Overton Square –
Overton Square, located in the heart of Memphis, is a vibrant and historic entertainment district known for its mix of restaurants, bars, theaters and shops. This cultural hub hosts a variety of live performances, including theater productions, concerts and comedy shows. Along with all of these aspects, Overton Square may be acknowledged by some for its aesthetic scenery such as eye-catching statues. The layout of the square allows for quick traversal to different entertainment, with lounging areas embedded in between.
“I love going [to Overton Square],” Brock said. “Everything is in an open area, [has] great scenery, [and is] really enjoyable.”
River Boat Rides –
River boat rides offer a delightful experience to some Memphians and tourists alike along the ‘mighty’ Mississippi River. Passengers observe scenic views of the city skyline, historic landmarks and the natural riverbanks. These cruises often feature live music, narrated tours about the region’s extensive history and a chance to unwind while immersing in the nature of the river. The dinner boat rides offer a unique experience compared to the regular river rides, combining the river scenery with a dining experience afloat.
“I loved going on the boat rides growing up,” Remington Brock (10) said. “I would always go with my Dad, just for a great time, and sometimes we would do the beautiful dinner cruises.”
Beale Street –
Known as the “Home of the Blues,” Beale Street is an iconic entertainment spot with active clubs, live performances and a buzzing atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tunes of talented musicians, savor Southern cuisine in cozy restaurants and explore a variety of shops and boutiques. Beale Street offers a taste of Memphis’s musical legacy entailing Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Three Six Mafia, and other artists emerging from the musical district of Memphis.
“[I would tell people about] Beale Street because of its [representation] of the diversity in Memphis, it has the music, it has everything,” Brock said.
Crosstown Concourse-
Crosstown Concourse has been transformed into a thriving cultural and community hub. Once a Sears warehouse, the historic Crosstown building has been reimagined as a multi-use space, housing Crosstown High School, a variety of businesses, apartments and artistic venues. The renovations have created a unique blend of art galleries, shops, restaurants and health care facilities all within the same building. Crosstown fosters a sense of community and creativity, inspiring anyone who decides to visit.
“Crosstown is literally the perfect place to hangout with your friends,” Jaiden Goodman (12) said. “There are so many shops and restaurants to visit with lots of space to just chill.”
Civil Rights Museum –
The National Civil Rights Museum is a testament to the struggle for civil rights in the United States. Housed in the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968, the museum highlights the history of the civil rights movement from slavery to present day. Through exhibits, multimedia displays and firsthand accounts, visitors gain insights into the challenges faced by African Americans and other marginalized communities.
“The [Civil Rights Museum] is a really great place that I recommend people should visit,” Lea Walker (12) said. “It’s very educational, an eye opening and humbling experience.”
