Memphis is a vibrant city where history, music and culture collide, offering unforgettable experiences from Graceland to Bell Street and beyond.
Beale Street is a two-block pedestrian stretch lined with bars and clubs, each featuring soulful music.
When I think of Memphis, the first thing that comes to mind is the hometown of Elvis Presley. Naturally, Graceland was a must-visit for me, but the city is so much more than King’s legacy. With its rich history in music and civil rights, Memphis offers an experience that is both soulful and enlightening. Here’s how my trip unfolded – a mix of music, history, and some amazing food.
I began my Memphis adventure with a visit to the iconic Stax Museum of American Soul Music, a place that truly embodies the spirit of the city. As I got into the heart of Soulsville USA, it became clear why it all started during the 60s and 70s. Our journey took us from the parking lot, where our trailer stopped, straight to the museum, filled with eager anticipation for what lay ahead.
Upon entering, we were immediately immersed in the rich history of Stax. A short film in the theater introduced us to the humble beginnings of this legendary institution. Once a small movie theater, Stax evolved into a powerful recording studio that spawned the careers of icons such as Otis Redding, Booker T. & the MG’s, and Isaac Hayes. The studio’s influence on soul music was profound, and this museum honors its legacy in ways that will surprise you.
As the film ended, we were transported to rooms steeped in history: vintage footage of Stax’s legendary 1967 European Revue, Cropper’s iconic guitar, and the soulful sounds of Jones’ organ. Isaac Hayes’ gold-trimmed Cadillac stood as a testament to his glory, while the Hall of Records, home to more than 1,000 classic hits, played a soundtrack through some of the most famous tracks ever recorded. Offered a trip. The funky rhythms of Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” Sam & Dave’s “Hold On, I’m Coming” and “Soul Man,” Eddie Floyd’s “Knock on Wood,” and “Last Hits like “Raat” filled the air. The museum also had a dance floor with visitors from all walks of life, from families to international tourists. Move to the sounds that make this place famous.
Beyond the music, Stax tells the story of the culture that spawned it. Displays offer insight into the origins of soul through personal items from pioneers like Tina Turner, who grew out of the Delta blues culture that deeply influenced soul music. The museum also pays homage to the genre’s gospel roots, with a reconstructed rural church reviving this sacred influence.
What impressed me most, however, was the museum’s closing exhibit: the reconstructed Studio A. Stax, once the heart of soul music, destroyed after the studio went bankrupt in the 1970s, and The story of his rise and fall is a heart-wrenching and heart-wrenching one. . But the story does not end there. Thanks to the vision and dedication of the Soulsville Foundation, Stax was reborn. In 1999, efforts began to restore a museum and music academy to its original location. This revival stands as a testament to Stax’s enduring legacy, ensuring that the music, culture and spirit of the soul will continue to inspire generations to come.
A visit to the Stax Museum wasn’t just a tour of a building—it was a journey through the soul of Memphis, a celebration of the music that shaped generations, and a reminder that sometimes, even after tragedy, great things rise again. can
Afterwards, I went to The Peabody Hotel to witness the famous Duck March. Let me tell you, it’s as quirky as it is charming. The tradition dates back to the 1930s when the hotel manager and a friend placed live duck decoys in the hotel fountain after a weekend hunting trip. Today, ducks are flown to and from the fountain daily, led by a duck master. It’s a unique Memphis tradition, and it was strangely gratifying to see these ducks walking around in perfect shape.
Dinner that evening was at Chez Philip, located in Peabody. If you’re in Memphis, you can’t miss this culinary gem. The restaurant offers modern American cuisine with a French flair, and as a vegetarian, I was very pleased with the care they took in preparing my dishes. My favorite? A beautiful creamy radish served on a beautiful plate. It was a meal to remember, and after indulging in the four-course tasting menu, I retired for the night feeling completely satisfied.
I started the next morning with breakfast at the Arcade Restaurant, the oldest cafe in Memphis. Avocado toast and coffee was just what I needed to start the day. The calm atmosphere of this place perfectly matches the rhythm of the city.
Next on the agenda: Graceland. As a lifelong Elvis fan, stepping into his legendary home was nothing short of magical. Elvis bought Graceland in 1957 when he was just 22 years old—a colonial-style mansion set on 13 sprawling acres, which served as his private retreat from the whirlwind of fame.
We boarded a shuttle with about twenty other eager visitors, ready to cross the road to this famous estate. While we initially expected a self-guided tour, as advertised on the website, we were pleasantly surprised to find digital tablets and headphones on arrival. These interactive devices will serve as our personal tour guides, complete with warm and engaging narration from none other than beloved Full House star John Stamos.
The tour begins at the mansion’s front door, where a staff member introduces the history of Graceland — beginning with its construction and continuing through Elvis Presley’s final days on the property. He also outlined the rules of the tour, which were straightforward and respectful: no touching the decorations or passing through barriers locked into certain rooms.
We were given the freedom to take as many photos as we wanted, as long as we didn’t use flash, but video recording was strictly prohibited. However, with most of the rooms dimly lit, many of my photos did not turn out as hoped.
Walking into the mansion was nothing short of surreal. It felt like stepping into a place that was simultaneously familiar and completely new. The tour takes us through the front parlor, the basement, the backyard, and the horse stables, before ending in a few small buildings on the property.
At the beginning of our trip, we were told that the upper floors of Graceland are completely off-limits to visitors, including celebrities. Apparently, some have tried to bribe crew members to get a peek, but this rule, established by Elvis himself, is still strictly enforced. The estate respects her wishes to keep this part of the house private.
Walking through the house, I saw everything from her custom-made couch to the jungle room, a whimsical space with green carpet and tropical decor that reminded Elvis of Hawaii. was designed to induce. The trophy room was my favorite, with displays of his gold and platinum records, Grammys, and famous outfits like his ’68 comeback leather suit and his early ’70s stage jumpsuit. The Meditation Garden, where Elvis and his family are buried, was a quiet, reflective end to the tour. This is a place that every Elvis fan should visit at least once.
One of the highlights of the tour was the “Icons: The Influence of Elvis Presley” exhibit. The exhibition celebrated Elvis’ far-reaching impact on music and culture by displaying clothing and instruments from famous artists who were inspired by his life and career. . Elton John’s iconic black jacket lined with cheetah fur, a bold testament to his iconic style, Jimi Hendrix’s famous brown suede jacket, with his guitar amplifier, the soul of rock ‘n’ roll. is a true tribute to, and one of Johnny Cash’s most famous persona-black suits, a nod to his own legendary presence in the music world.
Graceland wasn’t just a house; It was a living museum of music history, a place where Elvis’ legacy continues to shine through the artifacts of those he inspired. The tour not only paid tribute to his memory but also provided a deeper understanding of how one man’s influence shaped the music landscape for generations.
Our next stop was the National Civil Rights Museum, located in the Lorain Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum is an emotional journey, starting with slavery and ending with Dr. King’s death and aftermath. One of the most powerful exhibits was a recreation of the bus where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat. Sitting there, listening to the bus driver’s orders to move, was a surreal and moving experience.
The museum is incredibly interactive, with exhibits that let you touch, listen and fully immerse yourself in history. There’s so much to take in that even after a few hours, I felt like I’d only scratched the surface. It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.
Then I headed to Sun Studios, known as the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” This is where legends like Howlin’ Wolf, B.B. King, Roy Orbison, and of course Elvis Presley got their start. I was standing in the same room where the “Million Dollar Quartet”—Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis—recorded their legendary session. It is a small place but full of history.
In the evening, I strolled down Bell Street, officially recognized as the “Home of the Blues.” It’s a two-block pedestrian street lined with bars and clubs, each blasting soulful music. Performances that range from blues to jazz and even a little rock – the energy here is infectious. Rhythm
Memphis is a city that pulses with history, music and spirit. Whether you’re an Elvis fan, a history buff, or just looking for a unique travel experience, this city has something for everyone. For me, Memphis was more than just a trip—it was a journey through time and culture, and I left with memories I will cherish forever.