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Memphis

Tennessee

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026

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MEMPHIS, USA - NOVEMBER 25: Neon signs of famous blues clubs on historical Beale street on November 25, 2008. Beale street is a major tourist attraction and a place for blues festivals and concerts; Shutterstock ID 128086493; Your name (First / Last): redownload; GL account no.: redownload; Netsuite department name: redownload; Full Product or Project name including edition: redownload

Shutterstock / Natalia Bratslavsky

Overview

Memphis doesn't just attract tourists; it draws pilgrims. Music-lovers lose themselves to the throb of blues guitar on Beale St. Barbecue connoisseurs descend to stuff themselves silly on smoky pulled pork and dry-rubbed ribs. Elvis fanatics fly in to pay their respects at Graceland. You could spend days hopping from one museum or historic site to another, stopping only for barbecue, and leave happy.

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Memphis is the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll, and this history radiates all throughout the city. Here are the best ways for you to enjoy your stay.

Read full article

Best Time to Visit

Memphis is a city that knows how to enjoy life. Pick the perfect time for your visit with our guide to what's happening in Bluff City in 2024.

Read full article

Things to Know

With packing tips and info on health and safety, here's everything you need to know before visiting Memphis.

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Transportation

The sprawling scale of Memphis can be overwhelming to new visitors but we've got everything you need to know about getting around Bluff City.

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Free Things to Do

Save some dollars in Memphis with the city's top free experiences.

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Best Neighborhoods

Get to know Memphis one neighborhood at a time with this guide.

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Day Trips

Memphis may be famous for its music, but the city owes a lot to the small towns on its doorstep. Here are the region's best day trips.

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Traveling with Kids

Memphis is known for its rowdy nightlife but it's also a great spot for a family break. Here's what you need to know about visiting with tots in tow.

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