| Most visitors to Memphis think blues, barbecue, Beale Street and Elvis; not necessarily in that order. Originally inhabited by Native American Chickasaws and later “discovered” by Hernando De Soto, the Memphis area was occupied over the years by the English, French and Spanish. The city, founded in 1819, was named for the ancient Egyptian capital on the Nile. It soon became the cotton capital of the country. After the Civil War ended plantation cotton field salve labor, the city still prospered. The darkest hour was the assassination of Dr. Luther Martin Luther King in 1968. Although race riots followed, the city triumphed and now stands as a model for racial relations. The Memphis International Airport (MEM) is served by 10 airlines. As the headquarters for Fed Ex and a hub for United Parcel Service (UPS), it is the busiest cargo airport in the world. Paddle wheel steamers Delta Queen, American Queen, and Mississippi Queen stop at Memphis.
Amtrak connects Memphis to Chicago and New Orleans by rail. As a driving destination, Memphis is circled by I-240. Interstate I-55 leads north to St. Louis and south to Jackson , Mississippi ; I-40 goes east to Nashville and Knoxville. Located 15 minutes from downtown Memphis , ground transportation includes taxi service, shuttles, major rental car agencies and bus service. Getting around Memphis is easiest by car. Traffic is typically not grid-locked and there’s plenty of public parking. Memphis Transit Authority also offers bus service around the city and immediate suburbs.
Things to Do in Memphis
Memphis is all about music. A pilgrimage to Memphis is a must-do for Elvis fans. Although the King was born in Tupelo, MS, he lived in Memphis for most of his career. His home at Graceland offers self-guided, narrated tours into his life, including sounds bites from Elvis. See his famous pink Cadillac, and walk through his private jet, the Lisa Marie. Once you’ve had your fill of Elvis, there’s still plenty to see and do in Memphis.
Cruise down memory land at the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum. W.C. Handy was the other icon of music in Memphis. His blues songs still mellow out audiences at area blues venues. Take a break at Handy Park before visiting the W.C. Hardy Home and Museum. When its time to kickback, head to Beale Street for the Memphis dining. Order sweet, tender and tangy BBQ ribs at dozens of Memphis restaurants. Mellow out or get jazzed at over 60 blues, rock and soul bars and clubs. For top-name entertainment, check the calendar at the city's newest landmark, Pyramid Arena.
Although music takes center stage, there’s more than music in Memphis. Memphis travel guide in hand, strike out for a living Memphis history lesson. The Pink Palace is packed with history. Stop by the Center for Southern Folklore. The Lorraine Hotel, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King’s tragic assassination, houses the National Civil Rights Museum. Tour the Fire Museum of Memphis. Take a peak at historic Orpheum Theatre. Walk west to the Mud Island Monorail to hike, bike, float, dine and even sleep at River Park along the Mighty Mississippi River.
Places to Stay in Memphis
If you are traveling on a budget, Memphis accommodations offer lodging bargains. The majority of Memphis hotels are basic and clean; don’t expect luxury touches at bargain prices. Memphis is a family-friendly destination. Think Holiday Inn (Kids Stay Free. Kids Eat Free) or all-suite lodging with plenty of space and free breakfasts when traveling with children.
When luxury is your style, check out the affordable three-star and four-star major hotel brands like Marriott, Hilton and Embassy Suites. Treat yourself to a stay at the historic Peabody Hotel located in the heart of Memphis. Built in 1925 and beautifully renovated recently, the AAA four-diamond property offers modern comfort, elegant accommodations, impeccable service and an array of amenities. (Even if you don’t stay at the Peabody, drop by at 11 a.m. daily and watch the Peabody Ducks exit the elevator from their penthouse, march across the red carpet into the lobby fountain. At 5 p.m. they make the return trip to their rooftop home.) For additional savings on Memphis accommodations, ask about AAA, senior, corporate and military discounts.
|
