Experience · Memphis
Memphis Soul & River Views Afternoon
Immerse yourself in the rich history of American soul music at the Stax Museum, then savor classic Memphis fried chicken for lunch. Conclude your afternoon with serene views of the Mississippi River from Tom Lee Park, reflecting on the city's unique cultural tapestry.
A 4-hour Memphis afternoon plan for friends — Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Tom Lee Park.
- Duration
- 4 hrs
- Cost
- $25–$50
- Stops
- 3 stops
- Area
- Downtown Memphis + 1 more
- Walking
- Light walking · Total 4.5-mile driving route
- Best time
- 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Ideal for
- Friends · Solo · Couples
The plan
The plan
- 1Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken(1 hr)→
- 2Stax Museum of American Soul Music(1 hr 30 min)→
- 3Tom Lee Park(45 min)
Why this plan works
The 3 stops cover about 4.5 miles total, which keeps you in one pocket of Memphis instead of crossing town between them. Stax Museum of American Soul Music is the main event and takes the biggest block of time; the other stops are built around it. It finishes at Tom Lee Park — a short, low-effort stop you can skip if you're ready to call it. Best suited to friends, solo, and couples who want a planned Memphis outing without improvising between stops.
The story
Overview
Immerse yourself in the rich history of American soul music at the Stax Museum, then savor classic Memphis fried chicken for lunch. Conclude your afternoon with serene views of the Mississippi River from Tom Lee Park, reflecting on the city's unique cultural tapestry.
The itinerary
3 stops, one great day
- 11 hrGus's World Famous Fried Chicken
Food & Drink · Downtown Memphis
Long-running chain serving spicy fried chicken & comfort sides in a low-key setting.
What to do — Grab a table and order their signature fried chicken, known for its crispy, spicy coating and tender meat. Don't forget the classic sides like baked beans or coleslaw.
Book it · Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
Welcome to Memphis: Private Downtown Orientation Walk5.0 (1)1 hrFrom $850.2 mi away
Check availability
Premium Elvis Experience: City Tour with Graceland Tickets5.0 (61)7 hrFrom $4800.2 mi away
Check availability
2.2 mi · 8 min drive
Then Drive south about 10 minutes to the Stax Museum.
21h 30mStax Museum of American Soul MusicArts & Culture · South Memphis
A replica recording studio & rotating exhibits tell the story of Stax Records & soul music.
What to do — Spend time discovering the artifacts, instruments, and interactive displays that capture the essence of soul music history. Don't miss the Soul Train-style dance floor.
Scout Side QuestBrowse the exhibits and each pick out the album cover or stage outfit that best matches your date's vibe.
Book it · Stax Museum of American Soul Music
2.3 mi · 8 min drive
Then Head northwest for about 10-15 minutes to Tom Lee Park on the riverfront.
3Optional 45 minTom Lee ParkOutdoors · Downtown Memphis
30-acre city park offering a riverside walking path, benches & a memorial monument.
What to do — Walk along the pathway, find a bench to relax on, and watch the river flow by. It’s a perfect spot for reflection or a scenic photo opportunity.
Scout Side QuestFind a spot by the water and agree on the single best soundtrack song for watching the river right now.
Book it · Tom Lee Park
Elvis Presley Birthplace Park in Tupelo with Transport from Memphis4.8 (136)7 hrFrom $2150.4 mi away
Check availability
2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour5.0 (191)2.5 hrFrom $880.4 mi away
Check availability
Scout Stories
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The route
On the map
Common questions
Planning this outing
- Is this a good Memphis itinerary for friends?
- Yes. It's built for friends, solo, and couples and runs about 4 hrs across 3 stops, starting at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken.
- How long does this outing take?
- Plan on 4 hrs door to door, including time between stops.
- How much does this Memphis itinerary cost?
- Roughly $25–$50 per person, before parking and tips. Free and low-cost stops are marked on each card.
- Is this itinerary walkable?
- Not entirely. The stops cover about 4.5 miles, so you'll drive or rideshare between at least one pair.
- Do I need reservations?
- No. Every stop on this plan takes walk-ins, though weekends move faster if you arrive early.
Keep exploring
More ways to spend time in Memphis
Different moods, same city.
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- Duration
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- Cost
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- Ideal for
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- Duration
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- Cost
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- Duration
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- Cost
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- Ideal for
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- Duration
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- Cost
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- Ideal for
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- Duration
- 3h 30m
- Cost
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- Ideal for
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Food & DrinkMemphisDowntown Blues & Bites DateStart your romantic evening with an appetizer and a cocktail at a trendy downtown eatery, setting a sophisticated tone. Then, immerse yourselves in the soulful sounds of live blues music, followed by an elegant dinner of refined Southern-influenced Italian cuisine.
- Duration
- 4 hrs
- Cost
- $100–$200
- Ideal for
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