Are you thinking about visiting Memphis, Tennessee? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Memphis worth visiting?
Yes, it's worth visiting this city for two to three days because of the many great activities. Memphis is a music loving city that sits on the Mississippi River. It has its roots in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll and several notable musicians recorded such as Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. In addition to its influence over music, the city has a great food scene with classic southern favorites such as barbecue. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in Conde Nast Traveler's Best Places to Go in 2023.
Memphis, Tennesse
Reasons to Visit Memphis
Music
There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.
Nightlife
Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.
Museums
Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.
Food
The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.
Authenticity
Memphis has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Memphis worth visiting in the Summer?
Summer is the high season for travel in Memphis, so expect more visitors and higher prices. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here. Summer is the most lively time to visit Memphis.
The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 29°C (83°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 34°C (92°F).
You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to browse through museums, discover the big city activities, and dance the night away.
Summer Weather in Memphis
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 29°C (83°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
| August | 28°C (82°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |
| September | 24°C (76°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) |
Is Memphis worth visiting in the Autumn?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Memphis. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F).
During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the big city activities, and plenty of live music.
Autumn Weather in Memphis
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 18°C (64°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) |
| November | 12°C (54°F) | 65 mm (2.6 in) |
| December | 7°C (44°F) | 105 mm (4.1 in) |
Is Memphis worth visiting in the Winter?
The weather in Memphis can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 5°C (40°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
The low season for travel in Memphis is during the winter. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet. Winter months can be a bit cooler.
This is a great time of year to browse the museums, taste delicious cuisine, and take advantage of the local nightlife. Also, you can check out the live music scene and the big city activities.
Winter Weather in Memphis
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 5°C (40°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) |
| February | 7°C (45°F) | 85 mm (3.3 in) |
| March | 12°C (54°F) | 106 mm (4.2 in) |
Is Memphis worth visiting in the Spring?
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Memphis. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during spring, and temperatures hover around 18°C (64°F).
You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, listen to some live music, and enjoy an evening out.
Spring Weather in Memphis
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 18°C (64°F) | 109 mm (4.3 in) |
| May | 22°C (72°F) | 84 mm (3.3 in) |
| June | 27°C (80°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Memphis
Shopping: Memphis isn't exactly a shopper's destination. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.
Not As Family-Friendly
While there are some family activities, it's not as child-friendly as other destinations.
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Memphis might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Memphis here or see if Memphis is expensive here.
Related
What is Memphis most famous for?
Memphis is most famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. People visit this impressive city for its great music. Also, it's known for nightlife. Many people love the museums and food, too. It is often described as soulful, creative, and laid-back.
What is the most famous sight in Memphis?
The most popular sight in Memphis is Elvis Presley's Graceland. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Memphis on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Elvis Presley's Graceland and other attractions here.
How touristy is Memphis? Is it a popular city to visit?
Memphis is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Memphis City Highlights: Private Guided Sightseeing Tour: $110
- Memphis Music & More: Private Car Tour Extravaganza: $150
- Memphis History & Heritage: Private Half-Day Walking Tour: $195
- Memphis Hop On and Hop Off Tour: $40
- Memphis Music Magic: A Walking Tour for Music Lovers: $150
- Memphis True Crime Tour: $33
- Elvis Unleashed: Private Elvis Walking Tour: $150
- 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour: $72
How long should I spend in Memphis?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Memphis is two to three days. Since Memphis has a variety of activities such as music, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Memphis? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Memphis?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.