Memphis: a city with a rhythm of its own!

by Khalila Gonzales on November 26, 2024 in Travels,
Share
FacebookXLinkedInEmail

Memphis, Tennessee, is a city steeped in history, blending timeless charm with bold innovation.

Whether you’re diving into its storied past or exploring the thriving new hotspots, Memphis promises an adventure as unforgettable as its roots!

The lobby of the Central Station Hotel features an impressive wall of speakers, highlighting the hotel’s deep connection to music. This theme carries into your room, where you can adjust the tunes to your perfect volume with an in-room dial. Photo Khalila Gonzales.

Start your stay at The Central Station Memphis, Curio Collection by Hilton, where the historic train station gets a modern twist. Once just a transit stop, it’s now a lively destination for both travelers and locals. 

The bar area showcases a wall of vinyl records celebrating Memphis’ rich musical heritage. With cozy seating and even a small listening room, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the city’s soulful vibes. Photo Khalila Gonzales.

The bar area hums with energy, featuring guest DJs every Friday and Saturday, “Live at the Tracks” (outside) on Thursday nights, and an in-house DJ keeping the beats going throughout the week.

Over 60,000 visitors flock to Graceland to see how the King lived, walking through iconic spaces like the jungle room and the family living room. Photo Khalila Gonzales.

Of course, no trip to Memphis is complete without a visit to Graceland, the iconic home of Elvis Presley. Known for his unmistakable style, Elvis left his mark not just in his legendary costumes but throughout his home. Every room at Graceland exudes its own distinctive charm, making it a true reflection of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

The billiards room stands out with its walls completely covered in draped fabric, creating a bold and unforgettable atmosphere. Photo Khalila Gonzales.

Want to keep the Presley magic alive? Head to The Beauty Shop, where Priscilla Presley once got her hair done! This quirky spot has transformed into a fabulous restaurant with delicious food. As you step through the door, you’re transported back to the 50s, complete with Belvedere hairdryers still hanging above some of the tables.

The Beauty Shop is the perfect spot for a fun brunch with your friends or a delightful lunch or dinner outing. Photo Khalila Gonzales

To truly understand Memphis, you have to connect with its roots. Start with the Civil Rights Museum, Sun Studio, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. These essential spots will deepen your appreciation of this city.

The National Civil Rights Museum is an emotional journey through the Civil Rights Movement, with a special focus on the sanitation strike in Memphis. This was where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. came to inspire the workers and tragically met his end, right in the motel now housing the museum.

The Civil Rights Museum offers a dynamic experience with interactive exhibits, including video screens, touch panels, and even a replica of the iconic “Rosa Parks Bus,” where you can step inside and immerse yourself in history. Photo Khalila Gonzales.

Step into the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll at Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and other legends made music history. This iconic recording studio is packed with stories, charm, and musical magic. The guided tour may be small in space, but it’s big on personality — plus, you’ll get to pose with the same microphone Elvis used to belt out his hits!

An unexpected jam session between Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis forever immortalized on the wall of the Sun Studio recording room. Photo Khalila Gonzales.

Finally, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music gives you a deep dive into the rise and fall of Stax Records, a true pillar of Memphis music history. This legendary spot honors the label’s massive impact on soul music, shining a light on the incredible artists who made it all happen. Step into a recreation of the original recording studio, admire Isaac Hayes’ gold-plated Cadillac, and explore over 2,000 artifacts, from dazzling stage costumes to iconic vintage instruments. 

Stax Records was ahead of its time with its interracial collaborations, breaking barriers and creating soul music that resonated across generations. Photo Khalila Gonzales.

Catherine and Mary’s has become a Memphis gem, within walking distance of the hotel and steps away from the Orpheum. This cozy Italian spot, run by two James Beard-nominated chefs, Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman, is located in the same room where DJ Dewey Phillips debuted “That’s All Right (Mama)” on WHBQ. Be sure to book ahead, especially on show nights, as reservations fill up fast!

At Catherine and Mary’s, the focaccia (a must-try) and scratch-made pasta, paired with unique cocktails, are simply unbeatable. Photo Khalila Gonzales

Memphis is a city that lives and breathes its history while embracing the future, making it a must-visit destination that will stay with you long after you leave! 

Downtown Memphis bursts with captivating street art that’s bound to grab your attention! Photo Khalila Gonzales.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Cover photo Khalila Gonzales

Khalila Gonzales is the social media intern at Texas Lifestyle Magazine and a senior at Baylor University. In her free time she enjoys going on adventures, photography, and trying new foods.