Recent travelers agreed the National Civil Rights Museum should be at the top of anyone's list of things to see in Memphis. Housed in the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968, the museum features multimedia presentations on the civil rights movement. With the help of 260 artifacts, more than 40 films, oral histories, interactive media and external listening posts, visitors are guided through four centuries of history. During your self-guided tour, you'll view artifacts paramount to the movement, such as a Greyhound bus ridden by Freedom Riders. You'll also have the chance to see King's motel room, where he spent his final hours.

Reviewers described the museum as "surreal" and "incredibly moving." They went on to note the staging of the exhibits is "top-notch" and said the museum helped put seminal events of the period into context for a better overall understanding of the movement. Visitors should budget at least two to three hours to tour the entire facility. The museum is also a featured stop on many of the best Memphis tours. The Legacy Building, where James Earl Ray fired the shot that ended Dr. King's life, is closed until 2025 as part of a multimillion-dollar expansion project that will add exhibits and transform the adjacent Founders Park.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Enjoy a fine dining experience at Itta Bena before exploring Beale Street. Its upscale Southern cuisine and ambience takes "the blues" to a new level. The hidden entrance makes you feel like you've discovered Memphis' best kept secret. – Kelsey J. Lawrence

Are you looking for the heart and soul of Memphis culture? Head over to Beale Street. It was here that the blues were born, and where many famous musicians – including B.B. King, Alberta Hunter and Isaac Hayes – got their start. During the day, stores and restaurants beckon with music memorabilia and savory barbecue, while at night, the area between Second and Fourth streets comes to life as numerous live music clubs open their doors to fans of all types. The Beale Street area is also home to several popular attractions, such as the Orpheum Theatre, the W.C. Handy House Museum and the Beale Street Flippers (athletes who perform daring flips on the street).

U.S. News Insider Tip: After your tour, make the roughly half-mile walk to High Cotton, a local brewery with good vibes and perhaps most important, good beer. – Kelsey J. Lawrence

Often referred to as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll, Sun Studio is a must-see for music aficionados. Former owner Sam Phillips helped launch many a music career, including that of Elvis, B.B. King, Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash. In recent years, the studio has been used by artists like Justin Townes Earle, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals and The Walkmen, among others. On your guided tour, you'll hear stories about the legendary musicians who recorded here, listen to unreleased tracks and see memorabilia from the studio's heyday.

The weather in Memphis is usually on the warmer side, and there’s no better place to enjoy the sunshine than Shelby Farms Park. The park offers more than 4,500 acres of green space and more than 20 bodies of water. There are also fun recreational activities for youngsters, such as the unique Woodland Discovery Playground – which was designed by children – and the Water Play Sprayground, a 4,000-square-foot play space featuring spray jets, water pumps and geysers. There’s also zip lines, water sport rentals and more than 40 miles of trails, including nature trails for hiking and paved routes for biking.

There are even trails dedicated to horseback riding. Previous visitors appreciated the extensive trail options, as well as the variety of annual events held at the park. If you’re visiting in April, make time for the Earth Day Festival to hear from speakers on a variety of sustainability topics and get hands-on learning with interactive education opportunities. If you're visiting in winter, be sure to admire the glistening lights at the Starry Nights events, which begin in November; visitors say Starry Nights events are perfect for family holiday fun.

Located in East Memphis, the Memphis Botanic Garden offers visitors a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are 30 specialty garden areas across 96 acres of land. One visitor favorite is the Asian Garden, which features plants native to countries like China, Korea, Japan and Taiwan. Travelers also enjoy exploring the colorful Iris Garden as well as Daffodil Hill, which showcases up to 300,000 beautiful blooms beginning as early as January.

Memphis Botanic Garden also offers an arboretum area. Recent visitors rave about the wide variety of plants and beautiful blooms. They also note a reasonable admission fee. The garden plays host to concerts and events, which are geared toward both adults and children. Refer to the garden's online calendar to see what events are happening during your visit.

Whether you're a camper, hunter or just looking to escape the Memphis heat, Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid is a must-see modern architectural marvel. From shopping to bowling or spending a few hours at the spa, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy. Home to the tallest free-standing elevator in the country, visitors can enjoy impressive views of the store as they're lifted up 28 stories to The Lookout, a swanky bar and restaurant that leads to two glass-floor outdoor observation decks offering an adrenaline rush for those with a fear of heights as well as panoramic views of downtown Memphis and the Mighty Mississippi. 

Recent visitors agree it's a stop worth making even if you don’t consider yourself an outdoors enthusiast. They raved about the ponds filled with fish, ducks and alligators which can be found throughout the store. Those who took the elevator to the observation decks said it was worth the added cost and the wait in line for the breathtaking views. Several note that a few of the attractions (such as bowling and dining) are expensive.

With this city's strong musical identity, there's no question as to why Elvis Presley chose Memphis as his kingdom. Graceland, located approximately 10 miles south of downtown Memphis, is one of the most-visited private homes in the country. When you stop by for a tour (considered one of the best Memphis tours), you'll see the King's famous jungle room, pink Cadillac, record collection and even walk through his customized private jet. Elvis' grave is also located on the Graceland grounds. As you tour the home, you'll have the help of an iPad to guide you through each room, plus audio narration by actor John Stamos.

While some visitors claim Graceland is overpriced and too crowded, most agree visiting is a must – even for nonfans. Reviewers also offered a few tips: get to the house early to avoid the crowds, don't bring anything you won't need for the tour (you'll be juggling headphones and an iPad as you wander the house. Be sure to check Graceland's website to see if any events are taking place during your visit (if you hate crowds, avoid visiting Graceland in August, when Memphis hosts the annual Elvis Week festival). After touring the house, consider visiting Elvis Presley's Memphis at Graceland, a 200,000-square-foot entertainment complex filled with restaurants, museum exhibits, gift shops and more.  

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting March through October, surprise the kids by taking them behind the giraffe exhibit at 10 a.m. to hand-feed the giraffes. It's $5 for each person who wants to participate in this unforgettable experience. – Kelsey J. Lawrence

The Memphis Zoo's hieroglyphics-clad entryway leads to a primate habitat, bear and wolf enclosures in the Teton Trek, a nocturnal animal exhibit, a vast big cat area and the Zambezi River Hippo Camp, among other exhibits. All in all, you can observe approximately 3,500 animals. In addition to wildlife, a one-of-a-kind splash park offers a fun way to beat the heat for an additional fee. The zoo spans 70 acres, but recent visitors said it's well-organized and visibility of the animals is great. Little legs should have no trouble navigating the grounds, and lectures on the zoo's furry friends prove entertaining for all ages. 

If you've got kids in tow, plan on stopping by the Museum of Science & History, formerly known as the Pink Palace Museum. Housed in a flamboyant pink mansion constructed by supermarket tycoon Clarence Saunders, the museum is dedicated to educating visitors on history, science and culture. Museumgoers can see a variety of interactive rotating and permanent exhibits like the popular Piggly Wiggly grocery replica and dinosaur exhibit. Visitors can learn about meteors, constellations and black holes in the Planetarium and enjoy 3D movies on the Giant Screen Theater. The wide variety of displays will appeal to visitors of all ages.

Recent visitors said the museum excels at exploring a diverse array of topics, making it easy for everyone in your group to find something that piques their interest.

As one of the largest museums in the South, this Memphis attraction brings multimedia art to life in many ways. Its permanent exhibits showcase more than 10,000 pieces that illustrate the evolution of art from the 14th century to the present day. The museum also offers a variety of temporary exhibitions, which, in the past, have ranged from art features illuminating Native American voices to a photography showcase highlighting Black history and identity in baseball.

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art also showcases outdoors sculptures some of which date back to the 19th century. Previous visitors appreciated the well-rounded collections and the attention to detail. They also appreciated the museum's inviting atmosphere and informative staff.

A stroll along the Memphis Heritage Trail guides visitors to numerous landmarks that illustrate the many ways African Americans have contributed to the city's history. This walking museum spans 20 blocks in the downtown area and features a variety of themed itineraries that allow travelers to tour different areas of the city based on a specific interest.

The Civil Rights Historic Loop winds past important attractions like the National Civil Rights Museum and I AM A MAN Plaza where you can admire the landscape sculpture dedicated to the members of the 1968 Sanitation Workers' Strike as well as those who strived to mend racial inequality in the city. The Business-Entertainment Historic Loop showcases the Martin Luther King Jr. Reflection Park, the Orpheum Theater and the Cotton Museum – a highlight for past visitors thanks to its variety of interactive exhibits. Meanwhile, the Historic Commerce Loop brings visitors past the Historic Beale Street Baptist Church – the city's first church built for Black people. The Memphis Heritage Trail organization also hosts events and outreach programs to connect with the community.

Sitting on the original site of the Stax Records studio, this museum commemorates American soul legends (particularly the artists who recorded at Stax). Among the museum's collection of more than 2,000 artifacts, interactive exhibits, films and galleries, you'll see Isaac Hayes' custom Cadillac Eldorado, which was purchased as part of his renegotiated deal with Stax in 1972. The relic is outfitted with some unusual amenities, including a TV, a refrigerated minibar and 24-carat gold exterior trim. 

Recent visitors praised the quality of the memorabilia on display and the introductory film screened at the beginning of the self-guided tour. Though reviewers do warn that there's a lot of information to read and absorb, they called the experience "fascinating." If you need a break from reading, you can bust a move out on the Express Yourself dance floor – another point of praise for recent visitors. The studio is also a featured stop on many of the best Memphis tours.

Big River Crossing is a great way to get outside and take in the mightiness of the Mississippi River. Enjoy panoramic views of the Memphis skyline as you walk, run, or bike across the nearly mile-long pedestrian bridge over the river. The bridge is connected to the longer Big River Trail System, and also connects to about 10 miles of pathways that take you from one attraction to another in downtown Memphis. At night, the bridge is lit up in colors that represent the season and special celebratory moments.

Recent river crossers rave about the views and acknowledge the security cameras along the bridge made them feel very safe at all hours.

If you're a fan of soul music or rock 'n' roll and want to learn more about how Memphis played a part in the roots of these genres, you should consider adding the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum to your itinerary. Exploring Memphis' musical influence, from the rural field hollers (enslaved workers who sang songs while laboring) and sharecroppers (those who leased land to farm) of the 1930s to the emergence of Sun, Stax and Hi Records, this Smithsonian Institution affiliate offers visitors a comprehensive music experience. With the help of an audio guide, travelers can explore seven galleries featuring more than 30 instruments, 40 costumes and 100 songs.

Recent visitors said this museum helps put Memphis' musical history in context and said the "sound comes alive" thanks to the variety of artifacts and details on display here. However, some were a little unimpressed with the museum's size and said they expected more considering its Smithsonian affiliation. Still, even with its relatively small size, travelers found the museum fascinating. And with its central location on Beale Street, you can easily swing by some of the city's other top attractions before or after your museum visit.

The Memphis Music Hall of Fame recognizes the legends who created and shaped the music scene as we know it. The Hall of Fame honors a variety of people with Memphis roots who are now considered pioneers in the industry: Sam Phillips, of Sun Studio fame and who discovered Elvis; Otis Redding, considered the "King of Soul;" and Johnny Cash, who sold vacuum cleaners door to door in Memphis before earning a record deal at Sun Studio. The museum opened in 2015, inviting guests to explore interactive exhibits and see rare memorabilia that once belonged to icons like Isaac Hayes, Jerry Lee Lewis, and recent stars like Justin Timberlake. 

The museum is small but packs a lot of punch for the price, according to recent visitors. Visitors were wowed after learning about a lot of musicians' unexpected ties to Memphis. Several wish the exhibits had more detail about each since and note you can see everything in about an hour.

Memphis and music go hand-in-hand. The city's profound role in music history is celebrated at its top attractions like the Stax Museum for American Soul Music and Graceland. If you're a fan of the blues and are looking for an intimate look at the wide-reaching impact of the genre on the music industry, you'll want to plan a visit to the Blues Hall of Fame.

There are more than 400 inductees into the hall of fame, including Billie Holiday, Etta James and Eric Clapton. The Blues Hall of Fame offers 10 galleries that feature touch-screen displays, perfect for educational interactive activities. Some rooms also showcase artifacts, such as instruments, tour costumes, albums and photographs that once belonged to famous musicians. Previous visitors especially enjoyed the museum's listening rooms, where you can hear the recording process of famous blues songs.

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're over 21, one of the best places to enjoy the duck march is from The Peabody's lobby bar. Arrive at least an hour early to claim a barstool and enjoy the show while seasoned bartenders keep you hydrated. – Kelsey J. Lawrence

Originally constructed in 1869 (before being moved and rebuilt at its present location in 1925), The Peabody Memphis has held a long-standing reputation as one of the finest hotels in the South. While the building itself is quite breathtaking, the real attraction here is the march of the Peabody Ducks. In fact, the ducks are a featured stop on many of the best Memphis tours. Since the 1930s, these North American mallards have been a staple feature of the historic hotel. Visit around 11 a.m. when the ducks make their way from their Royal Duck Palace on the hotel's rooftop and down the elevator where they'll then walk the red carpet through the hotel lobby and into the Peabody Fountain. Join the onlookers that gather along the carpet to tap their toes to the beat of John Philip Sousa's "King Cotton March" as the ducks waddle past. At 5 p.m., the tune picks up again and the ducks hop out of the fountain and make their way back along the red carpet to their home. 

Go back in time at the Malco Summer Drive-In, one of about 300 drive-in theaters in the U.S. Don't let the name fool you: This drive-in is open year-round. (It's called the Summer Drive-In because it's located on Summer Avenue.) As the sun sets, pull your vehicle up to one of four large outdoor screens, tune your radio dial and enjoy a new release from the comfort of your car. Bring your own snacks and drinks or purchase them from the concession stand. The best part? You won't have to worry about anyone kicking the back of your seat – unless you bring the kiddos along! It's just you, your ride, and the latest blockbuster playing on the silver screen. Check out the website to see what's playing and buy tickets in advance.

Recent visitors said the drive-in is a flashback to the good ol' days with a wide variety of concessions available at a fraction of the price of a normal movie theater. While nostalgia is guaranteed, having respectful neighbors is not. Previous moviegoers do warn that others may leave their headlights on or honk their horn, which has the potential to distract from the good time.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before taking in a show, make a reservation to enjoy a bite or pre-concert cocktail at Catherine & Mary's or The Lobbyist, two of the swankiest restaurants in downtown Memphis and just a two-minute walk to The Orpheum Theatre. – Kelsey J. Lawrence

Playing host to Broadway shows, concerts, as well as community events and performances, the Orpheum Theatre is a historic and beautiful venue that prides itself on being one of Memphis’ first buildings added to the National Register of Historic Places. Legends like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington were some of the first entertainers to take the stage. Recently, fan favorites like Bob Dylan and productions like "Hamilton" and "Dear Evan Hansen" have filled theater seats. 

Experience the grit and grind of the Bluff City's own NBA team, the Memphis Grizzlies, at FedExForum. If a concert is more your jam, plan to take in one of the hottest concerts on tour. Having played host to greats like Garth Brooks, Journey, Taylor Swift and Justin Timberlake, FedExForum is sure to have an upcoming event to pique your interest. It also attracts family-friendly events like Motocross and Cirque du Soleil.

Visitors will notice a music theme throughout the facility, paying homage to the Memphis and its rich musical history. Located steps away from Beale Street, visitors rave about the location being that it's an easy walk from downtown hotels and restaurants.

The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, or the Burkle Estate, draws visitors back to the pre-Civil War era. The main house was once used as a shelter for slaves along the Underground Railroad. The home's owner, Jacob Burkle, was a part of the antislavery movement and offered refuge to those trying to escape slavery. The 19th-century home is filled with secret passages and trap doors that were used by runaway slaves attempting to flee north to freedom. The estate also features artifacts portraying the brutal conditions for slaves in the South.

Recent visitors agreed that while the museum is small, it's full of information and offers a powerful look into the lives of enslaved people during this time. Reviewers said the tour guides were informative and engaging, and described the experience as a "moving history lesson."

At 24,000 square feet, the Belz Museum displays more than 1,400 objects across five permanent galleries. Three of these house Asian art, much of which dates back to the Qing Dynasty of China (1644 to 1911). The fourth exhibit features contemporary Judaic pieces, and the fifth serves as the Holocaust Memorial Gallery. The museum is unofficially known as the "Jade Museum" due to its extensive collection of jade sculptures.

Recent visitors have called the Belz Museum a "hidden gem" in Memphis, noting that the impressive collection of Asian art rivals exhibits in China itself. They said that the mixture of Judaic and Asian art is unusual but spectacular, and that the Holocaust Memorial Gallery left them speechless. Many travelers said this museum is not to be missed and that it was more than worth the cost of entry. However, some museumgoers did note that this is probably not the best thing to do with young children, as they may become bored and the Holocaust exhibit can be heavy. 

Victorian Village is home to seven colorful 19th-century mansions that will make visitors feel as though they've taken a step back in time. Some homes are business offices, but others have been converted into event spaces while one serves as a bed and breakfast allowing guests to experience the luxury and comforts of Victorian splendor.  

The Woodruff-Fontaine House is open for tours Wednesday through Sunday. But beware, as it's rumored to be haunted by the ghost of Mollie Fontaine, who grew up in the house. The mansion her father built for her across the street once operated as a popular lounge. If you're lucky, you can still enjoy the Mollie Fontaine Lounge during one of many pop-up events.