Move over Nashville! This underrated Tennessee city is experiencing record growth in tourism

When you think of Tennessee, you probably think of Nashville and its plethora of dive bars, perfect replica of the Parthenon, and vibrant Broadway district.

It may be the capital and main entertainment center, but it’s certainly not the only show in town, or should we say, the only show in the Volunteer State.

Located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, Memphis is Tennessee’s most populous city, and with an equally vibrant music scene, scenic urban parks, and underrated food scene, it’s no wonder it’s currently breaking tourism records:

Memphis is seeing record-breaking tourism

If reported by the Tennessee Department of Tourism Development, of the 31.7 billion spent by tourists in the state in 2024, 4.3 billion are claimed by the Memphis metro area.

This makes Memphis the second most profitable destination in Tennessee, behind, you guessed it, Davidson County, of which Nashville is home, and one of the fastest growing destinations in the United States: over the past six years visitor expenditure increased by more than 36%.

The numbers are exciting, but we’re not here for boring tourism records. We’re sure you’re eager to know what appeals to visitors from all 50 states (and the rest of the world).

Let’s just say that whether you’re here for Rock n’ Roll, the undervalued cultural valuethe lush nature, or some of that good old Tennessee cuisine, you’re in for a treat:

Fall colors and vibrant social scene like no other

For starters, the ‘Bluff City’ is built on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, and the Riverwalk, along the banks of the iconic waterway, is a must-see for tourists in the city:

Stretching through Tom Lee Park, past Beale Street Landing and all the way to Mud Island River Park, it’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy the region’s nature. Right now the waterline is particularly beautiful, with all the water amber autumn leaves.

Walking around Memphis is sure to inspire you, just like the song, but if you’re looking for a fun time on a Friday night, no-frills Midtown is the place to be.

Unlike overly popular Beale Street, which may feel a little too touristy for your tastes as a Travel Off Path reader, there are Midtown spots like Hi Tone Cafe and Growlers. still maintain that Memphian charm: we’re talking great draft beer, hospitable, chatty locals, and great rock bands.

Of course, Earnestine and Hazel’s in the downtown area, past Beale, are regional classics, but they can get busy, especially on event nights, so we recommend arriving early to ensure a good seat.

Barbecue that is nothing short of legendary

Memphis’ dry-rubbed ribs and smoked pork sandwiches are legendaryand trust us when we say that people come from all over the world for a bite.

You haven’t truly been to Tennessee’s largest metropolis until you’ve tried Jim Neely’s chopped pork sandwiches on S. Third Street. The same goes for if you’re a fan of smoked meatyou can’t miss Central BBQ’s pulled pork, a short walk from Beale Street.

If you’re craving real barbecue and coleslaw made from scratch, The Bar-BQ Shop is your go-to:heir ribs were even voted America’s number one of the Food Network.

To be fair, a simple stroll through Downtown opens up a world of dining options, from King’s Palace Cafe, a Cajun and Creole hotspot, to Docks Off 5th, best known for its tasty seafood menu, to Aldo’s Pizza Pies, a casual Italian eatery.

Rock ‘n’ roll your way through Memphis

Memphis is also a world-class cultural destination, even if it is rarely recognized as such. For example, did you know that you can visit Graceland, the house where Elvis Presley spent his teenage yearsright in the heart of Whitehaven, just a 20 minute drive from Downtown?

For the music lovers among us, you’ll also be pleased to hear that Sun Studio is where Elvis, Johnny Cash and BB King recorded some of their most celebrated records. It’s no wonder it’s been called the ‘Birthplace of Rock n’ Roll’, and it’s now open as a museum, with tickets costing just $20 per adult.

As for one factual museum, you might want to check out the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, which chronicles the rise of blues and soul as genres and how they shaped the local cultural landscape.

In addition to the musical heritage, there is also the National Civil Rights Museum, located in the former Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered.

The Cotton Museum, which charts Memphis’ role in the cotton trade during the slavery years, is yet another must-see, and if you like art galleries, be sure to stop by the Brooks Museum of Art: it’s simply the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee.

Are you going to Tennessee this fall? Be sure to check out this other fast-rising alternative city trip to Nashville for fiery fall colors and lush nature.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior head writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60 countries to his name (and is currently weaving stories from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.