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First-timer highlights

3 Days in Memphis — First-Timer Highlights

memphis music-city bbq civil-rights city-break
Length
3 days
Stops
13
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
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What this plan covers

This 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors eager to discover the essential sights, sounds, and tastes of Memphis. Dive into the city's unparalleled musical heritage, explore its pivotal role in American history, and savor its world-renowned barbecue.

Culture 5 Food 3 Sightseeing 1 Nature 1 Nightlife 1 Shopping 1 Activity 1

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 7 hrs
1

National Civil Rights Museum

Culture 3 hours

Offers a profound and moving journey through the American Civil Rights Movement, housed at the historic Lorraine Motel.

Good to know

Allocate ample time for a comprehensive visit, as the exhibits are extensive and impactful.

2

Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Food 1 hour

Savor the legendary spicy fried chicken that has become a Memphis culinary institution.

Good to know

Expect a casual atmosphere and potential wait times, especially during peak lunch hours.

3

The Peabody Hotel Duck March

Sightseeing 30 minutes

Witness the charming and historic daily march of the Peabody Ducks, a beloved Memphis tradition.

Good to know

Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the 11 AM or 5 PM marches in the grand lobby.

4

Mississippi Riverfront & Tom Lee Park

Nature 1.5 hours

Enjoy panoramic views of the mighty Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Good to know

Best visited during the late afternoon for beautiful sunset views over the river.

5

Beale Street

Nightlife Evening

Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Memphis's music scene, with live blues and rock 'n' roll pouring from historic clubs.

Good to know

Many clubs have cover charges in the evening; explore earlier for a more relaxed atmosphere or later for peak nightlife.

Day 2 4 stops · about 9.5 hrs
6

Graceland

Culture Half day

Step into the opulent world of Elvis Presley at his iconic former home, a pilgrimage site for music lovers worldwide.

Good to know

Book tickets in advance online, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred tour time.

7

Sun Studio

Culture 1.5 hours

Stand in the legendary room where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits, feeling the echoes of music history.

Good to know

Tours are guided and run frequently; arrive a bit early as space can be limited.

8

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Culture 2.5 hours

Discover the rich legacy of Stax Records, celebrating the artists and sound that defined American soul music.

Good to know

Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the extensive exhibits and artifacts.

9

Central BBQ

Food 1.5 hours

Indulge in some of Memphis's most acclaimed barbecue, known for its slow-smoked meats and delicious sauces.

Good to know

Multiple locations exist; expect a bustling atmosphere and consider ordering ahead for takeout during busy times.

Day 3 4 stops · about 7 hrs
10

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

Shopping 2 hours

Experience a unique retail destination inside a massive pyramid, offering stunning city views from its observation deck.

Good to know

The observation deck requires a separate ticket, providing unparalleled vistas of the city and river.

11

Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum

Culture 2 hours

Trace the origins of rock and soul music, from rural field hollers to the global phenomenon it became.

Good to know

Located conveniently downtown, it offers a great overview for those interested in the broader context of Memphis music.

12

Big River Crossing

Activity 1.5 hours

Walk or bike across the Mississippi River on the longest pedestrian bridge over the river, offering incredible views.

Good to know

Accessible from downtown Memphis, it's a great free activity for scenic views and exercise.

13

Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous

Food 1.5 hours

Savor the distinctive dry-rub ribs in a lively, subterranean setting, a Memphis barbecue experience unlike any other.

Good to know

Located in an alley downtown, it's famous for its charcoal-broiled ribs and can get very busy, especially for dinner.

Where to stay

Hotels in Memphis

Book direct on our own Memphis hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Memphis

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Memphis itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Memphis, from our own travel research.

Back to the Memphis guide
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