Buckle Up
Welcome to Memphis, Tennessee, the Home of the Blues and Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll! Sitting on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi, Memphis is packed with history, music, and mouthwatering BBQ. Whether you’re exploring Elvis Presley’s Graceland, walking Beale Street, or spotting pandas at the zoo, Memphis is a road trip destinationfull of fun, culture, and adventure for the whole family.
Ready to dive in? Let’s hit the road! 🚗🎶
1. Must-See Attractions & Family Favorites
Graceland: Home of Elvis Presley
Even if you’re not a die-hard Elvis fan, Graceland is a must-see. Tour Elvis’ legendary mansion, see his iconic pink Cadillac, and check out his wild stage outfits. The Elvis Presley’s Memphis Entertainment Complex includes interactive exhibits and even his private jets!
📍 Location: 3764 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN
🌎 Website: graceland.com
🎸 Insider Tip: Kids under 6 get in free, and the VIP tour lets you skip the lines!
Memphis Zoo
One of the top zoos in the country, the Memphis Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals, including giant pandas, polar bears, and Komodo dragons. The Teton Trek exhibit brings Yellowstone vibes to Tennessee, while the Zambezi River Hippo Camp lets you watch hippos swim up close.
📍 Location: 2000 Prentiss Pl, Memphis, TN
🌎 Website: memphiszoo.org
🐼 Kid Favorite: Don’t miss the panda feeding times!
The Children’s Museum of Memphis
Let your kids burn off some energy at the Children’s Museum of Memphis (CMOM). This hands-on museum features a real FedEx cargo plane, a grocery store play area, and a giant indoor climbing structure. Outside, there’s a carousel and splash pad for even more fun.
📍 Location: 2525 Central Ave, Memphis, TN
🌎 Website: cmom.com
🎡 Must-Do: Ride the 1912 Grand Carousel, one of the oldest in the U.S.!
2. Offbeat & Hidden Gems
The Peabody Ducks at The Peabody Hotel
One of Memphis’ quirkiest traditions, the Peabody Ducks march down the red carpet twice a day at the historic Peabody Hotel. These VIP ducks live on the hotel rooftop and make a grand entrance in the hotel lobby fountain—a tradition that’s been going strong since 1933!
📍 Location: 149 Union Ave, Memphis, TN
🌎 Website: peabodymemphis.com
🦆 Best Time to Go: The Duck March happens daily at 11 AM & 5 PM—arrive early for a front-row spot!
Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid
This isn’t just a Bass Pro Shop—it’s an epic adventure destination inside a giant glass pyramid. Families can bowl, eat in a swamp-themed restaurant, visit an indoor alligator habitat, and ride the country’s tallest free-standing elevator to a glass observation deck overlooking Memphis.
📍 Location: 1 Bass Pro Dr, Memphis, TN
🌎 Website: basspro.com
🎣 Coolest Feature: The 30-story high observation deck offers stunning river views!
3. Outdoor Adventures & Active Fun
Main Street Trolley – Memphis’ Historic Cable Car
The Main Street Trolley isn’t just public transportation—it’s a ride back in time! These vintage-style cable cars take families on a scenic ride through downtown Memphis, passing landmarks like Beale Street, the Mississippi River, and Court Square.
📍 Location: Runs along Main Street, Memphis
🌎 Website: mta-memphis.com
🚋 Best Route: Take the Riverfront Loop for the best sights!
Big River Crossing
Want to walk across the Mississippi River? Big River Crossing is the longest pedestrian bridge over the Mississippi, connecting Memphis to Arkansas. It’s bike-friendly, stroller-friendly, and a great spot for sunset views!
📍 Location: 482 Arkansas Ave, Memphis, TN
🌎 Website: bigrivercrossing.com
🚶♂️ Pro Tip: Visit at night to see the LED light show on the bridge!
4. Best Places to Eat (Kid-Approved & Unique!)
Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous
A Memphis barbecue institution, The Rendezvous has been serving up legendary dry-rub ribs since 1948. Located in a basement alley, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Memphis BBQ.
📍 Location: 52 S 2nd St, Memphis, TN
🌎 Website: hogsfly.com
🔥 Must-Try: The charcoal-broiled dry-rub ribs—they’re world-famous!
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
Memphis is known for barbecue, but Gus’s Fried Chicken is just as legendary. This crispy, spicy, Southern-style fried chicken has been a local favorite since 1953!
📍 Location: 310 S Front St, Memphis, TN
🌎 Website: gusfriedchicken.com
🍗 Must-Try: Fried chicken with mac & cheese and baked beans!
Jerry’s Sno Cones
Need to cool off? Jerry’s Sno Cones is a Memphis institution, serving up massive shaved ice creations with wild flavors like Tiger’s Blood, Wedding Cake, and Superman.
📍 Location: 1657 Wells Station Rd, Memphis, TN
🌎 Website: jerryssnocones.com
🍧 Best Combo: The “Supreme” Sno Cone—topped with soft serve ice cream!
5. Are We There Yet?
From gritty blues clubs and Elvis’ mansion to giant pandas and duck parades, Memphis is a road trip destination like no other. Whether you’re savoring world-famous BBQ, walking over the Mississippi, or rocking out to live music, Memphis is full of memorable family fun.
💬 Have you explored Memphis? Tag us in your adventures with #TheFamilyRoadTrip and share your favorite stops!
