Home of the Blues and my childhood memories, my visit in Memphis brought out my twang and a rich craving for homemade biscuits and gravy. From the Civil Rights Movement, legendary music icons, traditional foods and a rising culinary scene, Memphis is a city in the midst of a revival. According to the locals Memphis has its problems. Big problems. And even yet, the local people are invested in seeing Memphis thrive.
1. Arrive Hotel
Downtown off the cable car route, The Arrive hotel is an industrial space with minimal-chic rooms, a lobby bar and restaurant below. I enjoyed my stay and found the location to be safe, walkable and lively with out of towner’s and locals alike.
2. National Civil Rights Museum
Dedicated to bridging the gap to equality, justice and freedom, The National Civil Rights Museum stands as both a historic landmark and a future emblem of humanitarian rights.
Standing in front of the Lorraine Hotel is like stepping back into history, while reconciling the similar grounds on which we stand today. Dr. King maintained a vision for a diverse America where all people could enjoy the benefits of freedom and equality. His honorary legacy and influence reaches far beyond the Civil Rights Movement and into the consciousness of America. The National Civil Rights Museum is just across from the Arrive Hotel and well worth an afternoon spent.
3. Catherine & Mary’s
This upscale Tuscan style restaurant has the perfecto combo of friendly bartenders, good lighting, and an attractive Memphis foodie crowd. Here at Catherine and Mary’s I was satiated and intrigued by the local peoples passion for the revival of their city. Memphis has a reputation but the growing entrepreneurial spirit shows promising momentum for the future of both business and community.
4. Maury Ballenger Bodywork
Its no secret that I love receiving bodywork and Maury Ballenger was wonderfully kind and attentive to my body’s needs after a 6 hour drive into Memphis. I always budget a massage or workout class when traveling because it keeps me plugged into my self care routine. If you swing through Memphis for work or vacation definitely book with Maury!Her info can be found on google.
5. Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum
I adore an old home especially a well preserved tasteful French-American Victorian. This home stands as a beautiful city heritage marker and a reminder of an era long gone. Inside you’ll find a brilliant array of 19th and 20th Century artifacts, relics from “Millionaires Row” and other prominent Memphis families in the 1900’s.
6. Beale Street
Let’s hope Beale Street isn’t all you came for? For sure the neon signs have major curb appeal not to mention the live music but lets be honest…Beale Street isn’t safe. Well, that’s what the locals say and I know they are right. But, I went anyways. Stick to the crowds, don’t wander off side streets and follow your ear to find the live rhythm and blues.
7. The Peabody Hotel
Famously known for the march of the ducks, the Peabody is a Memphis classic. The main hotel lounge is rather grand with open seating, lounge chairs and a piano man. I sat here for an hour charging my phone and listening to the grand piano before realizing I could head to the rooftop. There was a sign that said the rooftop was closed, it wasn’t. Ride the elevator all the way to the top and don’t miss this stellar view of the Mississippi river and the Memphis bridge at night.
8. Fresh Pressed Juice
Juice keeps me in check, facts. From a headache to a hangover to an afternoon pick me up, I’m telling you juice is the answer. In my opinion, always the Green. Raw girls has the goods and I was very happy to find clean and organic options in Memphis in the land of fried everything with a whole lotta sauce.
Memphis has such a rich history and I love to see young entrepreneurs making their stamp. From a business start up perspective, Memphis has very affordable office space inside historic warehouse spaces for arts, music, wellness and creative housing. After spending just 3 days in Memphis I too was seeing its potential.
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