Things To Do
Activities:
For the museum junkies/history buffs
Civil Rights Museum, Stax Museum, or Graceland. The Civil Rights Museum is consistently recognized as one of the best museums in the country! It’s definitely heavy but worth a long morning or afternoon visit. Stax Museum is the world’s only museum dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Stax Records and American soul music. Graceland is the home of Elvis Presley!
For the outdoorsy folks
Head to Shelby Farms and walk all around the many paths! There’s also kayak, canoe and bike rentals, and you’ll spot a buffalo or two on certain trails!
For the animal lovers
The Memphis zoo is great! Voted a top zoo in the country, it’s easy to get around and great for little ones.
For the shoppers
Head to Saddle Creek in Germantown to browse Anthropologie, LuluLemon, Madewell, Sephora, etc. There’s even a spa if you want to indulge in some self care!
for the ones who want it all
Make a day of Downtown. Start at Tom Lee park and walk along the river before heading to Bass Pro to see Memphis’ own pyramid, and finish the day with a viewing of the Peabody ducks or walking around Beale Street!
Food:
Coffee and breakfast first, of course
Comeback Coffee for a pastry and an excellent cup of coffee. They have the best unique lattes (iced or hot), really great coffee sodas, and an excellent plain ole cup. Plus, loads of indoor and outdoor space and a cute plant shop next door. What’s not to love? Sunrise has no misses on the menu, but the pancake is easily one of the best around. They have your brunch staples and some really interesting dishes for those who like to explore! Their iced coffee is a NO but everything else is delish. You’ll always see a line, but it moves fast and so does the food! Brother Juniper’s is a Memphis classic. You will wait. But it will be worth it. It’s just your classic breakfast but they put soul into the food, I swear. Kinfolk is a newer Memphis spot but well loved. The biscuits are as big as your face and come with really good sandwich options. Definitely worth a trip over to Mud Island.
For a Quick Bite
City Silo has a loyal cult following here in Memphis, especially for those looking for a lighter meal or something full of veg. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, this spot is perfect for you! The sunshine burrito is an excellent breakfast option while the bowls make a solid lunch! Casablanca has the best hummus and falafel around, and the sandwiches and shawarma don’t mess around either. Slather everything in orange sauce and enjoy! Gus’ Fried Chicken is a staple here. The chicken is perfectly crispy and has just the right amount of kick to it. A great meal to split amongst friends!
More Quick Bites
Elwood’s Shack has some of the best sandwiches in Memphis and a great burger. Skip the BBQ here though and head to… BBQ Shop. If you’re looking for the most MEMPHIS bbq experience, this is it. They have BBQ spaghetti (which sounds disgusting but is pretty dang good) and excellent ribs. Slider Inn has great mini burgers (of all kinds), and a Jameson slushie that’ll go down way too easily. Don’t skip the fries either! They’re skinny, salty and perfectly crisp. Wiseacre Downtown. For those looking for a brew and a bite, this is your spot. The pizzas are insane, and there’s a brew for every taste (and seltzers for those who don’t like hops). Get the ThudButt pizza and sip on your favorite bev!
for a cocktail and a boujee bite
Hog and Hominy has funky pizzas, delicious cocktails and great shareables. Highly recommend ordering a cocktail, the crab legs and a pizza and dipping your crust in that butter sauce. And if you can muster another bite, their pies are top tier. Catherine and Mary’s is the sister of Hog and Hominy. Their main attraction is their pastas, but don’t forget to order some small bites to share. You won’t regret it. Coastal Fish is the spot for dinner with a view. Book a rez during sunset on the porch and enjoy the beautiful light on the lake! The fish is excellent but there’s options for those who aren’t so interested in the creatures of the sea.