City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis offers a lively collection of colorful murals, historic sites and the BBQ, blues and rhythm of Beale Street. Located on the east bank of the Mississippi River in southwest Tennessee, Memphis is one of the most well-known places in the Volunteer State.
While many boaters traveling the Great Loop skip this long section of the Mississippi River (due to barge traffic and such), Memphis makes a terrific stop for those who do. Enjoy leisurely boating and fishing on the riverfront or hang out at a private boat dock for rent. The Lower Mud Island boat ramp provides kayak access. For more water-based activities, head to Beale Street Landing for green space, river views and steamboat rides aboard the Memphis Queen Line or Memphis Riverboats.
Let’s check out some other attractions and iconic sites in Memphis.
All Things Elvis
Photo: Unsplash
When in Memphis, something Elvis-related is the obligatory attraction.
- Graceland – Visit the 13.8-acre estate with the mansion and garden where The King lived. It’s the second most visited house in the U.S. after the White House. The Meditation Garden – which is free to visit – is where Elvis, his parents, his twin brother (who passed at birth) and his daughter Lisa Marie are buried.
- Elvis Presley’s Memphis – Located across from Graceland, the 200,000-square-foot complex is home to Elvis’ auto museum and a museum featuring memorabilia such as family photos, Army items and exhibits related to his hobbies, career and more. There’s also an entertainment venue for concerts and film screenings.
- Elvis Presley Apartment at Lauderdale Courts – The apartment where Elvis lived with his parents from 1949 to 1953 is available for tours. You can even book it to spend the night. Elvis performed for residents in the courtyard before becoming The King.
- Elvis statue - The Elvis statue is located at 115 Beale Street. There’s also a B.B. King statue at the Tennessee Welcome Center.
- Sun Studios – Tour the recording studio that’s seen (and heard) the likes of B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley.
Memphis Music Hall of Fame & Museum
Photo: Memphis Music Hall of Fame & Museum (Facebook)
Located on Beale Street - between the Hard Rock Café and Elvis’ favorite apparel shop, Lansky’s clothing store - the Memphis Music Hall of Fame & Museum was established in 2012. It pays tribute to a wide array of musicians who shaped the music world, including Roy Orbison, Aretha Franklin, Al Green, Otis Redding and Three 6 Mafia. Exhibits include video performances, interviews and more.
Shelby Farms Park
Photo: Shelby Farms Park (Facebook)
For outdoor time away from the private boat dock for rent, you can’t beat the 4,500-acre Shelby Farms Park. This massive urban park has more than enough space for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. There are paved and unpaved trails. You can go fishing or play paintball and outdoor laser tag. There’s a dog park and a herd of buffalo (not in the same area, thankfully).
Blues Hall of Fame Museum
Photo: Wikimedia
Opened in 2015, the Blues Hall of Fame Museum is the place to go to learn about the history and culture of blues. Exhibits include record albums, instruments, costumes, tour jackets and other memorabilia. Check out items like Stevie Ray Vaughan’s performance kimono, Muddy Water’s Stella guitar and Pee Wee Crayton’s Fender Stratocaster guitar. Complete this with a visit to the nearby National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel to make a historic tour from a private boat dock rental.
Crystal Shrine Grotto
Photo: Wikimedia
Crystal Shrine Grotto is one of those attractions you just can’t miss. This unique attraction the only man-made cave/grotto in the world. It’s located within the Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery. Founded in 1925 – and designed by Mexican artist Senor Dionicio Rodriguez – it features a dazzling array of folk art. Gemstones, quartz and cement decorate the walls along with scenes from The Last Supper, the Resurrection and the Nativity.
Memphis Pyramid
Photo: Unsplash
Currently home to Bass Pro Shops, the Memphis Pyramid is, indeed, a pyramid. It was originally a sports complex. There’s also a hunting lodge-themed hotel, restaurants, a bowling alley and a swamp. An elevator (the Sky High Ride) takes riders to the top of the pyramid. It’s the tallest free-standing elevator in the States. There’s a glass observation deck and a restaurant at the top. This is one of the most unique sites to visit from a private boat lift for rent.
Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Photo: Victor Chapa / Wikimedia / CC License
Head to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music to check out exhibits like a recreated 1906-era Mississippi church, antique instruments, albums and much more. Watch vintage Soul Train episodes and show off your moves (or learn some new ones) at the Express Yourself dance floor. Don’t miss the custom-designed Cadillac Eldorado owned by singer/songwriter/composer Isaac Hayes.
Hopefully, you’ve found a few new spots to visit the next time you’re passing through town, visiting from Nashville or hanging out at a private boat slip rental in Memphis. Happy boating!
