Beale St — Attraction in Memphis

When it comes to "Beale Street", the 1991 hit song "Walking in Memphis" (by Marc Cohn) definitely comes to mind. One of the lyrics in the song plays "Then I'm walking in Memphis.. Was walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale.. Walking in Memphis.. But do I really feel the way I feel?" Anyhow, to truly enjoy the full Beale Street experience, you need to visit this place at night, preferably on a Friday or Saturday.

Now many big cities across the United States have their own areas where you can party and drink in public.. Las Vegas, NV (The Strip).. Nashville, TN (Music Row).. New Orleans, LA (Bourbon St).. Austin, TX (Sixth St). So it is only appropriate for the historically musical city of Memphis, TN to have their own offering which is none other than Beale Street. The main area of this heavily walked tourist area stretches 1.8 miles and spans all the way from the Mississippi River and ends at East Street.

Before coming here, there are several words of advice that I recommend. When you park, there isn't anywhere you can actually park for free so I recommend parking in an open lot (roughly 3 blocks close to the Mississippi River) as well as several parking garages that range from $10-$15. Also, the crowd here can be a little on the rougher side so if you're a tourist, I would advise keeping your wallet/purse close to you since there are a ton of people that pickpocket. As long as you walk with a group of people and are street smart, you should be just fine.

Now if you're a huge fan of the blues scene (like myself), this is the place to come. During any weekend night, there are dozens of amazing live musical acts performing all genres of music including blues, soul, jazz, rock, & country. I had the opportunity seeing a live band performing soul hits from the 1970's while there was a 2-girl duo; one was rapping hip-hop while the other was playing a fiddle. One of the places I would highly recommend is B.B. King's Blues Club; keep in mind there is a line to get in as well as a cover charge.

As I mentioned, Beale Street and Memphis in general is a HUGE music city. Many pioneer artists got their start here; B.B. King, Elvis Presley, & Jerry Lee Lewis as well as some of the more current artists; Justin Timberlake & Three 6 Mafia. In addition to the music scene, Beale Street also has a variety of souvenir shops where you can purchase t-shirts, hats, mugs, and all other collectibles representing Beale Street. Mainly a ton of items featuring B.B. King, Elvis Presley, and Memphis. There are quite a few restaurants, dessert shops, and dozens of bars to get your alcohol fix on.

All in all, "Beale Street" is an excellent spot for live music. Don't let the gritty look fool you as sometimes you just have to bypass the beggars and street hagglers. But just to say that I've been there made this experience an above average one. My rating, four...

Beale Street in Memphis is a vibrant and iconic destination that truly embodies the spirit of the city. Known as the "Home of the Blues," this historic street is lined with lively bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the rich musical heritage of Memphis.

The history of Beale Street dates back to its establishment in the early 19th century, when it was laid out in 1841 and named after prominent Memphis attorney and landowner Manuel E. Beale. By the late 1800s, it emerged as a center for African American culture and music during the Great Migration, when many Black Americans moved to cities like Memphis in search of better opportunities. The street became a focal point for the blues genre, with legendary artists like B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Howlin' Wolf performing in its clubs and bars.

In the 1920s and 1930s, Beale Street thrived as a lively nightlife destination, showcasing a mix of jazz, blues, and gospel music. However, mid-20th-century urban renewal projects led to a decline in the music scene, resulting in many businesses closing their doors. Fortunately, revitalization efforts in the 1980s helped restore Beale Street to its former glory, with the city investing in infrastructure and promoting the area as a tourist destination.

Today, as you stroll down Beale Street, you're greeted by the sounds of live music spilling out onto the sidewalks. The atmosphere is electric, with street performers adding to the lively ambiance. The variety of venues is impressive, ranging from intimate blues clubs to larger concert halls, ensuring that you can find the perfect spot to enjoy a night out. Many establishments feature local artists, giving you a taste of the authentic Memphis music scene.

Beale Street also offers a wide array of dining options, from classic Southern cuisine to modern fare, with iconic Memphis barbecue being a must-try. The street is steeped in history, with numerous landmarks and plaques that detail its cultural significance, including its designation as a National Historic Landmark District.

The friendly atmosphere and welcoming locals make it easy to feel at home, whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular. Overall, Beale Street is a lively, must-see destination that captures the heart and soul of Memphis. Whether you're there for the music, the food, or to soak in the atmosphere, you're sure to have a memorable experience that celebrates both the history and the vibrant culture of this...

Slums of Memphis right here. Guard your wallet and watch where you step because those new party shoes will never be the same after a night here. This strip is the usual expectation with any major downtown party venue. Big lights, big music, big mouths, drunks, stoners making the most of the street life. Walking zombies, high on the last hit of the pipe, and on to the next fix.

Historical: There were historical landmarkwrs filtered throughout - much history of music - which were of great interest to me.

Good Police presence for crime deterance and shenanigans.

Bathrooms: No luck unless you are a patron. I asked a cop and he recommended a back alley.

All in all, this scene is no longer my thing since the change the Lord made in me and brought me out of that mess 20 years ago. Sad to see that many people think that what they experience here is the best that life has to offer but it's just a mirage for the emptiness and temporary numbing of the pain/filling of the void inside. I feel sorry for the masses and wish they could experience new life found in Christ!

If you miss or skip this place, you won't miss much of anything you need. In fact, you'll depart a richer person in more ways than your wallet. Yes, the flashing lights and thumping music are attractive, but when all the smoke clears, the party is over, and the sun exposes the filth..... what's left are empty shells of people waiting, hoping for the sun to set and repeat...