Memphis Music Exploration – 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Beale Street

Morning: Arrive at Memphis International Airport and check into your downtown hotel. Enjoy a hearty Southern breakfast at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken to fuel up for the day.

Afternoon: Stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront and visit the Riverfront Park for scenic views. Take a short walk to the National Civil Rights Museum to deepen your appreciation of Memphis’s cultural history.

Evening: Dive into the city's legendary music scene on Beale Street, where live blues bands play at venues like Sidelines Bar and BB King’s Blues Club. Savor dinner at a classic BBQ joint such as Central BBQ.

Day 2: Sun Studio & Music History

Morning: Begin with a guided tour of the iconic Sun Studio, where legends like Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits. The intimate setting offers fascinating anecdotes and original recording equipment.

Afternoon: Head to the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum to explore interactive exhibits that trace the evolution of Memphis music. Afterwards, grab a quick lunch at Cozy Corner Cafe nearby.

Evening: Return to Beale Street for a different vibe, catching a performance at the historic Hard Rock Cafe’s Live Stage. End the night with a nightcap at The Majestic Grille.

Day 3: Stax Museum & Departure

Morning: Visit the soulful Stax Museum of American Soul Music, home to Isaac Hayes’ iconic outfits and original recording consoles. The museum’s guided audio tour brings the sounds of Otis Redding and Booker T. & the M.G.’s to life.

Afternoon: Take a leisurely lunch at Alcenia’s, a beloved soul food spot, then explore the nearby Cooper-Young Historic District for boutique shops and street art.

Evening: Conclude your trip with a sunset walk along the Mississippi River Park before heading to the airport for departure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Sun Studio Tour – 1.5 hrs – $15 admission
• Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – 2 hrs – $12 admission
• Beale Street (live music) – 3 hrs – $20 (food & drinks)
• Stax Museum of American Soul Music – 2 hrs – $13 admission
• National Civil Rights Museum – 2 hrs – $18 admission
• Riverfront Park & Riverwalk – 1 hr – Free
• Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) – 3 days – Approx. $90
• Transportation (rideshare & parking) – 3 days – Approx. $45
• Total Estimated Cost: $213

Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a half‑day visit to Graceland or a river cruise on the Mississippi for a broader Memphis experience. To shorten the trip, combine the Sun Studio and Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum visits into a single morning and skip the Cooper‑Young district, focusing solely on the main music landmarks.