Experience the energy and excitement of Memphis without breaking the bank. Tour museums, enjoy live music and celebrate the city's soulful history with these free (or almost free) things to do at some of our most popular attractions.
Traveling to Memphis may seem like a budget busting idea, but it doesn’t have to be. With our handy resources, we’re here to Help you plan a trip to Memphis, where you can take in all the sights and sounds, without breaking the bank.
Where to Eat:
Memphis food is quite reasonable and many restaurants offer large portions and moderately priced menus to visitors on a budget. Our general advice here would be to stick with the Memphis classics. Memphis restaurants have perfected the art of Southern cuisine – we’re talking barbecue and soul food here. Their efficiency works in your favor when you’re watching every dime.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken will douse your taste buds in flavor. Their recipe is so perfected that GQ Magazine has rated it as one of the top five restaurants in the United States worth flying to for a meal. Hands down, there is nothing better than Gus’s and a cold beer on a hot summer’s day.
Open your mind to Payne’s Bar-B-Que on Lamar Ave. Payne’s isn’t flashy or fancy, but they do understand their barbecue. Locals will argue that Payne’s chopped pork sandwich topped with tangy coleslaw is the best in the city. Maciel's on Main is great no frills lunch spot for authentic Mexican food and you can't beat their $10 three taco lunch deal. Central BBQ goes big on their wings but not the price. Be sure to try Memphis' signature wing flavor, Honey Gold, or you can't go wrong with their Lemon Pepper and Jamaican Jerk wings. A great family-friendly option for casual food can be found at Memphis' famed Huey's. They offer a dozen different burgers all at affordable prices. For a tasty yet filling budget friendly breakfast, give Sunrise Memphis and Bryant's Breakfast a try.
Where to Stay:
Assuming you’re not shacking up with a friend or family member, you’re going to need a place to lay your head. Hotels can eat a big portion of your budget, so as an alternative, may we suggest trying the Hostel Memphis, an affordable lodging option near the trendy Cooper-Young neighborhood.
If the hostel isn’t an option, we’ve posted some special hotel rates and coupons on our site. Rates change frequently based on availability, so check back often and during off-peak seasons for your best deal. You’ll typically find lower rates outside of downtown Memphis, but those savings are sometimes offset by transportation fees. No matter where you stay, you'll be happy to know that Memphis hotels are affordable than hotels around the nation. In fact, by average, 28% cheaper.
Memphis Area Attractions:
There are numerous free things to do in Memphis. Because you’re in the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll, let’s first start with some music related ideas.
The gates of Graceland and the Meditation Garden where Elvis and his family members are laid to rest are complimentary every day from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. As you walk up the drive, you’ll get a good look at the mansion. Stop here and snap a picture to brag to friends at home. The garden itself is a peaceful setting with flowers and a beautiful central fountain. Even in the early morning hours, you’ll find yourself surrounded with Elvis fans from around the world. Before leaving, put a remembrance on the stone wall located near the gates of the mansion.
When finished there, hit one of the most famous streets in all of America – Beale Street. Beale Street is where the blues were born and where the clubs and juke joints of today keep the legacy alive. There is no fee to stroll the brick-lined street and sounds bellowing out of the clubs are on the house. Of course, we’d encourage you to have a large cold beverage and throw a dollar into a performers tip jar. Be sure to walk along the Beale Street Brass Notes Walk of Fame, a tribute to some of the most important and notable names to have made history here.
If you’re into art and culture, make your way east to Midtown. In the middle of Overton Park situated between the Memphis Zoo and the 70 acres of playgrounds and picnic areas is the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. This national landmark houses works in all forms of media, created by artists from all over the world. The Brooks is the oldest and one of the largest fine arts museums in the state of Tennessee.
Just 5 minutes by car and you’ll find the Dixon Gallery and Gardens. The Dixon features 17 acres of gardens and an art collection comprised of more than 2,000 objects including French and American Impressionist paintings. The Dixon is also free to visit year-round. Continue your outdoor exploration across the street at the Memphis Botanic Garden featuring 30 speciality gardens across 96 acres.
Traveling With Kids?
Let them run, jump, splash, dig and scream outside at My Big Backyard in the Memphis Botanic Gardens. Other attractions to try that are free or budget-friendly are the quacky ducks at the Peabody Hotel, the history on display at the Cotton Museum or venture inside the immersive retail experience that is the Bass Pro Pyramid. Go bowling or a take the elevator up 28 stories to the lookout.
Getting Around:
Downtown Memphis and many parts of Midtown are situated great for walkers and cyclists. Bring a comfy pair of shoes, a camera and you’re set for the day. Of course you can always hop aboard a vintage Memphis trolley for $1 to get around or relax.
Don’t let me forget to mention the Greenline and Shelby Farms Park. Shelby Farms is the largest urban park in the United States and is filled with horseback riding, bike trails, playgrounds and plenty of places to fly a kite. Pick up the Greenline at Tillman Ave. and follow it for 10+ miles to the gates of the park.
Well, there you have it. It’s totally possible to have a great vacation or getaway in Memphis without taking out a loan. All it takes a little creativity, knowing where the best deals are and being resourceful. Enjoy your time in our great city.
