Occupying a spacious location in the southwestern of Tennessee, Memphis is the state’s largest city and much like neighbouring Nashville, is a destination with a reputation built on music. Though Nashville’s country-music scene has earned it the reputation of Tennessee’s musical capital, Memphis is probably more deserving of the title having been responsible for the birth of genres such as blues, rock 'n' roll, and soul.

Not surprisingly, musically themed attractions dominate Memphis and for many visitors the highlight of the city is Graceland, the former home of the legendary Elvis Presley. Sun Studio, at which Elvis made many recordings, is also an essential stop for diehard fans of the "king" as well as for visitors with an interest in other greats of the US music scene that recorded here.

Beale Street has long been a focal part of the Memphis musical arena and continues to provide the city with live music and an environment that appeals to anyone with an ear for reputable sounds. The Stax Museum and the Rock ‘n’ Soul museum consolidate Memphis’ place as one of America’s greatest producers of black music.

It’s not all about the music, however, and visitors looking for other aspects of Tennessee culture will find plenty of venues to suit. Family visitors and those who enjoy sporting and outdoor pursuits will also find the city capable of providing for their needs.

With the fantastic cuisine of Tennessee behind it, Memphis has an excellent restaurant scene, though visitors wanting to sample the food of other countries will find plenty of venues catering to their tastes too. Should exercising your credit card or lightening your wallet be a favourite activity, then Memphis’ wide selection of shopping malls and select retail strips and avenues are sure to please.

Getting to Memphis is straightforward. The city’s major airport providing the principle gateway for many visitors. Once in the city, trams and buses make light work of getting to and from the most popular attractions and between hotels and restaurants. With car hire agencies at the airport and in the city, renting a vehicle for the duration of your stay is also a viable and convenient option.

Memphis caters well to its visiting population in terms of hotel options, providing a wide range of establishments with everything from budget motels to high-class hotels available. Visitors looking for the standards of international chains will find hotels operated by Hilton, Holiday Inn and Marriott. Booking online in advance is the best way to get a good deal.

The climate of Memphis is characterised by four seasons, each of which features its own distinct weather patterns. Summers are typically hot and winters typically cold while spring and autumn are transitional as regards to temperatures. Rainfall is considerable but tends to fall in short storms.

Summer begins at the end of May and lasts until September, but the weather is pleasant from April through October so visiting is possible at any time during this period. At the height of summer (July and August), temperatures can reach the mid-30s (°C) and humidity levels are high due to to city’s location in relation to the Gulf of Mexico. The beginning and the end of the summer season are the best times to visit temperature-wise if you are not well accustomed to extreme heat.

Winter holidays in Memphis are possible, but sub-zero temperatures and snow can make sightseeing uncomfortable so it makes sense to schedule a trip during another season.