If you love music and great food, you will fall in love with Memphis. I visited with three coworkers on a Easter weekend road trip getaway from Cincinnati. We stopped first in Nashville, then made Memphis our second stop. On the whole, it was the highlight of the trip, with true BBQ and one of the most soulful, authentic music scenes I’ve ever been immersed in. 

EXPERIENCE

We had an amazing time in Memphis. Our primary destination was Graceland, which was even more elaborate than expected. We were astonished by the number of busloads of people and by the genuinely still grieving (primarily foreign) tourists. This ended up being a whole day activity, with shuttle bus rides and multiple stops along the headphone guided tour. Our other big attraction was the Gibson Guitar Factory Tour. This was fascinating, particularly since I was traveling with three industrial designers who happened to be guitar players. Aside from this we mostly drank, ate and strolled the shops and bars of Beale Street. We listened to tons of jazz and blues. Such a charming spot.

STAY

While in Memphis we just stayed at a Westin near Beale Street, however I’d imagine this would we a great city to visit and stay in a bed and breakfast. Given I was traveling with coworkers on this occasion, this worked out well. The best thing about this Westin were the complimentary guitars and amps guests could take up to their rooms, we had a lot of fun with this.

EAT

The food was certainly a highlight while in Memphis. BBQ is what you come here for. Charles Vergos‘ Rendezvous Ribs happens to be the highlight. It was worth the wait for both the food and the bluesy underground atmosphere.