Blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll define the atmosphere of this effortlessly cool city. Memphis delivers on world-class sights, music legends and neon-lit entertainment, all finished off with a healthy dose of Southern charm. From the flares of Graceland to the glare of the downtown lights, drive into Memphis and discover the appeal of Grind City.
Home of the Blues
Hailed as the home of the blues, Memphis is a sacred city for music fans. Willie Nix and B.B. King are amongst the local legends who helped grow the genre. Discover the best venues and feel the rhythm of the city take over you.
Beale Street is world-famous for its historic clubs, so this is a great place to start your exploration. International attractions include the Hard Rock Cafe but, for an authentic blues experience, head to B.B. King’s, Rum Boogie Cafe or the New Daisy Theatre. The latter welcomes all ages to enjoy modern blues and R&B shows.
Fall in love with Graceland
Graceland is the crown on top of Memphis’ musical reputation, a treasured link to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Standing proudly on Elvis Presley Boulevard, the grand house – once the home of Presley - is now dedicated to all things Elvis.
Drop in to the state-of-the art exhibition complex or take a full tour through the family home. Learn about the influences behind his world-famous music, admire the rhinestone suits that sent the crowds wild and climb aboard his private jet to see the gold-plated seat belts with your own eyes.
The Memphis Pyramid
Though its thousands of miles away, there’s a little bit of Egypt in the heart of Tennessee. The Memphis Pyramid is a modern take on the ancient relic, housing a fun-packed retail and entertainment complex.
Feast your eyes on the window displays and fill your boots with souvenirs. Take a ride to the top of the USA’s tallest elevator to enjoy impressive views over the city skyline – and then go to visit the pyramid’s resident alligators.
Learn about Southern culture
Open your eyes to the unique wonders of Southern culture. The Centre for Southern Folklore is a treasure trove of information and entertainment, where folk art decorates the walls and Mid-South culture is kept alive and strong.
One of Memphis’ quirkier traditions is the daily Peabody Hotel Duck March. Since the 1930s, ducks have waddled along a red carpet to the hotel lobby fountain. Visit at 11am or 5pm to see the birds in action or purchase the Ducky Day package to learn about the hotel’s unconventional history.
This city’s vibrant culture and influential music is closely entwined with its African American heritage. Head to the National Civil Rights Museum to learn about the local struggle for racial equality. Continue your exploration at The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, ten minutes’ drive away.
Whether you’re shopping, dining or exploring tradition, car rental in Memphis is the best way to see the home of the blues and beyond.