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Browsing Memphis / Graceland
Art Museum and Egyptian Institute of the University of Memphis
In honor of the ancient Egyptian counterpart to the modern American city of Memphis, the local university maintains a museum featuring a good representation of the usual items from the City by the Nile, including a mummy, papyruses, and various implements and household goods. Another permanent exhibit is the Spirit of Africa, which has artifacts and sculptures from West Africa. In addition—and somewhat unexpectedly—the museum houses an interesting collection of miniatures of American furniture and a good smattering of American and European prints. Admission is free.
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Audubon Park
Near the University of Memphis and the street to the AutoZone Park
This 12,000-seat stadium is the home of the AAA baseball team, the Beale Street
Known by many as the soul of old Memphis and the birthplace of the Blues, Beale Street carries with it a fame that spreads far beyond the banks of the Mississippi and the city of Memphis. During the early 20th century, honky-tonk and gospel music spilled from the nightclubs and churches all along this bustling street, fomenting what we know today as the Blues. In 1909, W.C. Handy wrote what's considered to be the first blues song right on this famous street. Today you can still visit Beale Street for a taste of traditional Blues, but if that's not your thing, you can also find a fusion of new music, including Reggae, Rock, and Jazz, among the many venues located there.
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Cannon Center for the Performing Arts
The newest addition to the Memphis cultural scene is the state-of-the-art Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. The 2,100-seat theater is home to the Memphis Symphony Orchestra and is the hottest venue in town for ballet, jazz, pop, and theatrical performances. There is no such thing as a bad seat in this well- designed performance hall: the theater is built so that no seat has an obstructed view of the stage, and the acoustics are superb. The downtown location adjacent to the Memphis Cook Convention Center makes the Cannon Center a center of Memphis culture and society.
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Center for Southern Folklore
This is worth the visit if you want to sit and hear some blues or have a beer and learn about Southern culture. This private, nonprofit organization is dedicated to informing people about Southern history with an emphasis on music and art. The interior, decorated by local artists, is eclectic and includes a gift shop and coffee bar. The gift shop is a great place to get books or albums featuring Memphis and Memphis artists. They also have live music Friday and Saturday evenings.
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Children's Museum of Memphis
Experience hands-on excitement and fun! Bring your imagination and create memories to last a lifetime. Sit in a flight simulator and a real airplane cockpit in Going Places. Explore a Mississippi River model and study live honeybees in WaterWORKS!. Climb through the arteries of a giant heart and ride a bicycle on Mars in Growing Healthy. Be a rockstar on stage and paint and sculpt in the art studio in Art Smart. In Cityscape, board a real fire engine, shop for groceries, climb a skyscraper, dance in a disco and more! Special events, workshops and programs are offered throughout the year.
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Chucalissa Archaeological Museum
Stroll through a recreated 15th century Native American village, watch craftspeople make everyday objects from a bygone era and see an actual archaeological dig in progress. Chucalissa is based on an excavation that has revealed much about the lives of the peoples occupying the area on the banks of the Mississippi River for the past 10,000 years. Run by the University of Memphis, this park and museum offer an excellent introduction to the culture of the area's indigenous peoples. Admission: USD5 adults, USD3 children and seniors.
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Cooper-Young Historic District
This district was one of the loveliest residential areas during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The houses, with their Victorian gingerbread trim, languished in disrepair during much of the 20th century, but in the 1970s the area started a comeback.The restored houses are worth a drive through the neighborhood on their own, but the area has also become a hip entertainment spot, with restaurants, nightclubs and antique stores. One weekend each fall, the neighborhood holds the Cotton Exchange Building
In the old South, cotton was king and Memphis was the center of the cotton universe. The Memphis Cotton Exchange formed in 1874 to serve the interests of cotton growers and dealers in the Mid-South area. The Cotton Exchange Building, completed in 1924, is where prices were set, deals were sealed, and fortunes were made and lost. This Gothic-style building with beautiful arches has been featured in several movies made in Memphis. The building now houses offices and is not open for tours, but you can get a taste of the past at the Unknown Cafe in the basement. An office building without public hours.
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Court Square
This historic park has existed at least since 1876, when the statue of Hebe was dedicated here. This small oasis in the middle of downtown office buildings also features a delightful gazebo and a bronze fountain. Court Square appeared in the movie The Firm as a backdrop for a meeting between Tom Cruise and Gene Hackman, and in real life serves as a relaxing spot for local office workers and visitors alike, who enjoy watching the restored antique cars of the Main Street Trolley go by.
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Danny Thomas-ALSAC Pavilion
The survival rate for victims of childhood leukemia has risen dramatically over the past few decades, due largely to the research conducted at David Lusk Gallery
This gallery is in the middle of an upscale strip mall on the well traveled Poplar corridor. It often features local up and coming artists such as Peter Bowman, art instructor at the Memphis University School for boys and photography artist Huger Foote. Other established artists, such as the nationally acclaimed local artist Carrol Cloar who passed away in 1993, are also represented here. Exhibit openings feature wine and the chance to rub elbows with knowledgeable art patrons in this clean, spare space.
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Davies Manor Plantation
The oldest home in Shelby Country, this plantation has been preserved as it was in 1807, when the first European settlers made their way across the Mississippi to head west. Take the family to see what life was like in the days before indoor plumbing, separate bedrooms, electricity and telephones. The home is located in an upscale neighborhood near the Desoto County Civic Center
The DCC has luxury suites, a convention hall, a theater for the performing arts and a sporting arena - it is not surprising then that its slogan proudly beckons, 'Come experience the difference'. Additionally, it offers parking for up to 3000 cars, and quality sound and lighting facilities, but with all of these services to avail of, you are bound to burn a hole in your pocket for tickets!
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Dixon Gallery and Gardens
The Dixons were a childless couple who collected art, both fine and decorative, and left it all to the city when they died. The permanent collection ranges from mediocre to good. The traveling exhibits, however, are often spectacular, and have included Faberge eggs, glassworks by Seattle artist Dale Chihuly and an explosion of color from Raoul Dufy. The 17-acre garden is usually open for strolling, except during outdoor concerts, picnics or theater productions. The museum shop often has items from Memphis' Great Wonders exhibits. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 seniors 60 and older, and free for students and children 11 or younger.
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Éston Salon and Day Spa
An inspired European country village experience, this day spa offers state-of-the-art facilities in a serene setting. This spa and salon's pampering garnered it a Best of Memphis Award from The Memphis Flyer and Women's News. Spa offerings include microdermabrasion body treatments, relaxation massage, aromatherapy, facials, hot stone treatments, Vichy body treatments, steamy wonder treatments, manicures and pedicures, all featuring Aveda products. Spa services may be purchased in packages ($200 and up) or a la carte ($20-$150+). Gift certificates are also available.
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FedExForum
This arena is deemed as the most expensive public utility project in the history of Memphis. The construction of the complex cost the New Memphis Arena Public Building Authority a whopping $250 million. The arena can seat up to 20,000 spectators and you can expect to watch exciting basketball matches and events such as Disney on Ice. It is home to the NBA Memphis Grizzlies and the University of Memphis Tigers basketball team.
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Fire Museum of Memphis
The Fire Museum is located in the first firehouse in Memphis. Kids will love the video games and interactive videos that simulate firefighting, while parents will appreciate the exhibit of unusual firefighting equipment from the last two centuries. If you take the restored trolley from Union or Beale, you can disembark at the museum, then walk up the street to the First Baptist Beale Street Church
The historic First Baptist Beale Street Church, located at the end of the entertainment district, merits the "historic" tag for a number of reasons. For one thing, it was the first and largest African-American Missionary Church, built just after the Civil War. In the 1890s, Ida B. Wells used the basement of the church to publish the Free Speech and Headlights newspaper, one of the first newspapers written specifically for an African-American audience. The church is included in the Heritage Tour of Historic Churches. Call +1 901 527 3427 for information. Call 24 hour church office recording and leave message for a private tour.
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Fogelman YMCA
There is nothing better than a good workout to relieve stress, except maybe some time in the sauna. Both are available at the downtown Y, as well as top-notch exercise and weight equipment, three racquetball courts, an indoor track and pool and an on-site SmoothMoves Juice Bar. Better yet, part of the workout area offers a commanding view of the Full Gospel Tabernacle
You probably know Al Greene as one of the best known R&B artists alive today, but you may not be aware that he is the fully ordained pastor of the Full Gospel Tabernacle Church in Memphis. On most Sundays, the Reverend Al Greene preaches and leads a joyous, musical, spiritual celebration of the gospel that will have you out of your seat, singing, and clapping your hands. All are welcome, but visitors should be courteous and respectful of the church's customs and traditions and willing to participate in the lively spirit of the service.
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Galloway Golf Course
In a city as flat as Memphis, the rolling hills of the Galloway Municipal Golf Course are unusual and refreshing. Many golfers find this course the most fun to play because of the variations in the terrain. Reservations are taken, but not required for this public course. Greens fees are $9 for 9 holes (M-Th), $16 for 18 holes (F-Su), $10 for 9 holes and $18 for 18 holes. Riding rentals any day of the week are $12 for 9 holes and $20 for 18 holes. A pro shop is available during hours of operation.
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Goldsmith Civic Garden Center
The Garden Center provides resources for local gardeners, as well as a showcase for art and horticultural exhibits. A permanent collection of Boehm porcelain is worth a visit in itself and you may find an iris show or herb plant sale going on as well. The staff in the well stocked library of books on plants and gardening can offer advice on everything from what plants do well in the hot Memphis summers to what the best flowers are for attracting hummingbirds to your garden. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for students and seniors 65 and older, and $2 for children ages six-17.
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Graceland
This is it—the second most visited house in the United States—preserved exactly as when Elvis Presley lived here, complete with the Jungle Room and shag carpeting. Elvis' grave is also here and can be viewed free from 6am-7:30am. Additionally, you can tour the auto museum, see the Lisa Marie and Jetstar airplanes, and view the Sincerely Elvis exhibit. On August 16, the anniversary of Elvis' death, a candlelight vigil draws fans worldwide.
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Hard Rock Cafe
Memphis native Isaac Tigrett started this chain; however, the Memphis location only opened in 1997. In addition to hamburgers, the menu includes an eclectic collection of around-the-world culinary items, such as French onion soup, Asian chicken pasta, the Caribbean style pork tenderloin and an upscale version of that old Southern favorite, funnel cake. A special treat here is the live music, which includes a gospel brunch on Sunday, where you can eat barbecue and listen to some of the best gospel singers in the country.
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Historic Elmwood Cemetery
This lovely 144-year-old, 80-acre cemetery is a wonderful place to go on a warm afternoon. Huge shade trees protect the most interesting collection of graves and gravestones in the city. Elaborate Victorian monuments pay homage to city founders such as Robert Church, the first black millionaire in Memphis, as well as Mayor E.H. "Boss" Crump, 19 generals from the Confederate Army and yellow fever victims felled by the mosquitoes that used to thrive on the river banks. Admission is free. Tours are self-guided.
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Jay Etkin Gallery
In this well-appointed soho-styled gallery, Memphis artist, Jay Etkin, exhibits a wide selection of local, national, and international artists. It's his emphasis on Southern contemporary art that really sets this art space apart, however. On the scene for over 17 years, the 8,000 square-foot venue is one of the largest commercial galleries in the region, utilizing natural light, hardwood floors, and open spaces that make it an ideal space for the art it exhibits. In addition to top notch visual arts, the gallery also hosts modern dance and theater productions, local film screenings, and other art projects and events on occasion. For the inside scoop on events happening you're in town, check the website for information and listings.
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Lichterman Nature Center
Raccoons wander freely around this nature preserve and educational facility. The Lichterman family after whom the center is named willed their land to the city years ago, and portions of the block have since been developed into a shopping center, St. Francis Hospital and an apartment building. However, this 65-acre park still provides sanctuary for local wildlife. Children can see here how injured animals are treated and prepared for return to the wild. While the original Lichterman home that housed exhibits and administrative offices burned down a few years ago, most of the facility has been restored. Admission: USD6 adults, USD5.50 seniors, children (3-12) USD4.50.
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Lisa Kurts Gallery
Lisa Kurts has gained an enviable reputation for picking some of the finest artists in the region and the country to exhibit in her gallery. Located in a lovely, restored former home just off the busy Poplar corridor, the setting for the art works is almost as appealing as the art itself. Exhibit openings are well attended by local art patrons who consider this one of the best galleries in the Mid-South area. Painting, photography, sculpture and more are represented at this well-rounded gallery. Open M-Su. Call for hours and openings.
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Magevney House
This house, bought by Irish immigrant Eugene Magevney in 1832, is one of Memphis' oldest buildings. Decorated with heirlooms and period pieces, the house sends you back in time to the mid-1800s the minute you step in the door. The house also has religious significance since it was the site of the first Catholic mass in Memphis. Guided tours are held every 15 minutes. If you happen to be in Memphis on St. Patrick's Day, join the "Emerald Isle Shenanigans" here to celebrate with Celtic music and folk dancing.
Admission by donation. More »
Main Street Trolley
These restored vintage trolley cars offer views of downtown Memphis and the riverfront. One route runs up and down Main Street from the Fares: $0.50 each way; special $0.25 fare each way 11am-1:30pm Mon-Fri; $0.25 each way seniors and persons with disabilities; free for ages 4 & under; $2.00 all day pass; $3.00 three-day pass. Exact fare required.
Frequency: Main Street-every 5 minutes; Riverfront-every 10 minutes More »
Mallory-Neely House
Part of Mason Temple
The Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, has been turned into the Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
If you get tired of the city lights, head 15 miles north to this 14,500-acre park. There's something here for everyone: jogging trails, a disc-golf course and an archery range for the athletic; nature trails and a nature center for those who want to learn about the local wildlife; and boat rentals on the lake for anyone who wants to get out on the water. Take brunch to the picnic grounds if you are spending the day, or rent a cabin for a longer stay. Admission is free, but there are various charges for boat and equipment rentals.
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Memphis Botanic Garden
This collection of gardens covers over 96 acres in East Memphis. The lovely Japanese garden, with its bridges, ponds and goldfish is a favorite with visitors, who come for the candlelight evening tours in the summer. In the spring, the Ketchum Iris Garden glows with a myriad of colors, while the Municipal Rose Garden is at its best in May, June, and September. There is even a Sensory Garden that is designed to appeal to all five senses. Admission: USD5 adults, USD4 seniors, USD3 children (6-17) and students. Free for everyone Tuesdays after 12:30p.
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Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
Memphis' main museum is housed in a marble building completed in 1916. The architecturally beautiful rooms house an outstanding collection of medieval art and a small but worthwhile collection of Impressionist works. One room is dedicated to a "touch" exhibit for vision-impaired visitors. Temporary exhibits include a patriotic show held during the Memphis Central Station
Memphis once had two grand railway stations, back when trains crisscrossed the country. But the Union Station was torn down in 1967 and the Central Station, built in 1914, languished for years afterward. Now renovated, the station is a stop for Amtrak's "City of New Orleans" train on its way up and down the Mississippi, and also a site for shops, restaurants, apartments and offices. The complex is intended to become the center of an artists' colony and is of interest for historic value.
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Memphis College of Art
The Memphis College of Art offers degree programs in photography, graphic design and studio art. The college has two galleries open to the public, where the work of students and faculty may be viewed and purchased. One of the most interesting items for sale is the handmade paper created by students such as alumna Amy Carter, daughter of former president Jimmy Carter. The college holds a special sale each year before Christmas, in which children can create their own wrapping paper or take part in other art activities. Gallery admission is free to the public.
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Memphis Motorsports Park
If the sound of screeching tires and motors roaring gets your adrenaline pumping, then the Memphis Motorsport Park is the place to be! Possessed of a dirt track and a drag strip, this park hosts more than 215 racing events a year, including NHRA and NASCAR events. Information and racing schedules are available on their website, and you can also join their fan club if you want to keep abreast of the ongoing activities.
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Memphis Police Museum
Beale Street is known for being safe. One of the reasons is this active police station/museum. The archives are fascinating. Newspaper clippings and photos relating to such famous criminals as Machine Gun Kelly and events such as the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr are on display. Even the arrest records of "ordinary" criminals in the late 1800s and early 1900s tell a great deal about pre-integration Memphis. There is an extensive exhibit of weapons and other items confiscated from criminals. You can also see a real jail cell and have your picture taken inside it. There is no admission charge.
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Memphis Zoo and Aquarium
The 2,800 animals of over 400 species here are cared for in environments as close to their native habitats as possible. From African veldt to Asian temple ruins, Peruvian rain forests or Jamaican caverns, the animals roam free. Young children will enjoy the "Once Upon a Farm" exhibit and the amusement rides. The apes and monkeys in Primate Canyon will amuse the whole family. Do not miss the lions and tigers in Cat Country. Trams make getting around the park easy; wheelchairs and strollers can be rented. Admission: USD13 adults; USD12 seniors 60 and older; USD8 children (2-11).
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Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church
The Gospel music at this historic church is so good, it is broadcast on three local radio stations: WBBP at 7am, WLOK at 8am and WDIA at 10:30a, every Sunday morning. Singers and musicians from around the Memphis area collaborate in creating a worship service that has hundreds of people on their feet singing every week. The location of the church, just off I-240 near the VA Medical Center, makes it easily accessible from any location in Memphis. Call church officefor private tours from 9a-5p M-F.
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Mud Island
Trace the twists and turns of the Mississippi River following the River Walk. Learn about the shipping of cotton on the river and the musical history made in cities along the river, from New Orleans Jazz to Memphis Blues and Elvis. See the National Civil Rights Museum
While speaking on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. You can relive history here by visiting the balcony and Dr. King's room, restored as it was when he was here to support the Sanitation Worker's strike. Through interactive multimedia exhibits you participate in the civil rights movement and learn its history from the 1600s through Rosa Parks and the freedom riders until today. Admission: USD12 adults, USD10 seniors and college students, USD8.50 children (4-17).
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National Ornamental Museum
This museum is the only one in the country dedicated to ornamental metalwork. Exhibits often include such diverse objects as silver tea services, swords, jewelry and weathervanes. See a blacksmith at work forging works of art. An annual exhibit in May features the fantastic devices people use to barbecue, timed to coincide with the Opera Memphis
Under the leadership of musical director Michael Ching, Opera Memphis has developed a reputation for its excellent productions of the classics while also promoting new and innovative American operas. Performances, staged in the restored Orpheum Theater
Having been slowly restored over the past 20 years, the Orpheum is now an astonishingly rich architectural treasure from the 1920s, with its statues, carved woodwork, velvet curtains and opulent lobby. This is the home of Overton Park
This is the home of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, the Memphis College of Art, and the Overton Park Municipal Golf Course, but the park is a lovely place to visit for its own sake. There are trails for hiking and biking, tennis courts, a playground, picnic area, and huge, shady trees to relax under. The rainbow-painted amphitheater, once the location of concerts by Elvis Presley and ZZ Top, is now seldom used, but still a good place to sit and ponder the glories of music gone by.
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Peabody Hotel
This place is a true southern original - perhaps the only hotel in the world where ducks live on the roof and ride the elevator to the main floor and promptly march to the lobby fountain every day at 10a. Restored to its late 19th-century elegance, the Peabody is the heart that pumps Memphis social life. On any given weekend, you can sit in the lobby bar and watch people come and go from charity events, weddings and high school proms. With its central location two blocks from Beale Street and its two superb restaurants, Peabody Place
Much has been done to revitalize downtown Memphis. Belz Enterprises, owner and restorers of the Peabody Place Museum and Gallery
Peabody Place is part of an ambitious downtown renewal effort that includes complexes of restaurants, shops and apartments. Developer Jack Belz and his wife Marilyn have put their private collection of Chinese art on display for the public in a 7,500 square-foot gallery. Some of the ivory and jade pieces date back to the Manchu Dynasty of the 17th century. Stroll around Peabody Place and see what is attracting new residents to the downtown area.
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Pink Palace Museum
This museum is housed in the Georgian marble home built in the 1920s by Clarence Sanders, founder of the Piggly Wiggly grocery store chain. Sanders never got to live here, and the city transformed the site into a complex of attractions, including the Putt-Putt Family Fun Park
This place offers fun for kids of all ages40 acres worth, to be precise. There is miniature golf, of course, but you can also try your luck at the batting cages, in the go-karts or at a game of Lasertron. For the kids, there is the fun track for young drivers, plus bumper boats and a host of age-appropriate rides. In business in Memphis for 35 years, this park specializes in group outings such as company picnics. The private area includes pavilions, volleyball and softball fields, a driving range, a nature trail and a swimming pool.
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Riverbluff Walkway
Recently completed, after some controversy, the Walkway follows the bluff on the east bank of the Mississippi, along an area that has recently seen the development of housing that ranges from small, inexpensive duplexes, to midsize condominiums, to mansions owned by, among others, movie star Cybill Shepard. Many of the residents objected to this public walkway being built in their backyards. Others, however, enjoy the chance to stroll, away from the noise and danger of traffic, high on the bluff where the views of the river are incomparable.
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Rock and Soul Museum
Elvis, the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Stax Records, Isaac Hayes, the Staple Singers, all called Memphis home. So, the river city is a natural choice for this museum. Highlights of the museum's permanent collection include several Elvis costumes, B.B. King's guitar (affectionately called "Lucille" by the legendary bluesman), and Dick Clark's American Bandstand podium. The museum also offers special displays, such as the current "Rock 'n' Soul: Social Crossroads" exhibit on loan from the Smithsonian Institute. Tickets: USD8.50 adults, USD5 youths, and USD7.50 seniors.
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Shelby Farms
Once a prison farm, Shelby Farms is now one of the largest urban parks in the United States. With 4,500 acres of green space, forests, and wetlands, the park is a great place to spot wildlife, and even has a resident herd of bison. You can hike, bike, or even ride horses on the many trails, fish in Catch 'em Lake, kayak in the waters of Wolf River, or rent a paddleboat on Patriot Lake. An off-leash dog park makes the park a favorite spot with local dog owners. Picnic areas and covered pavilions are scattered around the park.
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Slavehaven Underground Railroad Museum
This tiny house stands as a reminder of both a dark period in American history and the efforts of many to remedy the wrongs of slavery. A merchant named Jacob Burkle, who ran a stockyard before the American Civil War, provided a haven for many runaway slaves on their journey through the "Underground Railroad." Here you can see where they waited for the instructions that helped them find their way across the Mississippi River to freedom. Admission: Tour prices vary; generally $5 Adults, $3 Children.
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Soulsville USA: The Stax Museum of American Soul Music
As much--or more--a part of the history of Memphis and American music as Graceland, the Stax Museum is housed at the original location of the Stax Record company, which launched such soul and R&B artists as Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Wilson Pickett, among countless others. The museum will take you through the history of soul music and its roots in the gospel and spiritual music of the Mississippi Delta. In addition, the museum exhibits countless artifacts from the world of soul, such as a silver lamé suit worn by Ike Turner, and Isaac Hayes' original 1972 peacock-blue Cadillac with gold trim, a TV, and a refrigerator. A small record store that had a big influence on American music and culture, the Stax Museum is not to be missed.
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South Main Historic Arts District
A lively, artsy neighborhood in the heart of downtown Memphis, the South Main Historic Arts District is home to some of the most important cultural attractions in Memphis. The National Civil Rights Museum, the Orpheum Theater, and historic Central Station are all in the area. Hip restaurants and boutiques as well as cutting-edge art galleries complete the scene, making South Main an attractive place to spend an afternoon.
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Southland Greyhound Park
Just across the Mississippi River in the sister city of West Memphis, Arkansas, sits this popular greyhound-racing track, which is just a 15-minute ride from downtown Memphis. Since all forms of betting are illegal in Tennessee, this is the closest spot for you if you enjoy gambling on races. Southland Park boasts a take-out of only 19 percent, which means higher winnings for the park's lucky patrons. Dogs past their racing primes are offered for adoption to loving homes. A shuttle bus runs here from many of the downtown hotels.
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St. Mary's Catholic Church
Considering how small the population of Memphis was in the 1860s, before the Civil War, there are a remarkable number of existing churches that date from the time. Memphis was not ravaged by the war, as were many other southern towns. So the charming St. Mary's, with its Gothic tower, survived to be completed shortly after the war. The interior of the church, built by German immigrants, features statues, stained glass, an elaborately carved altar and a lovely side chapel and garden. Weekday visitors should knock at the church office door for admittance.
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St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral
Builders of churches in the U.S. in the 19th and early 20th centuries tended to borrow their designs from much older European constructions. Thus, this white stone cathedral, built in the late 1800s and early 1900s has the look of a 13th-century Gothic church from a town in Bavaria. W. Halsey Wood, the architect of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York, designed it. Look for the altar dedicated to the nurses who died after contracting yellow fever from their patients during the epidemic of 1878. Many were treated here, in the previous St. Mary's building.
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St. Peter Church
This beautiful 19th-century Gothic church was designed by architect Patrick C. Keely. One of his more famous Gothic Revival churches is the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in New York. His other churches can be seen in cities such as Philadelphia and Charleston, South Carolina. His designs are inspired by 13th-century Gothic design using such elements as martello towers, crenelations and pinnacles. Be careful if you park on busy Third Street, the traffic moves fast and the drivers are known for not watching for car doors opening. Ring the church office doorbell for admittance.
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Statue of Elvis
This statue of Elvis—nine-and-a-half-feet tall and made of bronze—replicates the original that stood here from 1980 to 1994. That statue was removed and restored because of damage done by souvenir hunters. The original can be found at the Stonebridge Golf Course
Golfing takes place year round at this lovely course with country club facilities in East Memphis. Located out east on I-40, this course will give you that day-in-the-country feeling. While here, you can also improve your skills on the driving range or the putting green. The course is located close to the popular Sun Studio
Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, B.B. King: they all recorded here at Sun Studio. Founded by Sam Phillips in 1950, this studio became the heart of the Memphis sound. It is still a functioning studio, and modern musicians still record here to try to acquire a little of the magic. Take a tour and see exhibits relating to the artists who recorded here, including Carl Perkins, Howlin' Wolf, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and, of course, Elvis. Many visitors to Memphis cite this tour as the highlight of their stay.
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Tennessee Welcome Center
This new Welcome Center, built on the shores of the Mississippi River in just the last few years, seeks to greet visitors to the city. Large bronze statues of Elvis Presley and B.B. King were moved here from their original locations on Beale Street (the Elvis statue was replaced with a replica) to honor these musical greats and offer photo opportunities for visitors. Brochures about local attractions, coupons for discounts at restaurants and hotels, and advice about local events can all be obtained here.
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Theatre Memphis
One of the oldest community theaters in the country, Theatre Memphis has been a Memphis institution since the 1920s. The theater's mission is to engage people from all corners of Memphis life in the creative process, and it regularly wins a number of local awards for its performances. Two different stages--the Lohrey Stage and the Next Stage--offer popular Broadway musicals and cutting-edge dramas.
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Tom Lee Park
Tom Lee was an African-American living in Memphis who became a hero when he saved 32 people from a sinking steamboat in 1925. Even though he could not swim, he rowed a small boat into the strong currents of the Mississippi River to rescure the victims. The park, which stretches for a mile and half along the banks of the river, is dedicated to this hero and contains a monument to him. This is the site of several events throughout the year, including the Victorian Village
Stroll down the shady streets and imagine that you are a wealthy nineteenth century Memphian. Seventeen marvelous Victorian homes in this charming neighborhood were restored and preserved in the 1970s. Some of the most significant buildings in this area are the W.C. Handy's Memphis Home & Museum
This building was the Memphis home of William Christopher Handy, who is often referred to as the "Father of the Blues." He wrote the song "Memphis Blues" in 1912 at the request of E.H. Crump, then running for mayor, and it became something of an anthem for the city. A major award for blues musicians, the W.C. Handy Award, is given every year at the Woodruff-Fontaine House
This 1870s house is part of