Memphis City Guide

Try Memphis-style barbecue, fried chicken, and soul food. You’ll find Mexican, Asian, and Mediterranean options too. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing. Late night food is available, especially near entertainment areas.

Beale Street leads with live blues music and bars. Other neighborhoods have breweries, cocktail bars, and music venues.

The coffee scene is developing with local cafes and some specialty roasters.

Tipping is expected in restaurants and service industries. 15-20% is standard for good service.

You can buy SIM cards at AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile stores. eSIMs are supported by major carriers. No ID needed for prepaid cards, but contracts require ID.

Cleanliness varies by area; downtown and tourist spots tend to be well-kept.

Some pharmacies and convenience stores operate 24/7. Late-night food options exist, mainly fast food and some diners. Emergency rooms are always open.

Large supermarkets offer international products; specialty stores cover specific cuisines. Kroger, Walmart, and Publix are main chains open about 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM.

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but cash helps at smaller vendors and markets.

ATMs are easy to find at banks, convenience stores, and malls. Out-of-network withdrawals can cost $2.50 to $5.00 per use.

Memphis University School and St. Mary's Episcopal are notable local schools. Instruction is mainly in English. International schools are rare.

The nomad community is small but growing. Coworking spaces and cafes offer places to connect. Meetups are less frequent.

Shelby Farms Park and Overton Park provide large green spaces for outdoor time and running.

Popular running spots include Shelby Farms Greenline and Mississippi River Greenbelt. Safety is good in parks and well-lit areas.

Several gyms and fitness centers offer a range of classes and equipment.

Public parks and private clubs have tennis courts. Booking is usually needed.

Padel courts are not common in Memphis.

Several yoga studios offer various styles and drop-in classes.

Many gyms offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing, karate, and taekwondo with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing available nearby.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are available on calmer lakes and rivers, not on the strong Mississippi River currents.

No surfing due to inland location.

No diving or snorkeling options.

Hospitals like Methodist Le Bonheur and Baptist Memorial have English-speaking staff. Healthcare is quality but costly without insurance. Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS have OTC meds and some offer drive-thru.

Tap water meets federal and state standards and is safe to drink.

There are playgrounds in Shelby Farms and Overton Park. Kid-friendly restaurants and baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include the Memphis Zoo and Children's Museum.

Memphis is mostly accepting with annual Pride events and city protections.

You’ll find dog parks, vets, and pet stores. Many hotels and some restaurants allow pets.