Are you getting ready to visit Downtown Memphis? You’re in luck because we’ve rounded up the best things to do in this vibrant area. From the most popular restaurants, theaters, bars, museums, and outdoor events – discover where to go for some incredible Memphis fun.
Beale Street Home of the Blues
Beale Street is the unofficial home of rock, blues, and soul music. Locals go to hear live music and party, and tourists make this one of their first stops.
It’s so popular during parts of the year, there are often lines of people waiting to enter.
Once you get in, you’ll find shops, restaurants, rooftop dining, and every type of bar you can imagine. You’ll hear a variety of music genres, including jazz, blues, rock, and gospel.
And Beale Street isn’t just for bar hopping.
If You’re a history buff, make sure you take advantage of local tours.
You’ll discover the fantastic and noteworthy businesses as well as the long road to success that B.B. King traveled.
Beale Street Home of the Blues
Whether you’re coming from out-of-town or just want to treat yourself to a luxurious night away – check out these two famous hotels:
Arrive – located – in the middle of downtown; there’s a charming boutique hotel with an old-world ambiance and modern amenities. This intimate hotel has 62 rooms featuring the most comfortable beds and all stocked with luxurious towels and handmade soap products. They have a poker room and casual dining and drinks at Long Shots shuffleboard bar. The Hustle and Dough have fresh-baked goods available all day and are among the most popular breakfast spots.
Central Station has a modern vibe and historical past. For over 100 years, this iconic hotel has been serving train passengers, which continues today. This hotel has a more contemporary feel with views of the city and the Mississippi River. It’s twice as big as the Arrive with 123 rooms. Besides the well-appointed bedrooms and, guests enjoy a bar and fine dining.
Lorraine Hotel and Civil Rights Museum, although you can’t spend the night – you’re welcome to visit the Lorraine Hotel that houses the Civil Rights Museum. Room 306 is preserved like it was when Dr. Martin Luther King spent his final day there. Visitors can learn about the Civil Rights movement past and present.
Downtown Memphis Dining & Bars
Besides music, the Downtown area is known for good food. Here are some of our favorites:
Ghost River Brewing Company – is an independently owned craft brewer. They have several different ales depending upon the time of year, including year-round, seasonal, and limited release.
Earnestine and Hazel’s is one of our favorites with the best Soul Burgers you’ll ever taste – especially after going bar hopping. This restaurant is listed as one of the most haunted places in the country to add to the ambiance.
Loflin Yard is a popular bar and restaurant that offers barbeque, burgers, and tacos. They have a good selection of seasonal cocktails, wine, and craft beer. The surroundings are beautifully rustic.
More Fun in Downtown Memphis
Orpheum Theater, originally a vaudeville palace, has been transformed back to its former beauty and now offers a landmark performing arts campus. This theater is known for its high-quality live performances, including traveling Broadway shows and contemporary artists.
Escape Room – If you’d like to experience some live action, check out The Escape Room. You’ll have one hour to make your way out of a locked room using your wits and the clues you’re given. Each room has a theme – here are a few you may encounter: Shipwreck Cove, Naughty or Nice, Lost Pyramid, Jester’s Revenge, and The Locker Room.
Malco Cinema and Grill has first-run movies and independent films, recliner seats, and reserve seating. You can also order food, gourmet desserts, wine, and margaritas and take your selections into the theater with you.
Trolley Night In Downtown Memphis
Rollback in time and catch the trolly that runs through downtown’s tree-lined streets. These vintage trolly cars are authentic, and one of the most popular ways locals and tourists get around.
And on the last Friday night of the month, make sure you attend Trolley Nights put on by The South Main Arts District! Come and experience live music, local artisans, shopping galore, and of course, lots of great food.
There are so many fun things to do in Downtown Memphis, no wonder people love living here. And if this part of the city seems like the perfect place to call home, contact the local professionals at Captain & Co.
