Memphis just earned another spot on the global stage, and this time, itâs courtesy of Lonely Planet, one of the worldâs most trusted travel voices.
In their brand-new guide, The Top Things to Do in North America, Lonely Planet highlights 25 canât-miss experiences across the continent. From Canadaâs Banff National Park to the Grand Canyon to Central Park in New York, the list reads like a bucket list for adventurers around the world. And nestled right there alongside these global icons? THE Memphis, Tennessee.
Memphis: The Home of the Blues, Still Shining Bright
Lonely Planet spotlights our city as the place to âvisit the home of blues.â
They name-drop Beale Street, Sun Studio, and Graceland, reminding the world that Memphis is ground zero for American rock and roll, the place where Sam Phillips recorded legends like Howlinâ Wolf, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, and of course, Elvis Presley.
Why This Matters for Memphis
Being listed alongside world-renowned destinations like Quebec City, Glacier National Park, and Mexicoâs Isla Contoy is no small feat. Itâs a reminder that Memphis is a must-see cultural capital of North America.
For travelers, it means Memphis is officially stamped as one of the âcanât missâ experiences on the continent. For us locals, itâs another reason to be proud of the community that keeps our creative and cultural legacy alive.
Experience the Magic Right Here at Home
Lonely Planet recommends visitors start at Sun Studio, then hop on the free shuttle between Sun, Beale, and Graceland. But if youâre local, you already know the story goes deeper:
đ¶ Catch live music on Beale Street any night of the week.
đ¶ Stop by the Memphis Rock ânâ Soul Museum for context on how gospel, country, and soul shaped the sound of the world.
đ¶ Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and see where soul legends made history.
đ¶ Swing by the Overton Park Shell, where Elvis played his first show.
The World is Watching Memphis
When Lonely Planet says Memphis is a top thing to do in North America, itâs another affirmation that our city belongs on itineraries right next to the Grand Canyon and Banff.
So whether youâve lived here all your life or youâre new to the Bluff City, take this as your cue to soak it all in: walk down Beale, step inside Sun Studio, and let the sounds of Memphis remind you why the world keeps tuning in.
Because when the world asks âWhere should we go next?â, the answer is simple: Choose901. Choose Memphis.
đ Want to plan your own âLonely Planet-approvedâ Memphis experience? Start with our Choose901 event calendar for local shows, food fests, and everything happening in the 901.
