Top 12 Must-Do Activities in Midtown Memphis

While most tourists in Memphis head straight downtown to Beale Street and the Civil Rights Museum, midtown Memphis has all the best parts of the city. There are nightclubs with live blues music, and restaurants serving the city’s best barbecue sandwiches. Add parks, museums, theaters, restaurants, and other unique attractions, and you have a destination not to miss.

See a Show at Playhouse on the Square

Address: 66 Cooper St, Memphis, TN 38104, USA

Phone: +1 901-726-4656

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For the best theater in the South, look no farther than the Playhouse on the Square. The regional theater company opened a new 340-seat theater in 2010, and it offers everything you need for a night of culture and fun: a rooftop terrace, a theater café, and more. Shows range from Broadway hits like Matilda and Cabaret to independent productions written and produced by locals.

Listen to Live Music at Lafayette’s Music Room

Address: 2119 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, USA

Phone: +1 901-207-5097

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In the 1970s, Lafayette’s Music Room was one of the most bustling clubs in Memphis. After a brief closure, it reopened in 2014, bringing live music back to Memphis. The venue hosts performances seven nights a week, serving “Southern food with an attitude” along with a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Overton Square.

Visit Pandas at the Memphis Zoo

Address: 2000 Prentiss Pl, Memphis, TN 38112, USA

Phone: +1 901-333-6500

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Home to two giant pandas, Ya Ya and Le Le, the Memphis Zoo is one of only four zoos in the United States with these rare animals. Visitors can also enjoy various other attractions, such as polar bears, elephants, and a hands-on petting zoo for children.

Smell Flowers at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens

Address: 4339 Park Ave, Memphis, TN 38117-4626, USA

Phone: +1 901-761-5250

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The Dixon Gallery and Gardens offer over 2,000 objects, including impressive art pieces and beautifully manicured gardens. Visitors can explore hiking trails, formal gardens, and often participate in events designed for both children and adults.

Sip Local Craft Beer

Memphis boasts a thriving craft beer scene, particularly in Midtown. Notable breweries include Memphis Made Brewing, Crosstown Brewing Co, and High Cotton Brewing Co.

Browse Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

Address: 4389 Getwell Rd, Memphis, TN 38118-6892, USA

Phone: +1 901-544-6222

The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is dedicated to showcasing a diverse array of artwork, from paintings to decorative arts. It is a social hub, hosting events such as film screenings, lectures, and concerts.

Explore Broad Avenue Arts District

Address: Broad Ave, Memphis, TN, USA

Broad Avenue has transformed into a vibrant arts district. Visitors will find an array of locally owned shops, restaurants, and bars. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore unique offerings like ceramics at Bingham & Broad or delicious food at Bounty on Broad.

Try Dry-Rub Ribs at Central BBQ

Address: 2231 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, USA

Phone: +1 901-272-9377

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Central BBQ is a renowned destination for barbecue lovers in Memphis. The restaurant boasts a unique smoking technique using hickory and pecan woods, resulting in rich flavors that delight every palate.

Listen to Music Under the Stars at the Levitt Shell

Address: 1928 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, USA

Phone: +1 901-300-3011

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Located in Overton Park, the Levitt Shell features more than 50 free concerts a year, showcasing varied genres. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Eat Southern Comfort Food at Soul Fish Café

Address: 862 Cooper St, Memphis, TN 38104-5446, USA

Phone: +1 901-725-0722

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The Soul Fish Café offers a delightful selection of southern comfort food, ensuring a delicious dining experience that embodies the essence of Memphis cuisine.

Record a Song at Elvis’ Sun Studio

Address: Sun Studio, 706 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103-3218, USA

In the city where rock ‘n’ roll was born, this studio has been the place where many legends recorded their albums. Visitors can take tours to hear stories about their journeys and witness the space where history was made.

Walk Through History at Elmwood Cemetery

Address: 824 S Dudley St, Memphis, TN 38104-6007, USA

Phone: +1 901-774-3212

Elmwood Cemetery is a historic site that honors some of the South’s greatest heroes. Stroll through the grounds and marvel at impressive monuments and the beautiful natural landscape.