The 4 trendiest neighbourhoods in Memphis

Whilst there’s no doubt that Memphis is a go-to destination for travellers, there are a number of cool and quirky neighbourhoods around the city that should be at the top of every intrepid travellers’ must-see lists.

Bursting with history and new life, and filled with great places to eat and drink, the American city, found along the Mississippi River in southwest Tennessee, certainly has plenty to offer. However, some of the city’s best-kept secrets, that travellers are not always privy to, are nestled within its trendy array of neighbourhoods. Below we’ve rounded up some of the best ones to visit:

1. Cooper Young

Cooper-Young is one of Memphis’ most vibrant neighbourhoods, with a storied history of art, music, and markets. Many of its century-old buildings are now filled with eclectic stores which sell rare vinyl, vintage clothes and antiques. Johnny Cash even recorded his first album here in the basement of the Galloway Church. As well as this, the neighbourhood is host to the state’s largest festival, the annual Cooper Young Street Festival which was held in September this year, and is a true celebration of the life, arts, music and history of Memphis.

Young Avenue Deli. Image: Craig Thompson/Memphis Tourism

2. Crosstown

Crosstown is a lively arts district that is centred around the old Sears Crosstown building. The once abandoned Crosstown Concourse is now filled with dozens of newly opened restaurants, along with the Railgarten which was once an overgrown yard, and now operates as an adult playground offering a tiki bar, ice cream parlour, diners, and a sandbox for live music.

Railgarten Drinks. Image: Craig Thompson/Memphis Tourism

3. South Main Arts District

South Main Arts District is a shining example of Memphis’ downtown revitalisation. Here, you’ll experience an authentic blend of dining, shopping, history, nightlife and a range of create-class residents. This specific neighbourhood is also home to the National Civil Rights Museum, Blues Hall of Fame, the iconic Gus’s World Famous Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken and the Orpheum Theatre. This specific district also hosts a monthly Trolley Night, which brings together district galleries, restaurants, shops and live performances in one big block party.

Beale Street at Night. Image: Brand USA/Memphis Tourism

4. Victorian Village

Step back in time and stroll down the famous Adams Avenue, where you’ll find a line of mansions that were once home to wealthy Memphians in the mid-to-late 1800s. Kick off your adventure by visiting Sunrise restaurant and experience the Rooster biscuit sammie, filled with fried chicken, pickle and Tabasco honey. Afterwards, take a tour of the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum and Mallory-Neely House, and finish off the day by enjoying a Mollie’s Spirit or Sage Advice at the Mollie Fontaine Lounge.