Events For All Ages

The beauty of the Delta Fair & Music Festival is that it is designed for everyone, from all walks of life, and for all ages. There truly is something for everyone here. The exact schedule is still being finalized, so stay tuned for performers and other activities, but if you’ve been to the Delta Fair & Music Fest before, you know just how incredible it can be.

During the festival, which runs from August 30 until September 8, you can take in live music, livestock shows, craft demos, special events, and a number of scheduled daily attractions. Make sure to check back with the Delta Fest website on a regular basis to stay on top of the announced events. You can also head over to the festival’s Facebook page for more information. This way, you’ll know the best days to go.

Theme Days

Each day has a special theme where the daily activities and events will support many of these themes. Some of the theme days for this coming year include Latino Day, Homeschool, FFA & 4-H Day, Delta Fair Bike Night, Senior American Day, Hardee’s Day, $2 Dollar Thursday, College Night, Salute Our Military Day, Midsouth Jeep Day, and $10 Tuesday.

Interested in learning more about the individual theme days? Check out the specific day pages on the Delta Fair website for more information.

Compete

Maybe you don’t want to just attend the festival. Perhaps you want to get in and compete. Well, there are plenty of competitions that will be taking place. Some of the established competitions include the livestock competition, Star of the Fair, competitions for culinary, collectibles and crafts, dancing stars competition, senior day contests, photography contests, student art contests, a Delta Dash 5/10K and so much more.

If you’re interested in competing make sure to head over to the Delta Fair website and click on the specific competition you’re interested in. You’ll find out how to qualify ahead of time.

Buy Your Tickets Today

Now is the perfect time to purchase your tickets for the Delta Fair & Music Festival. Gate admission is $10 for adults 13 and over, $5 for children 5 to 12 and for seniors, while children 4 and under are free. You can also purchase tickets for rides and bulk tickets by visiting a local Kroger. So stop by your nearest Kroger for more information on Family Fun Ticket Packs

Additional Reading:

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

Delta Fair & Music Festival

The post Delta Fair & Music Fest 2019 is coming in August! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

2019 Memphis Chicken and Beer Festival

Is there really anything else you need to know about this? It takes place at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium on August 3 (which is a Saturday) from 6 to 10 p.m. Basically, if you’re hungry, looking for some quality Memphis chicken and want to water it down with a locally crafted beer, this is the perfect event for you.

Elvis Week Festival

The week-long celebration of Elvis starts on August 9 and lasts all the way until August 17. It’s a great time to visit Graceland, or you can stop by one of the numerous other locations around Memphis that are putting on a special activity for Elvis fans. Make sure to check out the website Elvis.com for additional information.

Memphis Water Lantern Festival 2019

During the festival, you can create your own water lantern and bring it to the waterfront at W. Mallory Avenue. There is something magical about this event as you watch the water lanterns sway and bob on the water. If you haven’t yet taken in this particular event, it’s a great opportunity to get out with the kids.

Delta Fair and Music Festival

This is one of the biggest festivals in all of Tennessee. It begins on August 30 and lasts until September 8. There are different events, activities and live music events going on during the fair and festival. You do need to purchase tickets for each individual day, but you can buy tickets at the door or at your local Kroger store.

There’s Plenty to Do in Memphis This August

These are just a handful of the events and activities going on in Memphis this August. More events are to come and will be announced as the weeks approach, so make sure to keep it here for the latest updates on events, shows, concerts and activities going on.

Additional Reading

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

Tmora – Elvis Week 

The post Best things to do in Memphis in August 2019 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

WHAT TO DO ON…

JULY 3

Flag City Freedom Celebration

USA Stadium in Millington, 4PM (free, $5 parking) (family-friendly)

A fireworks show, children’s play area, car show and live music will take place at this Millington celebration. Food and beverage concessions will be available. Make sure to bring blankets, your picnic basket, coolers, and lawn chairs! 

Bartlett Fireworks Extravaganza

Bobby K. Flaherty Municipal Center, 6PM-10PM (free) (family-friendly)

The night will begin with live music followed by a car display and a fireworks show. Children’s activities and concessions also available. 

Collierville Independence Day Celebration 

W.C. Cox Park, 6PM-10PM (free) (family-friendly)

Food vendors, entertainment and a fireworks show to end the night at this Collierville celebration. Come together with friends and family to celebrate America together.  

Memphis Redbirds vs New Orleans Baby Cakes 

AutoZone Park, 6:35PM 

Join the Redbirds for their Annual Independence Day Celebration. This game will end with the largest postgame fireworks show in AutoZone Park history! The players will be wearing special Fourth of July jerseys that you can take home in an auction. Cookout specialty tickets are also available. 

Stars and Stripes 5k

Memphis Botanic Garden, 7PM 

Benefiting the American Red Cross, this annual family-friendly race consists of live music, summer time post-race food, and a picnic setting for the entertainment. Sign up to some exercise before all the Fourth of July food! 

Stars and Stripes III

Playhouse on the Square, 8PM-Midnight (21+)

A classy cocktail party with exclusive VIP access which includes complimentary drinks, food, and rooftop seating. This is a unique party with live music, plenty of drinks and an unbeatable view of midtown Memphis. 

JULY 4

Central Gardens 4^th of July Parade

1400 block of Carr Ave., 10AM (free) (family-friendly)

The Central Gardens Parade includes free refreshments, children’s and pet’s patriotic costume competitions, and live music. Gather on the corner of Willett and Rozelle to join in on the fun. 

Germantown Fireworks Extravaganza

Municipal Park, 5PM-10:30PM (free) (family-friendly)

Celebrate in Germantown with live music, moon bounces, games, and food trucks beginning at 5PM. Fireworks begin just after 9PM. 

Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular

Mud Island River Park, 6PM-10PM (free) (family-friendly)

Fireworks on the river with live music in the Grove and fireworks beginning at 9:15PM. Bring your picnic blankets to the South Lawn for the best view (including the new MEMPHIS sign lit up)!

Peabody Rooftop Fireworks Viewing with the Bluff City Bandits

6PM-10PM ($10) (21+)

Head up to the Peabody Rooftop for live music with the six-man country cover band Bluff City Bandits. Fireworks begin at sun down, drinks and food available for purchase. 

Southaven July 4^th Celebration with Frankie Hollie and the NOISE

Snowden Grove BankPlus Amphitheater, 9PM (free) (family-friendly)

Enjoy a live performance at Snowden Grove for Southaven’s Annual Independence Day Celebration. Bring your picnic blankets, coolers, and your family for this event. 

Week Of

Graceland’s All-American July 4^th Getaway

July 4 9AM-July 7 3PM (family-friendly)

A new event to Memphis, this Graceland Getaway includes a 3 day stay at The Guest House at Graceland, along with several concerts, a tour of Graceland, dinner parties, a fireworks extravaganza, and much more.  

Backbeat Tours Red, White, and Brew Tour

Alfred’s on Beale, 6PM-9PM (21+) 

Backbeat Tours is taking Memphians 21+ to the best breweries in Memphis, with additional stops at Aldo’s Pizza, and several historical sites. Price includes food, beer samples, and souvenirs.  

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The Southern Heritage Classic began in 1990 as a way to give top teams from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) an opportunity to showcase themselves on a big stage. Sponsored by local company FedEx, the game is held in September at the start of the college football season at the historic Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. It is one of the premier Memphis events and a signature Memphis football game that brings fans from all over town and beyond.

Whether you’re a casual observer of college football or a rabid fan who enjoys any reason to get on a plane and travel to Memphis, the game can serve as the perfect backdrop to many different things to do in the city. Come to the Southern Heritage Classic, scheduled to kick off during the week of September 11–15, 2019, and discover the best big city west of Los Angeles. Discover why you (and your family or friends) should plan to enjoy this Memphis sports event and see two HBCU teams clash under the bright lights of the Liberty Bowl at the Southern Heritage Classic.

About the game

The game, the 30th in this showcase of HBCU teams, is a huge draw for fans of HBCU football. Among the games played by these schools, it is the fourth best-attended event during the college football season among classic-style games. It has traditionally featured the schools Jackson State (MS) University (Tigers) and the Tigers of Nashville-based Tennessee State University. Since the first matchup of these schools in 1990, Jackson State and Tennessee State have together earned more than $10 million in revenue toward their general student scholarship funds and other programs to further educational opportunities for students.

The game has also been an economic boon for the area as well, netting more than $21 million in economic impact for local businesses. The growth of the game, which also includes sponsors Allstate Insurance, AutoZone, Nike and Carrier along with FedEx, has proved a huge benefit for everyone involved. The game also gives local Memphis a chance to show off a bit as it is aired on the FOX SportsSouth network.

Ways to celebrate the Classic

There are many ways to celebrate the Southern Heritage Classic. Some of the events that are tied directly to the game itself include:

• Classic Business Conference
• Coaches Luncheon
• Southern Heritage Classic Parade

In addition to these events, visitors should take the time during their stay (whether one day or all four) to immerse themselves in the local Memphis scene. There is much to do and see around the city, including walking tours of many of the historically significant landmarks in the city, including the Lorraine Hotel, home to the National Civil Rights Museum; and Sun Records Studio, where many great artists (including Elvis Presley) got their start.

Attend the parade, meet with local business leaders instrumental in bring the game into existence, and interact with other fans of great HBCU football. Whatever your reason for coming, come spend some time in Memphis, take in the game and pageantry that surround it, and learn a little more about what it is that makes Memphis a great American city!

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Collierville Summer Concerts

This is a small suburb just to the east of Memphis. It has a comfortable, small-town feel, as if you went back in time. If you enjoy being in a smaller environment or want to get away from the larger crowds of Memphis from time to time, this is the destination for you. In the city’s park square, a weekend concert series takes place during the summer. Many are local acts, but you’ll also find some traveling attractions and music from around the world. So if you’re looking for enjoyable, low-key summer fun, head on out to Collierville.

Gonerfest

This is the annual music festival that takes place during the fall months in Cooper-Young. It is put on by the local indie Goner Records label. At the festival, you’ll find a number of psyche rock and garage band groups (which are typically signed by Goner Records).

Brooks Museum of Art

Located in Midtown, tucked away within Overton Park, this museum is small but interesting. In Overton Park, you’ll also find a number of other interesting attractions, including the Memphis Zoo and the Memphis College of Art. This section of metro Memphis will have something for everyone to enjoy. You can also hop on over to the Children’s Museum, which has science and exploratory activities that younger children (and parents) are sure to love.

William Faulkner’s Home

This is a bit of a stretch in terms of distance, but if you are into literature, William Faulkner’s home is located in Oxford, Mississippi, which is approximately a 90-minute drive from the Memphis town center. Oxford is worth mentioning as it is a town steeped in local history (of course, it’s also home to the University of Mississippi). Faulkner’s home, known as Rowan Oak, is just one of the attractions worth checking out.

Additional Reading

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

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Here are some of the events and fun things to do in Memphis in 2019 this June.

Chubby Checker at Graceland 

Going to Graceland mansion, the historic home of Elvis Aaron Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, is typically the highlight of every visit to Memphis. If you want to see a rock and roll legend perform at the home of a legend, plan to get tickets for Saturday, June 22, to see the one and only Chubby Checker. Plan on twisting the night away at the Graceland Soundstage, located on the grounds of the historic home.

Memphis Italian Festival 

Memphis is home to many distinct and diverse cultures. June 1 is a chance to kick off the month and celebrate one of those cultures, Italy. The Memphis Italian Festival is a chance for you to join the family, experience food and music, and feel the abbondanza (Italian for abundance) of Italian culture. The festival will be held in Marquette Park (4946 Alrose Avenue) and goes from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. The cost each day of the three-day event, which begins on Thursday, May 30, and ends on June 1, is $10.

Memphis Redbirds Baseball 

The Memphis Redbirds are a minor league baseball team that plays in the Pacific Coast League. The Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals is the defending PCL champion and plays home games at AutoZone Park, located in downtown Memphis (200 Union Avenue). The team has 15 home dates in June, which gives you plenty of opportunity to come out to the ballpark and watch championship-level baseball. The Redbirds face these opponents in June:

• Oklahoma City Dodgers, June 1-2.
• Salt Lake City Bees, June 12-14.
• Las Vegas Aviators, June 15-18.
• Nashville Sounds, June 25-28.
• New Orleans Baby Cakes, June 29-30.

Mid-South International Festival 

The Mid-South International Festival is on June 29-30, 2019, at the Railgarten event venue (2166 Central Ave.). The event features international music, foods and dance and is an opportunity to experience many different cultures without a passport. The event is free to the public; the cover cost for large bands is $2. There is a shop for international arts and crafts, and you can experience an international wrestling event and sand soccer!

2019 Craft Food and Wine Festival 

The Columns (1 South Main St.) is the home to the 2019 Craft Food and Wine Festival. Scheduled to be held Sunday, June 23, 2019, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., the tickets go for $55 to $115 per person. The proceeds from the event go to an excellent cause — to benefit Memphis’s Church Health Center, a local medical service that provides for residents who are uninsured or underinsured. The event is a chance to experience the culinary delights of Memphis, which is more than just barbecue.

This is just a small list of the fun things to do in Memphis in 2019. There are plenty of other fun things to see or do when planning to spend time in Bluff City. The best way to see all that the city has to offer in the summer is to simply plan your visit!

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With so many things to do in Memphis, trying to learn everything you can to plan that perfect vacation can be overwhelming. There are things you can do that will make this task lest daunting and help you make the most of your time.

Visit the Memphis Local Library

The Memphis Public Library is a library system of 18 branches with a circulation of 250,000 items, including books, maps and reference guides. It is the place to go for information about the city and learn all you can about things to do in Memphis. The library offers a tour of the wonderful, rich history of this river city. This tour can be the perfect starting point for learning and becoming familiar with the different parts of the city.

Visiting Memphis Travel and the “I Love Memphis” blog

A way to learn about the many different things that you can do in Memphis is by visiting the website Memphis Travel. Memphis Travel is a comprehensive, one-stop shop portal that provides information about different aspects of the city that you may wish to explore. It is laid out in a fun and easy to navigate format, giving information about hotels in the city, different events and happenings around town, and the attractions that make Memphis one of the great U.S. cities.

The “I Love Memphis” blog is another information source that can help you get to know what things you can do when in Memphis. It is written in a no-apology bias toward the city (in a good way!) and catalogs the food, people, music, and places to see in Memphis. It provides a calendar of events and things to do and is an up-to-date guide on and about the things that make the city uniquely Memphis. Use it as a primary source in educating yourself about the best way to take advantage of your trip to Memphis and maximize your time to create a truly memorable experience.Take a Guided Tour of Memphis

One of the best ways to learn a city is to immerse yourself completely in its culture, the sights and its sound. You can do this by scheduling a guided tour of the city. A tour, whether on foot, by boat or in a bus, takes you to the different places of interest that make a visit to Memphis special. Your tour should include hot spots for dining and entertainment, historical sites and, of course, a visit to Elvis Presley’s home Graceland. Any way you go, it is another way to get to know Memphis, up-close and personal.

Use these resources as your best way to learn Memphis. You can also talk with locals to find out their favorite spots as well as the events and activities that are happening in the city. Learn what you can about Memphis and take that knowledge for a ride in the city of great food, great music and great people!

Additional Reading:

http://ilovememphisblog.com/2018/10/five-reasons-to-go-to-soulsville-usa-festival-2018/

https://www.thrillist.com/eat/memphis/best-restaurants-memphis

https://choose901.com/how-to-make-the-most-of-a-rainy-day-in-memphis/

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1. Little Rock, Arkansas

Whether you want to see history or get away from it, Little Rock is your place to go. See the William J. Clinton Presidential Library or enjoy the Museum of Discovery. Take in the River Market District or visit the Rock Town Distillery. Whether you’re up for visiting the Arkansas Arts Center or the Little Rock Zoo, you’ll certainly find something to explore that’ll make the trip worth your time and effort.

2. Nashville, Tennessee

As the capital of Tennessee, Nashville has a lot to offer. Visit the “church of country music” or see the city’s replica of the Greek Parthenon in Centennial Park. Visit Broadway or take a live walking tour. And above all, visit one of the famous food establishments such as Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack or Rolf & Daughters. You won’t leave disappointed.

3. Oxford, Mississippi

Named after the British city of Oxford, there’s much to see and do on this day trip. Explore the campus of Ole Miss (with its many unique opportunities) or visit the famous, beloved home of William Faulkner. Enjoy the city’s farmer’s market (known as OXCM) or visit Big Bad Breakfast in the Mid-Town Shopping Mall. There’s truly something for everyone in this city.

4. Tupelo, Mississippi

Best known for being “the birthplace of Elvis,” this might be the only spot in the world that gets anywhere close to loving Elvis as much as we do. But — if you’re looking to put a little space between you and the king of rock ‘n’ roll —  there’s more to this town than meets the eye. Visit the 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway or check out the famous automobile museum. And, perhaps the greatest reason of all to go: Here, it’s acceptable to eat fried chicken with biscuits and gravy for breakfast.

5. Water Valley, Mississippi

This is the getaway on this list that’s not like the others. Water Valley has become a much-loved day trip location precisely because it’s an escape from the big city. Known for being a small, laid-back town with state forests and a decent brewing company, the reason to visit Water Valley is there’s really not much to do. And sometimes that’s exactly what you need. If you need some R & R for your heart and soul, this is your spot.

No matter what you choose to do, enjoy your time away! But just know that the best part of taking one of these day trips will be coming back home.

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Looking for some of the fun places to visit while in Memphis in 2019? Here is a list of the top five destinations that should be on your checklist of must-see destinations when you come to the “bluff city.” Of course, don’t limit yourself to these suggestions; make sure you make the most of your time in Memphis and take in all of the beauty that this city has to offer.

1. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

You may be familiar with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, or the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee. You may not, however, be familiar with the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in Memphis. The museum is located at 191 Beale Street, the street that is the birthplace of blues and rhythm and blues music. First started as a research museum of the Smithsonian Institution, it became the first such museum associated with the Smithsonian that is not in New York or Washington, D.C.

2. Cooper-Young Historic District

The Cooper-Young Historic District is a neighborhood area bordered by Cooper and Young Streets in the heart of the city. It is where budding artists, artisans, hipsters and the eclectic crowd hang out, drink coffee and make music. The neighborhood is unique and has a vibe all unto itself. Ask locals about the Cooper-Young festival that occurs every September.

3. The Player’s Championship (TPC) at Southwind (Golf)

You may not be a member of this prestigious course, home to the World Golf Championship TPC‒Southwind event up until 2018, but if you are planning a destination outing, wedding or corporate event, what better place than a tour-level golf course and club? The par 70, 7,244-yard course offers great views of the natural beauty all around Memphis.

4. The Peabody Hotel

Not too far from the banks of the Mississippi River lies the famous Peabody Hotel on 2nd Street downtown. Although fun can be had at a hotel, the Peabody Ducks are the real attraction here. The “duck march,” a tradition that dates back to 1940, involves a visit by these famous residents to the lobby fountain at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

5. Orpheum Theater

The Orpheum is a historic theater house that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you like the theater and really like to have fun taking in a touring Broadway show, the Orpheum is the place to go. Who needs to go to New York when you can travel to Memphis to watch a show in a bustling Northern-like Southern town?

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New tenants bring new opportunities

There are a number of incoming tenants and opportunities springing out of the New Bakery developmental deal. The largest is currently Orion Federal Credit Union, as it is moving its headquarters into the facility (in the portion of the building facing the old Cadillac dealership). The credit union will be fully moved in by the summer.

The Orion credit union will bring in 150 jobs into the building, and this makes up just a portion of the professionals who will be moving into the facility. Other tenants will make their way into the building as construction completes.

Some tenants are currently in discussion with property management to move into the building. This includes a second location for the Memphis Made Brewing Company. Should the brewing company move into the property, it will be part of a $5.7 million project (tentatively called “The Ravine”). More tenants will be announced in the coming months as construction moves along.

Additional apartments for residents

The new construction will bring a number of apartment options into the community. With around 290 apartments, these properties will begin renting out in the spring of 2020. There will also be a parking structure on site for tenants (both professional and residential).

Another piece in the Memphis puzzle

The city of Memphis is a booming community. With over $15 billion in planned renovations and constructions, The Bakery is just another piece to the larger Memphis growth puzzle. At the conclusion of 2020, The Bakery and its $73 million renovations will breathe new life into the Edge District and the surrounding communities as it brings job opportunities and additional apartment options.

The former Wonder Bread Bakery will be known simply as “The Bakery” as it continues its development and construction. Currently, construction is set to be completed sometime in 2020, although as the construction is spread out, different portions of the building will be made available throughout the next 18 months. This will allow a flow of new tenants, both professional and residential, to move in over this time period. The new renovation is an exciting chapter in the Edge District, which is turning the page from a manufacturing destination for baked goods to a new facility that is designed for a wider number of job opportunities.

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1. Barbecue

If you haven’t yet tried the dozens (and dozens!) of BBQ spots in Memphis, 2019 is your year to change that. Entire books have been written on Memphis BBQ and with good reason.

2. Bike Nights on Beale

On Wednesday evenings from April to September, motorcycles gather in impressive droves on Beale.

3. Black Restaurant Week

Memphis is proud to be diverse, and this week is no exception. Come enjoy a rich culinary experience at any of our dozens of local black-owned restaurants. Dates: March 3-9, 2019.

4. Crawfish Festivals

Each April, Memphis hosts our famous boiled crawfish festivals. Two of the biggest include Overton Square and Rajun Cajun. Hope to see you there!

5. Graceland

Does this really need any explanation? If you haven’t been to the home of Elvis Presley in a few years (or ever), it’s time!

6. Elvis Week

Fans from around the globe will flock to the city to celebrate the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Dates: August 9-17, 2019. Whether or not you’re a fan already, you’ll become one.

7. Liberty Bowl

If football is your thing, you’ll want to come watch the top teams compete for the 61st annual Liberty Bowl trophy in December.

8. Memphis Fashion Week

International and local designers alike gather each April to show off their most creative and iconic fashions.

9. Memphis Zoo

We boast one of the nation’s top-ranked zoos. Come (with or without the kids!) to see the baby animals or visit any of the many state-of-the-art exhibits.

10. RiverArtsFest

Each October, hundreds of local artisans gather for an impressive weekend show in downtown Memphis. Come be inspired and entertained by the very best.

11. The National Civil Rights Museum

Come witness the history of the civil rights movement in a fully immersive and absolutely memorable way.

12. Trolley Nights

The last Friday of every month means one thing: Trolley Nights. Galleries open. Music wafts through the air. Free drinks appear on South Main.

Bottom line: This list doesn’t even scratch the surface of what’s waiting for you here in Memphis. Come see for yourself!

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When you’re not listening to great podcasts about Memphis (which should absolutely be on your favorite playlist), here are the top five podcasts every entrepreneur should listen to:

1. MFCEO Project Podcast

Recommended as the number one podcast for entrepreneurs, this podcast’s host, Andy Frisella, is a passionate entrepreneur and CEO whose goal it is to help you build your confidence and “Win big at businesses and life.” If you want to surround yourself with the necessary motivation and ambition to kick your competition in the teeth, this podcast is for you.

2. Earn Your Happy

Self-made millionaire and entrepreneur Lori Harder knows a thing or two about starting from the ground up. And she wants to teach you the secrets necessary to make your business everything it can be. In her words, the podcast is, “your sacred space to forgive, grow, heal, find your tribe and reconnect your soul.” If you’re ready to earn your happy, this is the podcast for you.

3. Smart Passive Income Podcast

This is a must-listen-to podcast for any entrepreneur who wants to take things to the next level. This podcast is as informative as it is inspirational. It is known for its perfectly laid-out map to entrepreneurial success. Each episode serves as a “how-to.” Prepare to be impressed.

4. The School of Greatness

What better way to improve your skills and increase your knowledge than to learn from people who are doing what you’re doing … only better! Each episode in “The School of Greatness” sits down with someone successful and discusses their inspirational story, delving into what makes people (and businesses) great. If you can’t literally rub shoulders with great people on a regular basis, this podcast is an excellent replacement.

5. Startup

Are you ready to build your own startup? Or, are you already in the process? This podcast is for you. It’s a podcast about “what it’s really like to start a business.” Prepare to dig in and learn what it takes to start something successful from the ground up.

6. Grindset

There is a new podcast that started in Memphis that highlights entrepreneurs, specifically female business owners. Grindset is the result of a collaboration between local digital content creator, Kudzukian, and Epicenter, the hub for the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Memphis.

Additional Reading:

Links to the podcasts:

1. https://andyfrisella.com/blogs/mfceo-project-podcast

2. https://www.loriharder.com/podcast/

3. https://www.smartpassiveincome.com/podcasts/

4. https://lewishowes.com/blog/

5. http://www.gimletmedia.com/startup

6. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/grindset-powered-by-kudzukian/id1435732014?mt=2

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Memphis is a city you truly need to see to believe. While the best way to do this is to actually visit our great city, we want to highlight some of what you can expect on such a visit. That is why we wanted to showcase some amazing photos that will make you want to visit Memphis as soon as possible.

Memphis is a beautiful city at all times of day. But here is a picture of the city at dawn, while many of the residents are still asleep, and the city itself is just waking up. It highlights the fact that Memphis isn’t just a large city. There’s plenty of park space surrounding the city. It also has beautiful architecture and a great riverwalk. There truly is something for everyone here in Memphis.

Downtown Memphis isn’t all tall skyscrapers and massive buildings. As you can see from the photograph, it has a very down-to-earth feel, from its cobblestone drive to the locally owned restaurants, bars, music joints, and clothing shops. This is what America used to look like just a few decades ago, but many cities abandoned this look in favor of what was new and shiny. In Memphis, you’ll experience an incredible blast from the past while at the same time taking in what truly helps make the city incredible.

 

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Memphis is full of quirks. It’s unique in just about every way. There’s a reason this area of the city was voted as one of the best streets to walk in the whole country. The vibrant signs are all different and each represents a locally owned business. You’re not going to find a Tater Red’s anywhere else. Nor are you going to take in the same experience anywhere else as you do at BB King’s Blues Club. This blues guitar legend opened up the club and—while the man himself may no longer be around—his music lives on forever. So whether you’re interested in just walking the street or you want to stop in for world-class culture, you’ll never find anything else like what you’ll discover in Memphis.

The city of Memphis is an incredible destination. Whether visiting for pleasure or moving to the city for good, you’ll always find something new and exciting to take in. While the best way to experience the city is to visit it first hand, these were only some of the many amazing photographs that highlight just how special a place Memphis is.

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Stop by Every Monday Night

Huey’s Southaven is the place to be every Monday night. From 9 pm – 12 pm, you can select your favorite song, go up on stage and sing to your heart’s content. So whether you’ve been practicing that Britney Spears single from your childhood or you want to go with something a bit more modern, chances are the rocking DJs on staff will have the background track just for you.

And even if you’re not a singer, why not come on out with your friends and support their musical talent? Because even though we can’t all sing in tune, we can all have fun.

Happy Hour Makes It Better

If there’s one thing that’s better than karaoke on a Monday night, it’s happy hour combined with karaoke. At Huey’s Southaven, you can enjoy happy hour specials until 10 p.m. So whether you’re hungry, thirsty or just want to warm up your vocal cords, there really is something for everyone at Huey’s every Monday night.

Huey’s Southaven has some great happy hour specials just for you, so whether you’ve had a stressful day at work or you’re just hungry (or thirsty), you’ll find a great selection of options. On Mondays, you’ll find 75 cents off most drinks, beer and wine from 4-7 p.m. If you’re more of a fan of well drinks or have an eye for a certain draft, Huey’s has two-for-one specials going on from 4-10 p.m.

Dinner to Die For

There’s a reason why Huey’s has been going strong for almost 50 years. It’s not just the karaoke and the drink specials. It’s also the amazing food you’ll find here. You can enjoy some of the best munchie options in the entire city, which is great when you don’t want to fill up before going on stage. Or you can have a world-famous burger or sandwich, or order something a bit hardier from the Gold Miner Favorites menu, which includes everything from a steak stick dinner to chicken and tamales.

Additional Reading

I Love Memphis Karaoke Blog

Memphis Travel

Memphis Chamber of Commerce

We Are Memphis

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For 42 years, Memphis in May has brought the world to Memphis by saluting the cultures of 38 different countries. But this year, instead of saluting a country, Memphis in May will honor a city. A city with a rich heritage and colorful history. A city whose culture has impacted the world, and is poised for an even greater brighter, future. For 2019, Memphis in May’s annual salute will honor our hometown, the city of Memphis!

2019 will mark a momentous milestone for Memphis, and Memphis in May will join in celebrating our city’s 200th anniversary and welcoming the next 100 years to come. This is an opportunity to further elevate Memphis with our global reach sharing the history, culture, and vision of Memphis and Shelby County.

Memphis has changed the world and will continue to do so. We’re a city of doers, dreamers, and believers. We create, we invent, we experiment, and this year we invite the world to experience our beautiful home on the banks of the Mississippi River. The Bluff City, home of the blues, soul, and rock-n-roll. A city where grit and grind are more than our team’s slogans, they are who we are. Determined, passionate, authentic, soulful, and unstoppable.

A new theme, a new century

The bicentennial isn’t just a celebration of the last 200 years. It’s a celebration of the things to come. And there are a lot of things coming for the city. From billions of dollars in construction to new business partners and a growing economy, there is much to look forward to in the years to come.

That is why the theme for the celebration is “A New Century of Soul.”

Memphis has always been about its heart. From the very founding of the city to where it is today, the heart and soul of its citizens are the lifeblood, pumping new ideas from its core. A New Century of Soul is a celebration of exactly that.

Kicking it off

The bicentennial celebration is set to kick off on April 26. This begins a two-day festival in which those interested can take part in the world-famous Tennessee Whiskey Trail. At the main location of the festival, distillers from not just Memphis but around the state will come to show off their finest products. It’s an opportunity to experience some of the best American-produced spirits.

For those who are not whiskey enthusiasts, there will still be plenty of other activities to take part in on April 26 and 27.

May 22 is the official birthday of Memphis. The birthday will be hosted by the United Way Mid-South, and volunteers will come together on this day to provide aid to areas around Memphis. Whether it’s help cleaning up portions of the city or other donations, United Way wants to help Memphis residents beautify the city.

Now, everything comes to a head on May 25. This is geared to be the largest celebration the city of Memphis has every seen. More information on everything (and everyone) taking part on May 25th will come out as the date approaches. However, it will be hosted by Memphis in May and will take place in Tom Lee Park.

The beginning of the celebration will honor all the people and neighborhoods that have made Memphis what it is today.

Continuing the celebration

Of course, the bicentennial celebration is not just one day. It’s an entire year. It continues on for the Audacity Fest, which kicks off on September 27.

Then the official last day of the celebration (right before the winter holidays) is November 24, where Shelby County 200 and each municipality will come together to close out the ceremony and the year at Shelby Farms Park.

Join us as we celebrate what makes Memphis unique. From it’s iconic music to it’s contribution to global cuisine. We’ll salute our innovators and creators. The attractions and soulful spirit of Memphis that draws millions from around the world to our city.

To see more Memphis Bicentennial events click here!

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Love good music, good food, and the finest Tennessee Spirits? Then you don’t want to miss this festival!

Spirits & Soul is a 2-Day Festival that brings the Tennessee Whiskey Trail to downtown Memphis, TN as part of the kick-off to the city’s Bicentennial Celebration, A New Century of Soul. April 25-27, Distillers from around the state will join artist, tastemakers and local businesses of South Main Historic Arts District for a weekend of good music, good food, and the finest Tennessee Spirits.

Ultimate Whiskey Sipping Experience

This is your chance to Share A Sip with local distillers from around Tennessee. Some distilleries you will have heard of, others that are new to the scene, and with a Spirits & Soul Festival Pass you have access to all of them. Friday, April 26 is your chance to access samples plus rare bottles for purchase you can only get at Spirits & Soul Fest. Saturday enjoy a Block Party with handmade cocktails made just for The Festival. Tell your friends to meet you in Memphis, your ultimate whiskey sipping experience awaits.

DAY 1 | FRIDAY, APRIL 26

Trolley Night (6-9pm)

A traditional South Main Trolley Night will be transformed into a downtown Memphis civic fair by pairing Distillers from the TN Whiskey Trail with storefronts in Memphis’ Historic Arts District. From 6-9pm, walk down South Main Historic Arts District while enjoying samples of local spirits from across Tennessee, live music, food trucks, and a new century of downtown Memphis Soul. Spirits & Soul Trolley Night is free to the public. Spirits sampling is limited by the purchase of your 1-Day or 2-Day Spirits & Soul Festival Pass.

Amenities Include:

• Access to distiller’s from across the state.
• Access to samples from TN made spirits.
• Access to purchase rare bottles of TN spirits that are hard to come by. (Friday Night offering only)
• Access to local tastemakers and artists.
• Access to regional favorite food trucks.
• Experience South Main Historic Arts District like never before.
• Free Live Memphis Music.

DAY 2 | SATURDAY, APRIL 27

Block Party (12-5pm)

Continuing our TN Whiskey Trail launch and pre-Memphis Bicentennial celebration, Old Dominick is hosting a Spirits & Soul Block Party from 12-5pm located just South of The Distillery. Enjoy handmade cocktails from each distillery across the state, regional favorite food trucks, and live music. Spirits & Soul Block Party is a ticketed event and cocktail samples are limited by the purchase of your 1-Day or 2-Day Spirits & Soul Festival Pass.

Amenities Include:

• Access to distiller’s from across the state.
• *Access to handmade cocktails from each distillery across the state.* (Saturday offering only)
• Access to local tastemakers and artists.
• Access to regional favorite food trucks.
• Free Live Memphis Music.

Sound like fun? Of course it does!

Click here to get your tickets before they sell out!

See more information about the Spirits & Soul Festival at spiritsandsoul.com!

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MemphisTravel

With nearly 10,000 followers and daily posts, this account provides everything you need when visiting Memphis. MemphisTravel provides posts ranging from promoting concerts and festivals to showing some of the best eats in the city. Additionally, its engaging posts and professional photos really show viewers a first-hand look at one of the greatest cities in the world. I really enjoy this account because it doesn’t focus on just one aspect of the city such as food, sports or art, but it displays a comprehensive look at what makes this city unique.

Choose901

For thoughtful, engaging posts about Memphis, Tennessee, Choose901 is the Instagram page to follow. Choose901 is a community organization that is all about displaying the many great things that Memphis provides. I also really enjoy this page because it has strong engagement with its users. It often has giveaways and provides many outlets for viewers to get more information.

Downtown Memphis

When it comes to exploring a new city for the first time or deciding where to live next, the city’s downtown can be of great importance to some people. If you’re looking for the ins and outs of everything about downtown Memphis, the account Downtown Memphis is one of the top Instagram pages to follow. This account, which has over 17,000 followers, conveniently highlights events, restaurants, shopping and more! With its professional photos and knowledgeable information about the downtown area, I always use this account when looking for things to do, history of the area and reasons why Memphis is so unique. In addition, Downtown Memphis collaborates with other accounts, so you can always find more sources about the area and even get information on how to buy tickets to events, get involved in the community, etc.

Visit Memphis Today!

From enjoying mouthwatering cuisine to attending concerts from some of the nation’s best musicians, these top Memphis Instagram pages provide all of the insight and information you need to enjoy your time in this exceptional city. Whether you’re looking for a fun place to live or you’re searching for a unique vacation destination, Memphis, Tennessee, is a place you’ll never forget.

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In a recent article, the Travel Channel stated that Memphis is the hottest southern destination of 2019!

With things like our world-famous barbeque, our impact on the civil rights movement, and our works of art, it’s no wonder why we are on their radar.

Memphis is a cultural melting pot in the South. It’s also an easy destination to travel to, no matter where you might be coming from. Whether you’re flying from New York or driving down from Indianapolis, it’s easy to visit, which is one of the reasons why it is such a hot destination.

Perfect For All Ages

Travel Channel highlighted a number of reasons why Memphis is such an excellent travel destination for this summer. Why? Because there’s something for everyone to do, no matter the age.

Summer is the perfect time for families to get out and travel with school no longer in session. Because of this, the perfect destination needs to have activities for children of all ages. Yes, you’ll find plenty of cultural sights for educational purposes, and what child doesn’t love some sticky, messy BBQ? But beyond all of this, there are fun outing activities that both you and your children will love.

Just Some of the Great Activities

There’s no limit to the activities you and your family can take in. With the hundreds of possible southern locations Travel Channel could have selected as its hottest southern travel destination, the reason it picked Memphis was because of these limitless activities.

You can visit the River Line Trail, which was just recently renovated and finished. With kid-friendly activities along the water, fun tree houses, a 30-acre Tom Lee Park, plus festivals taking place throughout the summer, this is a prime destination when you want to get outside, take in the water, and enjoy your time with your family.

Are you an Elvis fan? Even if you were born after the King of Rock passed on, you’ve likely heard his music and know just how important he was to moving the music scene around the world forward. Well, you owe it to yourself to discover Graceland. While in Memphis you can visit the King’s music room, and a fan favorite “Jungle Room,” which is the literal definition of a Man Cave. Just make sure to pick up the Elvis favorite peanut butter and banana sandwich (which is, naturally, deep friend).

Make Your Own Memphis Memories

We could list out the hundreds of reasons why you should come to visit Memphis. From the food to the music to the culture to the festivals. But that takes some of the fun out of discovering Memphis for yourself. Travel Channel doesn’t just pick destinations on a whim. After all, it has television advertisements to sell, so it won’t make up random spots. It does its research and it puts its best foot forward so you can take advantage of its advice.

All of that is why you shouldn’t just read a list of things to do in Memphis. You need to come, explore, and make your own Memphis memories.

To check out the full article from the Travel Channel, click here!

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Cover Photo Credit: downtownmemphis.com

Appreciating creativity

Here are some places for sparking your imagination by observing and listening.

Art museums

Memphis is home to a number of notable art museums, including:

• The Brooks Museum (18th through 20th-century art), 1934 Poplar Ave.
• AMUM, the Art Museum of the University of the University of Memphis (works from ancient Egypt to present), 3750 Norriswood Drive
• The Metal Museum (metalworks, foundry and blacksmithing), 374 Metal Museum Drive
• The Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art (historical and contemporary), 119 South Main St.

Garden strolls and art

Winter is a good time to heighten awareness of landscaping shapes, colors and textures (think bark, bare branches and berries) that we often don’t appreciate when blooms are abundant. Enjoy a winter stroll at Memphis Botanic Garden, 750 Cherry Road, and check its website for outdoor art exhibits (Origami in the Garden² through March) and special events like the Jan. 25 Incognito! Art Auction fundraiser.

Downtown mural walks

Take a virtual walk online or an actual one downtown in search of the city’s famous murals, from “The Sound of Memphis” to “I Am a Man.” The downtown Memphis website provides details.

Positively Creative Series lectures

In the spring, Memphis College of Art, 1930 Poplar Ave., will host a series of talks about subjects including entrepreneurial blogging, fashion design, and maximizing social following on websites like Instagram.

Babies at the zoo

What can be more creative than birth? The Memphis Zoo, 2000 Prentiss Place, invites you to visit three new babies — Winnie the hippo, Rowan the orangutan and Lua the Linne’s two-toed sloth.

Being creative

Memphis is home to a number of organizations that encourage you to be creative in a hands-on way. Here goes.

Events and skill camps for creatives

Creative Works, 516 Tennessee St., is an organization that provides a wide variety of networking and learning events as well as a marketplace for creatives. It’s a good place to connect with creative types including animators, entrepreneurs, graphic artists, marketers and screenwriters. Events range from free pub network gatherings to 16-hour skill camps (about $1,000) and an annual creativity conference.

Crosstown Arts, 1350 Concourse Ave., is another organization that promotes creativity with exhibits, presentations and workshops by many kinds of artists, including writers and musicians. It offers residencies as well as community art making areas.

Innovative workspaces and incubators

ArtUp, 138 St. Paul St., is a business hub for entrepreneurial creatives including artists, chefs and designers. It offers lofts and mentoring for about 20 residents in its incubator program as well as support for creatives who don’t live there.

Creativity and mentoring aid the success of all startups. The “Memphis Business Journal” provides a detailed list of local business incubators, including Emerge Memphis, which offers tenant space and technical assistance programs.

Mid-South Makers, 2804 Bartlett Road, is an organization that provides makerspace (aka “hackerspace”) for people who love to tinker and invent. It’s a good place to meet other makers, share ideas and collaborate on projects.

Check out Crosstown Arts Shared Art Making for access to shared art-making facilities and equipment in digital arts, music, woodworking, printmaking, and photography. This space is open to all types of artists – from professionals to hobbyists!

Musical gigs

Love to sing? Perk up your pipes and maybe your picking skills at the Memphis Songwriters open mic nights. They’re held Monday through Thursday nights and Saturdays at coffee houses, restaurants and taverns throughout town.

If you enjoy performing classical works, the Memphis Symphony, 610 Goodman St., holds choir auditions twice a year. If you have some training, give it a go.

Becoming aware of opportunities

Never stop looking for opportunities to experience and practice the arts and innovation. Memphis is a great place to grow creatively.

#WeAreMemphis and we heart our city’s art.

Additional reading:

• http://www.brooksmuseum.org/
• https://www.memphis.edu/amum/
• https://www.metalmuseum.org/
• https://belzmuseum.org/
• https://www.memphisbotanicgarden.com/incognito
• https://www.downtownmemphis.com/downtown-mural-guide/
• http://mca.edu/community/community-education/positively-creative-series/
• https://www.memphiszoo.org/babies-at-the-memphis-zoo
• https://www.creativeworks.co/
• https://crosstownarts.org/
• https://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/news/2018/07/12/creative-business-hub-launching-on-south-main.html
• https://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/subscriber-only/2018/03/09/memphis-area-business-incubators.html
• https://www.midsouthmakers.org/
• https://memphis-songwriters.org/open-mic-nights
• https://memphissymphony.org/chorus

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The 3rd Annual Vintage901 Wine & Food Festival is happening in Memphis from March 1st – 3rd, 2019.

Vintage901 is a Memphis non-profit that brings Memphians together through excellent tasting wine, fantastic food, and community.

What makes this event so great is not just the wine and food, it’s the movement that this event stands behind. This year, some of the proceeds benefit the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. We love that this event is empowering women in Memphis to be all that they can be!

While the Perfect Pairings dinner, presented by Laurelwood, has already sold out, there is still limited seating available for Sunday’s Sparkling Brunch and tickets will be available online and at the door for Saturday’s Grand Tasting.

The Grand Tasting, presented by Kroger, will be Saturday, March 2nd at Crosstown Concourse East Atrium with extended hours from 3-9pm. There will be over 75 wines available to taste, wine classes by the organization’s Grand Sommelier Laurie Forster, live food demonstrations and tastings by local chefs, along with food samples from Next Door Eatery, Farm Burger, Global Cafe and Mighty Olive, charcuterie from Kroger/Murray’s Cheese shop and an opportunity to purchase goods from local craft vendors.

For those interested in something a little different from wine, Crosstown Brewery and Diamond Bear Brewery will be providing beer samples.

Guests will also go home with a canvas tote filled with Kroger water, Nikki’s Hot Ass Chips and house made Next Door Eatery cookies. One of a kind Vintage901 pottery made by local artist Melissa Bridgman will be available for purchase as well as Vintage901 swag!

The Sparkling Brunch, presented by Sedgwick, will be held on Sunday, March 3rd at Shelby Farms FedEx Center from 12-2pm with food by Chef Jimmy Gentry of P.O. Press & Provisions, Paradox Catering, and Paradox Underground.

Again, tickets are selling out fast so be sure to click the image below and get them before they are all gone!

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Here are some unconventional places to go in Memphis when you come to visit.

The Ducks of the Peabody Hotel

One of the most unusual things to do in Memphis is to visit the Peabody Hotel to watch the ducks. Ducks at a hotel? Yes, a tradition since 1933, when the first team of ducks, Peabody, Gayoso and Chisca, graced the lobby of the formerly named Memphis Hotel Company. The ducks, one male and four females or hens of the North American mallard type, maintain residency on top of the hotel’s roof in a specially built duck palace. Every day, at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., the ducks make their walk from the roof to the lobby where they can be seen by guests and visitors alike. Fun fact: Although the hotel features a French restaurant, there is absolutely no duck on any Peabody Hotel menu!

See a Pyramid Without Going to Egypt

On your tour of the unconventional things to do in Memphis is a visit to an Egyptian pyramid. You may not be aware but the city of Memphis, TN takes its name from the ancient capital city of Memphis in ancient Egypt. The city was located at the mouth of the Nile river, which seems about right given the present-day city’s location on the Mississippi River. One thing that both cities have in common are pyramids. The Memphis Pyramid, which sits at the mouth of the Mississippi, is home to one of the largest Bass Pro Shops in the U.S. and was known in the past for hosting college and professional sports.

Memphis Pyramid Cover Photo by David Roseberry

Drinking with the Goats on Beale Street

If you think hanging out with a bunch of pampered ducks is unusual, how about a group of beer-drinking goats in downtown? No, this is not a typo. Silky O’Sullivans, a bar located in downtown Memphis on famous Beale Street, features two female goats. The goats are known to roam the grounds of the bar, in their tower, looking down on bar-goers and occasionally conning a beer or two off an unsuspecting patron. The goats are treated well by Silky himself, who may share a story or two with you on how they came to take up residency at his bar.

Walk on Water at the Mud Island River Park

You can walk across a five-block replica of the lower Mississippi River. The Mud Island River Park is designed to give you the experience of striding, on scale, the entire river area from Cairo, IL to New Orleans, LA. Once you take your journey, learning how the river flows from state to state, you can step into a 1.3 million gallon pool that replicates the Gulf of Mexico. There you can ride paddleboats and enjoy your trip across the mighty Mississippi.

There are many different ways to enjoy Memphis. So, look for these and other fun and unconventional things to do in Memphis!

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The 20 figures on display throughout MBG’s many gardens look like delicate, paper models of animals and elements from nature, such as stars. Yet they are made of aluminum, bronze, and steel. These sturdy sculptures include cranes taking flight, life-size horses galloping across greenery, and a raptor eyeing a mouse frozen on a rock.

Cover Photo: Memphis Botanic Garden Facebook

Adapting Ancient Arts

Paper folding originated in China around 105 A.D. and was developed into the intricate art of origami by Japanese monks during the sixth century. Around 2000, artist Kevin Box of Santa Fe, New Mexico, began exploring origami as a way to design sculptural models.

Box adapted lost wax casting — an even older craft — to convert folded and crushed paper creations into metal sculptures. In a 2016 video for PBS, he explained that the process traditionally begins with a clay sculpture. However, Box said, he begins with a paper model and “engineers the paper with wax to work within the casting process” creating a mold for liquid metal.

Collaborating Among Artists

Origami in the Garden² includes solo works by Box. The superscript “2” in the title means “Box squared” and indicates collaboration with his artist wife, Jennifer Box, on many aspects of the project.

The works also include pieces involving Box’s collaboration with the late Tim Armijo — a Santa Fe artist who worked in many disciplines — as well as renowned origami artists Te Jui Fu, Beth Johnson, Michael G. LaFosse, and Robert J. Lang.

Fu has published numerous books about origami. At her origami website, Johnson shares diagrams and tutorials based on her work. Lang, a physicist fascinated by the practical as well as artistic possibilities of origami, credits LaFosse’s invention of thin, super-strong paper with making large modeling possible. Both Lang and LaFosse appear in the PBS video with Box.

Learning By Viewing and Doing

Memphis Botanic Garden, which prides itself on being an educational resource for all ages, expects about 10,000 school children to visit Origami in the Garden². Teacher resources are available at the MBG website.

An adult jewelry making class called “Fine Silver Origami” is planned for January 26. For more information, call (901)-636-4128.

The 98-acre facility located at 750 Cherry Road is home to 31 specialty gardens including the new Urban Demonstration Garden, complete with chicken coops. So, if you’re feeling cooped up on a winter day, stretch your wings and your imagination at Memphis Botanic.

Additional reading:

https://www.pbs.org/video/broad-and-high-origami-garden/

https://www.memphisbotanicgarden.com/SpringFestivals

https://www.memphisbotanicgarden.com/thegardens

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Find great food and drinks in Memphis

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken: Your trip to Memphis wouldn’t be complete without a quick stop in this hole-in-the-wall spot that serves up some delicious dishes. The coconut pie, greens and fried green tomatoes are some of the unexpected items you may want to try when visiting. Of course, the fried chicken they are known for should be one of the main things you get.

Restaurant Iris: If you are looking for something on the fancier side, the French cooking here is something you should experience. From surf and turf to sandwiches, every dish is excellent and flavored to perfection. The slow atmosphere of Restaurant Iris is meant to give you a respite during a busy day. So, prepare to slow down and enjoy the fine dining.

Dodici at Bari: It doesn’t get much more local and unique than this tiny, secret restaurant. The private and quiet spot creates customized drinks and is a very eccentric experience. Head through Midtown’s Bari Ristorante and up the steps to experience the unmarked bar. Seating is limited, so you may experience a wait.

Outdoor exploration and entertainment

Shelby Farms Park: From the drive-thru Christmas light display to the dog park, locals love the Shelby Farms Park, and you will want to stop here too! The paths cross beautiful views, perfect for a jog or walk. A lake provides space for water activities and fun family activities, like horseback riding. An onsite restaurant can make this a great spot for a day trip.

Orpheum: This historic theater is one of our favorites and a place you should visit when you are in Memphis. The stage is beautiful and the sound in this building is excellent. From the orchestra to live theatre, there is a wide variety of shows you can choose from to fit your interests. Watch the Orpheum site to purchase tickets from season ticket holders at a discount!

Educational experiences and history

National Civil Rights Museum: The museum is a reminder of what we’ve gone through as a nation. There is a lot of information here and exhibits covering the mid-twentieth century in America. The moving exhibit is something visitors should take the opportunity to experience, no matter their age or background.

Graceland: Elvis’ home is a glamorous part of the Memphis history that every visitor should experience. The huge entertainment complex is filled with museums, stores, food, presentations and more. Try the fried peanut butter and banana sandwich in the main café and enjoy all the fantastic décor in dramatically decorated rooms. An iPad with headphones will provide you with commentary throughout the guided tour so you can get to know all the sites at Graceland.

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If that wasn’t enough for Memphis football fans to celebrate, Memphis Express also features NFL legend Mike Singletary as head coach!

Needless to say we’re all pretty excited about this.

Memphis Express’ inaugural game is set to kickoff on 02/16/2019, and we are giving you the chance to cheer on your new football team at a special rate. We Are Memphis has partnered with Memphis Express to give you a $10 savings for tickets to the game! All you need to do is fill out the information below.

Wait there’s more…

Each week 4 lucky winners will win a FREE ticket to the game!

Winners will be drawn from the information you provide above so be sure to sign up. You don’t want to miss out when Memphis competes on the gridiron!

In addition to that, the inaugural Express game will feature an in-game Silent Disco sponsored by City Gear.

• Well known DJ’s from across the city will mix throughout the night providing the soundtrack to the experience.
• The Silent Disco will be held in The Hub seating section of the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium.
• It’s believed to be the first time a silent disco has ever been held at a professional football, while the game is going on.
• A ticket in The Hub also provides fans with seating near the field, a complimentary drink ticket, and a clear view of the videoboard.
• As part of a special ticket promotion offered thru the Memphis Brand Initiative, a portion of the ticket will go back to the organization to support their projects that positively impact our community.

Check out the Memphis Express homepage here!

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The Crystal Shrine Grotto: Creepy or beautiful? You decide. This man-made grotto was created by a Mexican artist over a period of almost 50 years and depicts the life of Christ. Surrounding the man-made cave is the beautiful 54-acre Memorial Park Gardens.

The River Walk: This five-block-long replication of the Mississippi River is a scaled model you can explore in less than a day. The sculpted area holds over 1.3 million gallons of water, and you can enjoy activities like pedal boat rides or a tour at the museum. Plus, the views here are gorgeous.

Stax Museum: You’ve probably already thought to check out Graceland and Sun Studio, but don’t forget about the museum for American soul music! It contains a rare and impressive collection of over 2,000 artifacts to preserve films, galleries, music, artistry and more. The most impressive item on display might be Isaac Hayes’ custom Cadillac Eldorado, which has a mini-bar, TV and 24-carat gold trim and is lined with white fur carpet.

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The Harahan, Big River Crossing and Hernando de Soto bridges, which span over the river, can be seen in a different way, literally, every night. The bridges are illuminated nightly to provide a visual feast for the eyes. If you have never seen this sight, now is the time to consider a stop in Memphis to enjoy what others in the city have known for some time.

About Bridge Lighting

Travel across the mighty river was made easier with the construction of the Harahan bridge. Opened in 1916, it is the oldest of the three spans that takes traffic to points north, south, east and west to and from Memphis. It was the main thoroughfare for the city until construction of the Memphis-Arkansas bridge and Interstate 55 was completed in 1949.

The span, which was rebuilt in 1928 after fire destroyed the original structure, has been a landmark for many decades. The De Soto Bridge was introduced in 1973 and set to lights in 1986, while Big River Crossing, unveiled in 2016, has attracted more than 300,000 visitors for its nightly lights.

What the Nightly Light Show Offers

The nightly light shows on these bridges give you a compelling reason to spend time at the city’s Riverfront. The bridge lighting has inspired residents and visitors to come out and explore all that the city has to offer through a wonderful display of these architectural marvels. The shows themselves are put on and managed by a privately funded nonprofit, Memphis Bridge Lighting, Inc., which was formed about the time Big River Crossing bridge was unveiled to the public in 2016.

Plan to Take in the Lights

Plan on spending some time in Memphis doing the things that everyone does in this great city. Set aside a night or two with the family or special someone in your life and come sit on the river’s edge. The illumination of the city’s bridges, a tradition that is nearly three decades old, is a great way to unwind, explore Memphis at night, and see the city in a way you may not have thought of doing. A nightly light show on the Mississippi River is a sight to see and a sight you should see!

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Memphis theatre luminary Ekundayo Bandele’s play, “If Scrooge Was a Brother/Sistah,” proves the universality and adaptability of this holiday tale about the importance of generosity and community.

Performances at Hattiloo Theatre, 37 South Cooper St., run Nov. 30 to Dec. 23; with evening shows Thursday through Friday at 7:30 p.m.; and matinees on Saturday (2 p.m.) and Sunday (3 p.m.).

Brother becomes sistah

Bandele’s take on Dickens’ story continues to evolve. When first produced by Hattiloo in 2008 — the company’s third season — the play was titled “If Scrooge Was a Brother.” It focused on a corrupt black businessman, nicknamed “Scroo,” who operates a predatory lending service inherited from his white employer, Boss Marley. Scroo won’t help anyone, including his nephew, who is orphaned when Scroo’s sister works herself into an early grave.

This year, Bandele further stretches Dickens’ tale by casting women as Scrooge and Marley. Ebenita Scrooge is a greedy realtor whose white mentor, Madame Marley, aided Ebenita’s upward mobility by paying for her schooling. Access to the privilege of good schooling is one of many key elements shared by both versions of the play.

But, similar to Brother Scroo, Sistah Scroo isn’t interested in paying it forward. Ebenita has no room in her heart for the poor, so Madame Marley visits from the grave to warn her about the negative consequences she can expect in the afterlife if she doesn’t change.

Florence “Flo” Roach, who appeared in the 2011 movie “The Help,” portrays Scroo. Roach heads the Ettaro Theater Company, which is partnering with Hattiloo on the production.

How Hattiloo got its name

Aside from writing and directing, Bandele founded Hattiloo. It is one of the nation’s few black repertory companies and concentrates on works by African-American writers. Bandele named it for his daughters Hatshepsut (Hatti) and Oluremi (Loo).

In September 2017, The Daily News quoted Bandele as seeing himself “as a servant to the cultural renaissance of the city.” In 2018, TED^x Memphis reported that to build Hattiloo Theatre, Bandele led a capital campaign garnering $4.3 million and completed the project debt-free in the popular Overton Square district.

To purchase tickets to “If Scrooge Was a Brother/Sistah” or other productions, contact Hattiloo Theatre here.

Additional Reading

The Washington Post: On eight-stop ‘Christmas Carol’ tour, varied takes on Ebenezer Scrooge

The Memphis Daily News: Bandele Crafts Cultural Hub for Black Artists

TED^x Memphis: Ekundayo Bandele

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Tennessee’s second largest city shone in the New York Times this year when the publication ran “36 Hours in Memphis.” The article praised a number of innovative, adaptive reuse projects with colorful public art installations, the bike-share program that debuted in the spring, the charms of the Broad Avenue Arts District, and the world-class amenities at Shelby Farms, one of the nation’s largest urban parks.

CNN Travel named Memphis one of its “Five Great Places to Visit in May,” recommending late spring as a the perfect time to enjoy pleasant weather and the start of festival season with Memphis in May, the city’s month-long celebration of its unique music, food and culture. Other reasons to visit included Graceland; Beale Street; The Peabody Hotel’s parade of ducks; Sun Studio; Stax Museum of American Soul Music; Memphis Brooks Museum of Art: National Civil Rights Museum; and local hangout Jerry’s Sno Cones.

Thrillist named Memphis among its “Underrated Places to Visit in Winter,” when visitors can enjoy strolling down Beale Street on a chilly night and being drawn indoors by the sound of the blues, smell of smoky barbecue, and the opportunity for quiet, meaningful conversations with the friendly locals. Thrillist also named Memphis Zoo a must-see winter attraction, with its central tented skating rink, and recommend March visitors check out all the delicacies and deals offered during the city’s popular Black Restaurant Week.

And Frommers, looking ahead, named Memphis one of its “Best Places to go in 2019,” with the city taking its place among the top spots with Singapore, Bulgaria, French Polynesia and Australia’s Northern Territory.

“One of the best parties in the world will take place in Memphis in 2019,” said Frommer’s editorial director Pauline Frommer.  “As Memphis turns 200 during its bicentennial year, this is the perfect time to explore a city rich in music, history and culture, in addition to a flavorful culinary scene that offers more than just the Memphis-style barbecue that the city is already known for around the world.”

Tourism continues to grow in this city on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi. According to Memphis Tourism, Memphis welcomed a record 11.7 million visitors, whose economic impact totalled about $3 billion dollars.

“As we kick-off our bicentennial year, we look forward to welcoming the world to our city,” said Kevin Kane, president and CEO of Memphis Tourism.  

In rankings created with the input of top travel influencers from around the world, Travel Lemming, a popular blog dedicated to exploring the world’s emerging and inspirational travel destinations, named Memphis as one of North America’s Best Emerging Destinations for 2019. The article attributed the Bluff City’s travel boom to its robust nightlife scene and cited the Bluff City’s importance as the epicenter of many of America’s most culturally defining moments, from the Civil Rights Movement to the birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

To accommodate its growing number of travelers, Memphis is adding new hotels, with 13 now under construction or in the planning phases and an additional 2,000 new hotel rooms in the pipeline for Downtown, according to the Downtown Memphis Commission. And Memphis International Airport has embarked on a new plan to modernize the airport by adding moving walkways, wider corridors, larger boarding areas, higher ceilings and natural lighting.

But it’s not just tourists that continue to be drawn to Memphis. The city is attracting transplants drawn to its laid-back lifestyle, amenities, academic institutions, low cost of living, and business-friendly climate.

Memphis is growing as a destination for job-seekers. In fact, Glassdoor named Memphis one of its Best Cities for Jobs in 2018,  citing the ease of being hired, living affordability, and employee satisfaction.

Mimeo this year announced it will relocate to Memphis, investing $16 million and creating 300 local jobs. And Indigo Ag, a Boston-based agricultural technology company, chose Memphis as its new North American operations headquarters, which is expected to generate about 700 new jobs in the city over the next few years. This move could mean the addition of non-stop flights between Memphis and Boston.

Memphis is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs, thanks to its connectivity and an atmosphere that nurtures creativity and passion. Howmuch.net named the Bluff City as the nation’s number one boomtown for women entrepreneurs, stating that between 2007 and 2016, the number of women-owned businesses in the city rose from roughly 31,000 to just under 70,000 — the largest increase of any metropolitan area in the country.

Black Enterprise wrote that Memphis was the top U.S. city to open a Black-owned small business, and BlackTech Week reported Memphis topped the list of cities where black businesses are thriving and business owners feel supported by the community. Examples include dining concepts like Black Restaurant Week, artistic initiatives like Hattiloo Theatre, and innovative nonprofits like MentorMe and The Collective.

And looking at residential real estate investments, Rented.com named Memphis one of its best cities to buy a second home, noting the diverse rental market and low housing prices and real estate taxes.

The robust residential market was evident in 2018 proposals like Union Row, which would be Memphis largest mixed-use development ever, featuring apartments, shops,  restaurants, a hotel, office spaces and green spaces.

Speaking of mixed-use developments and green spaces, Crosstown Concourse, the $200 million transformed former Sears building, made the shortlist in the “New and Old” category at the 2018 World Architecture Awards in Amsterdam. Shelby Farms Park also made the shortlist. Its Heart of the Park makeover, which features a visitors center, restaurant, stage pavilion, boat-rental kiosk and more, was a contender in the “Civic and Community” category. Shelby Farms Park this year also earned a spot in the Family Attractions and Experiences category of the TripSavvy Editors’ Choice Awards.

Memphis continues to be recognized for its world-class hospitals, like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which treats pediatric patients from around the world at no cost. St. Jude is developing Family Commons, a new treatment-free floor where patient families can relax, recover, and spend quiet time together. St. Jude also announced it will build a 3.5-acre green space for patients and families, featuring landscaped gardens, walking paths and a special playground designed for children with restricted mobility.

Also this year came the announcement that the FedEx St. Jude Invitational would join the World Golf Championships circuit, with Memphis welcoming its first World Golf Championships event in 2019. The PGA said fans can expect to be treated to a host of global superstars on the green.

Memphis is known for its love of basketball, and Penny Mania swept the city when Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway, a two-time All-American and four-time NBA All-Star, returned to his alma mater in the spring to coach the University of Memphis men’s basketball.

The 901 also welcomed a professional soccer club, Memphis 901 FC, a United Soccer League franchise that will begin playing at AutoZone Park in 2019.

Memphis continued to make its mark in film and television. Elvis’ historic home — one of the world’s most visited historic homes — served as the setting for Hallmark Channel’s “Christmas at Graceland,” as well as the Netflix film “Uncorked, which will be released next year. The barbecue-themed film stars Memphis celebrity chef and former Food Network host Gina Neely, Tony-winner Courtney B. Vance, and comedienne Niecy Nash.

The Food Network’s ongoing affection for Memphis’ culinary community continued in 2018 when the Food Network featured three Memphis food trucks — Stanley’s Sweet Street Treats, El Mero Taco, and Soi No. 9 —  on the series “Big Food Truck Tip with Andrew Zimmern.” The network also invited some Memphis BBQ pitmasters to appear on the popular show “Chopped” and named the Pucker Up Cake at Muddy’s Bake Shop the best cake in Tennessee on its “50 States of Cakes” list.

And Saveur Magazine ended 2018 in Memphis, where it hosted the 2018 Saveur Blog Awards. Finalists flew in from as far as West Africa, Switzerland, and India to share culinary knowledge, create recipes, and discover the city’s soul through its food and culture. The blogger awards were held in the historic Clayborn Temple — a perfect testament to a city where old meets new and where residents honor their history while looking forward to a bright future.

This New Year’s Eve, let’s raise a glass to this lively metropolis in honor of the Bluff City’s bicentennial.

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Rockabilly Rides

Immerse yourself in the rich musical history of Memphis while cruising around in a dreamy classic car.

Sun Studio

The legendary Sun Studio is the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll. Tour the halls where Elvis, B.B. King and Johnny Cash recorded some of their most famous hits.

Stax Museum

This studio-turned-museum is where Southern soul music legends such as Isaac Hayes and Otis Redding made a name for themselves.

Beale Street

Known as America’s most iconic street, Beale Street is home to year-round music festivals, holiday events and parades. You can expect to find something fun no matter when you visit.

Live music

If you couldn’t already tell, Memphis is all about the music. Venues throughout the city and even humble street corners are the perfect places to hear local musicians.

Peabody Rooftop Party

Every Thursday from April through August, Rooftop Party-goers at the Peabody Hotel enjoy live music, refreshing drinks and sky-high views of the Mississippi River.

Peabody Hotel

Speaking of the Peabody, why not stay there on your next visit to Memphis? It’s more than just a hotel — it’s a historic landmark with old-school charm and an endearing obsession with ducks.

Peabody duck march

Come see what the Peabody is most famous for: its daily duck march. The whole family will love this quirky attraction.

Explore bike sharing

Memphis’ new Explore Bike Share program allows visitors to soak up the sights while getting a little exercise.

Big River Crossing

Walk or bike over Big River Crossing, the longest pedestrian bridge across the Mississippi River, which links Tennessee and Arkansas.

Crosstown Concourse

Hang out at the Crosstown Concourse, an old Sears distribution center converted into a mixed-use vertical urban village.

Broad Avenue Arts District

Visit more than 70 locally owned businesses here, where you can get a drink, buy some art and browse unique souvenir displays.

Overton Square

Midtown Memphis is home to Overton Square, where you can eat and drink to your heart’s content and even sign up for an art tour.

Eat good food!

Whether you love barbecue or you’re a die-hard vegan, you’ll find a restaurant to suit your tastes in Memphis.

National Civil Rights Museum

Built on the site where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, this museum takes you through five centuries of history, from the early days of slavery to the civil rights movement in the 1960s.

These are just a few of the amazing things to do in Memphis, Tennessee, so start making your plans today!

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So, what makes “A Christmas Carol” such a special outing for the entire family? This play has it all ― singing, dancing and a heartwarming message that really brings the holiday spirit to life. It also invites conversation with your children about the true meaning of Christmas.

This year, performances for “A Christmas Carol” in Memphis are scheduled to start November 30 and end on December 23.

Showtimes are as follows:

• Evenings at 7 p.m.
• Matinees at 3 p.m.

Prices:

• Adult: $35
• Student: $15
• Military and Seniors: $30

There are also several special events scheduled for this year’s “A Christmas Carol” in Memphis, including:

• A reunion night on November 30 at 7 p.m. for previous cast and crew members of nighttime productions of “A Christmas Carol.”
• “Holiday for Heroes” on December 13 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for teachers, first responders, firefighters, police officers and members of the military who live in and around Shelby County. There is a limit of four per family.

Tickets for “A Christmas Carol in Memphis” are available at the box office, 901-682-8323, or you can also purchase them online through the theater’s website.

Theatre Memphis, which is one of the oldest and most successful community theaters in the United States, is located in the heart of the city. So, make sure to take some time before or after your performance to grab a bite to eat with your family in one of our great restaurants.

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What will you experience?

Whether it’s elaborate light displays or a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, Starry Nights is the holiday event that you don’t want to miss! Check out some of the experiences you can enjoy:

Drive-through lights and displays

With more than 2 miles of holiday lights and displays, your whole family will be blown away by this magical light spectacular! Be sure to tune into the Starry Radio Station to enjoy holiday music during your experience.

Nights by the lake

Enjoy a magical light display along Hyde Lake by walking the half-mile holiday path or hopping on the Candy Cane Train ($5 per person).

FedEx Mistletoe Village

A holiday wonderland comes to life at the FedEx Mistletoe Village! Located in the Visitor Center, the FedEx Mistletoe Village is full of holiday activities and wintertime fun! Check out what you can experience:

• Build-A-Bear Workshop®
• Meet Santa Claus
• Petting zoo with camel and pony rides
• Holiday shopping

Delicious holiday treats

The holidays aren’t complete without the right holiday treats! Grab yourself a warm cup of hot chocolate, make delicious s’mores and enjoy cozy comfort by one of our fire pits.

Carriage and hayrides

Get in the holiday mood by enjoying Starry Nights from a carriage or hayride! For more information and to make reservations, visit Starrycarriagerides.com.

When is Starry Nights?

Starry Nights at Shelby Farms takes place from Nov. 22 to Dec. 28, 2018. From Sunday to Thursday, the park is open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. From Friday through Sunday, the event will take place from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Gather up the whole family and experience holiday memories that’ll last a lifetime!

Where is it?

Starry Nights is located at Shelby Farms Park in Memphis, Tennessee. Our complete address is 6903 Great View Drive North, Memphis, TN 38134.

Ticket information

Tickets for Starry Nights can be purchased as you enter the event, or they can be purchased online. If you decide to pre-purchase your ticket, you’ll save time by entering through our second entrance! For your convenience, tickets can also be purchased at the Lake’s Edge Gift Shop.

With so much to do and see in the great city of Memphis, the possibilities are endless! From numerous holiday events and festivals to sporting events and other fun-filled activities for the whole family, Memphis is the place to be! For more information about this event or any other event in the area, visit the City of Memphis website today!

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If you’re looking to avoid rainy or chilly weather in Memphis, you might opt to stay home with a cup of hot chocolate and a movie or two—but that’s not your only option. After all, sometimes it can be fun to take advantage of the situation and brave the wet and misty weather.

Next time you find yourself at a loose end on a cold day, here are some fun things to do in Memphis that will turn your frown upside down:

• Take a tour of Graceland: Calling all fans of The King! In inclement weather, you might want to give the Meditation Garden a miss, but the mansion tour and the indoor Elvis Presley Automobile Museum are both ideal choices.
• Indulge in some retail therapy: Bundle up and head on over to the Downtown/South Main area—there’s no better place to give your credit card a workout! You’ll find everything from stylish designer labels to unique souvenirs at the wide array of neighborhood boutiques and specialty stores.
• Go antiquing: Memphis’ own South Front Antiques is one of the oldest architectural antique dealers in Tennessee, boasting an inventory of thousands. Whether you’ve been meaning to drop by for a while or hadn’t heard of this local gem until now, a cold day is a great excuse to go antiquing!
• Drop by the library: In addition to browsing the new books and playing on the computers, why not participate in an event or two while you’re at the Memphis Public Library? Click here for a complete calendar of events.
• Have some out-of-this-world fun at the planetarium: The Pink Palace Museum and Planetarium’s exhibits range from archeology to chemistry, so whatever you’re into, you’re bound to find something interesting. Experience science and technology on the big screen in the CTI 3D Giant Theater, travel into outer space at the AutoZone Dome and more!

Even when it’s chilly or rainy, you’ll find plenty to do in Memphis. So, what are you waiting for? Layer up, grab an umbrella and get out there!

Additional reading:

• https://choose901.com/how-to-make-the-most-of-a-rainy-day-in-memphis/
• https://memphischamber.com/

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Crosstown Arts is having a huge impact on the Memphis artscape. Today, the integrated venues provide spaces for exhibition, music performances, film, and video screenings, and workshops and programs for visiting artists—and the current program for Memphis artists is set to be expanded into a full-scale, residency program. This program will host 16 visiting and Memphis-based residents for extended stays at the Concourse, with the goal of promoting creative exchange among Memphis artists and the larger art world.

The Concourse will also be the site for a new art-making facility that will provide continued public access to a communal woodshop, digital lab, print shop, and recording studio. In addition, the newly built Performing Arts Theater will soon host live performances, film screenings and a community theater program.

“Give A Damn” about Crosstown Arts

Presented by the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and hosted at Crosstown Arts through December, the “Give A Damn” exhibition includes an array of previously unviewed artifacts, including rare photos, documents, short films and music. But you don’t have to be a music fan to have a reason to drop by! Crosstown Arts invites individual artists, curators, scholars, community leaders and arts groups from across the country to participate in exhibitions, projects and programs, so you’re bound to experience something new during your visit.

Beyond simply attending Crosstown Arts exhibits and events, here are some other ways to immerse yourself in the Memphis creative scene:

• See monthly art shows featuring local and visiting artists
• Attend opening-night events, gallery talks and monthly discussion groups
• Check out a concert, art show, performance, screening, lecture or another arts-related event

Volunteering with Crosstown Arts

If you’re looking to get even more involved, why not consider volunteering with Crosstown Arts? As a volunteer, you’ll help the team enrich and extend the creative community in Memphis by assisting at galleries, leading craft activities and games, and performing numerous other valuable functions to make Crosstown Arts a continuing success.

Find out more info about our city, check out the City of Memphis’s website.

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No. 1: Folk’s Folly Prime Steakhouse

Memphis’ original prime steakhouse, Folk’s Folly, has been serving the residents of Memphis since 1977. With intimate lighting, private dining and a cozy lounge, Folks Folly Prime Steakhouse is the perfect place for a quiet, relaxing evening with your closest family members.

No. 2: Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar

If Folk’s Folly Prime Steakhouse is Southern hospitality, then Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar is full-on contemporary. A modern, sophisticated restaurant where small plates are served alongside taster glasses of wine, Flight Restaurant is a unique experience and a great way to start an evening.

No. 3: Texas de Brazil

The holidays are a time for a feast — and few restaurants do it as well as Texas de Brazil. Your family members will be treated to an assortment of premium, exotic meats that will keep coming until you’re ready to tap out, and you can enjoy an elegant salad bar with hundreds of options.

No. 4: Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen

Situated in a house with a garden, Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen is a family-style experience like no other. Andrew Michael is a traditional Italian restaurant that also brings together the tastes and ingredients from the local area — a great way to experience local cuisine for those who are from out of town.

No. 5: Paulette’s

A variety of fine wines and classic American continental foods ensure that Paulette’s has something for everyone. French, Hungarian and regional dishes are complemented by handcrafted cocktails and an assortment of the best wine and spirits. Be sure to book in advance as Paulette’s fills up fast.

There you have it: the top five Memphis restaurants to get you in the holiday spirit. Begin booking your trip and making your restaurant reservations today if you want to experience the best of Memphis!

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Cappricio Grill

Located inside the famous Peabody Memphis Hotel, the Cappricio Grill will be offering traditional Thanksgiving fare. Open on Thanksgiving from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., the Cappricio Grill has a flexible schedule that will ensure anyone can come in for a Thanksgiving meal, no matter what mealtime suits them best.

The Cappricio Grill Thanksgiving dinner costs $45 per adult and $19 per child, with reservations available by phone or online.

The Cupboard Restaurant

Famous for its meat ‘n’ plates, The Cupboard Restaurant is a well-known and beloved restaurant located in the heart of Memphis. It serves traditional southern fare and casual home-style food sure to whet the appetite and send everyone home satisfied. The restaurant is open all day on Thanksgiving, and it’ll be adding turkey, ham and other favorites to its menu to mark the occasion.

The Cupboard Restaurant doesn’t accept reservations, so be prepared to plan ahead! It’s a popular gathering place, and seating is limited.

Piccadilly

As a traditional cafeteria-style eatery with five locations throughout Memphis, Piccadilly is the perfect restaurant to host your 2018 Thanksgiving festivities. Big family? No problem! Piccadilly is accustomed to hosting large events, and the sizable cafeteria is sure to seat anyone you want in attendance for your Thanksgiving event. Piccadilly will be serving up a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for all, with classics like sweet potatoes, cranberries, cornbread and more.

Holiday hours vary from location to location, so call ahead to determine the best time for your Piccadilly Thanksgiving feast.

Huey’s

Known for providing diners the chance to kick back with a delicious burger and refreshing beer, Huey’s may not be the first option Memphis families consider when picking a restaurant for Thanksgiving dinner, but it’s the perfect place to watch football and enjoy a lively atmosphere among friends.

Huey’s has locations throughout Cordova, Germantown, Poplar and more, although not all of them are open for Thanksgiving, so you’d be wise to call ahead. Oh, and be prepared for a later dinner—Huey’s historically hasn’t opened until 5 p.m. or later for Thanksgiving, though it stays open well into the night.

Additional resources

• Where to get a great Thanksgiving dinner in Memphis
• The history of Thanksgiving
• Memphis Thanksgiving events

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For those of you who have never used a bike-sharing network before, here’s what to know about Explore Bike Share before taking your first cycling trip.

What is bike sharing?

A bike-sharing program is a service that involves bikes being stored in transit hubs across a city and made available to rent through the use of an app. Such programs give users the freedom associated with having a bike without the hassle of managing the upkeep. Although bike-sharing was conceived in Amsterdam in 1965, with free-use white bicycles left unchained throughout the city, it wasn’t until 1995 that bikes were made available to rent through a coin-operated payment system. Similar programs soon followed suit and the practice has grown exponentially, with many bike-sharing programs owning over a thousand bikes per city.

About Explore Bike Share

Explore Bike Share is a bike-sharing network that has recently come to Memphis, setting up shop so Memphians from all walks of life can enjoy a little cycling to break up their daily routine. Whether you’re a fitness junkie, a tourist, a commuter or anyone else interested in using a bike to get around, Explore Bike Share is waiting for you.

The Explore Bike Share system is broken down into four easy steps on the company’s website:

• Pay: Users can pay through the Explore Bike Share app on their phones, which makes the transaction quick and easy.
• Pick up: Users can pick up their bicycles at any of Memphis’ 60 bicycle hubs.
• Pedal: Enjoy your time on the bike! If you’re looking to explore, visit memphistravel.com to find the best Memphis attractions.
• Put up: Just bring the bike back to any designated bike station and continue with your day.

Anyone interested in making use of the Explore Bike Share network can rent a bike per use or on a weekly, monthly or yearly basis.

 

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Improve your quality of life with bike sharing

The benefits of cycling are well documented and include improvements to both physical and mental health. Indeed, people who bicycle regularly often notice mood boosts from exercise and exposure to sunlight while also experiencing improved lung function, reduced heart disease and cancer risk, increased muscle growth and weight loss. What’s more, regular cycling is said to improve navigational skills, spatial awareness and brain power.

Additional resources

• Learn more about Explore Bike Share
• An interactive history of bike-sharing
• The health benefits of cycling

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What is Fall Festival and Heritage Day?

The Fall Festival and Heritage Day celebration is an event held in Millington, TN, to celebrate the culture and history of the Mid-South. It was created to promote heritage, culture and appreciation of the outdoors through the support of local businesses and the community.

Events taking place

Fall Festival and Heritage Day has dozens of activities to suit attendees of all ages. The major must-sees include a Civil War camp display, a frontier town complete with period dress and historical demonstrations, a vendors’ village, wildlife shows and pontoon boat tours. Attendees can even experience stone-carving, leatherworking, archery, and atlatl-throwing games.

If you’re bringing children, they won’t want to miss going on hayrides and kiddie train rides, playing on a moon bounce, getting their faces painted or playing knocker balls.

How do I attend?

Mid-South visitors and residents can attend the 2018 Fall Festival and Heritage Day for free by simply showing up at the Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park’s Poplar Tree Lake Nature Center on Nov. 10. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and, as mentioned, has no entry cost.

Additional resources

• Volunteer as a program participant by emailing samantha.cox@tn.gov
• A map to Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
• Explore Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
• Learn more about Fall Festival & Heritage Day 2018

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India’s history and culture are as diverse as the country is vast. Indeed, India was the birthplace of both Buddhism and Hinduism—the third and fourth most popular religions in the world—and it is one of the most linguistically diverse countries on the planet, with 22 major languages and more than 720 dialects spoken there. India is also the home of vibrant textiles, delicious foods and colorful films enjoyed around the world. So, what’s not to love? Come down to India Fest in Memphis to get a taste of Indian culture for yourself.

The history of India Fest

India Fest was founded to connect Indian-Americans to their culture while simultaneously offering the Indian experience to attendees from all over the Mid-South, regardless of background. According to its website, India Fest  “promotes awareness and appreciation of the vibrant art, culture, music, cuisine, and heritage of India among people of greater Memphis,” and people of all ages and ethnicities are encouraged to visit.

India Fest events and scheduling

The Memphis India Festival is composed of five different parts:

• The Bazaar Section: At the bazaar, visitors will be able to experience Indian food, music, fashion, art, language and literature through different kiosks selling their wares.
• The Talent Show: Local talent from the Mid-South will compete in the India Fest talent festival, showcasing Indian dance and music.
• The Food Demo: Food enthusiasts in attendance will be able to enjoy various Indian culinary dishes, while learning more about the flavors that make this food come alive.
• The Kids’ Corner: Children attending India Fest will have the chance to participate in an Indian history story-telling event, dance lessons, a map-hunting game and as other interactive learning activities.
• The Evening Professional Performance: Once the sun goes down,
• attendees can enjoy a sit-down program featuring professional performers invited all the way from India.

Are you interested in attending the Memphis India Fest? India Fest will be hosted at Agricenter International on Nov. 3, with events from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Additional resources

• What to expect at India Fest
• About India Fest
• India Fest sponsors

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To experience a classic vibe from the 1920s, check out these three Memphis speakeasies that will be sure to make you fall in love with the culture of Memphis.

Blind Bear Speakeasy

Blind Bear Speakeasy is a Memphis cocktail bar designed to evoke the feel of a Prohibition-era speakeasy. Featuring pool and card tables and serving drinks in mason jars as a nod to the moonshiners of the ’20s, Blind Bear plays up the contemporary charm by providing the interior aesthetic of a cozy, old-style lounge for visitors. Though Blind Bear is designed to be more of a lounge than a restaurant, patrons who want to grab something to eat can partake in traditional Southern fare right in the heart of Memphis. The ever changing password to enter Blind Bear can be found on their Facebook page.

The Pocket Speakeasy

The Pocket is a Memphis speakeasy that combines a modernist aesthetic with the thrill of Prohibition-era secrecy and mystery. Though the interior is brightly lit and sleek, with high-contrast design and a spacious layout, it manages to evoke the feel of a traditional speakeasy with a false storefront and password access. The Pocket’s storefront is that of an upscale clothing shop called Tailor’s Union that masks its true business until visitors are inside. Once in,visitors are led around to the back by a host, where they have their pick of upstairs and downstairs bar space as well as a sofa lounge. Though The Pocket is a members-only club, it recently offered a public access period Aug. 24 through Sept. 13, and it may offer open-bar events in the future.

Dodici at Bari Ristorante

A classic speakeasy in every sense of the word, Dodici was designed to bring visitors back to the Jazz Age with everything from its management to its 1920s aesthetic. Hidden away above the Bari Ristorante on Cooper St., visitors are ushered through a secret door in the Bari’s enoteca, at which point they’re brought up a dimly lit stairwell to the small bar above the restaurant. Dodici was named for the number of people it can seat—a humble 12 at a time—which underscores its cozy and intimate nature.

Dodici is open later than the restaurant located below it, so call ahead if you plan on arriving late to ensure you know how to get in.

Additional resources

• Check out the Blind Bear special events calendar
• Learn more about new speakeasy The Pocket
• Visit the secret Dodici at Bari Ristorante

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Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant

This is the place to come if you want to chow down on barbecue ribs while watching your favorite sport. One of the restaurant’s most popular meals is the half rack of ribs with apple pie and ice cream, although the eatery also has a pork shoulder that’s out of this world as well as a barbecue pasta dish that will hit the spot for fans of Italian food. And to top it off, Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant will even deliver.

Tom’s Bar-B-Que and Deli

Whether you’re looking for something light or extremely fulfilling, Tom’s Bar-B-Que and Deli is the place to go. The beef and pork sit in a mouthwatering spice rub for a whole day before they’re served, so it’s hardly surprising that the eatery’s three most popular dishes are the pulled pork sandwich, the beef brisket and baby back ribs. The restaurant’s rib tips are smoked over hickory wood and charcoal and then smothered in Tom’s signature sauce, which gives them a unique taste you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous

A classic family establishment with a rich history, Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous is where thousands of people gather on an average Saturday night for racks of smoked ribs and sausages with delicious dry-rub spices. For 70 years the Vergos family has been serving their signature dishes in a basement through a downtown alley across from the Peabody Hotel. And while the world outside has changed considerably, very little has changed in that magical basement.

Photo Credit: Charlie Vergos Rendezvous’ Facebook Page

One & Only BBQ

You’ll enjoy authentic barbecue sandwiches served on fresh buns and smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce at the One & Only BBQ. Pick from a large selection of side options, including green beans, baked beans and sweet potatoes.

A&R Bar-B-Q

A&R Bar-B-Q smokes its meat in pits located on the property, producing pork ribs that literally fall off the bone and can be served smothered in sauce or dry. The chopped pork sandwich and a delicious half-slab of pork ribs are both customer favorites.

Payne’s Bar-B-Que

Dressing up for a fancy dinner can be fun, but sometimes nothing can beat an inexpensive, homey meal. Payne’s Bar-B-Que is the go-to for folks looking for a casual barbecue joint consisting of great food and even better prices. Check out the acclaimed chopped and pulled pork sandwiches as well as the smoked sausage for some house classics at this beloved establishment.

Jim & Nicks BBQ

One look at the menu here and you’ll realize you need several minutes to choose what you want. Barbecue nachos, chicken-fried chicken and barbecue on biscuits are all viable options.

Central BBQ

Central BBQ is known for three things: fall-off-the-bone meat, southern hospitality and good times. Since opening their doors in 2002, Central BBQ has experienced quick growth, expanding to four locations and appearing in several national TV shows and publications including Pitmasters, BBQ with Bobby Flay, USA Today, Southern Living and Men’s Health.

Photo Credit: Central BBQ’ Facebook Page

Cozy Corner

Don’t come to Cozy Corner if you’re looking for something quick. Because this BBQ joint is located right in the heart of Memphis, you’re likely to find a line outside the door. But don’t despair—you’ll need that time to peruse the menu, which includes everything from smoked sausage to classic barbecue ribs. We recommend the smoked Cornish hen, which just so happens to be one of the restaurant’s most popular items. The meat is succulent and the entire bird is smothered in a tangy sauce.

Memphis has so much to offer—great restaurants, exciting concert venues, popular museums and more. Come and enjoy all that the city has to offer, and make sure to delight your taste buds with a delicious barbeque dish while you’re in these parts.

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Things to do in East Memphis

Although East Memphis is more of a residential area than the hubs of entertainment in the downtown or midtown areas, its lush neighborhoods offer up some of Memphis’ finest food, not to mention opportunities to explore expansive outdoor spaces and absorb Memphis culture.

Speaking of food, top-rated restaurants in East Memphis include Folk’s Folly, Mosa, Hog and Hominy by chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman and Circa by John Bragg. To make sure you get a table at one of these hot spots, call ahead to make reservations.

In addition to offering excellent cuisine, East Memphis is a fantastic place to tour with the kids. Many of its attractions are family-friendly and educational—not to mention free of charge, which is good news for families looking to minimize vacation expenses. If you’re planning a trip to East Memphis, be sure to visit the following:

• Wolf River Greenway Trail: Looking to hit the trail, bond and burn off some calories from lunch while exploring the outdoors? The Wolf River Greenway Trail runs about 1.67 miles, is located along the Wolf River and connects to Shelby Farms Park and the Germantown trails.
• Shelby Farms Park: Speaking of Shelby Farms Park, this lush and expansive attraction has 4,500 acres of ground to cover, so pack a picnic and go for it! For a nominal fee, you and your family can enjoy horseback riding and paddle boating. Other options include taking in the beautiful Wolf River, hitting the playgrounds, relaxing by the lake, exploring the woods and more.
• University of Memphis Art Museum: This art museum is free to the public, with permanent exhibits that include collections of antique Egyptian and African art, as well as contemporary displays that are updated regularly.
• Dixon Gallery & Gardens/Memphis Botanic Garden: These two botanical expanses are located within walking distance of each other and collectively feature a children’s garden, horseback riding, fishing and more. A bonus for those without their own transportation in Memphis: You can catch the Greenline back into town at the end of your day.
• Theatre Memphis: The members of this community theatre group thrive on entertaining local residents, interacting with audience members and providing community opportunities to entertain and teach. Check out a production or two, and if you’re in town at the right time, why not participate in one of the educational workshops offered throughout the year?
• Audubon Park: This park offers 373 acres of outdoor and indoor fun in the form of a fitness trail, two picnic areas, play equipment for outdoor activities, outdoor and indoor tennis courts, and an 18-hole golf course (note that golfing requires an additional fee).

When visiting East Memphis, take the time to truly enjoy all that this Memphis region has to offer.

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Popular Memphis attractions

• Graceland, one of the most popular Memphis tourist attractions, was the longtime home of rock ‘n’ roll superstar Elvis Presley. Elvis fans won’t want to miss the opportunity to tour the entire estate—including The King’s automobile museum and sprawling mansion tour—and get a peek at Elvis’ luxury custom jets.
• Known as the boulevard of the blues, Beale Street is home to the New Daisy Theatre (an all-ages, family-friendly concert venue), the Memphis Rock ‘N’ Soul Museum, B.B. King’s, the Hard Rock Cafe, the Memphis Music Record Shop and much more.
• The National Civil Rights Museum is located at the Lorraine Motel, the site at which Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. This must-see piece of American history is a phenomenal place to learn more about the key leaders of and contributors to the civil rights movement of the 1960s.
• Located in the Beaux Arts Building, which was built in 1916 and is the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art boasts pieces from the Italian Renaissance along with photographs and textile art. The museum also offers ongoing art programs for Memphis residents.
• The Stax Museum of American Soul is chock-full of powerful musical antiquity. View Ike Turner’s Fender Guitar and Isaac Hayes’ famous Cadillac while learning the detailed history of soul music.
• Famed for being the birthplace of rock ‘n’ rock, Sun Studio is where Elvis, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis first recorded their legendary music. You can even create your own track to enjoy for years to come.
• Did you know the twice-daily Peabody Ducks parade takes place at the luxury Peabody Hotel, a member of the Historic Hotels of America? This is a great attraction for kids, although we’re willing to bet that the whole family will enjoy watching the ducks march over the red carpet to play in the fountain.

Whether you’re a new resident of Memphis or you’re here on vacation, you will never be at a loss for things to do in this wonderful city. Its family-friendly environment and culture-rich vibe will captivate your senses and feed your soul.

For more Memphis travel tips, visit Memphis Travel!

Further reading:

https://memphischamber.com/grow-in-memphis/starting-a-business/

http://www.brooksmuseum.org/

https://www.graceland.com/visit/plan_your_visit/hours/local_attractions.aspx

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Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park

Inspired by the eponymous cartoon, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is a family campground created to provide outdoor fun for the whole family. Conceived in 1969, these campgrounds feature mascots like Yogi and Boo Boo from the Hannah-Barbera cartoon, and they host dozens of captivating attractions to entertain attendees. With pedal bikes, jump pads, inflatable slides and more, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is a must-see campground for families looking to get away from the city and experience a whirlwind vacation.

Campus^, an Urban Oasis

Originally an Airbnb market experiment, Campus^ is an urban camping experience that mixes outdoor camping with the culture of downtown Memphis. Located on Carolina St. across from Wayne’s Candy Co., Campus^ allows visitors to relax in the great outdoors within walking distance of some of Memphis’ great downtown attractions. Hidden behind a large black gate and a grove of trees, Campus^ is invisible to all but those looking for it, meaning it’s just cut off enough from downtown Memphis to offer a reprieve from the hustle and bustle.

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

No matter what sort of camping experience you’re looking for, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park can provide. A quintessential camping location, this park offers vacation cabin rentals, group campgrounds and 49 individual campsites with grills, tables and electric and water hookups. The Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park borders the Mississippi River and offers stunning views, kayaking adventures, hiking trails and more.

Additional resources for camping in the Memphis outdoors

Are you interested in learning more about the best attractions in Memphis? Check out these resources to get an idea of just what’s in store for you and your family when you step into the great Memphis outdoors.

• Attractions at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park
• Campus^: an Airbnb camping experiment
• Touring Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

For Memphis travel tips, visit Memphis Travel!

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Summer is ending, which means the advent of fall is well underway. And while summer is known as a time for vacations and excursions, the changing of the seasons should never mean Memphians have to abandon fun trips and weekend events.

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Fortunately, businesses can’t pay to be included on Expertise.com, which means you can trust the site’s findings. This independent company researches more than 100 business categories in approximately 1,000 cities across the U.S, using criteria such as:

• Availability: Consistently approachable and reachable
• Credibility: Accreditation, awards, licensing
• Experience: A history of practical experience and education
• Professionalism: Respected locally for honesty and reliability
• Reputation: A history of good service

It’s all about art

Painting is easy when you don’t know how, but very difficult when you do.
-Edgar Degas

Human beings across time and place have created art for a variety of reasons—to express ourselves; to help others understand what we see, hear and feel; to validate who we are to ourselves and more. Whether this takes the form of acting, ceramics, textiles or watercolors, nurturing and developing an artistic passion is important, but it can be tricky to know where to start.

That’s where we come in. Check out this list of 10 establishments helping artistically inclined residents find and recreate the beauty of Memphis:

1. Art Interior Murals & Design: Commercial and residential decorating, as well as private/semi-private art lessons
2. Broad Strokes: Furniture decor creation classes and workshops
3. Collierville Arts Academy: Fine arts, martial arts, performing (acting/modeling) arts programs
4. Fine Art from Anne Enochs: Drawing/advanced painting classes, private lessons
5. Flicker Street Studio: Drawing, oil/acrylic/encaustic painting and watercolor classes and workshops
6. John Helms Gallery: Gallery and painting classes, including classes for adults and beginners
7. Mery Pera: Beginner through advanced classes and events
8. Pitter Potter Studio: Paint-your-own pottery parties and events
9. The Art Project: Classes for kids in-studio or outside, art camps, adult workshops, events
10. The Shorty Gul Art Shop: Drawing, arts and crafts, textiles, glassware/pottery/ceramics, furniture, traditional and digital art classes

Photo Credit: Pitter Potter Studio Facebook

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Memphis weekly recap!  

There is always something wonderful happening right here in Memphis. We are a city of doers, dreamers, and believers. That’s what drives this unstoppable city. With so much going on, we sometimes miss the stories that make this city great. Don’t worry, here is a recap of the week!

Best cocktail bars in Memphis

If you love burgers,
you won’t want to miss this!

7 Things that came from Memphis!

Across the globe, Memphis is known for an impressive range of things. How does your Memphis knowledge stack up?

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The 411 on Burger Week 2018

This year’s Memphis Flyer Burger Week will run from Wednesday, July 11 through Tuesday, July 17, with burger specials available for lunch or dinner. The full event guide will be available in the July 11 issue of the Memphis Flyer.

The list of eateries participating in the 2018 have been announced with more coming soon.

Check them out below!

• Arnold’s BBQ & Grill
• Bardog Tavern
• Carolina Watershed
• Chomp Food Truck
• Craft Republic
• Farm Burger Memphis
• Flying Saucer Memphis
• The Green Beetle
• EP’s Bar & Grill
• The Grove Grill
• Huey’s
• LBOE
• Local Gastropub
• Memphis MoJo Café
• Pimentos Kitchen + Market
• RAWK’n Grub
• Sammy Hagar’s Beach Bar and Grill at Southland Park
• The Slider Inn
• Tin Roof Memphis
• Tops Bar-B-Q
• UBEE’S Memphis
• Wimpy’s Burgers and Fries

Burger Week backstory

The first iteration of Burger Week featured seven of Memphis’ best burgers, all served up for $5. From basic patties done right to gourmet delicacies served on brioche, each offering brought something different to the (literal) table.

In past years, Memphis Flyer Burger Week was strictly a dine-in affair, but that all changed in 2017 thanks to local delivery service Bite Squad.

Photo Credit: LBOE Facebook

Doing Burger Week right

Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind as the fourth annual Memphis Flyer Burger Week draws closer:

• Participating restaurants can—and do—run out of burgers, so have a backup location in mind before you venture out.
• Perhaps unsurprisingly, you can definitely expect a wait as Memphians flock to local eateries for delicious burgers at a low price.
• Sure, burgers are $5, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t spring for fries and a drink. Go ahead and make a meal of it!
• Burger Week is renowned for its deals, but many establishments promote discount codes and other special offers on their social media accounts throughout the year. If you find a spot you really love, be sure to give it a follow.

And remember: If you share your Burger Week experience using the hashtag #FlyerBurgerWeek on Twitter and Instagram, you’ll be entered into a contest for the chance to win some really great prizes.

Memphis Flyer Burger Week is one of the many perks to living in Memphis. For more information on participating restaurants and other details, keep your browser pointed to the Memphis Flyer Burger Week website.

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Lucky for you, there are a lot of places in Memphis where you can sit down to an expertly prepared boozy beverage. Whether you’re looking for a local watering hole or an upscale establishment, here’s a list of some of the best cocktail spots in Memphis:

Loflin Yard

Located in a renovated space that used to be home to a lock-and-key company, this cozy bar serves up barrel-aged drinks carefully crafted from classic recipes. Definitely check out the Tennessee old-fashioned! Although the indoor portion of Loflin Yard is tiny, there’s an expansive outdoor seating area complete with a massive covered patio that overlooks a man-made waterfall running into the Gayoso Bayou, complete with cornhole, giant Jenga, and plenty of other outdoor games.

The Cove Cocktail and Oyster Bar

The Cove Cocktail and Oyster Bar is a nautical-themed establishment with mixed drinks to match—and if you had any doubts about the Cove’s commitment to its aesthetic, look no further than the bar itself, which is shaped like a ship. A highlight of the menu is The Skull & Crossbones, made with Gosling’s rum, sweet vermouth, bitters and a lemon twist. Be sure to order up a half-dozen oysters from the kitchen and stick around for live music.

Alchemy Memphis

The practice after which Alchemy is named fell by the wayside a while ago, but this sleek spot in the Cooper-Young neighborhood keeps its spirit alive by transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary cocktails with fresh herbs and homemade syrups. Hit up this hot spot on weekdays between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. for a half-off happy-hour deal.

Maximo’s on Broad

Nestled between a coffee shop and a tattoo parlor on Broad Ave., Maximo’s on Broad effortlessly strikes a balance between chic and casual. The Southern Charmer (bourbon, pecan liqueur and basil) is one of our favorite cocktails at this trendy destination, but don’t sleep on the extensive wine selection or the tapas menu with small and large plates ideal for sharing. Maximo’s is a great place to enjoy a night out with a group of friends.

Bar DKDC

The word “funky” gets thrown around a lot in descriptions of Bar DKDC, and it’s a hard adjective to argue with. This bar serves cocktails in mason jars, cooks up extraordinary global street food, hosts live soul music and invites guests to huddle up in the vintage photo booth. Try the Blue Suede ‘Tini made with Stoli blueberry, St. Germain and lime juice.

Blind Bear Speakeasy

Downtown’s Blind Bear Speakeasy is a dimly lit, Roaring ‘20s-inspired joint that serves up Southern pub grub alongside some of the best cocktails in town. Try the Moonshine Tea (American Born Dixie Sweet Tea Moonshine, muddled lemon, soda and sour) or drop by during weekend brunch for crawfish mac ‘n’ cheese and a truly stellar Bloody Mary.

Memphis may be famous for its music venues, but it’s no slouch when it comes to cocktail bars either. Next time you visit Memphis, be sure to stop by one of these establishments for a tasty mixed drink.

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Memphis weekly recap!  

There is always something wonderful happening right here in Memphis. We are a city of doers, dreamers, and believers. That’s what drives this unstoppable city. With so much going on, we sometimes miss the stories that make this city great. Don’t worry, here is a recap of the week!

Here’s a list of Memphis libraries

Neighborhoods you have to visit when in Memphis!

9 reasons why you need to visit Memphis!

Memphis is a culturally diverse city with everything from a rich history to a booming arts scene. Here are 9 reasons why you need to visit Memphis!

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Each of the 18 libraries in Memphis has its own Facebook page, giving you the opportunity to get a feel for each library before you visit as well as keeping you informed about upcoming special events. Most locations offer public Wi-Fi, meeting rooms and copy services, with additional available amenities listed online. Here’s a quick rundown of all 18 libraries in Memphis:

• Benjamin L. Hooks Public Library is located at 3030 Poplar Ave. Its normal hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Notably, this library is home to Cloud 901, a state-of-the-art creative research and performance lab just for teens.
• Bartlett Library is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. It’s located at 5884 Stage Rd.
• Cherokee Library is located at 3300 Sharpe Ave. Its hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
• You’ll find Cordova Library at 8457 Trinity Rd. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
• Cornelia Crenshaw Memorial Library is located at 531 Vance Ave. It is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and it offers public Wi-Fi and laptop checkout.
• Cossitt Library is located downtown at 33 South Front St. While the library undergoes renovations, events are being hosted in the Cossitt Courtyard.
• Located at 7200 East Shelby Rd. (East Shelby Dr. and Old Germantown Rd.), East Shelby Library is open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Frayser Library is located at 3712 Argonne St. It is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
• Situated in Gaston Park, Gaston Park Library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. It is located at 1040 South 3rd St.
• Hollywood Library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. It is located at 1530 North Hollywood St.
• Levi Library sits at 3676 Highway 61 South, otherwise known as South 3rd St. Its hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
• You’ll find North Library at 1192 Vollintine Ave. Its hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
• Parkway Village Library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. It is located at 4655 Knight Arnold Rd.
• Poplar-White Station Library is located at 5094 Poplar Ave. Its normal hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.
• Located at 3157 Powers Rd., Raleigh Library is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.
• Randolph Library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. It is located at 3752 Given Ave.
• You’ll find South Library at 1929 South 3rd St. Its normal hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
• Whitehaven Library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. It is located at 4120 Mill Branch Rd.

As previously mentioned, each library maintains its own special events calendar. You can also find a list of those events and many more on the I Love Memphis blog.

For Memphis travel tips, visit Memphis Travel!

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Memphis weekly recap!  

There is always something wonderful happening right here in Memphis. We are a city of doers, dreamers, and believers. That’s what drives this unstoppable city. With so much going on, we sometimes miss the stories that make this city great. Don’t worry, here is a recap of the week!

Here’s a list of Memphis fast food restaurants

Anime comes to Memphis!

Anime Blues Con comes to the Convention Center in Memphis on June 29th through July 1st. Read the details here!

Things to do in Memphis this summer!

Everyone’s favorite season is here! Learn about things to do in Memphis this summer.

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for more great stories on Memphis!

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And if you live in Memphis, you have access to some seriously next-level fast-food restaurants. Here are some of the best places to grab a quick bite in Memphis:

Cook Out

With three locations in Memphis and many more scattered throughout the South, Cook Out is famous for its on-the-go drive-through barbecue. Is it the best barbecue in Memphis? Of course not. But is it good? You bet. The menu also includes hamburgers, hot dogs and onion rings, as well as more than 40 milkshake flavors.

Jack Pirtle’s Chicken

Home-grown fast-food chain Jack Pirtle’s Chicken is known for its fried chicken, chicken wings, mashed potatoes and gravy. Be sure to get a jug of this local favorite’s famous sweet tea to wash everything down! With eight locations around town, Jack Pirtle’s has been beloved by Memphians since 1957, and the fact that nobody from outside Memphis has ever heard of it means there’s all the more for us!

Five Guys

There’s a reason Five Guys has been blowing up in the last few years—its fare doesn’t look or taste like fast food. The thick, juicy burgers (each with as many free toppings as you want) served with a heaping portion of fresh-cut fries are about as good as it gets in the realm of on-the-go dining.

Hook Fish & Chicken

You might raise an eyebrow at the concept of fast-food seafood, but Hook Fish & Chicken will put any naysayer’s mind at ease. With options ranging from fried catfish to grouper fillets, Hook is miles ahead of the competition. And if you’re not really a seafood person, don’t despair: It serves chicken, too.

Sai Fast Foods

This Winchester Road establishment is one of the best spots in Memphis for Indian food, fast or otherwise. The goat biryani is a perennial favorite at Sai Fast Foods, as are the myriad vegetarian options—a rare find in the fast food world.

Church’s Chicken

With several locations in the Memphis area, Church’s Chicken is on a whole other level. Its hand-battered fried chicken comes with an assortment of sides, including fried okra, corn on the cob, baked mac ‘n’ cheese, mashed potatoes and honey-butter biscuits.

Krystal

Atlanta-based Krystal has 10 locations scattered in and around Memphis, and we’re glad it does. Before you get confused, know that although this chain is renowned for its sliders, they’re called “Krystals” on the menu. With that said, you can get the Original Krystal, the Cheese Krystal, the Bacon Cheese Krystal… You know what, just get a Krystal Sackfull—that’s a dozen sliders—and pretend you’re going to share them, even though you totally won’t.

Firehouse Subs

With locations everywhere from Union Ave. to Germantown, Firehouse Subs offers everything you expect to find at a sub shop, including but in no way limited to hot subs, cold subs, ham, turkey, roast beef, pastrami and corned beef. It’s your basic hoagie outfit, and there ain’t nothin’ in the world wrong with that.

If you need a great meal in a hurry, you’ve come to the right place. These fast-food restaurants in Memphis are so good, you might even forget they’re serving fast food.

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From watching live music to a Hawaiian-themed happy hour, there’s plenty to do in these parts as the weather gets warmer. Here are some things to do in Memphis this summer that will keep you busy and entertained.

Attend the Memphis Music and Heritage Festival

Historically, warm weather brings out the best of our city’s talent, and 2018 is set to be no exception. This year, the Memphis Music and Heritage Festival will be attended by more than 30,000 people eager to enjoy two days and five stages of the most exciting music in town.

That said, the festival isn’t solely about music—in fact, you can immerse yourself in Memphis arts, crafts, exciting storytelling and more. Mark your calendar for the first weekend in September.

Enjoy happy hour at Tsunami

For most Memphians school lets out for the summer, but work does not. But you can still kick back with friends after a long day at the office! Did you know local hot spot Tsunami is undergoing extensive renovations ahead of a new and exciting Hawaiian-themed happy hour that reflects the spirit of resting after work? Called Pau Hana Time, this seasonal event will run from June to November. Feel free to visit Tsunami for tasty bites after work and a range of refreshing drinks at reduced prices.

Fan of the outdoors? Here’s a list of the top outdoor activities in Memphis!!

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There is always something wonderful happening right here in Memphis. We are a city of doers, dreamers, and believers. That’s what drives this unstoppable city. With so much going on, we sometimes miss the stories that make this city great. Don’t worry, here is a recap of the week!

20 fun things to do in Memphis in 2018

Downtown Memphis may see a neighborhood grocery store soon!

Downtown Memphis has long hoped for a neighborhood grocery store, and now one may be on its way.

Memphis and millennials: The growing story

Memphis is resilient, hardworking, persevering and generous. These are just some of the reasons why millennials are flocking to Memphis.

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

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Looking for staycation ideas? Here are the best places in Memphis!

In need of romantic dinner ideas in Memphis? We have your back!

Planning a dinner date for your special someone can be exhausting at times. Don’t worry, here’s a list of romantic dinner ideas right here in Memphis.

2018 Juneteenth Urban Music Festival comes to Memphis

The Juneteenth Urban Music Festival commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. See the event details here!

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

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Visit Graceland

Although Elvis Presley hasn’t lived in this impressive home for years, you wouldn’t know it—the stately mansion and its grounds have been preserved just the way they were when Elvis was alive. Take a guided tour of the premises to hear a brief history of the rooms and the notable items each contains, and seize this lifetime opportunity to walk on the same ground as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Even if you don’t consider yourself an Elvis fan, we bet you’ll develop a burning love for Graceland.

Explore the history of Memphis

The National Civil Rights Museum in downtown Memphis features a renowned collection of photographs, film, and artifacts that give a comprehensive history of slavery, the civil war and the civil rights movement. Don’t miss the museum’s most iconic, somber offering: the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968.

Of course, there’s more than one history museum in Memphis. To learn more about the music legends who have lived and worked here over the years, take your pick of the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, the Blues Hall of Fame and the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Don’t forget Sun Studio, which is home to a microphone used by Elvis Presley in addition to an array of other memorabilia.

Get active at Shelby Farms Park

The greenery of Shelby Farms makes this urban park the ideal place to kick back and relax, but don’t make the mistake of thinking that’s all there is to do here. The Go Ape treetop adventure course will have you swinging through trees, zip lining over Pine Lake and navigating a complex obstacle course—all under the watchful eye of your instructors, of course. What’s more, the paved Greenline connecting the park to Midtown Memphis is perfect for cycling, running and walking, and has been voted the best trail in Tennessee.

Enjoy your new perspective

Whether you spend your days off visiting local landmarks for the first time, exploring the history that surrounds you or communing with nature, it’s easy to have an enjoyable staycation in Memphis without breaking the bank. And while the suggestions above are a good place to start, we haven’t even scratched the surface.

For more amazing Memphis content, check out Choose901!

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This weekend: #BringYourSoul night at Levitt Shell featuring Brian Owens & The Deacons of Soul!

FREE music, great times, family friendly, food trucks, concessions, outdoors, and more! #BringYourSoul and chill out to some soulful songs! Get details here.

Mempho Music Festival ticket information!

The 2018 Mempho Music Festival is around the corner, and we have exclusive ticket info only found at We Are Memphis! Check this out and get your tickets before your friends do!

The Memphis art scene: Here’s what’s catching our eye!

Art and Memphis’ soul go hand in hand. See what’s catching our eye in the Memphis art scene!

Top outdoor activities in Memphis

Looking for outdoor fun? Memphis has it! Check out the top outdoor activities Memphis has to offer.

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

The post Here’s what happened in Memphis for the week of 06/03/2018 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Brooks Museum

Situated in historic Overton Park, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art was founded in 1916 and houses the oldest and largest major collection of world art in Tennessee. The museum features more than 10,000 works from Ancient Greek and Roman artists, Renaissance masters, early American painters, cutting-edge art world disruptors and more.

Photo Credit: Brooks Museum’s Facebook

Box Gallery

The student-run Box Gallery is one of the premier places for Memphis art students to display their work. Located on the first level of the Arts & Communication building on the University of Memphis campus, it’s the best place to check out the works of young up-and-coming artists in Memphis.

Photo Credit: Box Gallery’s Facebook

Dixon Gallery and Gardens

When Hugo and Margaret Dixon founded the Dixon Gallery and Gardens in 1976, they combined an expansive fine art museum with a beautifully manicured public garden. Spanning 17 acres in the heart of Memphis, the garden and arboretum offer spectacular natural scenery, while the museum is home to more than 2,000 works ranging from French impressionist paintings to a 600-piece collection of German decorative porcelain.

Photo Credit: Dixon Family Garden’s Facebook

Withers Collection Museum and Gallery

Celebrating the lifelong work of Memphis-born photographer Ernest Withers, the Withers Collection Museum and Gallery preserves and displays this legendary artist’s priceless portfolio. Withers, who spent much of his life as a photojournalist, passed away in 2007, leaving behind a legacy of work that captures 60 years of African American history in the South.

Photo Credit: Withers Collection Museum and Gallery’s Facebook

Memphis Murals

You don’t have to go to a museum or gallery to see great art in Memphis, as urban art is everywhere. From the Artery Murals in Barboro Alley to Main Street’s Sound of Memphis Mural, the dozens of spectacular murals in our city make up one of America’s most impressive collections of street art.

Photo Credit: Downtown Memphis

Metal Museum

As the only museum in the United States devoted entirely to metalwork, the Metal Museum boasts a huge array of architectural ironwork, jewelry and sculpture, and regularly hosts exhibits by nationally and internationally renowned metalsmiths. The Metal Museum’s grounds come complete with 100-year-old trees and stunning outdoor sculptures, and are open to the public free of charge. Did we mention that this museum offers one of the city’s best views of the Mississippi River?

Photo Credit: Metal Museum’s Facebook

Memphis Botanic Garden

Spanning 96 stunning acres of meadows, trees, ponds and gardens, the landscape at the Memphis Botanic Garden is a work of art in itself—one that you can immerse yourself in any day of the week. Meanwhile, on-site galleries at the Memphis Botanic Garden show off an ever-changing lineup of exhibits by local and national artists.

Photo Credit: Memphis Botanic Garden’s Facebook

Flicker Street Studio

The classes and workshops at Flicker Street Studio prove that art is for everyone. The studio offers an opportunity to explore and create virtually every kind of art under the sun, from drawing and painting to printmaking and bookbinding. Flicker Street is a great place to learn and develop your artistic skills in a nurturing environment, while being supervised by some of Memphis’ most accomplished local artists.

For Memphis makers, musicians, artists and creators of all kinds, there’s no better place to call home than our fair city. If you’re ready to start exploring art in Memphis, you’ll find it everywhere you turn.

Photo Credit: Flicker Street Studio’s Facebook

For more amazing Memphis content, check out Choose901!

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Between its natural scenic beauty and its abundance of outdoor entertainment, Memphis is a town that’s great to get out and see—whether it’s lit by neon, moonlight or the sun.

Beale Street

Although many of the stops along Beale Street are indoors, you’ll likely encounter outdoor live music if you take a nighttime stroll along the famed street. Walk far enough and you’ll come upon Handy Park at Beale and 3rd, which boasts two outdoor music venues that are always free and open to the public.

Overton Park

Overton Park is another place that residents of Memphis love to frequent, located in the heart of Memphis and encompassing 342 acres. No matter what you love to do outdoors, Overton Park offers something for everyone, including a nine-hole golf course, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Rainbow Lake, the Memphis Zoo and a bunch of playgrounds for your little ones. Oh, and the 12-acre Old Forest State Nature Area is thrown in for good measure.

Shelby Farms Park

If you’re looking for great outdoor family fun that is also centrally located, Shelby Farms is one to check out. Explore more than 40 miles of paved and unpaved trails, take fun to new heights and climb through the trees on a treetop adventure course, or saddle up and hit the trails on horseback. There are many more great activities that are offered at Shelby Park Farms. Be sure to check out their website for the whole list!

Mississippi River

A trip to Memphis simply isn’t worth it if you don’t spend some time on the banks of one of the most famous rivers in the world. Ol’ Man River serves as the perfect backdrop for an impromptu picnic, an afternoon stroll or some sightseeing—and the myriad parks along the shore give you ample opportunity to enjoy the Big Muddy.

Mud Island River Park is one of the most popular spots, boasting an exact scale replica of the Lower Mississippi River to explore. Needless to say, there’s a lot to see and do while you learn about the mighty river and what it means to Memphis.

Memphis Botanic Gardens

Much of our city’s history is wrapped up in the land upon which the Memphis Botanic Gardens now sit. While it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to explore the entirety of Audubon Park’s 96 acres in a single visit, guests can stroll through any of the 31 gardens and have a different experience every time.

To plan your route ahead of time, learn what’s blooming in each garden by checking the Memphis Botanic Gardens website. Roses, cacti, herb gardens, conifer stands and irises are just a few of the big draws.

The national pastime

If you love summer and sports, this one’s for you: During baseball season, the Memphis Redbirds are frequently in action at AutoZone Park in downtown Memphis. The family-friendly atmosphere and numerous food options make taking in a game a great way to spend the day with loved ones—and because the Redbirds are the AAA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, you’ll catch a sneak peek of up-and-coming Major Leaguers as they hone their craft.

Dixon Gallery and Gardens

Since 1976, this museum has been home to a splendid Impressionist assortment including works by Pissarro, Monet and Degas. In their will, the late Hugo and Margaret Dixon gave the house and its grounds to the people of Memphis in order to set up this museum. The initial Dixon collection included works by American and French Impressionists. The museum’s traveling exhibits are usually elegant collections based on a certain time period or theme, and although it is small, it is abundant with offerings. The gallery also organizes special concerts and picnics from spring through fall, and most of these are free of charge.

Mississippi River

Memphis is situated on the banks of the great Mississippi. Actually, Memphis is referred to as Bluff City because of the high bluffs along the river bank. With such a grand river, it is no surprise that many Memphis residents enjoy their pastimes and outdoor activities in or along the river. Enjoy a stroll along the cobblestones at the edge of the river, or take a picnic to one of the parks near the river. And if you are feeling venturesome, you can also go to the Big River Crossing, and here you can walk across the river from downtown.

Tom Lee Park

This park was named after a brave resident who saved 32 people when a steamer capsized in the Mississippi in 1925. The park runs along the great river and offers magnificent views of the city’s skyline and the river. The park hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Festival and the Beale Street Music Festival. When there are no major festivals, parking is available. However, the park is just a short walk from downtown attractions. Broad pathways provide ample space for walkers and joggers, while the broad stretch of green space is ideal for simply relaxing in the sun, a family game of Frisbee, or other outdoor activities.

Memphis Zoo

The Memphis Zoo has often been rated as one of the best zoos in the country both for its abundance of exhibits in a simple layout and for the mere fact that you can get very close to the animals. With a Teton ecosystem with lots of wolves and grizzly bears, a Northwest Passage habitat full of river otters and polar bears, and giant pandas from China, this top-notch zoo will charm adults as well as kids. During winter, festive lights and a skating tent draw the holiday spirit to the zoo. The park is also open for select evening visits.

No matter the time of year, you can always count on great outdoor activities in Memphis.

For more amazing Memphis content, check out Choose901!

For Memphis travel tips, visit Memphis Travel!

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Welcoming back the trolley

The Memphis Area Transit Authority trolley system began running in 1993. Although the trolleys enjoyed a 21-year run of shuffling locals and tourists through the heart of the city, they haven’t operated in Memphis since 2014, when service was suspended after fires broke out on two cars.

Lucky for us, after extensive repairs, renovations and refurbishment, the trolleys are back! Memphians and visitors alike can once again experience the romance of a vintage trolley car ride along Main Street.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony and inaugural ride on the new trolley system took place on April 30, 2018. Initially, three trolley cars will be in service (a green car, a gold car, and a blue-and-white two-tone car), with more to be added throughout the year. Before you know it, these colorful cars will be a common sight in Memphis, and their whistles blowing will be a familiar sound.

2018 Memphis trolley guide

For now, one trolley line—the Main Street Line—is in operation, running from Butler Avenue to A.W. Willis Avenue past the Convention Center. The Riverfront Line and the Madison Avenue Line will return in the coming years.

The trolleys make 13 stops along the Main Street Line, many of them sheltered, and cars will run once every 20 to 30 minutes depending on the day of the week. A map of the route is available here along with information on the coming-soon Riverfront and Madison Ave. lines, while the MATA website offers details on trolley fares and passes. At the time of publication, a ride on the trolley costs $1 and you can get a day pass for $3.50.

Are the trolleys fast? Well, not exactly. But they are fun, reliable, stylish and will get you from A to B a heck of a lot faster than walking. To be more specific, traveling from one end of downtown to the other via trolley takes half an hour or less.

If nothing else, the experience of rolling through Memphis aboard a vintage trolley car sporting an antique-looking interior and wooden seats is an experience that every visitor to Memphis should have at least once. And if you happen to live here, the trolleys are a great option for getting around and seeing our city in a new way.

Looking for an App that tells the history of Memphis? Check this out!

For more amazing Memphis content, check out Choose901!

For Memphis travel tips, visit Memphis Travel!

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The most popular things to do in Memphis

Looking for fun things to do in Memphis? Don’t worry, we have your back!

Memphis in May is almost over – here’s what’s left!

Fear not, the 2018 Memphis in May festival is not over yet! Here are the events you can still attend in this year’s festival.

The absolute best places to take pictures in Memphis

For all you Memphis based photographers, this one is for you! Here is a list of the best places to take pictures in our city!

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

The post Here’s what happened in Memphis for the week of 05/20/2018 appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Graceland

Graceland was the home of the late Elvis Presley, otherwise known as The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. To this day, fans flock to Memphis to visit Elvis’ grave, tour his house and even get an up-close-and-personal look at his car collection. Be sure to take a guided tour so you don’t miss the fascinating details that each room has to offer.

The National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum is located a few minutes from Beale Street and was erected on the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. The museum traces the history of the civil rights movement in the U.S. throughout the years via a mix of interactive exhibitions and artifacts.

Sun Studio

Originally founded as Memphis Recording Studio by Sam Phillips, Sun Studio is known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. After all, Elvis Presley did record his first song here, and there’s no better qualifier than that. Take the tour to hear stories about Elvis—along with other famous singers like Jerry Lee Lewis and Roy Orbison who also frequented the studio over the years—and don’t forget to take a picture holding a microphone once used by The King himself.

Bass Pro Shop

This pyramid-shaped landmark is one of the most fascinating places in Memphis. Drop by the Big Cypress Lodge for a delicious meal, knock down as many pins as you can at the bowling alley and take in a wide array of marine flora and fauna at the aquarium. For a bird’s-eye view of both the city of Memphis and the Mississippi River, ride the free-standing elevator up 28 stories to the observation deck.

The Children’s Museum of Memphis

A must-visit for families with children, this museum features a cityscape with kid-sized businesses, a flight simulator, a climbing wall and more. However early you arrive, be prepared to drag the kids away at closing time.

Mississippi River Cruise

The Mississippi is the third-longest river in the country, and there’s no better way to experience it firsthand than by taking a cruise along its waters. Kick back and relax as you drink in the Memphis skyline from another angle.

For all things Memphis, check this out!

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See how this new Memphian is thriving in our city!

Looking for Memphis attractions? Here are the best tours!

Memphis attractions are abundant in the city. With so much to do, where do we start? Here are the best tours you can take in Memphis.

Need wedding ideas? See the top wedding venues in Memphis!

Searching for wedding venues can be stressful. Don’t stress, we aim to please! Here is our list of the top wedding venues in Memphis.

Memphis music events are here, check out the 2018 901Fest!

Looking for Music events in Memphis? Come to the 901Fest, it will be the last event for Memphis in May!

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

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Sun Studio Tour

This small recording studio may not look like much at first glance, but its place in music history is incomparable. Elvis Presley recorded “That’s Alright Mama” right here in 1954, and the studio was frequented by B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash to boot. On a tour at Sun Studio, you’ll get the chance to see the equipment these legends used with your very own eyes!

Graceland Tour

You simply cannot visit Memphis without going to Graceland. After all, it’s one of the most-visited houses in the United States, second only to the White House. Be sure to swing by The King’s famous Jungle Room while you’re on the premises! What’s more, the VIP tour includes access to the car museum that houses Elvis’ iconic pink Cadillac, as well as the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of his most recognizable stage costumes.

Memphis Riverboat Tours

Old-fashioned riverboats serve as the perfect vehicle to explore the Mississippi River in style. And why not spring for a themed excursion that includes dinner and fireworks? There’s no better way to learn about the history of Ol’ Man River.

Beale Street Tour

This major tourist attraction is lined with blues clubs, bars and restaurants, gift shops and live music everywhere you turn. Needless to say, there’s never a dull moment on Beale Street. Music fans might want to consider timing their visit to coincide with the annual Beale Street Music Festival, which brings together artists from different genres against the backdrop of this iconic landmark.

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

Memphis has no shortage of pioneers who overcame social barriers to create music that changed the world, and this museum celebrates them all in one place. The audio tour is positively overflowing with more than 300 minutes of information, including snippets from over 100 songs. Don’t forget to check out the galleries of stage costumes and instruments!

National Civil Rights Museum

This history of our country’s civil rights movement dates all the way back to the 17th century. The National Civil Rights Museum is the place to go for audio, images and films that will open both your eyes and your heart.

Whether you’re moving to Memphis or just dropping by for a visit don’t miss these essential and informative tours.

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The top music venues in Memphis that you have to check out

A Memphis-based app that teaches the history of the city is live!

Explore the Memphis Heritage Trail with an educational app that celebrates our city’s rich cultural history.

The 2018 Great American River Run

The 2018 Great American River Run is just around the corner! Learn more about this year’s event.

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

The post Here’s what happened in Memphis this week! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

“Memphis Heritage Trail will be another great addition to our city as we educate and celebrate our rich cultural history,” the mayor said, and you’ll get no argument from us! The trail and the simultaneously-launched Memphis Heritage Trail app make it easier than ever to find historically significant and culturally rich sites in Memphis—of which there are many.

Heritage and history

One of the greatest (and most overdue) accomplishments of the Memphis Heritage Trail is the fact that it highlights African-American history and achievement. From the National Civil Rights Museum and the Blues Hall of Fame to the Clayborn Temple and the historic Mulberry Street shotgun houses, examples of the city’s African-American history are at the heart of the Memphis Heritage Trail.

The trail is a great way for Memphians to connect with our shared history, but it’s also more than that. This ongoing revitalization project will renovate existing structures and attract tourists to the area, all while revitalizing historically rich yet often-underserved parts of the city. As Felicia Harris, manager of planning and development for the trail, explained, “It’s about educating our future, our children, and our residents and our visitors alike about all the beautiful assets that Memphis has to offer.”

Exploring the trail

To start exploring the Memphis Heritage Trail, be sure to download the app, which makes it easy to find your way to historic sites across the city. There’s also an online map on the trail’s official website and, for those who are less technologically inclined, a printable driving brochure is available as well. After you set off, you’ll see wayfinding signage, beacon technology, art installations and historical markers along the trail, many of which provide historical information in addition to pointing the way.

Keep in mind that the Memphis Heritage Trail is a work in progress with two of the four planned trail loops currently open. The Civil Rights Loop and the Entertainment Loop are each about 2 miles long and include nearly 30 historic sites. Of course, there are many more miles and sites to come as progress on the trail continues.

To learn more about the Memphis Heritage Trail, download the app today and start exploring! The trail offers everyone from visiting tourists to longtime Memphis residents the chance to connect with the city’s rich cultural history in a deeper way than ever before.

The post A Memphis-based app that teaches the history of the city is live! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Although the river is a fixture of everyday life in Memphis, that does nothing to diminish its power. Why not head to Big River Crossing and experience the allure of the mighty Mississippi for yourself?

Crossing the Big River

At nearly a mile in length, Big River Crossing is the longest public pedestrian bridge across the Mississippi, as well as America’s longest active rail, bicycle and pedestrian crossing. The bridge connects Main Street in Memphis, Tennessee, with Main Street in West Memphis, Arkansas, tying together a 10-mile corridor of both cities’ walking and biking routes. Like the river itself, Big River Crossing is at the heart of Memphis’ great urban playground.

Big River Crossing opened in 2016, and untold thousands have enjoyed this free attraction since then. It offers sweeping views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline up past South Bluffs and Beale Street Landing, with ships passing underneath throughout the day and trains regularly rolling along the adjoining railway bridge.

Memphis on the Mississippi

Step off the Tennessee side of Big River Crossing and you’re practically in the middle of downtown Memphis. The Memphis Riverfront is mere footsteps away, with urban walking trails and sweeping bluff-top views from Martyrs Park. What’s more, bike lanes on Front Street make it easy for cyclists to get just about anywhere in the downtown area, including countless local shops and eateries.

Grab a snack and a hot cup of joe at Bluff City Coffee & Bakery, try a local craft beer or two at Ghost River Brewery, browse the Memphis Farmers Market or head to Central BBQ to find out for yourself why Memphis is so famous for its ribs. These establishments and many more are within about a mile of Big River Crossing, and you don’t have to go much farther to hit the Beale Street Historic District—home of the blues and endless possibilities.

As for the other side of the river, there’s some cool stuff in West Memphis, too. Be sure to make time for Big River Trail, which connects to Big River Crossing and offers a chance to explore the beautiful riverside landscape. The trail follows the levee alongside the Mississippi River, and its construction is an ongoing project. Once completed, it will stretch along more than 1,600 river miles.

Big River Crossing is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and it is available to cyclists and pedestrians free of charge. Check out the bridge around sunrise, sunset, holidays and other special events to see it sparkle with more than 100,000 Philips LED lights, creating a truly brilliant display.

For more stories about Memphis, check this out!

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The 2018 Beale Street Music Festival is coming with amazing artists!

The arrival of spring in Memphis means the Beale Street Music Festival is around the corner! This year has some incredible acts, so check it out!

I AM A MAN Plaza sculpture – A tribute to the Memphis Sanitation Strike

The I AM A Man Plaza sculpture represents the cost of justice and honors the historical events of our past.

The entrepreneurial spirit is disrupting the city of Memphis!

We are a city of doers, movers, and shakers. See how Memphis thrives and embraces the entrepreneurial scene.

Check out the brewery that’s been crowned the best beer in Memphis!

For all those who love Memphis beer, we salute you. Here is the top local Memphis brewery in town.

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

The post Here’s what happened in Memphis this week! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Shocking the world

The honor was something of a surprise for Richie EsQuivel and Ben Pugh, owners of Meddlesome Brewing Company. Meddlesome has only been on the Memphis brewery scene for a little over a year, though its owners are no strangers to the Bluff City’s beer revolution. EsQuivel came up with Boscos Brewing Company—Memphis’s first brewpub—while Pugh cut his teeth as a brewer at Rock ‘n Dough Pizza and Brew Company out of Jackson.

“It’s taken us aback, honestly,” said Pugh. “Once we saw we’d made it to the finals, we were pumped we’d even made it that far.”

Meddlesome’s Memphis roots

Meddlesome Brewing calls the Memphis suburb of Cordova home, which is not far from the Shelby Farms dog park. Even though the company has only been around a short time, the 201 Hoplar IPA obviously hit the right note with fans, driving it to the top of the fan-voted honor.

EsQuivel and Pugh cite their hometown as a large influence on what they do, noting that they love to create beers they feel embody Memphis: strong, tenacious and unforgettable.

With the opening of Meddlesome Brewing and the other new kid on the block, Crosstown, there is now a grand total of seven independent brewers on the Memphis craft beer scene. It’s a movement that has been steadily gaining momentum since 2013.

At its heart, Meddlesome Brewing lives by a very simple philosophy when creating its beers: “Never fear meddling with convention in search of something greater,” its website declares. And the knowledgeable beer-drinkers of the Bluff City have spoken in enthusiastic agreement.

Taking home the crown

This year’s King of Beers takes inspiration from the great IPAs of the West Coast. It’s not over-the-top bitter upon the first sip, and its slightly fruity flavor comes in to finish an enjoyable experience. It’s brewed with Chinook and Columbus hops for a combination that delivers a brew bursting with resin, pine, ripe pineapple and grapefruit flavors.

The Flyer’s bracket challenge was a highly scientific poll, breaking beers into four categories in the early rounds. Light beers, dark beers, IPAs and seasonals all competed against their brethren until the final four, at which point 201 Hoplar took down Wiseacre Brewing’s Tiny Bomb before besting another Wiseacre offering, Astronaut Status.

No matter the outcome of the annual competition, there’s a definite sense of family developing in the burgeoning Memphis craft beer scene—one that’s sure to produce a number of deserving champions in King of Beer Brackets to come.

For more things Memphis, click here!

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5 Memphis based startups to watch in 2018

Business savvy startups are making moves in Memphis.

5 Reasons why upcoming songwriters need to move to Memphis!

Can you hear that beat? It’s the nation’s music mecca and it’s calling you home.

Artist Spotlight: The abstract art of Beth Winterburn

See the talents of local Memphian artist Beth Winterburn and how Memphis inspires her abstract art.

For more stories and Memphian updates, be sure to keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media!

The post Here’s what happened in Memphis this week! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

So, how is Memphis a phoenix? If you studied mythology because you were a nerd like me or if you read or watched any Harry Potter films (which also makes you a nerd!) then you know that a phoenix is a bird that sets itself on fire to regenerate. When you look at Memphis, you see that cycle too. Memphis has constantly risen from its own ashes, never losing hope along the way.

Following the Yellow Fever epidemic in the 1870s, the city lost over 50% of its population and ultimately its charter, but this setback could not stop Memphis. With the establishment of a revolutionary sanitation system, Memphis fought back the source of the disease and transformed the way the world handled its waste. However, little did the city know that these newly created sanitation jobs would catalyze a more insidious tragedy a few short decades later with the deaths of Echol Cole and Robert Walker. In 1968 these sanitation workers were crushed to death while seeking shelter from the rain.

In a flash, Memphis’ and the south’s history of socioeconomic imbalance and systematic racism towards the African American community catapulted the city to the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. King came to help organize a strike for Memphis sanitation workers. On April 4th, 1968 a shot rang out at 6:01 pm piercing the Civil Rights leader through the throat. A photographer, Joseph Louw, would shoot an iconic photograph of three men pointing upwards, trying to ascertain where the shot came from while the life seeped from the King on the ground. He would not make it to the Promised Land with us.

However, there was a fifth subject in the photo- Memphis.

In mythology, the Phoenix doesn’t always combust to start itself anew. Sometimes it rises from its own decay. Among the older generations in Memphis, there’s a sentiment that Memphis froze in place after they shot King, but nothing stops time.

In the following decades, Memphis found itself with problems faced by metros across the nation. From white flight and annexation, to the crack epidemic and the subsequent War on Drugs that hollowed out the neighborhoods I now cherish and consider home. Memphis was decaying. Our city became more impoverished, less safe, and seemingly less relevant every day. But while Memphis appeared to be heading towards its worst, life was beginning to stir in its ashes.

Since the assassination, we’ve made progress. A recent study published by the National Civil Rights Museum and the University of Memphis found that since the 1960’s, black families have attained more high school diplomas and more post-secondary degrees. Additionally, these citizens have accessed more white-collar jobs. However, progress has been slow and black families have not caught up to their white counterparts in median income levels. Memphis, unfortunately, recently recaptured the title of the most impoverished metro in the nation. Child poverty rates have climbed to the same levels as the 1980’s and affect black children the hardest.

In this way Memphis is not unique; our issues simply mirror the ills of society. But given our history, isn’t Memphis uniquely positioned to show the rest of the country how to fix these issues? Isn’t that our duty as a city- to model Dr. King’s radical legacy of racial and socio-economic justice? So, as we ask ourselves the question, “Where do we go from here?” I can see no other way except forward.

As Dr. King said, “Something is happening in Memphis. Something is happening in the world.” Every day at my job, I have the privilege of witnessing the people on the ground doing the hard work in education, in neighborhood connectivity, and in arts and culture. In the next 5-10 years, the landscape of the city will shift drastically. The riverfront will change and allow more people to have access to it, the future Greenprint will connect the entire county through bikeways and trails and community development corporations like The Works in South Memphis are working tirelessly to help lower income families afford homes and claim their part of the American Dream. In the arts, organizations like the Collective and the Center for Southern Literary Arts both beautify the city through art and make space for marginalized voices. In education, I get to witness the sharpest minds work to make our system more equitable and advocate for both parents and students.

The city is witnessing an undeniable shift. Memphis’ indomitable spirit has returned. The conversations feel more thoughtful and intentional. People ask about the racial implications of new policies and the effects on our lower-income communities. We understand as citizens that another fifty years cannot pass us by without us making substantial and lasting changes in our communities.

Dr. King posed this question, “Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?” When presented with these options, Memphis should always choose community.

Memphis is not perfect. I fell in love with neither the city’s perfections nor its imperfections; I fell in love with Memphis’ people. Untiring. Unshakeable. Unrivaled. I know whatever challenges we face this city will prevail and will rise to confront any difficulties ahead. There is still much work to be done.

The post Issues and Innovators: The Way Forward appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Openings are basically big parties. There’s sure to be a crowd, odds are you can meet the artist(s), and at the very least you’ll get a free drink. If you miss the opening, no big deal – shows typically run anywhere from two days to a month. Visit during normal gallery hours when you can view the work in more serene conditions and possibly discuss the work with the curator.

The best nights are when there are so many openings that you have to make a plan of attack in order to see them all.

Want to know the best way to get in the loop on local art openings? Elizabeth Alley, whose “Two Stories of Iceland” is currently on display at Crosstown Arts, says that The Memphis Flyer has always been good about listing art openings, but these days she primarily uses Facebook. “I make sure to follow the ‘main’ galleries in town – L Ross, David Lusk, Jay Etkin, Crosstown Arts, Orange Mound Gallery, plus schools – U of M has two galleries, and CBU, Rhodes, and MCA all have galleries,” she says.

Alex Paulus, another local artist, says, “The best places to go are David Lusk, Crosstown Arts, and Tops. I think those are the 3 best galleries in Memphis right now. They’re showing really interesting work.”

Tops Gallery in the Madison Avenue Pocket Park. La Boheme by Motoko Fukuyama (showing until March 10).

Tops is located in the basement of the Jack Robinson Gallery and has an ancillary gallery in the Madison Avenue Pocket Park. While the artists who show there are not always local, curator Matt Ducklo (who is also a celebrated photographer) chooses unique and cutting edge contemporary work to highlight. Right now, you can see La Boheme featuring the multi-media art of Motoko Fukuyama. The gallery is only open on Saturdays from 1-6pm, but you can view her work in the park gallery 24/7.

Alley believes that it’s important for both artists and non-artists to go to shows. “If you are an artist, it is important to go to see what other artists are up to. There is a lot to learn from seeing a gallery show – are there local trends? How is this artist choosing to display their sculpture/drawing/installation? It is also a great way to meet other artists – there are so many artists in town that I know because I met them at an art opening,” she says.

If you are not an artist, Alleys says it is important to go to show your support for artists and local art. “And you can learn things and meet artists, too! Ideally you will buy something, plus there is usually free wine,” she says.

Crosstown Arts gets the best snack award. “The last show I went to there had bacon wrapped dates and potato skins!” exclaims Paulus. In terms of art, he offers an important etiquette tip: “Don’t touch the art, unless you are specifically instructed to do so by the artist.”

Here’s Alley’s primer on what to do once you are there:

Enter the gallery, do a quick survey of the room, then choose a place to start. Look at the art, but don’t fret about studying it (art openings are for socializing as much as they are for learning something, and often people are standing in the way of the art anyway). Make your way to the wine, relax, look at the price list. Drink more wine, buy something.

Buying local art is a great investment. Often, galleries will do payment plans so don’t be shy if there’s something that you really love but cannot afford all at once. Most galleries do get a percentage of the selling price. However, artists who show at Crosstown Arts keep 100% of their proceeds.

Alley also encourages visitors to say something to the artist if they see them. “We want to hear from you and part of our job requirement is to be able to talk about our art,” she says.

Many galleries like Lusk and L Ross will schedule artist talks with the artists currently on display, so you can hear even more about their work. These talks are generally the second Saturday after the opening, but that can vary.

Familiarize yourself with the following galleries, follow them on Facebook, and watch your Fridays fill up!

Galleries

Art Museum of the University of Memphis (AMUM) 

Beverly and Sam Ross Gallery (Christian Brothers University)

Circuitous Succession 

Clough Hanson (Rhodes College)

Crosstown Arts

David Lusk

Dixon Gallery & Gardens

Jay Etkin

L Ross

Marshall Arts 

The Martha and Robert Fogelman Galleries of Contemporary Art

Orange Mound Gallery

Overton Park Gallery

Tops Gallery 

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Cover photo credit: Old Dominick Distillery Instagram

What makes Old Dominick Distillery so special?

The discovery of an old bottle of Old Dominick Toddy inspired Chris and Alex to open Old Dominick Distillery in 2016. The building, which is reminiscent of times long past, has vintage furnishings that will take you back to the old days before Prohibition, when whiskey flowed like water and no one was a stranger. The first bottle of Old Dominick whiskey produced in the new distillery was the first that was legally produced in the state since the end of Prohibition. The rich taste of the whiskey and the rich history of the Canale family blend together to make to make Old Dominick one of the most unique distilleries in Tennessee.

Take a tour

Old Dominick Distillery offers tours of the distillery on a regular basis. Each tour gives you an inside look as to how the spirits are produced and the lengths to which the company goes to ensure that each batch of their booze is of the highest possible quality. On days that the distillery hosts a private event, the last tour normally starts at 2 p.m.

Dinner? Drinks? Late-night adventures with friends?

If you want to go out on the town and spend time in one of the most unique bars in all of Memphis, Old Dominick is the place for you. You can host a private event or go on a night when it’s open to the public. Have fun! Cut loose and enjoy a little bit of history with a couple of shots of genuine Tennessee whiskey.

When you visit Old Dominick Distillery, you are taking a step back into history. The Canale family and the city of Memphis have been through thick and thin together, and both have come out shining. If you’re visiting the Memphis area, stop by and “Share a Sip of Pure Memphis” with the staff of Old Dominick Distillery. Cheers!!

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A post shared by We Are Memphis (@wearememphistn) on Jan 2, 2019 at 6:30pm PST

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