I am a proud Memphian: I think it's such a cool place that gets such a bad reputation. Ever since I moved to Colorado for school, I miss the little things I once took for granted. So, before you degrade this wonderful city, you should take a look at what it has to offer.
1. BBQ.
Memphis has the best barbecue in the world! Don't you try to argue with us because we will not stand for such nonsense. It's so great that we even have a barbecue festival..no big deal. From the Rendezvous to Central to the Commissary, we are blessed with some amazing barbecue!
2. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Memphis is home to the world-famous St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. St. Jude was founded by Danny Thomas who believed "No child should die in the dawn of life." St. Jude is one of the world’s premier pediatric cancer research centers. Its mission is to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Since the doors opened in 1962, no family has ever received a bill and lives are being saved everyday! How cool is it that Memphis houses one of the largest non-profits in the world?
3. The Memphis Grizzlies.
We have an awesome NBA team and by far the best fan base. If you haven't been to a playoff game, you need to put that on your bucket list because there is nothing better than screaming from the crowd and waving your growl towel with the proudest fans of them all. Not only do we have a high performing team, but we have a team with hearts of gold. They are always giving back to the community as well as the fans! GO GRIZZ!
4. Gibson's Donuts.
Since 1967, Gibson's has been gracing Memphis with the most delicious donuts. Open 24/7, Gibson's brings joy to so many at anytime their craving occurs. From blueberry cake to apple fritters, Gibson's knows how to make customers' bellies happy!
5. Levitt Shell.
The Levitt Shell is an outdoor concert venue located in the heart of Midtown that hosts more than 50 free concerts a year ranging from local to touring artists. It was built in 1936 and is known as the site of Elvis Presley’s first professional rock-n-roll show. This is an awesome place to get together with friends and enjoy another amazing thing Memphis has to offer.
6. The Peabody Hotel.
The world famous Peabody Hotel is home to the march of the Peabody ducks. Twice a day, these precious ducks ride the elevator from the rooftop and walk the red carpet to their beloved fountain. Though this seems like no big deal, it really is and you need to see it. Also, there's an awesome rooftop party on Thursday nights hosted by a local radio station, which is the hype of the younger crowd.
There are no words to accurately describe the taste of a Jerry's Sno Cone, but I will use incredible. With 70+ flavors to choose from, there's just no way you can get tired of this place! Plus, their food is amazing, too! My summer nights would not be the same without a Jerry's Sno Cone in my hand!
8. The Memphis Blues & Beale Street.
Take a walk down Beale Street and taste the rich history of the Blues. From B.B. King to W.C. Handy, Memphis has a lot to offer. Listen to some local music, eat some good grub, and enjoy this famous Memphis landmark.
9. Sun Studio.
Home to many artists such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Ike Turner and more, Sun Studio is a place you do not want to miss! Tours are given everyday at the bottom half of every hour where you will be able to see and even stand where these legendary artists once recorded. Isn't Memphis awesome?
Cooper-Young is known as the artsy and retro part of Midtown. From awesome eats to rad stores, there is so much to do. Every year, Cooper-Young hosts a festival that has over 130,000 attendees. There's art, music, food and more. It's definitely something you don't want to miss out on!
You know what's really cool? I didn't even put a dent in the many things to do in Memphis! So, let's stop degrading on this awesome city and start appreciating the many things it has to offer. I sure do love Memphis!
