1. Grizzlies Game
Although one tends to save the best for last, it is only fitting that the Grizz go at the top of the list of what to do in Memphis. There is truly something special about the crowds in the FedEx Forum during a Grizzlies’ game. Whether you have nosebleeds or floor seats, you’re guaranteed a memorable night doing something every Memphian lives for.
2. Beale Street
The neon lights flashing, live music streaming from nearly every door and street performers flipping through the crowds make for a truly incredible atmosphere on Beale Street. You can’t come to Memphis and not try out Beale.
3. Gibson's Donuts
Every local Memphian will swear to you that Gibson’s Donuts are the best donuts in Memphis, maybe even in the country. Open 24 hours a day, it is nearly impossible not to run into someone you know because the donuts are just that good.
Nestled right in the heart of downtown is the magnificent Peabody Hotel with its famous fountain and ducks that parade into it once a day. Pop in right when the ducks are about to hop off the elevator and experience the history and beauty of the hotel, plus its quirky little tradition.
5. Shelby Farms Greenline
One of the newest additions to Memphis’s green spaces is the Greenline. Opened in September of 2015, the Greenline is over 6.5 miles long and runs all the way from Midtown through East Memphis and into Shelby Farms. The trail is perfect for biking, running, roller-blading or walking with friends or by yourself.
6. Broad Avenue Arts District
Tucked between Summer Avenue and Sam Cooper Blvd., Broad Ave has completely revitalized and is a hub of culture in Memphis. You can find everything from restaurants, thrift stores, coffeehouses, tattoo parlors, martial arts studios and more. Whatever your interests are, be sure and check out Broad while you’re in Memphis.
7. Lafayette's Music Room
In the heart of Overton Square, Lafayette’s Music Room offers an unbeatable experience as far as live music, food and location in Memphis. You won’t want to leave and you’ll be dying to come back again.
8. Bass Pro Pyramid Sky Deck
The massive Bass Pro retail store itself is quite the attraction, what with its rivers, animals and intricate decorations. But even if you despise everything to do with the “country” aura of the store, you have to suffer through just so you can experience the sky deck. Located at the top of the Pyramid, the panoramic view will take your breath away no matter what the weather.
9. Overton Square and Cooper Young
Separated by just a few blocks in Midtown, both of these districts are go-to’s in Memphis. The restaurants, shops and atmosphere are unique and perfect for wandering around in after lunch or before dinner.
10. Zoo Lights and Ice-Skating (winter)
No matter when you visit Memphis, you should try and make time for the zoo. If it’s winter, however, you must stop in and explore. Christmas lights and decorations adorn every exhibit, an ice skating rink is set up for you to test out and reindeer and fake snow are even brought in for the occasion. It is a truly wonderful holiday experience.
11. Starry Nights at Shelby Farms (winter)
Like the zoo, you should attempt to visit Shelby Farms regardless of what time of year you find yourself in Memphis. However, if you do so happen to come in the winter, Shelby Farms puts on a spectacular display of Christmas lights that you can drive through any night. They even have a 4k through the lights occurring right after Christmas, for those of you who like to.
12. Beale Street Music Festival (spring)
May is often the favorite month of Memphians, mostly because of the beloved Beale Street Music Festival. The bands that perform range from local musicians to the most popular artists of the day. You are guaranteed to find some music that appeals to you during the festival, all while on the bluff overlooking the Mighty Mississippi.
13. Memphis in May International Festival (spring)
Memphis in May sponsors Beale Street Music Festival, but what fewer Memphians and tourists are aware of is that the Festival hosts a variety of incredible events throughout the month of May. Ranging from events celebrating food to art to culture, you are certain to find an event that fits your interests.
14. Breakfast
Blue Plate Café, Bryant's, Brother Juniper'ss, Bob’s Barksdale Restaurant and Staks
(pictured).
15. Lunch or Dinner
Arcade, Young Avenue Deli, Huey's, Café 1912 (pictured), Felicia Suzanne's.
16. BBQ Joints
Central BBQ (downtown location pictured), Tops, Corky's, The Rendezvous.
17. Coffeehouses
Otherlands (pictured), Republic, Java Cabana, City & State, Ugly Mug, Muddy's Grindhouse.
18. Wings and Chicken
Bosses (pictured), Ching's, Gus's, Uncle Lou's.
19. Sweets
Muddy's, Yolo, Sweet Noshings (pictured), The Whimsey Cookie.
20. Clubs, Bars, Music and Nightlife
Paula & Raiford's Disco (pictured), Silky O' Sullivan's, The Flying Saucer, HiTone, The New Daisy, BB King's.
