Explore the Cultural History of Memphis with Mojo Buses and Museums!
While you’re in Memphis, explore the city’s rich cultural history. From the blues and rock ‘n’ roll that came from some of the legends of the area, to the Civil Rights Movement that changed America, Memphis has seen a lot and it’s all here to be shared with you. The nostalgia and remembrance will move and inspire you as you journey back to these times of old. Show your young ones the time periods they missed, and let them learn of the origins of things existing today. These attractions will be a great way to combine fun and education for an exciting learning experience. Book a wonderful Memphis hotel and grab your tickets to these fantastic attractions!
From the vintage bus to the professional musician that acts as your guide, the Memphis Mojo Vintage Bus Tour is unlike any other. During your next stay in Tennessee, this tour will take you to all the spots that make Memphis what it is today, including Beale Street, Sun Studio, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.
Explore the true story of how tragedy inspired greatness at the National Civil Rights Museum. Built around the balcony of the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968, this museum transformed the infamous location into one of hope and celebration. Exhibits at the museum cover American civil rights from 1619 to the present day, including exhibits on Dr. King, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Little Rock’s school integration and much more. Explore on your own or take an audio-guided tour through this uplifting and emotional museum.
Experience the Mighty Mississippi like no place else can offer! Take in the beautiful sightseeing of the Mississippi River right in the heart of downtown Memphis, then explore the riverfront area on an exciting Swiss monorail ride with the Mud Island River Park tour. Learn more about the great river at the Mississippi River Museum, and then take a guided tour of the unique Mississippi River Walk model replica. You’ll walk along every bend, curve and landmark between Cairo, Illinois and New Orleans in just five blocks! Be sure to bring a camera along for this unique experience along the country’s biggest river!
It’s Time for You to Rock & Roll in Memphis This Weekend!
The birthplace of rock and roll brings you plenty of intriguing sights and experiences. From Elvis Presley to Johnny Cash, the history here abounds and you can discover it all with the museums and tours Memphis has to offer. You’ll feel the spirit of music and the heritage of the legends around every corner. Plus, there’s delicious dining, premier shopping, and lots of lodging options to choose from. So pack your bags and head to Memphis to check out these attractions and more!
The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum on Beale Street explores Memphis artists and music from the 1930s to the 1970s. You’ll learn about their racial barriers and socioeconomic hardships that they crossed over with their passion for the music they loved. It’s bound to be an inspiring and learning experience for everyone.
Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley all recorded at Sun Studio. The Sun Studio Guided Tour takes you into the studio that was opened in 1950 and made an impact like no one could have expected. It is now a National Historic Landmark and houses rare memorabilia and historic recordings. The legacy of Sun Studios is incomparable as many legendary musicians from years ago to recent have recorded here. It’s a delight to share in that history with this tour.
The King is alive and well with Elvis Presley’s Graceland Experience. As you go through this audio tour of the mansion, you’ll see the Jungle Room, business office and trophy building, and then you’ll head across the street for a self-guided tour of Elvis’s two custom airplanes. You’ll also explore the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum featuring the King’s beloved car collection, driver’s license, and leather jackets. You’ve got to see this when you’re in Memphis.
Experience the Open Air of Memphis Outdoor Attractions!
The beautiful city of Memphis has plenty of natural beauty in every direction, and in addition to its city bus tours, you can also experience some of the outdoor options available for those who don’t mind a little exercise. Walk among the rustic downtown atmosphere and view some of the most historic and recognizable spots in music history. The Memphis atmosphere and its locals are accommodating and friendly, and you’re sure to remember your Memphis outdoor experience many years from now. Put on those tennis shoes and make reservations at these great attractions.
Start your Memphis experience off with an incredible historic journey in Mud Island River Park, covering much of the traditions and culture of the Mississippi River. Take a walk along the river for astounding views of its vast coastline, and ride the mighty monorail to explore a little more of the city. You’ll also be provided a full tour of the Mississippi River Walk, covering five blocks and providing a replicated version of the lower region of the Mississippi River. Every 30 inches represents approximately one mile, so you’ll have a full overview of the river by the time the tour is done.
Are you into chills and thrills? The Memphis Ghost Walking Tour covers the city’s creepy past with a knowledgeable tour guide. Walk to Memphis landmarks where famous hauntings have taken place, from Orpheum Theater to Cotton Row. Listen to the stories of those who have passed on to their ghostly, tormented lives here on earth. You’ll also walk along famous locations such as WC Handy Park in Beale Street, so you’re certain to receive an educational tour along with scares.
The streets of Memphis are perfect for a light jog, and on this great tour you can take a run yourself. Children and toddlers in strollers can participate in the fun as well. The tour will cover an extensive path of either three or six miles, and you’ll see plenty of historic attractions while you’re staying fit. Run by landmarks such as Beale Street, National Civil Rights Museum, South Main Historic District and Overton Park. These tours are suitable for beginners and experts in running, so no matter your age, you’re encouraged to come along.
Beat the Heat Inside These Memphis Museums!
With the temperature heating up outside, there are plenty of places in Memphis that can offer the weary vacationer a few hours of respite while giving them a lesson on Memphis culture and history. Whether you are interested in music, social activism or just want to provide your kids with some hands-on fun, Memphis has the perfect place for you to visit.
The Pink Palace Museum is as unique as the city it makes its home in, featuring exhibits that cover everything from dinosaurs to the Piggly Wiggly grocery chain. The museum offers patrons a historical look at Memphis through interesting collections, exhibitions and programs. Current exhibits include the Cultural History of the Mid-South, the Natural History of the Mid-South and The Mansion, which offers a glimpse into 20th century Memphis.
The Children’s Museum of Memphis
A great museum for kids and their parents is The Children’s Museum of Memphis. Kids can experience hands-on, interactive exhibits that will stimulate their imagination, like the Growing Healthy exhibit where they can learn about human anatomy or Art Smart exhibit which allows kids to paint, sculpt or perform. Traveling exhibits rotate every few months, and there is a snack area inside the museum so you can visit a few times each and spend the whole day.
Built as a tribute to the Civil Rights Movement, the National Civil Rights Museum features stunning exhibits chronicling events from pre-Revolutionary times to the present day, including the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. Learn the stories of people who have helped shape our world with their struggle for equality and fairness.
Experience Belgium While Visiting Memphis this May!
Take a trip overseas without leaving the country by attending the Memphis in May International Festival May 2-8. This year’s event features the culture, customs and cuisines of Belgium. Famed exhibits will be brought to Memphis and will be featured all month long at local museums, galleries and public spaces. If you are an art lover or just have an appreciation for other cultures, you are sure to find something of interest from paintings, antique gun collections, and sculptures. If art isn’t your area of interest, attend a performance of they acclaimed Belgium troupe, Marc Malempre, featuring music, dance and theatre. Memphis, famous for world-class barbecue, will also host Belgian chefs and culinary experts as they share their tantalizing, authentic cuisine. If you are interested in attending Memphis in May International Festival, you can compare pricing for lodging and make reservations online!
While in Memphis, head to Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The museum is only about three miles away from Beale Street, and the music labels the museum features are some of the most popular of their time. As you’re browsing, you’ll begin to learn the fascinating story of an old neighborhood that expanded into what is now known as Soulsville, USA. Look for photographs and samples of your favorite soul artists! While there, visit the Sax Exhibit on loan from Musical Instrument Museum in Brussels.
For a special treat, take the kids to Mud Island River Park where you will be taken on a guided tour of a five block replica of the Lower Mississippi. After you’ve learned about Memphis’ history at Mud Island, stop by the Mississippi River Museum where you can see an impressive and eye-catching exhibit outlining the history of the diamond industry in Belgium, known as the processing center for the majority of the world’s diamonds.
The Memphis Greek Festival Guarantees a Great Time
During your vacation in Memphis, you will find a variety of cultural events that are fun for families and your visit to the Memphis Greek Festival at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church on May 6th and 7th is certain to make your vacation special. This annual festival brings families together from all across the region to celebrate Greek culture including food, dancing, and games. There will be a variety of vendors at the event with unique Greek goods, and you may even learn to speak a few Greek words. This event is not only exciting and fun, but also very affordable at $3 per person, so include a visit to the Memphis Greek Festival in your vacation plans. If you are interested in attending the Memphis Greek Festival, you can compare pricing for lodging and make reservations online.Don’t Miss the Beale Street Music Festival in Memphis!
If you are planning a getaway to Memphis this spring, you won’t want to miss the annual Beale Street Music Festival that takes place in Tom Lee Park April 29 – May 1. This exciting event will give you the opportunity to see legendary musical artists live in concert while hearing new musicians that are bound to become favorites. This year boasts an impressive line-up including Jerry Lee Lewis, Cee Lo Green, Wilco, Cake and Ludacris. This festival has a long history of pleasing crowds each year, so you are sure to have a great time hearing some fabulous music!
During your stay in Memphis, you will want to visit one of the musical attractions in the area. The Gibson Guitar Factory Tour will provide you with a comprehensive view of how the legendary guitars are made. You will see the painstaking detail that goes into the production of each Gibson Guitar, and you will see why these beautiful instruments have been the favorites of greats like Elvis Presley and Eric Clapton. This fascinating tour will be interesting for the entire family, so be sure to include a tour at the Gibson Factory in your vacation plans.
If you are interested in learning about Memphis’ involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, you will love visiting the National Civil Rights Museum during your visit. This incredible museum sits in the very spot that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. Inside the museum, you can see valuable artifacts related to Civil Rights events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington. This incredible museum is sure to provide you with new insight into the Civil Rights Movement and the people who helped to improve American society by taking part in it.
See Madagascar Live in Memphis This March!
There are many exciting events that take place all year in Memphis, and your children will surely be excited to attend a performance of Madagascar Live at the Orpheum Theater during your vacation. This large-scale production takes place March 25 – 27 and is based on the popular Dreamworks film. You will get to see Alex the Lion, Melman the Giraffe, Marty the Zebra and all of the other lovable characters live on stage as they escape from Central Park Zoo and embark on a fantastic adventure. The show will only be in Memphis for a limited time, so plan ahead and don’t miss this fabulous production!
During your vacation in Memphis, you will want to take one of the unique tours offered in the city, and you will get an informative history of Memphis’ supernatural side by taking a Memphis Ghost Walking Tour. Whether you believe in ghosts and ghouls or are a skeptic, a good time is guaranteed on this spectacular tour which takes you through the streets of Memphis to supposedly haunted locations. You will get to visit the historic Orpheum Theater, Beale Street and Cotton Row while talented storytellers tell you chilling tales of Memphis haunted lore. This spine-tingling adventure is sure to be a memorable part of your Memphis vacation!
Your vacation in Memphis won’t be complete without visiting one of the exciting attractions that celebrate the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, and you will love your unforgettable tour at Elvis Presley’s Graceland Experience. At the museum, you will get to tour Elvis’ sprawling mansion, where you will see a variety of items owned by The King. You can also visit the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum, which houses his expansive car collection, and tour his personal airplanes. Finally, you can visit Elvis’ final resting place located in the garden of the estate. If you are a fan of Elvis, you will definitely want to include this exciting experience in your vacation plans!
Satiate Your Artistic Appetite in Memphis!
Vacationers come to Memphis each year to experience the variety of exciting activities and attractions in the area, but you will find that there are a number of great rotating art exhibits in Memphis as well. At the Brooks Museum of Art, you can see a fabulous exhibit celebrating food called “A Feast for the Eyes,” which will be on display through May. “A Feast for the Eyes” premiered February 1st and features images of food, people gathering for meals, still life drawings of produce and kitchen scenes. This unique exhibit has art works ranging from eighteenth century caricatures to modern paintings, so you are sure to see some interesting works of art celebrating food!
Plan Ahead for Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein Live on Stage in Memphis!
If you are planning a weekend escape to Memphis this March, be sure to include a performance of the Mel Brooks musical Young Frankenstein in your vacation plans. This play, which shows March 8-13 at the Orpheum Theatre, is based on the hit film Young Frankenstein and is developed into a musical with exciting new songs! If you like the films of comedic master Mel Brooks, you won’t want to miss this exciting performance that is sure to keep you laughing and tapping your toes to musical numbers like “Transylvania Mania” and “Puttin’ on the Ritz.” This exciting play is sure to please audiences and make new fans of the legendary Mel Brooks.
