Practical Tips & Hacks: Memphis

Money-Saving Strategies

Exploring Memphis can be light on your wallet with these strategies:

Discount Cards & Passes

The Memphis Heritage Pass presents bundled tickets to top attractions.
Explore if a pass aligns with your itinerary for greater value.
Check for special promotions or off-season discounts.
Bundled tickets present value for multiple site visits.

Free Activities & Attractions

Enjoy Beale Street during the day without a cover charge.
Walk along the Mississippi Riverwalk for scenic views.
Overton Park and Shelby Farms Park feature green spaces.
Cross the Big River Crossing for panoramic city vistas.

Dining & Happy Hour Deals

Seek out happy hour specials at local restaurants and bars.
Many establishments feature discounted drinks and appetizers.
Lunch menus generally present more affordable choices than dinner.
Look for local coupons or daily specials online.

Smart Transportation

Utilize MATA buses and trolleys for downtown exploration.
A MATA day pass presents value for multiple rides.
Walk extensively in downtown's pedestrian-friendly areas.
Consider a car rental only for extensive day trips beyond the city.

Accommodation Alternatives

Beyond traditional hotels, other lodging choices can enhance your stay:

B&Bs & Hostels

Explore Bed & Breakfasts for an unique stay.
Hostels suit solo travelers seeking community.
Often these options deliver better value than traditional hotels.
Discover local charm in more intimate settings.

Vacation Rentals

Platforms like Airbnb present apartment or home rentals.
These frequently include kitchen facilities.
Prepare some meals to save on dining costs.
Enjoy more space for longer stays or groups.

Budget-Friendly Hotels

Research hotels outside the immediate downtown area.
Often lower rates are available a short distance away.
Look for hotels offering complimentary breakfast.
Check for loyalty program discounts and special offers.

Travel Reward Cards

Use a travel rewards credit card for bookings.
Earn points or miles on your expenditures.
Redeem points for flights or accommodation discounts.
Example: Capital One Travel.

Smart Packing

Thoughtful packing prepares you for Memphis exploration:

Snacks & Hydration

Pack snacks to reduce reliance on impromptu purchases.
A reusable water bottle supports hydration.
Refill your bottle at public water fountains.
Avoid spending on drinks while exploring.

Travel Gear

Consider travel organization products for efficiency.
Look for reliable brands like Eagle Creek.
Compression cubes maximize luggage space.
A comfortable daypack supports daily excursions.

Local Phrases

Learn a few local phrases or colloquialisms.
A language app like Babbel can introduce you to Southern speech.
Connect with locals through familiar expressions.

Digital Security

Use a VPN for secure public Wi-Fi.
A service like NordVPN protects your data.
Access geo-restricted content if desired.
Protect your personal information while traveling.

Saving Advice for Memphis

Further tips to economize during your Memphis trip:

Meal Preparation

Purchase groceries from local markets.
Prepare some meals at your accommodation.
This strategy significantly cuts food costs.
Enjoy flexibility with your dining schedule.

Free Entertainment

Look for free concerts or events in local parks.
Many venues feature open mic nights without a cover.
Enjoy street performers on Beale Street during the day.
Visit galleries and public art installations for free.

Walking Exploration

Explore downtown and historic neighborhoods on foot.
Discover hidden gems and local architecture.
Walking is the prime way to absorb city atmosphere.
Reduce transportation expenses while staying active.

Maximize Rewards

Check for travel points or cashback opportunities.
Use credit cards with travel benefits strategically.
Accumulate rewards for future trips.
Travel more for less with smart spending.

Smart Tip

Pack snacks and a reusable water bottle. This saves money on drinks and quick bites while out exploring.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficient planning frames your Memphis experience, avoiding unnecessary waits.

Strategic Timing

Plan visits to popular sites for off-peak hours.

Pre-Book Entry

Secure tickets online for major attractions in advance.

Efficient Routes

Group geographically close attractions for smoother travel.

Streamlined Exploration

Skip-the-Line Options

Purchase tickets for Graceland online in advance.
Bypass ticket lines at the National Civil Rights Museum.
Secure Sun Studio entry ahead of time for direct access.

Optimal Visit Times

Visit popular sites early morning or late afternoon.
Weekdays generally see fewer crowds than weekends.
Avoid major festivals like Elvis Week for crowd-free exploration.

Routing Advice

Start your sightseeing early in the morning. Popular attractions welcome fewer crowds.

Practical Tips & Hacks