Memphis attractions

Victorian Village, an historic neighborhood once known as Millionaire’s Row, is lined with grand mansions dating back to the mid to late 1800s. Some of these Victorian-era estates, including the Mallory Neely House, James Lee House, and Woodruff-Fontaine House, have been converted into museums, inns, and even a nightlife hot spot.

A veritable icon of music and a Memphis landmark, Sun Studio is known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. In fact, the very first rock single (“Rocket 88”) was recorded here in 1951, when it was called the Memphis Recording Service. The former recording studio’s musical heritage—made famous thanks to the superstardom of artists such as Elvis and Johnny Cash—and collection of one-of-a-kind memorabilia make it an unforgettable stop in Memphis.

The second most-visited home in the United States (behind only the White House), Graceland was home to Elvis Presley during the height of his career. Touring the wacky rooms of this 17,552-square-foot (1,630-square-meter) estate offers insights into the life and mind of The King of Rock, who is buried in Graceland’s Meditation Gardens.

Peabody Hotel has some unique permanent guests in the famous "Peabody Ducks," who live on the hotel’s rooftop and perform a march toward the Grand Lobby twice daily. The tradition dates to 1933 when the general manager returned from a hunting trip and placed several live duck decoys in the hotel’s fountain. The guests’ positive response prompted their stay.

This storied entertainment district in downtown Memphis is generally considered the birthplace of a distinctly American music genre: the blues. From 1920 to 1940, artists descended on Beale Street to collaborate, creating this new music style that blended smooth jazz with hard-charging rock ‘n’ roll. Today, this National Historic Landmark District is home to clubs where legendary greats such as BB King, Louis Armstrong, and WC Handy once played.