About Memphis, TN

Once upon a time, Mark Twain labeled Memphis the "Good Samaritan" city of the Mississippi River. These days, the city is more commonly known as "Bluff City", "Hoops City", or as the "Birthplace of Rock and Roll." Memphis has a lot to offer, but it is particularly famous for its musical heritage. A lot of famous musicians have called Memphis home at one point or another.

One of the most famous musicians of all time, Elvis Presley, lived and died in the city. Elvis fans can head to nearby Graceland, where they can tour the famous rocker's estate. There are a lot of arguments over who exactly is the best rocker of all time. However, when it comes to the "first" famous rock musician, few will argue against Elvis's claim. When it comes to Elvis, Graceland is hallowed ground for anyone who's a fan of either the man himself or the genre he helped establish. Hosting more than 600,000 visitors per year, Graceland is one of the most frequently visited private homes in the United States, and indeed, the world. Graceland isn't the only music-centered attraction in Memphis. Far from it, the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum documents the history of rock and soul music both in Memphis and in general. The Museum pays homage to the many soul and rock & roll pioneers who paved the way for both modern genres. There are 30 some instruments, 40 costumes, and a variety of other memorabilia on display. Beyond sights, you can also enjoy a 300-minute audio digital tour that features over a hundred songs!

Looking for something that's a bit more "current"? Check out the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. The Cannon Center features live shows put on by a huge range of professionals. Yes, there's rock and soul, but there are also theatrical product tours, opera, children's shows, ballet, and many more. This multi-person venue seats 2,100 people.

There's also the Orpheum Theatre, which is one of Memphis' most beloved and iconic landmarks. The theatre is historical, to be sure, but it also hosts a wide range of events with modern, top-notch talent. From Broadway musicals, to concerts and other performances, this fabled theater offers a lot of opportunities.

There are a lot of non-music sites and sights in Memphis as well. For example, the Memphis Zoo makes for a great stop for the whole family. The zoo is spread out across 70 acres and is home to more than 3,500 animals and 500 different species.

There's also the Shelby Farms Park Conservancy, which is fantastic for anyone who likes the great outdoors. Spanning 4,500 acres, this park is located in Shelby County. It features trails for running, hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. The trails wind through beautiful natural environments, including forests, meadows, and pinewoods. You will be able to see wildlife up close, including deer, birds, bobcats, rabbits, minks, muskrats, squirrels, foxes, and beavers. An assortment of fish and reptiles can also be observed.

More family fun can be found at the Children's Museum of Memphis. The Museum makes for a great visit for the whole family. Children can indulge in a variety of hands-on and interactive exhibits. Along the way, they'll learn about various intellectual topics.

There's also the Pink Palace Family of Museums, which offers a plethora of awesome attractions. These attractions include the CTI 3 D Giant Theater, the Lichterman Nature Center, and the Magevny and Mallory Neely Houses.

Beale Street is a hive of activity and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It is one of Memphis's most recognized and historically rich areas. Packed with clubs and a variety of shops that line the streets, it's not hard to find something to do. Finding a live music show is usually quite easy.

Memphis is also known as the "River City." That's because the mighty Mississippi River flows past the city. You can take a Memphis Riverboat tour, a 90-minute cruise up and down the river. Dinner trips, field trips for schools, student, and college specials, and other opportunities are available.