Overlooking the majestic Mississippi River, Memphis is home of the Blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and of course, Elvis. Not only has this city made significant contributions to music history, but it is also instrumental in the civil rights movement. Barbecue is world famous here, and its food culture and craft brewing scene alone are worth a visit.
The Lorraine Motel, the site of the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., is now an impressive museum that honors the legacy of this visionary as well as the civil rights struggle. This walk through history includes the struggles of slavery and the civil rights movement from the 17th century to the present.
From 1959 through 1974, this movie-theater-turned-recording-studio in South Memphis produced a string of hits that stirs souls today. Today, it houses more than 2,000 artifacts with interactive exhibits, films, and Isaac Hayes' gold-plated, peacock blue 1972 Superfly Cadillac El Dorado.
Frequently referred to as America’s most iconic street, Beale Street is the epicenter of Memphis music. From open doors, the heartrending harmonies of bands and singers streams into the street as gentle reminders of the city’s rich musical heritage.