetery is fascinating and chartered in 1852, is full of Victoriana and grand monuments dedicated to many of the 70,000 people interred here.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 - 16:30
Admission: free