Memphis, Tennessee... the Birthplace of Rock and Roll, the home of Elvis, Memphis-style barbecue, and the largest Bass Pro Shop in the world, and these are just a handful of reasons that millions of people visit this metropolis on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River each year. We’ve had the pleasure of visiting Memphis a few times now, and this is our perfect Memphis weekend itinerary.
For the sake of this itinerary, we’re going to assume you have a Friday evening to Sunday evening to explore. Obviously, you can shift things around to fit your schedule, but we think this will give you a good starting point at least.
*NOTICE: Covid has changed many businesses operating hours and capacity, so be sure to check with each business before planning your visit.*
Day 1
6:30 p.m. - High Cotton Brewing Co.
After traveling all afternoon and getting checked in to your accommodations, it’s time to kick this trip off right, and we recommend doing that with some amazing, local craft beer and appetizers at High Cotton Brewing Co. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed with indoor and outdoor seating available. You can choose to order a flight of four to try a sampling of beers, or just order your favorite from the 10 beers on tap. For appetizers, they have a limited selection on their “Happy Hour” menu from “4 p.m. till late”.
*BONUS: If your schedule allows you to get in town a little earlier, you can go for a tour of the famous Sun Studios before you come over to High Cotton for a pint, as they are a short walk from each other. Just be sure to reserve your tickets in advance.*
8:00 p.m. - Dinner at Earnestine and Hazel’s
Now that you’ve gotten your pre-game on with some local brews, head over to Earnestine and Hazel’s for a local favorite. Before we get into it, we have to say… this is NOT a fine dining establishment. In fact, it is as far from fine dining as it gets, BUT it’s totally worth the visit. They are known for their “Soul Burger”, but you can choose any of their other amazing dishes like Chili Cheese Nachos, Barbeque Bologna Grilled Cheese, or Love and Happiness (Chicken and Waffles). Any way that you go, you won’t be disappointed! This dive bar serves up their famous “Soul Burger” and potato chips in a cardboard concession stand-esque tray, but don’t let the dinnerware (or lack thereof) turn you away. These burgers are delicious! Plus, they have live music every weekend, so put your dancing shoes on and be prepared for a good time!