Explore Beale Street in Memphis

Explore Beale Street in Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee is a city with a rich history of music, food, and culture, and one of the most famous areas to visit is Beale Street. Beale Street has a long history of being a center of African-American culture and is often referred to as the “Home of the Blues.” There are a variety of things to do and see in this historic area, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. Here are some of the top things to do in Beale Street:

Listen to Live Music

Beale Street is known for its live music scene and is home to several music venues that feature local and national acts. Many of these venues are historic landmarks in their own right, such as the New Daisy Theatre, which has hosted famous acts like Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis.

Visit the Beale Street Historic District

The Beale Street Historic District is a National Historic Landmark that stretches for several blocks and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and music venues. The district is full of history and features unique architecture that dates back to the late 19th century.

Enjoy Southern Cuisine

Beale Street is also known for its delicious Southern cuisine, including Memphis-style barbecue, fried chicken, and catfish. There are several restaurants in the area that offer traditional Southern dishes, such as Blues City Cafe and the famous Rendezvous BBQ.

Take a Walking Tour

To learn more about the history of Beale Street, taking a walking tour is a great way to explore the area. Many tour companies offer guided tours that highlight the history of the area and the contributions of African-American musicians to the music industry.

Visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of rock and soul music in Memphis. The museum features exhibits and interactive displays that highlight the city’s rich musical history, including the contributions of artists such as Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Otis Redding.

Experience the Beale Street Music Festival

The Beale Street Music Festival is an annual event that takes place in May and features a variety of musical acts on multiple stages throughout the weekend. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year and is a great way to experience the vibrant music scene in Memphis.

Visit the Withers Collection Museum and Gallery

The Withers Collection Museum and Gallery is a museum dedicated to the photography of Ernest C. Withers, a photographer who documented the civil rights movement in Memphis in the 1950s and 1960s. The museum features a collection of Withers’ photographs, as well as other exhibits that highlight the history of the civil rights movement in Memphis.

Explore the Beale Street Flippers

The Beale Street Flippers are a group of talented street performers who perform acrobatic stunts and flips on Beale Street. Watching their performances is a fun and exciting way to experience the energy and culture of Beale Street.

Take a Carriage Ride

For a unique way to see Beale Street, taking a carriage ride is a great option. Many carriage companies offer tours that take visitors through the historic district while providing information about the area’s history and culture.

Visit the Memphis Music Hall of Fame

The Memphis Music Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to the musicians and music industry professionals who have made significant contributions to the city’s music scene. The museum features exhibits and interactive displays that highlight the lives and careers of these iconic artists.

In conclusion, Beale Street is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Memphis. From live music and delicious cuisine to historic landmarks and museums, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant area.