Wondering how to spend a weekend in downtown Memphis?
Rich in history, culture, and music, Memphis is a city that begs to be explored. If you’re staying here for just a weekend, you can still hit many of the city’s must-see attractions. Starting from our Memphis hotel with self check-in—your best base less than 20 minutes by car from downtown—follow our suggestions for an exciting weekend in downtown Memphis. We’ll guide you through the places and experiences you can’t miss before you leave, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on a Memphis road trip.
How to spend a weekend in Downtown Memphis: the ultimate 48-hour itinerary
Whatever brings you to Memphis, this city welcomes locals and visitors with open arms and its own special rhythm. Here’s a 48-hour itinerary to help you discover the soul of downtown Memphis:
- Day 1. Dive into history, music, and good food
- Day 2. A taste of the city’s vibrant culture and musical roots
- Exploring Memphis starting from Memphis Vitality Hotel
Day 1. Dive into history, music, and good food
Explore Beale Street’s Blues Scene
Start your day on Beale Street, the beating heart of Memphis’s blues scene. Enjoy live music performances from talented local bands. Let the rhythm take over.
Discover the Cotton Museum
Next, head to the Cotton Museum to see how Memphis’s cotton industry shaped the city’s social and economic fabric. Don’t miss the stunning 1930s architecture of the Memphis Cotton Exchange, where the museum is housed. For more historical insights, check out other must-visit museums in Memphis.
Visit the Iconic Sun Studio
From there, visit the legendary Sun Studio, where Memphis’s music industry flourished under producer Sam C. Phillips. It was here that an 18-year-old Elvis Presley recorded his first songs. If you’re staying near this iconic spot, consider booking a room at a hotel near Graceland for easy access to music history.
Enjoy Southern Barbecue
For lunch, try a southern barbecue. Head to one of the city’s legendary BBQ spots and dig into slow-smoked ribs or a pulled-pork sandwich drenched in flavorful sauce. To explore more dining options, visit our guide to authentic Southern cuisine in Memphis.
Reflect at the National Civil Rights Museum
Continue Day 1 by visiting the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, the site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was tragically assassinated in 1968. This landmark offers a powerful journey through the American Civil Rights Movement. If you’re traveling with family, combine this visit with other family-friendly activities in Memphis.
Admire the Memphis Upstanders Mural
Next, take a walk to the Memphis Upstanders Mural, created by Nelson Gutierrez and Cedar Lorca Nordbye. The mural celebrates speaking out and standing up for others. For more unique attractions, explore our list of hidden gems in Memphis.
Have a barbecue dinner on Beale Street. Grab chicken wings, pulled pork, fries, or hot-wing nachos. Pair it with a brew from Ghost River and enjoy the evening live music. And if you’re looking for more evening plans, check out the best spots for Memphis nightlife.
Day 2. A taste of the city’s vibrant culture and musical roots
Begin with Breakfast at Memphis Vitality Hotel
Start with a fresh breakfast at the Memphis Vitality Hotel, included with your stay if you book a hotel with free breakfast.
Tour Graceland, Elvis Presley’s Home
Then head to Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, located at 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard in the Whitehaven neighborhood. This iconic mansion displays the King’s stage outfits and vintage car collection. Take a moment at his gravesite in the Meditation Garden. For more activities nearby, explore top things to do near Graceland.
Lunch at The Arcade Café
Stop by Memphis’s oldest café, The Arcade, and sample the lunch specials. Don’t miss the peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich—Elvis Presley’s favorite. For a cozy morning or afternoon stop, visit one of the best coffee shops in Memphis.
Explore the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
After lunch, visit the birthplace of soul music: the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. This museum honors Otis Redding and other soul legends in the very studios where they recorded. If you’re visiting during a holiday, check out our guide to holiday events and festivals in Memphis for additional seasonal activities.
Stroll the Cooper-Young District
Finish your day with a stroll around the Cooper-Young district, an eclectic historic neighborhood. Browse music stores like Goner Records for vinyl finds. Explore bars, restaurants, and shops. You might even catch a ceremony at the Viva Wedding Chapel, where Elvis impersonators officiate. Before heading back, be sure to enjoy live music at Young Avenue Deli, which is renowned not only for its diverse menu but also for its draft beers. If you’re planning a special occasion, consider booking a hotel for weddings in Memphis.
How to spend a weekend in Downtown Memphis: exploring Memphis starting from Memphis Vitality Hotel
Choose the best accommodation for your weekend in downtown Memphis.
Situated near the heart of the city, our luxury hotel not only offers convenient 24-hour self‑check‑in but also ensures that you can access your room at any time. With newly renovated rooms, Memphis Vitality Hotel delivers maximum comfort. It ensures an immersive and enriching journey into America’s artistic soul. It’s the perfect way to experience how to spend a weekend in downtown Memphis. For those arriving by plane, learn how to get from Memphis Airport to downtown. If you’re traveling with pets, book a stay at our pet-friendly hotel. For a safe and secure stay, choose a hotel with secure parking.