Memphis in 3 Days: Music, Food, and Fun!

Experience the soulful vibes of Memphis without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Memphis, United States on a limited budget can still offer a fantastic experience. Start by visiting free attractions such as the National Civil Rights Museum and the Memphis Farmers Market. To save on food costs, try the local barbecue or dine at local cafes and food trucks.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Blues and BBQ

  • Check into the River Inn of Harbor Town, a charming boutique hotel overlooking the Mississippi River
  • Walk down Beale Street and stop for a drink at BB King's Blues Club
  • Head to Central BBQ for a lunch of some of the city's best ribs and pulled pork
  • Explore the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and learn about the origins of Memphis's rich musical history
  • End the day back on Beale Street for live blues at Rum Boogie Cafe
Day 2

Elvis and Civil Rights

  • Start the day with breakfast at Brother Juniper's, a local favorite for their delicious pancakes and unique omelets
  • Tour Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, and marvel at his iconic jumpsuits and collection of Cadillacs
  • Visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated
  • Have lunch at The Arcade, the oldest restaurant in Memphis, known for its delicious chili and old-fashioned milkshakes
  • Take a stroll through the Overton Park Greensward and relax with a picnic in the shade
Day 3

Art and Nature

  • Start the day with breakfast at The Beauty Shop, a trendy restaurant in a converted hair salon
  • Explore the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art and see works by some of the world's greatest artists
  • Spend the afternoon at the Memphis Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals, including giant pandas and polar bears
  • Have dinner at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, a Memphis classic known for their spicy and crispy chicken and mouthwatering sides
  • End the day with a beautiful sunset view of the Mississippi River from Tom Lee Park.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Memphis by plane is to fly into Memphis International Airport. There are multiple airlines that offer direct flights to Memphis from major cities within the United States.

Car

If you are driving to Memphis, the main highway routes to follow are I-40, I-55, and I-240. Memphis is easily accessible by car and there are multiple public parking options available within the city.

Train

Although there is no direct train to Memphis, you can take Amtrak train to New Orleans and then take a connecting Greyhound bus to Memphis.

Boat

The Mississippi River connects Memphis to various cities along its route, however, traveling to Memphis by boat is not a common mode of transportation. The river is mainly used for cargo transportation.

Bus

Greyhound offers daily bus services to Memphis from various cities within the United States. The main bus station in Memphis is located on Airways Blvd.

Destination

Memphis

Welcome to the birthplace of rock 'n' roll, the home of the blues, and the land of some seriously delicious barbecue. Get ready to have a hunka hunka good time in this musical mecca.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

The Ultimate 4-Day Memphis Adventure!

A trip to Memphis, United States as a tourist is an opportunity to steep yourself in blues music history with tours to iconic music landmarks like Sun Studio, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley. Activity is plentiful in Memphis with options like barbecue sampling, strolls along the Mississippi River, and a visit to the Memphis Zoo, among others. Explore the city's arts scene at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, catch a performance at the Orpheum Theatre, or shop and dine in trendy neighborhoods like Midtown and Cooper-Young.

Memphis on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun & Flavor

Travel to Memphis on a limited budget and enjoy a taste of the city's vibrant culture and exciting attractions. Visit historical sites such as Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum and the legendary Beale Street. Stay in affordable accommodations and dine at local restaurants for an authentic Memphis experience without breaking the bank.

Memphis in Five: A Romantic Adventure

A romantic trip to Memphis, United States, would likely include exploring the city's vibrant music and food scenes, as well as visiting key historical sites like the National Civil Rights Museum and Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley. Couples could also enjoy a sunset riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River or take a stroll through the scenic Shelby Farms Park.

5 Days of Memphis Music and Culture

A trip to Memphis, United States offers a range of exciting activities for tourists. Visitors can explore the famous Graceland estate and museum, which showcases the life and career of legendary musician Elvis Presley. Other must-see attractions include the National Civil Rights Museum and the vibrant music scene on Beale Street.