15+ Of The Best Free Things To Do In Memphis, Tennessee

The homeland of the blues has plenty going on, with vibrant cultural, historical and nightlife scenes that make any visit exciting. And if you’ve spent all your money scoffing BBQ ribs at Rendezvous, discover ten of the best free things to do in Memphis…

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Free Things to do in Memphis

From walking along the city’s most famous streets to checking out Graceland without the admission charge, discover the coolest free things to do in Memphis:

Take a walk along Beale Street

Probably the South’s most famous street, a summertime stroll down Beale Street will fill you with the blues spirit! Live music leaks from the doorways of the many bars, and street performers can often be seen putting on a show at any given hour of the day. And don’t miss the Beale Street Brass Notes – Memphis’ answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Got some cash to splash? Get a taste of music history at the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – admission is $14, or you can book a combi ticket with the Memphis Music Hall of Fame for $17.

Visit A Schwab’s on Beale Street

If you like quirky, fun shops, A.Schwab’s Dry Goods Store is a must visit. The only remaining original business on the street, you’ll find a mix of souvenirs, clothing, and a section dedicated to Deep South hoodoo.

Got some cash to splash? Grab an old fashioned soda or milkshake in the café (I really recommend the Down Home Peach), and take a guided tour to learn about Beale street’s history.

Watch the Peabody Duck March

At 11am and 5pm every day, the famous North American mallards make their way through The Peabody Hotel, to the fountain in the centre of the lobby. It’s a strange one, but it’s been a Memphis tradition since the 1930s.

Got some cash to splash? Grab a drink at the Peabody’s rooftop bar for views over the city.

Peek through the gates of Graceland

Okay, to actually go in and take a tour around Elvis Presley’s pad, you’ll need to pay. If you’re travelling on a budget and just happy taking a peek, you can catch a glimpse of the mansion from the gates. Or for a closer look, get up early! Between 7.30-8.30 every morning, you can stroll up to the Meditation Garden, and pay homage at the King’s final resting place.

Got some cash to splash? Admission to Graceland costs $80, and includes self-guided audio tour.

See a free show at Overton Park Shell

This open air amphitheatre hosts free concerts throughout the year. It’s most notable as the place that Elvis Presley played his first ever paid show in 1954. Check out what free events are happening on their website.

Go street art hunting in Downtown Memphis

Downtown Memphis is home to some mighty fine street art, including the often-photographed ‘I Love Memphis’ murals. For a comprehensive guide of what to see, check out this Downtown Memphis Mural Guide.

Got some cash to splash? Check out the Brooks Museum of Art, which celebrates the diverse art community in Memphis.

Explore the emporium at the Bass Pro Pyramid

Definitely one of the most EXTRA shops I’ve ever set foot in! The Bass Pro store is an emporium dedicated to all things outdoors, and the huge space is filled with yachts, gear, a bowling alley, trees, a fudge shop, a fancy hotel and much more.

Got some cash to splash? Try your hand at some archery in the store, or head up in the elevator to The Lookout.

Free Attractions in Memphis

Discover the best free museums and tourist attractions that Memphis has to offer.

Dixon Gallery and Gardens

This spectacular art museum sits within 17 acres of landscaped gardens, home to a sizeable permanent collection of impressionist paintings. Many of the works are by French and American artists, including pieces by Monet, Degas and Renoir. Entry is free until the end of 2024 – with the possibility of further extension.

Opening Hours: Tue-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-5 pm; Sun 1-5pm

Mud Island Riverwalk

The Mississippi River flows through Memphis, and it’s a great place to take a walk. Mud Island River Park is a popular spot with locals and visitors, and you can check out the exact scale model of the Lower Mississippi River.

Got some cash to splash? Ride the monorail and visit the Mississippi River Museum for $24.95.

Center for Southern Folklore

Incorporating arts, music and crafts, the Center for Southern Folklore is non-profit organisation celebrating the heritage, culture and people of the South. In the Heritage Hall, you’ll find films, photographic exhibits and art displays, alongside performances from musicians and dancers.

Opening Times: Tue, Thu & Fri 10am-5pm; Sun 1-5pm

Crystal Shrine Grotto

In Memphis’ Memorial Cemetery, you’ll find this unusual cave crafted from quartz and filled with religious imagery and biblical figures. Built by Mexican artist Dionicio Rodriguez, it’s a fascinating piece of art and completely free to visit.

Opening Times: Dawn to dusk, daily

Art Museum at the University of Memphis

The Art Museum at the University of Memphis is home to permanent collections of Western and Egyptian art. The Egyptian Collection is the largest of its kind in the South, with an impressive presentation of archeological artefacts and antiquities.

Opening Times: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

Elmwood Cemetery

If, like me, you’re strangely accustomed to hanging out in cemeteries, this one’s for you. It’s the city’s oldest active cemetery, and the final resting place of many important Memphis residents.

Opening Times: 10am-4.30pm daily

Got some cash to splash? Delve into Memphis’ darker side with a walking tour through the city’s haunted locations.

Free Museum Days in Memphis

A few of Memphis’ museums offer free entry days – some are restricted to residents of the state and county (you’ll need to show state ID), but a couple also offer general free entry hours.

• The Pink Palace Museum shows off the cultural and natural history of the mid-South, through various exhibits, including a reconstruction of the original Piggly Wiggly Store. Free entry on Tuesdays from 1-4pm.
• Memphis Brooks Museum of Art: Tennessee’s oldest art museum has free entry on Saturdays from 10am-12pm.
• Tennessee residents: The National Civil Rights Museum has free entry from 3pm Tuesdays, and the Memphis Metal Museum has free entry all day on Thursdays.
• Shelby County residents: The Stax Museum of American Soul Music has free entry on Tuesdays from 1-5pm and the Rock’n’Soul Museum has free free entry on Tuesdays from 2-7pm.

Read More:
Visiting Graceland
Charlie Vergo’s Rendezvous, Memphis
A Schwab’s Curiosity Store