Long Read

What is Memphis Famous For? Icons, History, and Legends (From a Drunken Researcher's Notebook)

@Julian Moss2/8/2026blog
What is Memphis Famous For? Icons, History, and Legends (From a Drunken Researcher's Notebook)

memphis, tennessee - the city of blues, barbecue, and more blues. so, what is memphis famous for? well, i've been researchin' for weeks (okay, maybe just a few nights) and here's what i've come up with. if you're lookin' for some down-home advice, grab a whiskey on the rocks and keep readin'...


*barbecue : let's get the most important stuff out of the way. memphis is all about the 'cue. and not just any 'cue - we're talkin' dry-rubbed ribs, tangy pulled pork, and sides that'll make your taste buds do the two-step.

see what other travelers think of south drive barbecue on tripadvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g49273-d3882359-Reviews-South_Drive_Barbecue-Memphis_Tennessee.html

people walking in middle of road in between establishments at night time


sun Studio : now, i know what you're thinkin' - sun studio is just a famous recording studio. but trust me, it's more than that. this is where elvis, sam phillips, and all sorts of other music legends cut their teeth. and if you listen closely, you can still hear the echoes of rock 'n' roll history.

something a local warned me about: sun studio is a must-visit, but be prepared for crowds and lines. especially if you're not lookin' to spend a small fortune on a tour.

see what other travelers think of sun studio on tripadvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g49273-d234394-Reviews-Sun_Studio-Memphis_Tennessee.html


beale street : this place is like nothin' you've ever seen before. it's like a mix of honky-tonk and carnival, all rolled into one. and if you're lookin' for some good eatin', beale street's got you covered. just don't forget to bring your wallet.

overheard gossip: 'beale street is like the wild west of memphis. just don't go thinkin' you can take the law into your own hands.' - anonymous local

see what other travelers think of beale street on yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/beale-street-memphis-5

white memphis decor


so, that's my take on what memphis is famous for. of course, there's a whole lot more to this city than just barbecue, blues, and beale street. but if you're lookin' for a good place to start, i reckon this is a good place to begin.

the cost of livin' in memphis: here are some rough estimates of what you can expect to pay for rent, food, and other expenses.

categoryestimated monthly cost*
studio apartment$600-$800
1-bedroom apartment$800-$1,000
1-bedroom house$1,000-$1,200
food (avg. meal)$10-$15
transportation (parking)$100-$200
utility bills (avg.)$100-$150

see more costs of livin' in memphis on wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memphis,_Tennessee#Cost_of_living


You might also be interested in:

About the author: Julian Moss

Unapologetically enthusiastic about niche topics.

Loading discussion...