Memphis is a great weekend getaway destination, offering plenty of activities to pack into a short stay. Most of the main attractions, though, are in relatively small area, so it's easy to hit them all. Even an impromptu jaunt to the home of blues and barbecue will leave you enough memories that you'll think you won't believe it was only a weekend.
If you're a big Elvis fan, you will certainly want to tour Graceland, but for the casual observer, a stop outside should be enough. Referred to by some as the "wailing wall", you will be amazed at the number of messages scrawled on the every inch of the sidewalk and wall surrounding the estate. Pick up some tacky souvenirs from the many shops along Elvis Presley Boulevard and head back downtown. For most, the allure of Elvis provides some kitschy fun, but will probably not be the focal point of your trip.
Downtown Memphis offers a variety of shops and restaurants to occupy your daytime hours. Riding the streetcar around the downtown and riverfront area is a fun way to get the lay of the land and is easy on the feet. You'll want to save those leg muscles for a night of dancing or just walking up and down Beale Street, enjoying the music and top notch people watching opportunities.
Lunch at the Rendezvous will give you a taste of why Memphis claims to be the barbecue capital of the world. Their dry ribs are highly touted and deservedly so. Drop into the Peabody Hotel for a julep at happy hour and watch the ducks parade from the elevator to the fountain (yes, real ducks).
If you're in Memphis overnight, there's really just one place to be - Beale Street. The music and partying go all night here. Anchoring opposite ends of the block are B. B. King's and the Rum Boogie Cafe. While these are the two big boys on Beale, there are other blues venues, as well as a variety of unique shops and restaurants. Miss Polly's or the Blues City Cafe are always good choices for those late night munchies and be sure to drop in at Tater Red's for your souvenir or voodoo trinket needs.
However you spend your time, you'll find that Memphis offers more than enough to have a fun filled weekend. Chances are you'll hardly be home before you start planning your next getaway.
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