## Memphis Minus GracelandLike most New Yorkers who have never been to the Statue of Liberty, most Memphians have never been to Graceland. In fact, most probably aren’t really sure where it is, outside of that it’s on the south end of town in a bad neighborhood. Don’t get me wrong, you should go. But there are a million-and-one articles on Graceland, and Memphis has a lot more to offer.The Bluff City is a great party town, kind of like a milder version of New Orleans. Both share the Southern Mississippi River culture.Memphis is the youngest of Tennessee’s major cities, founded in 1819 as a planned city by a group of wealthy Americans including future president Andrew Jackson. Its river spot, high-trade status meant new ideas and expressions were ingrained into its culture. Not only the music legacy, but also its entire artistic community.Memphians are Memphians first, and only Tennessean by formality. If you don’t know, you should. Memphis is not as safe as Birmingham. Great neighborhoods are right around the corner from bad ones. The best advice- pay attention and don’t be dumb.
**Friday Afternoon** > Grab a drink at The Peabody’s lobby, and try to check out the ducks before they exit the Red Carpet at 5 to their roof-top lodgings. (The roof provides a decent view of the River as well).**Friday Night** > Walk next door and hit the Rendezvous. (You want to sit downstairs in the basement. It’s the original dining area.) Make sure you’re prepared to drink some draft beer, and make sure you start with the Rendezvous Special Plate - an assortment of meats, cheese, peppers, crackers, etc.
**Friday Late Night** > Walk or grab a quick ride to Beale Street. The best advice is to just play it by ear, as far as which places you want to visit.**Saturday Morning** > After you’ve done your best to sleep in, possibly moderately or severely hungover, hit the Majestic Grill www.majesticgrille.com on Main Street, The Arcade www.arcaderestaurant.com on South Main (Memphis’ oldest café), or Tamp and Tap www.tampandtap.com (downtown as well) which is a trendy spot right now.
**After Breakfast** > Head Hurting? Need to relax? If the weather is nice, take some time to see the river. The best spot is the National Ornamental Metal Museum www.metalmuseum.org if you need to veg. If you’re feeling active, Hit Beale Street Landing and Butler Park River Walk. www.memphisriverfront.com**Before Lunch** > Visit the Lorrainne Hotel. www.civilrightsmuseum.org Memphis has done a great job with the national landmark and it can be properly enjoyed in roughly an hour-and-a-half.Lunch > Next door to the Lorraine is Central Bar-BQ. Many Memphians consider this the city’s best.
**After Lunch** > Go to Stax. www.staxmuseum.com Stax is a major link in Memphis’ music legacy, and more economical and easier in-and-out than Graceland. Be sure to visit the record store.WITH THE KIDS: Visit the Memphis Zoo. www.memphiszoo.org Memphis has probably one of the best zoos in the country, with new additions and exhibits frequently being opened. Their next big renovation is the hippo exhibit opening in early May.
