50 Free Things to Do in Memphis Without Spending a Dollar

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Memphis, Tennessee, the birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll, overflows with soul, history, and incredible food. While visiting Graceland or sampling barbecue might be high on your list, discovering the city’s authentic vibe doesn’t need to cost a fortune. There are countless fantastic free things to do in Memphis, letting you dive deep into its musical roots, scenic riverfront, and unique neighborhoods without spending money.

Get ready to explore the Bluff City through this guide to 50 completely free activities. From legendary musical landmarks viewed from the outside to sprawling parks and captivating cultural sights, you can easily craft a full and exciting itinerary. Experience the heart of Memphis through these budget-friendly adventures.

Music, Beale Street & City Icons

Walk Beale Street: Take a stroll down America’s most iconic musical street during the day or night. Absorb the vibrant atmosphere, neon lights, and sounds spilling from the clubs, even without going inside.

Watch the Beale Street Flippers: Catch the amazing acrobatic street performers who often put on dazzling shows right on Beale Street. Their athleticism is a must-see live spectacle.

Relax in WC Handy Park: Visit the park on Beale Street dedicated to the “Father of the Blues.” Check out his statue and sometimes catch free live music performances on the small stage.

Browse A. Schwab: Step into the oldest shop on Beale Street, a general store open since 1876. Explore its quirky collection of goods, souvenirs, and old-time candies without any pressure to buy.

View Sun Studio Exterior: See the outside of the legendary “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll” where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and others recorded. Imagine the history made within those walls.

See Stax Museum Exterior: Drive by or walk around the site of the Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Soulsville USA. Appreciate its role in soul music history from the outside and soak in the neighborhood feel.

See Memphis Music Hall of Fame Exterior: Located near Beale Street, check out the exterior of the building honoring Memphis music legends. It’s right in the heart of the downtown music scene.

Attend Levitt Shell Concerts: During concert season (typically spring/summer/fall), enjoy free live music under the stars at the historic Overton Park Shell. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy diverse musical acts.

View Overton Park Shell Exterior: Even outside of concert season, visit the historic shell where Elvis Presley gave his first paid performance. Appreciate the architecture and its place in music history.

Visit Graceland’s Meditation Garden: Pay respects to Elvis Presley at his gravesite in the Meditation Garden at Graceland. Free walk-up access is typically offered daily from 7:30 am to 8:30 am.

Watch the Peabody Ducks March: Witness the famous tradition at The Peabody Hotel. See the ducks march along a red carpet to the lobby fountain at 11 am and back to their rooftop home at 5 pm daily.

Walk Through The Peabody Lobby: After watching the ducks, take a moment to admire the grand, historic lobby of this legendary Memphis hotel. It’s a glimpse into old Southern elegance.

Hunt for Elvis Statues: Find various statues and markers dedicated to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll around the city. Locations include Beale Street and near the old site of Poplar Tunes.

Watch the Main Street Trolleys: See the charming vintage trolley cars rumble along Main Street downtown. It adds a nostalgic touch to the city scene.

Parks, River Views & Outdoor Spaces

Explore Shelby Farms Park: Discover one of the largest urban parks in the country. Enjoy miles of trails for walking or biking, scenic lakes, and wide-open green spaces.

See the Shelby Farms Bison Herd: Look for the park’s resident bison herd grazing in their designated pasture. Viewing platforms offer good vantage points to see these magnificent animals.

Bike or Walk the Shelby Farms Greenline: Traverse this popular paved trail running through Shelby Farms Park and connecting to other parts of the city. It’s perfect for exercise and enjoying nature.

Hike Overton Park’s Old Forest Trails: Escape into nature within the city limits by walking the trails through one of the few remaining old-growth forests in a US city. Enjoy the shade and tranquility.

Walk Tom Lee Park: Enjoy the renovated riverfront park with stunning views of the Mississippi River and the Hernando de Soto Bridge. It features walking paths, open lawns, and play areas.

Visit Mud Island River Park (Greenbelt/Skybridge): Walk across the Skybridge for great city views and explore the green spaces of Mud Island Park. Access to the park grounds is usually free.

Stroll Mississippi River Greenbelt Park: Enjoy paved paths along the riverbank on Mud Island, offering excellent views of the Memphis skyline and the river itself. It’s ideal for a walk, run, or bike ride.

Walk or Bike Big River Crossing: Experience the longest public pedestrian bridge across the Mississippi River. Enjoy amazing views as you walk or bike between Memphis, Tennessee, and West Memphis, Arkansas.

Take in Views from Martyrs Park: Visit this small park south of downtown offering panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the bridges. It’s a peaceful spot, especially at sunset.

Watch Barges on the Mississippi: Find a spot along the riverfront and watch the impressive river barges make their way up and down the mighty waterway. It highlights the river’s importance to commerce.

Explore Wolf River Greenway Sections: Discover parts of this developing trail system that follows the Wolf River. Enjoy nature walks and wildlife spotting in different areas around the city.

Walk Through Elmwood Cemetery: Wander the historic grounds of this beautiful Victorian-era cemetery. Admire the elaborate monuments and learn about notable Memphis figures buried here.

Visit the Crystal Shrine Grotto: Discover this unique man-made cave filled with crystals and depicting biblical scenes, located within Memorial Park Cemetery. It’s an unusual and fascinating free attraction.

See St. Mary’s Catholic Church Grotto: Find the serene Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes behind the historic St. Mary’s downtown. It offers a quiet space for reflection.

Art, Culture & Museums (Free Access)

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art Free Day: Enjoy free admission to the city’s oldest and largest art museum every Wednesday from 10 am to 8 pm. Explore diverse collections spanning centuries and cultures.

Dixon Gallery & Gardens Free Times: Experience fine art and beautiful gardens for free on Saturdays from 10 am to 12 pm. They also offer Pay-What-You-Wish admission all day every Tuesday.

View Metal Museum Grounds: While the museum itself requires admission, enjoy the scenic grounds overlooking the Mississippi River for free. Admire the outdoor sculptures and river views.

Walk South Main Arts District: Explore the galleries, shops, and restaurants in this trendy downtown neighborhood. Enjoy the artistic vibe and historic architecture.

Attend South Main Trolley Night: On the last Friday of most months, enjoy extended gallery hours, street performers, and special events in the South Main Arts District. Browsing is always free.

Explore Broad Avenue Arts District: Discover another creative hub featuring colorful murals, unique shops, galleries, and eateries. It’s a great area for a vibrant walk.

Admire Cooper-Young Trestle Art: Check out the murals and artwork decorating the historic railroad trestle in the heart of the Cooper-Young neighborhood. It adds character to the area.

Visit Crosstown Concourse Public Spaces: Explore the ground floor and public areas of this massive, revitalized mixed-use building. Check their calendar for free events, concerts, or art displays.

Visit the Center for Southern Folklore: Pop into this center dedicated to preserving the music, culture, and arts of the region. They often have free exhibits, photos, or storytelling sessions.

Hunt for Memphis Murals: Keep an eye out for vibrant street art and murals throughout the city. Areas like Broad Avenue, South Main, and downtown offer many great examples.

Use the Public Library: Visit Memphis Public Libraries for more than just books. Check their schedules for free workshops, author talks, movie screenings, and children’s events.

Explore University of Memphis Art Museum: Check the current policy for free admission to view the university’s art collections, including an impressive Egyptian collection. It’s a hidden gem on campus.

Historic Sites & Neighborhood Discovery

View National Civil Rights Museum Exterior: Stand outside this profound museum at the Lorraine Motel. Reflect at the site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spent his final hours.

Visit the I AM A MAN Plaza: Spend time at this moving plaza next to Clayborn Temple. It commemorates the 1968 Sanitation Workers’ Strike and features the iconic “I AM A MAN” slogan.

Walk Through Victorian Village: Admire the stunning 19th-century mansions along Adams Avenue. While tours cost money, walking the neighborhood lets you appreciate the historic architecture from the outside.

Stroll Through Cooper-Young: Explore this eclectic neighborhood known for its historic bungalows, quirky shops, pubs, and restaurants. Enjoy the distinct local character.

Wander Overton Square: Experience the energy of this midtown entertainment district. Walk around, enjoy the atmosphere, and window shop at the boutiques.

Admire Historic Church Exteriors: View the impressive architecture of historic downtown churches like Calvary Episcopal Church or St. Peter Catholic Church. Appreciate their history and design.

See Slave Haven Museum Exterior: Located in the historic Pinch District, view the exterior of this house believed to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad. Understand its significance in the neighborhood context.

Visit Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid (Lobby): Step inside the massive pyramid structure and explore the ground-level retail areas and hotel lobby for free. Marvel at the scale and unique cypress swamp environment created inside.

Take Photos at Historic Signs: Capture pictures with iconic Memphis signs, such as the original Beale Street sign or the “I Am A Man” Plaza marker. They make great free souvenirs.

Watch the Mighty Lights Bridge Show: After dark, watch the nightly LED light show on the Hernando de Soto Bridge and the Harahan Bridge (Big River Crossing). Find a spot along the riverfront for the best views.