Exploring Beale Street: Top 6 must-visit spots during March Madness

One of the most iconic streets in the United States, Beale Street, is a legendary Memphis entertainment destination brimming with live music, Memphis-style barbecue, drinks, and a bucket load of fun. Here are the top six sites you need to visit during your March Madness escapade.

B.B. King’s Blues Club

First on the list is the B.B. King’s Blues Club (bbkings.com), an iconic establishment named after legendary blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist B.B. King, presenting live music from soul to R&B, rock, and of course, blues every day. A gastronomic journey starts with their specialty ribs, barbecue pork tater tots, shrimp and grits, and burgers that spell out Memphis flavor.

Silky O’ Sullivan’s

Silky O’Sullivan’s (silkyosullivans.com) takes you on a trip to Ireland without leaving Beale Street. It houses a large bar inside a building that’s over a century old and an outdoor patio perfect for relaxation. A wide variety of bottled and draft beers, as well as Beale Street tea, the Memphis Mary or Silky’s special, The Diver, a unique combo of drinks served in a yellow bucket, await the guests. Enjoy live music shows while savoring some Memphis-style barbecue. Don’t forget to meet the live goats!

Alfred’s on Beale

Alfred’s on Beale (alfredsonbeale.com) offers more than just a club experience with their specialty cocktails and a full view of Beale from a second-floor patio. Savor the wide selection of appetizers and main dishes like catfish, chicken fettuccini, sandwiches, and the essential ribs before hitting the inside dance floor with live music.

A. Schwab

An old-fashioned store established in 1876, A. Schwab (a-schwab.com) offers a mix of souvenirs like knick-knacks, books, hats, jewelry, old-school toys, music, and household items. As the only original business left on Beale Street, it’s like a walk through history. Lastly, get a soda with homemade syrup from the old-fashioned soda fountain or gelato in a freshly made waffle cone on your way out.

Withers Collection Museum & Gallery

The Withers Collection Museum & Gallery (thewitherscollection.com) is a unique spot on Beale, showcasing the work of photographer Ernest C. Withers. His work spans over 60 years, documenting sports, music, politics, daily life, and the Civil Rights Movement. Along with the photographs, the museum has digitized Withers’ collection of more than 1.8 million images, providing a unique perspective on history.

Rum Boogie Cafe

The Rum Boogie Cafe (facebook.com/RumBoogieCafe) has made its mark on Beale Street with live music played all week long and a collection of over 200 autographed guitars from performers like Elvis and Bon Jovi. After admiring the collection, dig into their seafood gumbo, a two-time winner at the International Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival, or the usual catfish, ribs, and pork shoulder.

March Madness on Beale Street is not just about the games; it’s an opportunity to explore Memphis’ rich cultural and musical heritage. Gear up for a fantastic March Madness journey on Beale Street.