Top Recommended Layover Activities:
1. Beale Street Historic District
203 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103 · 901-526-0110
A stroll down historic Beale Street is a must for visitors to Memphis. Once the headquarters of W.C. Handy, "Father of the Blues," Beale Street is still home to a plethora of budding street performers, wild dance clubs and relaxed listening rooms. An easy place to spend an entire weekend, you'll find museums, theaters, restaurants and nostalgic shops in addition to the array of musical entertainment options.
2. Memphis Belle
8101 Hornet Avenue, Jim Webb Restoration Center, Hangar N7,, Memphis, TN · 901-412-8071
[Temporarily housed in Hangar N7 at Millington Airport, the beloved Memphis Belle is being fully restored before she goes to her permanent home (the Memphis Belle Memorial Park and Museum) sometime during 2005. Visitors are welcome to view the restoration in progress.] The Belle returned home riddled with bullets but having the distinction of completing 25 combat missions, dropping over 60 tons of bombs on enemy lines and vanquishing more than 8 enemy fighters.
3. Confederate Park
Near Mud Island River Park, Memphis, TN · 901-454-5600
Overlooking the Mississippi River, this downtown park offers a quiet oasis as well as a memorial to Confederates who fought in the Civil War. Guests can enjoy the view, especially sunsets as they are reported to be quite lovely from this vantage point.
4. Main Street Trolley
547 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38105 · 901-274-6282
For a memorable jaunt around town, try hopping aboard one of the antique trolleys that service a number of downtown attractions, including The Pyramid, Beale Street, Orpheum Theatre, and the National Civil Rights Museum. There are twelve stops total along the Main Street route, and 6 on the Riverfront loop. Be prepared to have the exact fare.
5. Memphis Zoo
2000 Galloway Ave, Memphis, TN 38112-5033 · 901-725-3400
With more than 500 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects from every part of the planet, this zoo is a great place for any animal lover to explore. Exhibits like Cat Country, Primate Canyon, Animals of the Night and Dragon's Lair fascinate visitors of all ages. The authentic habitats provide the perfect environment for learning more about the animals of the wild. More than 50 endangered species live here, and displays teach visitors about environmentalism and animal protection. There is also a cafe, gift shop, tram ride and seasonal children's rides.
6. Court Square
between Main St and 2nd Ave, Memphis, TN 38103
Tall shade trees and a fountain grace this green space that's known as this city's oldest park. Stroll the grounds for some exercise and take in many of the plaques and markers designating historic events. On a more modern note, this park was the backdrop for several scenes in the movie "The Firm."
7. Jefferson Davis Park
Riverside Dr, Memphis, TN 38103 · 901-454-5600
Established in 1930, Jefferson Davis Park was named for the venerable Civil War giant, and it is located near Mud Island. Take some time to walk or jog around the park and enjoy it. As you pass through the park, you will notice several Civil War cannons that reside here.
Top Weekend Getaways And Day Trip Excursions:
1. Graceland
3717 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116-4105 · 901-332-3322
Second in popularity only to the White House, Elvis' home attracts thousands of visitors each year. Guests can see how the king lived by visiting this stately home. Visitors can view Elvis' private jets, the Lisa Marie and the Hound Dog II, or they can peruse "Sincerely Elvis," a collection of the famous singer's personal effects. Located on the grounds, the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum features the signature autos and cycles that were distinctly Elvis - including his 1955 pink Cadillac and a 1956 purple Cadillac convertible. Before leaving, be sure to visit the Meditation Garden, the site of this beloved musical icon's grave. The Platinum Tour includes all of the attractions, but you can also tour just the mansion (mansion closed on Tue from Nov-Feb).
2. Beale Street Historic District
203 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103 · 901-526-0110
A stroll down historic Beale Street is a must for visitors to Memphis. Once the headquarters of W.C. Handy, "Father of the Blues," Beale Street is still home to a plethora of budding street performers, wild dance clubs and relaxed listening rooms. An easy place to spend an entire weekend, you'll find museums, theaters, restaurants and nostalgic shops in addition to the array of musical entertainment options.
3. Memphis Queen Line
45 S Riverside Dr, Memphis, TN 38103 · 901-527-5694
Take a riverboat tour and enjoy the sights of Memphis via the Mississippi. The riverboat captain offers commentary about the places you will see on the tour. A concession stand is on board for guest's enjoyment. Weekend evenings feature music cruises where visitors can enjoy two hours on the river, live entertainment, dinner and access to a full bar.
4. Blues City Tours
325 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103-5203 · 901-522-9229
Let someone else do all the planning! This tour company offers a variety of trip packages with different themes such as Graceland, After Dark, National Civil Rights, Shopping, Casino and Riverboat tours. Tour times and prices vary, so call ahead to investigate and make reservations, 901-522-9229. Reservation line is open 24 hours a day.
1. Beale Street Historic District
203 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103 · 901-526-0110
A stroll down historic Beale Street is a must for visitors to Memphis. Once the headquarters of W.C. Handy, "Father of the Blues," Beale Street is still home to a plethora of budding street performers, wild dance clubs and relaxed listening rooms. An easy place to spend an entire weekend, you'll find museums, theaters, restaurants and nostalgic shops in addition to the array of musical entertainment options.
2. Memphis Belle
8101 Hornet Avenue, Jim Webb Restoration Center, Hangar N7,, Memphis, TN · 901-412-8071
[Temporarily housed in Hangar N7 at Millington Airport, the beloved Memphis Belle is being fully restored before she goes to her permanent home (the Memphis Belle Memorial Park and Museum) sometime during 2005. Visitors are welcome to view the restoration in progress.] The Belle returned home riddled with bullets but having the distinction of completing 25 combat missions, dropping over 60 tons of bombs on enemy lines and vanquishing more than 8 enemy fighters.
3. Confederate Park
Near Mud Island River Park, Memphis, TN · 901-454-5600
Overlooking the Mississippi River, this downtown park offers a quiet oasis as well as a memorial to Confederates who fought in the Civil War. Guests can enjoy the view, especially sunsets as they are reported to be quite lovely from this vantage point.
4. Main Street Trolley
547 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38105 · 901-274-6282
For a memorable jaunt around town, try hopping aboard one of the antique trolleys that service a number of downtown attractions, including The Pyramid, Beale Street, Orpheum Theatre, and the National Civil Rights Museum. There are twelve stops total along the Main Street route, and 6 on the Riverfront loop. Be prepared to have the exact fare.
5. Memphis Zoo
2000 Galloway Ave, Memphis, TN 38112-5033 · 901-725-3400
With more than 500 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects from every part of the planet, this zoo is a great place for any animal lover to explore. Exhibits like Cat Country, Primate Canyon, Animals of the Night and Dragon's Lair fascinate visitors of all ages. The authentic habitats provide the perfect environment for learning more about the animals of the wild. More than 50 endangered species live here, and displays teach visitors about environmentalism and animal protection. There is also a cafe, gift shop, tram ride and seasonal children's rides.
6. Court Square
between Main St and 2nd Ave, Memphis, TN 38103
Tall shade trees and a fountain grace this green space that's known as this city's oldest park. Stroll the grounds for some exercise and take in many of the plaques and markers designating historic events. On a more modern note, this park was the backdrop for several scenes in the movie "The Firm."
7. Jefferson Davis Park
Riverside Dr, Memphis, TN 38103 · 901-454-5600
Established in 1930, Jefferson Davis Park was named for the venerable Civil War giant, and it is located near Mud Island. Take some time to walk or jog around the park and enjoy it. As you pass through the park, you will notice several Civil War cannons that reside here.
Top Weekend Getaways And Day Trip Excursions:
1. Graceland
3717 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116-4105 · 901-332-3322
Second in popularity only to the White House, Elvis' home attracts thousands of visitors each year. Guests can see how the king lived by visiting this stately home. Visitors can view Elvis' private jets, the Lisa Marie and the Hound Dog II, or they can peruse "Sincerely Elvis," a collection of the famous singer's personal effects. Located on the grounds, the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum features the signature autos and cycles that were distinctly Elvis - including his 1955 pink Cadillac and a 1956 purple Cadillac convertible. Before leaving, be sure to visit the Meditation Garden, the site of this beloved musical icon's grave. The Platinum Tour includes all of the attractions, but you can also tour just the mansion (mansion closed on Tue from Nov-Feb).
2. Beale Street Historic District
203 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103 · 901-526-0110
A stroll down historic Beale Street is a must for visitors to Memphis. Once the headquarters of W.C. Handy, "Father of the Blues," Beale Street is still home to a plethora of budding street performers, wild dance clubs and relaxed listening rooms. An easy place to spend an entire weekend, you'll find museums, theaters, restaurants and nostalgic shops in addition to the array of musical entertainment options.
3. Memphis Queen Line
45 S Riverside Dr, Memphis, TN 38103 · 901-527-5694
Take a riverboat tour and enjoy the sights of Memphis via the Mississippi. The riverboat captain offers commentary about the places you will see on the tour. A concession stand is on board for guest's enjoyment. Weekend evenings feature music cruises where visitors can enjoy two hours on the river, live entertainment, dinner and access to a full bar.
4. Blues City Tours
325 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103-5203 · 901-522-9229
Let someone else do all the planning! This tour company offers a variety of trip packages with different themes such as Graceland, After Dark, National Civil Rights, Shopping, Casino and Riverboat tours. Tour times and prices vary, so call ahead to investigate and make reservations, 901-522-9229. Reservation line is open 24 hours a day.
Helpful Tips & Resources
Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through MEM Airport:
- Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
- If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite, peruse the shops, or jump on the free wifi and surf galore!
- Are you a frequent flyer or traveling in business or first class? Check out where the airline lounges are located.
- Once you have passed through security, you can use the interactive terminal map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
- Need some cash for your trip? Check here for the location of in-terminal ATMs or currency exchangers.
- If you're flying in from out of town and need transportation to your destination, consider renting a car from one of these rental car providers.