Set on the banks of the Mississippi River, Memphis is a mecca for music lovers. You can retrace the footsteps of Elvis Presley, visit iconic recording studios and get lost in the rhythm of blues guitar on neon-lit Beale Street.

Things to do

Nothing says "Memphis" quite like Elvis Presley. Walk in the footsteps of the "King of Rock and Roll" at Graceland, the lavish Colonial-style mansion Elvis once called home. You can admire sparkling jumpsuits, check out gleaming Cadillacs and pay your respects at his flower-strewn gravestone.

From Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison to Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley, Sun Studio is holy ground for American rock 'n' roll music. Guided tours get you behind the scenes and up close with pianos, guitars and microphones used by the rock 'n' roll legends. Don’t miss seeing the original tapes of the historic "Million Dollar Quartet" recording session.

Relive the struggle for African American freedom at the National Civil Rights Museum. It's housed opposite the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr was famously assassinated in 1968. Highlights include a life-size Montgomery Bus Boycott exhibit where you can sit next to a statue of the legendary activist, Rosa Parks.

Tennessee is famous for its comfort food and Memphis doesn't disappoint. Save your appetite for smoky pulled pork, marinated wings and local craft beer at Central BBQ. Follow it up with a night of live music at BB King's Blues Club, the original Beale Street nightclub.

Getting around

Downtown Memphis and Beale Street are best explored on foot. The city is also serviced by a Downtown Trolley Shuttle system and local buses. You can also cycle around using bike lanes and riverside pathways. Flights arrive at Memphis International Airport, 10 kilometres away.