Things to do in Memphis
Explore the wildlife with a Wolf River walk
Close to the Memphis suburb of Germantown, the stunning Wolf River Nature Area (tel: +1 901 452 6500; www.wolfriver.org) is some 7,284 hectares (18,000 acres) in size and offers nature trails lined with shady trees, a turtle station, butterfly gardens and tonnes of information on local wildlife.
Ladies and gentlemen, Elvis never left this building
Possibly the most famous address in rock 'n' roll, Graceland (tel: +1 901 332 3322; www.graceland.com) was home to Elvis Presley for 20 years and is a pilgrimage for the King's fans. Although visitors can't see the (infamous) throne, tours do include his Jungle Room, gold discs and final resting place.
Learn of America's Civil Rights struggle
The National Civil Rights Museum (tel: +1 901 521 9699; www.civilrightsmuseum.org) is opposite the site of Martin Luther King Jr's assassination. Much of the Lorraine Motel exterior remains the same - and King's room is untouched - but extensive investment and renovation has created one of Tennessee's most important and educational museums.
Savour the blues and barbeque of Beale Street
Stroll down Beale Street (www.bealestreet.com) and it will be throbbing with crowds ducking into neon-lit blues music, feasting on succulent barbeque ribs and following the Brass Notes Walk of Fame. The Memphis in May festival celebrates the best the street and state has to offer and is unmissable.
Take a trail ride on horseback
Shady Creek Farm (tel: +1 901 262 1173; www.shadycreekfarm.com) offers 12 hectares (30 acres) of indoor and outdoor riding facilities. Just east of Memphis, a few miles north of Collierville, the experienced instructors of this welcoming farm cater for all abilities. The more experienced should tackle the Wolf River Wildlife trail.
