There is an abundance of free things to do in Memphis and the Mid-South. Here are some of the best freebies our city has to offer.
1. A. Schwab's
A. Schwab's is a dry goods store located at 163 Beale Street. The oldest surviving business on
Beale, Schwab's has not changed much since it opened in 1876. Creaking hardwood floors and
nickel candy are just part of its charm. An eclectic variety of goods such as voodoo
accouterments, underwear, walking sticks, and souvenirs plus a museum upstairs, make A. Schwab's
one of Memphis' best free destinations. The store's hours are Monday - Saturday, 9:00 a.m. -
5:00 p.m.Each day at 11:00 a.m. a procession of mallard ducks makes its way from the roof of the Peabody Hotel down to the Grand Lobby. Once there, a red carpet is rolled out and John Philip Sousa's
King Cotton March begins to play. The ducks then march into the ornate fountain in the
center of the lobby. At 5:00 p.m., the ceremony is reversed when the ducks return to their
rooftop home. Though this may sound like an odd ritual, it has been a Memphis tradition since
the 1930's.
Elmwood Cemetery is Memphis' oldest active cemetery and is abundant with Memphis history. Its
residents include Confederate and Union generals, mayors, governors, madames, outlaws, and
spies. Additionally, the grounds of Elmwood are adorned with tombstones that are crumbling and
moss-covered and tombstones that are gothic and breathtaking. The cemetery is open daily from
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
The South Main Historic District in Downtown Memphis is a great place to spend an afternoon or
evening. Park your car so that you can walk through the district and stop in at its many
boutiques, art galleries, and unique eateries. If you would rather not walk, there is a free
trolley tour of the district on the last Friday of every month from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Most of us long-time Memphians have come to take the Mighty Mississippi for granted. But the
river is magnificent and a great place to visit for a walk, a picnic, or just some relaxation.
The grassy banks, bumpy cobblestones, and paved walkways of the riverside can accommodate a
variety of activities. For a romantic outing, take a moonlit stroll. Always remember to use
caution when nearing the water's edge.
Memorial Park is located at 5668 Poplar Avenue in Memphis. Nestled within this neatly manicured
cemetery is the Crystal Shrine Grotto. The grotto, or cave, contains three dimensional scenes
depicting the life of Jesus Christ. Regardless of your religious beliefs, you will likely
appreciate the amazing artwork in the grotto.
The Art Museum of The University of Memphis is one of the city's hidden cultural treasures. The
museum features both permanent exhibits and revolving temporary exhibits. Some of the permanent
collections include the Egyptian Antiquities collection, the Works on Paper collection, and the
African collection. The museum is open Monday - Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The museum is
closed during university holidays and between temporary exhibits. These dates can be found on
their website.
The Wolf River Nature Area is another one of Memphis' lesser-known gems. The nature area is
located on Wolf River Boulevard, just off of Germantown Road. It features tree-lined walking
trails, nature stations such as Turtle Bayou, meadows, butterfly gardens, and information on
wildlife conservation. The Wolf River Nature Area is usually fairly secluded and is a great
place to exercise, to reflect, or to learn.
No, Graceland has not done away with its admission fees. However, one of the most popular parts
of Graceland is, and will always be, free. That famous entrance adorned with musical notes and
the outlines of Elvis are the destination of many fans. If you aren't interested in the mansion
tour or don't want to pay the fees, just head down Elvis Presley Boulevard and have your picture
made in front of those renowned gates.
Several Memphis area attractions offer free admission on certain days of the week. Take
advantage of these free days and visit The National Civil Rights Museum, The Memphis Zoo, The
Brooks Museum of Art, and other popular destinations.
