How Many Days in Memphis Do You Actually Need?

Memphis, Tennessee – a city steeped in musical history, mouth-watering barbecue, and civil rights significance. As you plan your trip to this vibrant Southern gem, you might be wondering: just how many days do you need to truly experience Memphis? The answer, as with many travel questions, depends on your interests and pace. But fear not, fellow traveler! I’m here to break it down and help you craft the perfect Memphis itinerary.

The Quick Answer: 3-4 Days

For most visitors, 3-4 days provides an ideal amount of time to hit the major highlights of Memphis without feeling rushed. This timeframe allows you to explore the city’s musical legacy, indulge in its culinary scene, and dive into its rich history. However, let’s dive deeper into what you can accomplish in various timeframes to help you decide what works best for your travel style.

If You Only Have 2 Days in Memphis

While not ideal, you can still get a taste of Memphis in just 48 hours. Here’s a whirlwind tour:

Day 1:

• Start your morning at the iconic Arcade Restaurant, Memphis’ oldest cafe, for a hearty Southern breakfast.
• Head to Sun Studio for a tour of the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel.
• End your night on Beale Street, taking in the neon lights and live music pouring from every doorway.

Day 2:

• Dedicate most of your day to Graceland, exploring Elvis Presley’s mansion and the surrounding museums.
• If time allows, visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum for a comprehensive look at the city’s musical heritage.
• Grab dinner at a famous Memphis barbecue joint like Central BBQ or The Bar-B-Q Shop.

While this itinerary hits some major highlights, you’ll likely feel rushed and miss out on some of Memphis’ charm. As one TripAdvisor user put it, “You can certainly hit some high points, but there’s a lot more to Memphis than Beale Street and Graceland.”

The Sweet Spot: 3-4 Days in Memphis

With 3-4 days, you can take a more leisurely approach and add some depth to your Memphis experience. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Music History

• Start at Sun Studio
• Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
• Explore the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
• Evening on Beale Street

Day 2: Elvis and More

• Full day at Graceland (it’s bigger than you might expect!)
• Evening show at the Orpheum Theatre or Lafayette’s Music Room

Day 3: History and Culture

• National Civil Rights Museum
• Memphis Zoo (one of the top-rated in the country)
• Dinner in Overton Square

Day 4 (if you have it):

• Memphis Botanic Garden or Shelby Farms Park for some outdoor time
• Browse the shops on Broad Avenue
• Take a Mississippi River cruise

This itinerary allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to add activities based on your interests. As one visitor shared, “We spent 3 days in Memphis, and had a great time. Of course we hit Graceland, and Beale Street, but we also went to Mud Island, Memphis Zoo, the National Civil Rights Museum, the Rock & Soul Museum, and the Fire Museum.”

When You Want to Dig Deeper: 5-7 Days

For music aficionados, history buffs, or those who simply like to travel slow, consider spending 5-7 days in Memphis. This allows you to:

• Take deeper dives into museums, spending more time at places like the National Civil Rights Museum or Stax Museum
• Explore off-the-beaten-path attractions like Mud Island River Park or the Metal Museum
• Take day trips to nearby attractions like the Blues Trail in Mississippi
• Really immerse yourself in the local food scene, trying everything from high-end restaurants to hole-in-the-wall barbecue joints
• Attend local events or festivals, depending on the season

One Memphis expert suggests, “Double your two days would be appropriate,” highlighting the depth of experiences available in the city.

Factors to Consider When Planning Your Memphis Trip

1. Your Interests: Are you a die-hard music fan? A history buff? A foodie? Memphis caters to all these interests and more, so prioritize based on what excites you most.

2. Time of Year: Memphis can be brutally hot in summer, so if you’re visiting June-August, you might want to allow for a slower pace with indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

3. Special Events: Check the city’s event calendar. If you’re coming during Memphis in May or another major festival, you might want to add an extra day or two to participate.

4. Travel Style: Do you like to see everything possible, or do you prefer a more relaxed pace with time to wander and discover?

5. Budget: While Memphis is relatively affordable compared to many U.S. cities, attraction admissions can add up. A longer stay might mean you need to be more selective about paid activities.

Making the Most of Your Time in Memphis

Regardless of how long you stay, here are some tips to maximize your Memphis experience:

1. Get an Attraction Pass: The Memphis Attraction Pass can save you money if you plan to visit multiple sites.

2. Use Public Transportation: The Memphis Hop bus is a great way to get between major attractions without worrying about parking.

3. Mix It Up: Balance music-related activities with history, outdoor time, and culinary experiences for a well-rounded trip.

4. Talk to Locals: Memphians are known for their hospitality. Don’t be shy about asking for recommendations – you might discover a hidden gem!

5. Plan, But Stay Flexible: Have a general itinerary, but leave room for spontaneous discoveries. Some of the best travel memories come from unexpected detours.

Conclusion

While you can get a taste of Memphis in just a couple of days, allowing 3-4 days will give you a much more satisfying experience. And if you have the time, extending your stay to 5-7 days will let you uncover the many layers of this fascinating city. Remember, Memphis is a city that reveals itself slowly, rewarding those who take the time to look beyond the surface.

So pack your bags, bring your appetite for barbecue and blues, and prepare to fall in love with the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Memphis awaits, ready to show you why it’s a city like no other. How long will you stay?