Memphis
Two days where American music was born — Beale Street neon, smoke-ring barbecue, and the Mississippi rolling past it all.
Soulsville & Beale
09:30 AM
Stax Museum of American Soul
Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and a church rebuilt inside the museum. Start where soul started.
01:00 PM
Barbecue Lunch
A chipped-chopped pork sandwich with slaw on top, eaten at a formica counter. This is the whole point of the drive.
04:00 PM
Sun Studio
The tiny room where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis cut their first records. The tour guides are musicians themselves.
08:00 PM
Beale Street After Dark
Neon, brass on the corners, and blues spilling out of every doorway. Follow your ears.
Practical Notes
- Beale Street is best after the sun goes down and the neon takes over.
- Dry ribs and wet ribs are both correct. Order half and half.
- Graceland tours sell out — book the first morning slot.