Beale Street: The Heartbeat of Memphis
Experience the vibrant music, culture, and history of Beale Street, Memphis' iconic entertainment district, known for its rich blues heritage and lively atmosphere.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Beale Street, a historic entertainment district in Memphis that pulses with music, food, and culture. Known as the birthplace of blues, Beale Street offers an unforgettable experience for tourists seeking live performances, delicious Southern cuisine, and a lively nightlife scene. Explore its rich history while enjoying the sounds of local musicians and the flavors of iconic restaurants that line the street.
A brief summary to Beale Street Entertainment District
- Beale St, Memphis, Downtown Memphis, Tennessee, 38103, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the evening to experience the full vibrancy of live music and nightlife.
- Check the schedule for special events or festivals that may coincide with your visit.
- Try local specialties like Memphis-style barbecue and soul food at various eateries along the street.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking and dancing the night away.
- Bring cash for tips and small purchases, as not all venues may accept cards.
Getting There
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Public Bus
If you're in Midtown, you can take the MATA bus service. Head to the nearest bus stop and look for the bus route 34 (Midtown) that goes towards Downtown Memphis. The fare is $1.00 (exact change required). After about a 20-30 minute ride, get off at the 'Main Street and Beale' stop, which is a short walk to Beale Street Entertainment District. Follow Main Street south until you reach Beale Street, then turn left to enter the district.
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Bicycle
For a more scenic route, consider renting a bike from one of the bike share stations located throughout Midtown. Head south on the bike lane along Cooper Street or Highland Street towards Downtown. Once you reach Peabody Place, you can take a left and bike straight to Beale Street. This ride should take about 15-20 minutes depending on your speed. Make sure to park your bike at one of the designated bike racks once you arrive.
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Walking
If you're up for a walk, you can reach Beale Street Entertainment District by heading south from Midtown. A popular route is to take Cooper Street south until you hit Union Avenue, then turn left. Continue on Union Avenue until you reach Main Street, then turn right. Walk straight ahead until you reach Beale Street. Depending on your starting point in Midtown, this walk can take approximately 30-40 minutes.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more direct and quick option, you can use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app, set your pickup location in Midtown, and input 'Beale Street, Memphis' as your destination. The fare will vary based on your pickup point but expect to pay around $10-15. The ride typically takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
Discover more about Beale Street Entertainment District
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
A. Schwab
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Schools for Freedmen Historical Marker
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Memphis Mojo Tour
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Ida B. Wells Marker
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Memphis Tourism
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Historic Clayborn Temple
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The Cadre Building
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I am a Man Mural
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The Sterick Building
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Memphis Suffrage Monument
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Lorraine Motel
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Lincoln American Tower
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1866 Memphis Historic Marker
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1862 Post Office Historical Marker
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The Arcade Restaurant
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Unmissable attractions to see
B.B. King's Blues Club
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Memphis Music Hall of Fame
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プレスリー像
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Elvis Statue
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Beale Street “Home of the Blues” Arch
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Tastin' Round Town Food Tours
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Beale St
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MLK Reflection Park
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Handy Park
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Orpheum Theatre
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Backbeat Tours
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Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum
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200 Beale St
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African Americans from Memphis
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Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art
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Essential places to dine
Itta Bena
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Blues City Cafe
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King Jerry Lawler's Hall of Fame Bar & Grille
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King's Palace Cafe
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The Pig On Beale
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Beale Street Tap Room
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Esco Memphis Restaurant & Tapas
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Silky O'Sullivan's
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Rum Boogie Cafe
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The Majestic Grille
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Dyer's Burgers
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Pavilion
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Beale Street Food Court
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Wet Willie's
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Texas de Brazil - Memphis
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
B.B. King's Store
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Blues City General Store
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Memphis Music
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Walking Pants Curiosities
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Beale Sweets Sugar Shack
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Strange Cargo
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Beale Street Gift Shop
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The Peanut Shoppe
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Grizzlies Den
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Shop Girl New York
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Folklore store
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MUSE INSPIRED FASHION
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The Lucky Duck
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Eel Etc. Fashons
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GIR JEWELERS/ GIR COLLECTION
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Band Box
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Club 152
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The Absinthe Room
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Flying Saucer Draught Emporium
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Blues Hall Juke Joint
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Silly Goose
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Patio Bar
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Club Handy
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The Corner Bar at The Peabody Memphis
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Tin Roof
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Blind Bear
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Green Room
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Twelve Bar
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Peoples on Beale
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Belle Tavern
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