Memphis is a city rich in culture, history, and art, which is reflected in its museums and attractions—but that’s not all. Its beauty can also be appreciated through simple walking tours along the city’s main streets or by taking nature walks in its many green spaces.
In this article, we’ll list and describe the best scenic walking tours and trails in Memphis to help you plan your trip.
Of course, between one outing and another, it’s important to rest and recharge after a busy day. While many hotels are located downtown, they are often far from the large natural and botanical parks in the East Memphis area. The Vitality Hotel, however, is situated in a prime location between both areas: less than 20 minutes from downtown, 18 minutes from Shelby Farms Park, and just 10 minutes from the city’s most famous botanical garden.
Visit our page for available rooms, choose the one that best suits your needs, and book your stay at Memphis Vitality Hotel today!
In this post
- What are the best walking tours to take in Memphis?
- What are the best trails and excursions to explore in Memphis?
- Choose the right hotel in Memphis for hiking lovers
What are the best walking tours to take in Memphis?
Let’s start with the walking tours that uncover the fascinating stories of this river city and its people.
There are various types of tours you can take, either on your own or with a private guide who will organize the itinerary step by step. Below, we describe the best walks to explore Memphis’ most iconic places.
If you’re interested in experiencing delicious Southern cuisine or discovering the best family-friendly activities in Memphis, check out our in-depth guides on these topics.
Memphis Downtown walking tour
The “Downtown” area of Memphis is undoubtedly the oldest: a lively neighborhood brimming with culture and history. We recommend starting with the most important attractions in the area, such as the Fire House Museum, where you can learn about the city’s fire-fighting history.
Nearby, you’ll find the Calvary Episcopal Church, an architectural gem that’s a must-see. For law enthusiasts, a stop at the historic Burch, Porter & Johnson law firm, which has been a staple in Memphis for many years, would be fascinating. Other notable spots for history buffs include the Memphis Cotton Museum and the Belz Museum of Asian & Judaic Art.
Memphis Blues Walking Tour
For music fans, Memphis is a must-see destination.
Its beauty has inspired musicians from all over the world, and many have left their mark on the city’s streets. The most prominent genre is soul blues, and there are many places that tell the story of Memphis blues, both past, present, and future.
Some key stops include:
- WC Handy House Museum. Dedicated to the father of blues, after whom the genre is named;
- Old Daisy Theatre. A venue where blues legends, including the first Jud Band, performed;
- Beale Street. The heart of Memphis blues, filled with souvenir shops and music-themed bars;
- Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Dive into the roots of rock and soul music, both influenced heavily by blues;
- Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Honoring the city’s vast musical heritage and the musicians who passed through.
To learn more about live music venues in Memphis, take a look at our dedicated guide. Don’t forget that the city hosts a wide variety of themed festivals and holiday events throughout the year.
Elvis Presley Walking Tour
Staying on the music theme, it’s impossible to skip a tour of key Elvis Presley sites, a true icon of the city. To celebrate the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, start in the Lauderdale Courts neighborhood where Elvis lived with his family in the early ’50s, before becoming a worldwide superstar.
Next, visit Memphis Music Records Tapes, a record store where you can listen to some of Elvis’ most famous songs and immerse yourself in his art. Another important stop is the Sun Studios, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, where Elvis recorded his first songs that catapulted him to fame. And, of course, no Elvis tour is complete without a visit to Graceland, where he later lived and which remained his home for many years.
What are the best trails and excursions to explore in Memphis?
In addition to the history and culture Memphis offers visitors, the city boasts breathtaking views, expansive parks, and hidden spots and gems to escape into nature. There are many excursions to enjoy, and here are a few highlights.
Tour De Wolf Trail
This 5.6-mile trail is perfect for both families and couples who love nature. The route takes you through the trees of Shelby Farms Park, an open space for hikers, dogs, trail runners, and more. The trail forms a fun loop through the remnants of an old farm, offering views of flowers, century-old trees, and beautiful natural landscapes.
Stanky Creek
For the more adventurous, the 9-mile trail through Nesbit Park, a suburban forest, offers an exciting experience. “The best way to explore the area is by mountain bike. The trail winds through dense woods and crosses several bridges that link both sides of the creek. Along the way, you can stop at the BMX Park in Stanky Creek. There, you might catch expert riders performing tricks and jumps on the ramps.
Big River Crossing
One of the best views of Memphis comes from the Big River Crossing trail. This path begins at the top of the river bluffs. It takes visitors across the historic Harahan Bridge and leads to a pedestrian trail along the Mississippi River. The best time for this excursion is at dawn or sunset. During these moments, the sky’s colors reflect beautifully off the river below.
Lucius Birch Natural Area
The Lucius Birch Natural Area connects to the Wolf River Trails. A charming bridge crosses the Wolf River just beyond the yellow trail, linking the two areas. This part of the park features a paved path. Despite that, it offers a unique hiking experience—especially in the fall, when the colorful foliage enhances the scenery. The trail then moves along Wolf River Boulevard, where you’ll pass by ponds and scenic viewpoints overlooking the river.
Overton Park
Finally, you can take a walk along the Old Forest Loop to explore a forest that hosts over 330 plant species and 166 bird species. Along the trail, visitors can discover remnants of old gardens and monuments, showcasing Memphis’ historical past.
The park is also home to the Memphis Zoo, one of the city’s most popular attractions for families with children.
Live your adventure through the best scenic walking tours and trails in Memphis:
choose the right hotel in Memphis for hiking lovers
To fully enjoy Memphis in all its historical, musical, and natural beauty, it’s essential to find a hotel with a strategic location.
The Memphis Vitality Hotel is located in East Memphis, just minutes from downtown and the most significant green areas for hiking. Discover all the options that the Vitality Hotel can offer for a relaxing and comfortable stay. Contact us for more information or book a room directly on our website!