An aerial view of Memphis, TN. Image by benkrut/Depositphotos

The state of Tennessee is widely considered the Music Capital of the United States, and the city of Memphis is at the heart of it all. This vibrant city on the banks of the Mississippi River is full of musical heritage and history, and any music lover visiting Memphis must make these three stops.

Graceland

Elvis Presley is one of the most famous musicians in the history of the world, and his opulent mansion in which he resided before his untimely 1977 death is a must-see for anyone interested in The King.

Address: 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard
Hours: 9 am-5 pm Monday to Saturday, 9 am-4 pm Sunday

Sun Studios

Sun Studios is considered one of the founding pioneers in rock and country music and was the recording studio where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison got their stars. Now, you can tour the building and see its collection of musical artifacts.

Address: 706 Union Ave
Hours: 10 am-6 pm, Monday to Sunday

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Soul music is also an important part of Memphis’s musical heritage, and it’s all on display at the Stax Museum. Here, you’ll find a collection of video archives, musical pieces, and history related to American soul in a building that was once the home of Stax, arguably the genre’s most important label.

Address: 926 E. McLemore Ave
Hours: 10 am- 5 pm Tuesday to Sunday, closed Monday