The Historic Lorraine Motel: A Symbol of Civil Rights
Explore the Lorraine Motel, a pivotal historical site in Memphis, where the legacy of the civil rights movement is preserved and honored.
A brief summary to Lorraine Motel
- 450 Mulberry St St, Memphis, South Forum, Tennessee, 38103, US
- +1901-521-9699
The Lorraine Motel, located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, is a historic landmark that resonates deeply with the legacy of the civil rights movement in the United States. Once a modest lodging establishment, it became a site of immense historical significance when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated here in 1968. Today, it houses the National Civil Rights Museum, which preserves the memory of King and the broader fight for equality. Visitors are invited to explore the profound narratives captured within the museum's walls, offering insights into the struggles faced by African Americans and the relentless pursuit of justice. The museum features extensive exhibits that cover significant milestones in the civil rights movement, from the early struggles of African Americans to the landmark legislation that sought to ensure equality. Each exhibit is thoughtfully curated to engage visitors and encourage reflection on the social issues that continue to affect society today. The museum also includes the original motel rooms, providing a haunting yet essential context to the events that transpired here. In addition to its historical significance, the Lorraine Motel serves as a gathering place for discussions on civil rights, social justice, and community engagement. It stands as a reminder of the work that remains to be done in achieving true equality for all. For tourists visiting Memphis, a trip to the Lorraine Motel is not just an educational experience; it is a pilgrimage to a site that has shaped the narrative of American history and continues to inspire change.
Local tips
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially on weekends.
- Allocate at least two to three hours to fully appreciate all the exhibits.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the history and impact of the civil rights movement.
- Check the museum's website for any special exhibits or events during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in Downtown Memphis, start at the iconic Beale Street. Head east on Beale Street towards 4th Street. Turn left onto 4th Street and walk north until you reach the intersection with Union Avenue. Turn right onto Union Avenue and continue walking until you reach the intersection with Mulberry Street. Turn left onto Mulberry Street, and you will find the Lorraine Motel at 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103.
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Public Transit - Bus
Locate the nearest MATA bus stop in Downtown Memphis. You can catch bus number 40 - 'East Memphis' or number 2 - 'Main Street'. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the times. If you board the number 40 bus, ride until you reach the stop at 'Main and Mulberry'. From there, walk west on Mulberry Street for about two blocks, and you will arrive at the Lorraine Motel at 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103. If you take the number 2 bus, ride it to the stop at 'Mulberry and 4th', then walk south on Mulberry Street for a short distance to reach the motel.
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Bicycle
If you have a bicycle, start from the Mississippi River Park. Head northwest along the riverfront until you reach the intersection at Riverside Drive and Beale Street. Continue east on Beale Street until you reach 4th Street, then turn left onto 4th Street and ride north to Union Avenue. Take a right on Union Avenue and ride until you get to Mulberry Street. Turn left onto Mulberry Street and bike a short distance to the Lorraine Motel located at 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103.
Attractions Nearby to Lorraine Motel
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National Civil Rights Museum
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Blues Hall of Fame Museum
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Letter Carriers Band Mural
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Memphis Railroad & Trolley Museum
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Mempho Presents : SmokeSlam - The Ultimate BBQ Showdown
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Tom Lee Park
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African Americans from Memphis
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Vance Park
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MLK Reflection Park
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Mempho Presents : RiverBeat Music Festival
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I AM A MAN Plaza
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Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum
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Orpheum Theatre
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プレスリー像
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Beale Street Landing
Landmarks nearby to Lorraine Motel
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I am a Man Mural
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1866 Memphis Historic Marker
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The Arcade Restaurant
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Old Dominick Distillery
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Schools for Freedmen Historical Marker
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A. Schwab
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Memphis Mojo Tour
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Ida B. Wells Marker
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Tastin' Round Town Food Tours
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Memphis Tourism
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The Cotton Museum at the Memphis Cotton Exchange
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The Cadre Building
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Memphis Suffrage Monument