Top 5 Memphis Art & Culture Spots: A Local’s Guide
So, you are planning a visit to Memphis and want to get a taste of its art and culture, alright? That’s pretty awesome! Now, that Mississippi River city has quite the soulful story to tell, one splashed with bluesy tunes, some amazing art, and places where history comes alive. Very similar to the music that fills the air, Memphis art and culture have got a unique vibe. Very cool! Below are just a little top picks for you.
1. Graceland: More Than Just Rock ‘n’ Roll
Of course, Graceland is absolutely one of the biggest draws, very similar to a pilgrimage site for music fans across the globe, too it’s almost. However, there’s a little bit more to it than jumpsuits and some catchy songs, in a way. You see, stepping into Elvis’s house, you’re kind of stepping back in time, so to speak. In fact, it is a window into the life of a musical icon, that one who, rather in a way, changed pop culture as we know it, alright? You can wander through his living room (check out that very, very long white sofa!), see his car collection, or even pay respects at the Meditation Garden. All those little things help you get an intimate feel for Elvis as a person, that one rather away from his superstar image, might be. If you want a proper dive, explore the archives, and don’t forget to check out Elvis’s airplanes! Read our full review: Graceland Memphis Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Graceland Tickets)
2. The National Civil Rights Museum: A Profound Experience
Now, this place at the Lorraine Motel has a little weight, as I was saying. The National Civil Rights Museum offers up a powerful look at the history of the Civil Rights Movement. It is located at the site where Martin Luther King Jr. very sadly lost his life, this museum has extremely moving exhibits, very including a replica of the motel room where he stayed, more or less. As a matter of fact, walking through, you gain, I think, an even more real appreciation for the struggle for equality and some very real change-makers that had some affect in our recent history, kind of. Anyway, allocate a good chunk of time here, you know. It could be pretty overwhelming, that is, in a way. I am serious; you will leave very changed. Read our full review: National Civil Rights Museum Memphis Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Museum Tickets)
3. Sun Studio: Where Rock ‘n’ Roll Was Born
So, if music is more your thing, a little visit to Sun Studio is absolutely essential. As a matter of fact, it’s more or less billed as “The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” might be. Very that’s where legends like Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis basically got their start, sort of. The tour guides could be pretty awesome, very with tales and anecdotes of these rock ‘n’ roll pioneers, honestly, that. Now you’re able to stand in the same room where quite the legendary songs were recorded, alright, which is seriously thrilling for just a little music buff, anyway, as a matter of fact. Anyway, who knows? Some of that history just sort of permeates and goes into the air. Anyway, you never know who you might bump into, actually. Read our full review: Sun Studio Memphis Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Sun Studio Tour)
4. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art: Art Through the Ages
Very ready for something more visually aesthetic, more or less? The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art has an awesome, or alright pretty impressive, collection that’s spans time periods and cultures. From those like your Renaissance masterpieces all the way to contemporary installations, there is like something for very everyone, kind of. You might want to just take a wander, even, around and let the art really grab your fancy. Sometimes there is a special exhibit on there too, if that strikes you as being fun! It is always worth that extra look. Read our full review: Memphis Brooks Museum of Art Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Museum Tickets)
5. Beale Street: The Home of the Blues
So you simply cannot talk about Memphis without a mention of Beale Street, or you shouldn’t, usually, and stuff! Seriously, this is really, or pretty much, the heart and soul of the blues, so to speak. A number of clubs and bars like this really line the street, each like one pouring out live music, and stuff. Take a relaxed little wander along Beale, kind of soak up some vibes, maybe sort of hop in and out of bars, even, to catch different acts and enjoy that great vibe going on there, right? And as a matter of fact, do not forget to grab yourself some world-class BBQ while there, also! You may want to just let the music go where it may and find it calling out to you. Anyway, what can I say? At any rate, at night the whole area truly really comes to life. Read our full review: Beale Street Memphis Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Explore Beale Street)
Basically, in Memphis, the art and culture can really come to life around every corner. Whether it’s getting some new insight on some favorite heroes from music to just discovering something real, at the end of the day there’s probably something there for basically everyone. Get the chance to truly explore all that that town can be.
- Explore Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland.
- See the Civil Rights Movement detailed at the National Civil Rights Museum.
- Witness “The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll” at Sun Studio.
- Visit Memphis Brooks Museum of Art for an aesthetic collection of artworks.
- Explore some music at Beale Street, “The Home of the Blues” for BBQ, art, and more.