Howdy! Memphis, Tennessee is more than just the birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll. It’s also brimming with family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are my top 9 picks!
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Graceland
A visit to the King’s castle is a must-do for any Memphis trip. Get a glimpse into the life of Elvis Presley as you tour his mansion, see his iconic cars, and learn about his music and legacy at the museum. Plus, you can take a selfie in front of the famous “Taking Care of Business” gates.
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Memphis Zoo
Animal lovers, unite! The Memphis Zoo has over 4,500 animals from around the world to see and learn about. Check out their new exhibit, Zambezi River Hippo Camp, where you can watch hippos swim and play. Don’t forget to stop by the zoo’s iconic Giant Pandas, Le Le and Ya Ya!
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National Civil Rights Museum
Education and history buffs will appreciate the National Civil Rights Museum. Located at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the museum chronicles the Civil Rights Movement in America. The exhibits are informative, interactive, and thought-provoking for all ages.
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Children’s Museum of Memphis
Looking for a fun and educational activity for the kiddos? Head to the Children’s Museum of Memphis! This hands-on museum is designed for children to explore and learn through play. They can pretend to be a firefighter, shop at a grocery store, and even board a real-life airplane.
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Orpheum Theatre
Catch a show at the iconic Orpheum Theatre. From Broadway musicals to famous comedians, the Orpheum has a variety of performances for everyone. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see the “ghost light” illuminating the stage after hours.
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Shelby Farms Park
Enjoy the great outdoors at Shelby Farms Park. With over 4,500 acres of green space, there are endless activities to do. Take a hike on their trails, rent a paddleboat on their lake, or play a game of frisbee golf. And if you’re there during the summer, be sure to cool off at their water playground.
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Sun Studio
Music buffs won’t want to miss the chance to visit Sun Studio. Known as the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” this legendary recording studio is where icons like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis got their start. Take a guided tour and learn the studio’s history and legacy in the music industry.
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Pink Palace Museum
Step back in time at the Pink Palace Museum. Originally built as a mansion in the early 1900s, the building now houses exhibits on Memphis’ natural and cultural history. Kids will love the dinosaur fossils and planetarium shows, while adults will enjoy the mansion’s architecture and antique furnishings.
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Beale Street
No trip to Memphis is complete without a stroll down Beale Street. This famous street is lined with blues clubs, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Hear some live music, try some BBQ, and pick up a Memphis-themed trinket to take home. And if you’re there during the day, grab a sweet treat from A. Schwab’s, the oldest store on Beale Street.
Thank you, thank you very much!
Now that’s wild!
A powerful experience.
Learning is fun!
Lights, camera, action!
Nature at its finest.
Let the good times roll!
A palace fit for royalty.
Good vibes all around.