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Memphis is a soulful city where history, music, and culture collide, offering unforgettable experiences from Graceland to Beale Street and beyond.
Memphis Grizzlies’ Ja Morant taunting LeBron James (AFP)
When I think of Memphis, the first thing that comes to mind is Elvis Presley’s hometown. Naturally, Graceland was a must-visit for me, but this city is so much more than the King’s legacy. With its rich history in music and civil rights, Memphis offers an experience that’s both soulful and enlightening. Here’s how my trip unfolded—a blend of music, history, and some amazing food.
I kicked off my Memphis adventure at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The moniker, Soulsville U.S.A. stands absolutely correct as I was told that this was the place where it all began in the ‘60s and ‘70s. Our trailer stopped at a parking spot and we walked to the Stax Museum with anticipation. A beautiful place, after a short while, we all were sent to a theatre where we were shown a short movie about the place. We got to know that STax was once a tiny movie theater, and then it became the recording studio for legends like Otis Redding, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, and Isaac Hayes.
Walking through the museum, I marveled at the 2,000 pieces of memorabilia, including Hayes’ custom gold-plated Cadillac Eldorado and an exact replica of Studio A where so many iconic hits were recorded. It was surreal to hear songs playing softly in the background as I explored.
Next, I headed 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—a joke fueled by a bit too much Tennessee whiskey. Today, the ducks march daily to and from the fountain, led by the Duckmaster. It’s such a unique Memphis tradition, and watching those ducks waddle in perfect formation was oddly delightful.
Dinner that evening was at Chez Philippe, located in The Peabody. If you’re in Memphis, you cannot miss this culinary gem. The restaurant offers modern American cuisine with French flair, and as a vegetarian, I was thrilled by the care they took in preparing my dishes. My favorite? A beautifully creamed radish served on an elegant platter. It was a meal to remember, and after indulging in the four-course tasting menu, I retired for the night feeling utterly satisfied.
I started the next morning with breakfast at the Arcade Restaurant, the oldest cafe in Memphis. The avocado toast and coffee were just what I needed to kickstart the day. The laid-back vibe of the place perfectly matched the city’s rhythm.
From there, it was time for Graceland. As a lifelong Elvis fan, stepping into his home was nothing short of magical. Elvis bought Graceland in 1957 at just 22 years old. The colonial-style mansion sits on 13 acres and was his retreat from the frenzy of fame. Walking through the house, I saw everything from his custom-made long sofa to the Jungle Room, a quirky space with green carpet and tropical decor—designed to remind Elvis of Hawaii. The Trophy Room was my favorite, showcasing his gold and platinum records, Grammys, and iconic outfits like the ’68 Comeback leather suit and his early ’70s stage jumpsuits. The Meditation Garden, where Elvis and his family are buried, was a quiet, reflective end to the tour. It’s a place every Elvis fan should visit at least once.
Our next stop was the National Civil Rights Museum, housed at the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. This museum is an emotional journey, starting with slavery and ending with Dr. King’s death and its aftermath. One of the most powerful exhibits was the re-creation of the bus where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat. Sitting there, hearing the bus driver’s commands 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 Studio, famously 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. One highlight for me 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’s a small space but absolutely packed with history.
In the evening, I strolled down Beale Street, officially recognized as the “Home of the Blues.” This two-block pedestrian stretch is lined with bars and clubs, each one emanating soulful music. I hopped from one to another, soaking in live performances that ranged from blues to jazz and even a little rock. The energy here is infectious—you can’t help but tap your feet and sway to the rhythm.
Memphis is a city that pulses with history, music, and soul. Whether you’re a fan of Elvis, a history buff, or simply 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’ll cherish forever.
