Memphis- the City of Summer Fun!
Memphis in summer, summer in Memphis. It’s clear, it’s going to be hot. However, a good number of Memphians risks overlooking some of the city’s most popular tourist destinations or failing to seize some of its most alluring amenities. So why not make this year different? This time, take a chance, go back or at long last, make a visit to some of these places you take for granted. They’re anticipating your arrival. Here are some recommendations for your Memphis summer bucket list.
Tom Lee Park
If you haven’t seen the redesigned Tom Lee Park yet, you are missing out. This park, after undergoing a $60 million-plus renovation in 2023, has transformed into a prime Mississippi River-side site. It offers a variety of recreational options, from game and sports courts to a fancy playground for kids. The park also pays tribute to its namesake Tom Lee, with a statue depicting his heroism when he saved 32 passengers from a sinking steamboat in 1925. Plan your visit by going to tomleepark.org .
Stax Museum of American Soul Music
If you have seen the recent HBO/Max four-part documentary series “STAX: Soulsville U.S.A.”, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, a project of Soulsville Foundation, deserves your visit. The museum reincarnates from the crushed bricks and razed walls of the original Stax studio. Pay it a visit if you want to understand the depth and diversity of soul music. For more details, visit staxmuseum.com.
Memphis Brooks Museum of Art
In the midst of all the anticipation for the new Memphis Art Museum set to open in 2025 downtown, don’t forget to visit the ongoing exhibits at the original Brooks museum in Overton park. Take a look at the beautiful gowns worn by celebrities designed by none other than Christian Siriano. For details and schedules, visit brooksmuseum.org.
Free concerts in Memphis
Experience the true sound of Memphis by attending free concerts held all over the city. The Orion Free Concert Series at the historic Overton Park Shell and the Sunset Jazz series at Downtown’s Court Square are some must-attend series for music lovers. Discover more at overtonparkshell.org and sunsetjazzmemphis.com.
National Civil Rights Museum
Revisit the rich and challenging history of racial struggle and triumph at the National Civil Rights Museum. Every visit is certain to move and inspire you. For details, visit civilrightsmuseum.org.
AutoZone Park
The AutoZone Park, home to the Memphis Redbirds and Memphis 901 FC professional football team, offers you a great environ to hangout, enjoy a game, or even be part of a concert. For scheduling details visit milb.com/memphis and memphis901fc.com.
Elvis Week
Whether you are an Elvis fan or not, Graceland, the home of “The King” should be on your list for this summer. During Elvis Week, you can visit the site of his tragic demise and explore an array of his memorabilia across the street. Plan your visit at graceland.com.
