Highlights of the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum's permanent collection include several Elvis costumes, B.B. King's guitar (affectionately called "Lucille" by the legendary musician), and Dick Clark's American Bandstand podium. The museum also offers special temporary exhibits. The museum is available for private parties and events.
Minglewood Hall is a versatile venue that plays host to almost all kinds of events. Set in a former bread factory, this is one of the major event venues in the city. Complete with state-of-the-art equipment, this hall makes a great venue for gigs, corporate functions and even private celebrations. Most commonly used for concerts and stage shows, this space is good for catching a well-scripted play as well.
Golf & Games Family Park offers fun for kids of all ages. There is miniature golf, of course, but you can also try your luck at the batting cages, in the go-karts or at a game of laser tag. For the kids, there is the fun track for young drivers, plus bumper boats and a host of age-appropriate rides. In business in Memphis for 35 years, this park specializes in group outings such as company picnics. The private area includes pavilions, volleyball and softball fields, a driving range, a nature trail and a swimming pool.
Malco Summer Drive-In adds a splash of nostalgia to your next trip to the movies. This old-fashioned theater allows you to watch new releases on the big screen from the comfort of your car. Enjoy reasonably priced concessions here or bring your own from home. Each screening is a double feature, giving you even more bang for your buck!
Right in the heart of Downtown Memphis lies the legendary Beale Street. Ever since its inception in 1841, Beale Street has always been a major locus of commerce in the city. As the years progressed and the street and the area around it built up, the street snowballed into a thriving commonplace for travelling African-American musicians to perform. With the advent of the Orpheum Theater and the Church Park, nightclubs, restaurants and shops began to brim the area. Through the early 20th Century, legendary musicians like Louis Armstrong, Muddy Waters and BB King performed on Beale Street and developed the Memphis Blues sound. Today, Beale Street is a major attraction in the city of Memphis, with legendary blues clubs, restaurants and shops that have been around almost as long as the street itself. Come evening, the street and its many lanes are illuminated by myriad neon-signboards of bars and restaurants which merrily beckon tourists and locals alike. The street is also known for hosting the grand Memphis in May International Festival and the Beale Street Music Festival every year.
For an educational outing and a dose of local culture, visit the Mississippi River Museum. The exhibits here cover 10,000 years of history of the Lower Mississippi River, making for a unique mix of exhibits. Artifacts shown range from Native American tools and pottery to Victorian furniture and 20th Century instruments. It's a great field trip destination and a place that visitors to Memphis must go to in order to learn about the rich heritage of the area.