What Does a Memphis Local Know That Most Visitors Don’t?

Memphis is a city steeped in history, music, and culture that extends far beyond its famous attractions like Beale Street, barbecue, and Elvis. However, visitors might only scratch the surface when it comes to the city's lesser-known gems and peculiarities. Here are some unique and intriguing insights that even long-term locals might not know or share.

Hidden Neighborhoods and Dangerous Areas

Memphis has areas that are better left to locals or avoided altogether. Some streets, such as those named after states like Florida, Georgia, or Alabama, can be more dangerous after dark. Additionally, Riverside Park should be approached with caution at night, as it turns into a hotspot for illegal activities and crime. The Mississippi River adds another layer of danger. Criminals might use it to deposit bodies, making it a place to avoid. These areas, while potentially exciting or intriguing, are best left untrodden by tourists.

Unique Cultural References and Unmarked Landmarks

References to Memphian culture might mean nothing to a visitor from outside the area. Names like Prince Mangol, locations such as Nutbush or Little Mexico, and landmarks such as the Mall of Memphis and Raleigh Springs Mall vanish from tourist maps. Memphians, however, can provide detailed directions and stories about these hidden places, their history, and where to find them now.

Alternatives to Famous AppBarachian BBQ

While Memphis BBQ is celebrated worldwide, visitors might be surprised to learn that some of the most popular local joints aren’t as well-known. Restaurants like Central BBQ, Corky's BBQ, and Germantown Commissary are popular for their traditional pulled pork. For chicken lovers, Gus's Chicken and Gibson's Donuts are must-tries, especially in East Memphis. Soul Fish Cafe delights with its southern fried catfish, and for Tex-Mex, Molly’s La Casita is a local favorite. Explore a bucket list of local dining options compiled from the website Choose901. Some of the featured places include:

Explore the rich culinary landscape of Memphis, from bizarre offerings like the Jameson Slushie at Slider Inn to quirky street foods like the Supreme Sno Cone from James’s and the Bi Bim Bop from Kwik Check. Enjoy a Good Burger from Roxie’s or a Hog Hominy's The Red Eye Pizza. Few places do Tex-Mex better than Molly’s La Casita in Midtown. Dive into the vast and varied culinary scene with a list of lesser-known but no less delicious Memphis eateries.

Local Cultural Events and Activities

The Levitt Shell is a popular venue for free outdoor concerts and community events. Explore Memphis’s vibrant music scene by attending live shows and cultural performances. The Zippin Pippin roller coasters, symbolic of Memphis’s fun-nature, are a local favorite, making them a prime spot for family outings and fun trips.

Other activities include visiting the Wolf River Bottoms for off-road adventures, enjoying rooftop parties at The Peabody Hotel, and experiencing local nightlife. Inquire within the community for more hidden gems or participate in local happenings, like Fourth of July parades and Memphis in May events, to deepen your understanding of Memphis culture.

Memphis has much more to offer than what meets the eye. Explore beyond the tourist traps and discover the city’s unique charm and culture through the eyes of its locals. Whether it’s the hidden landmarks, underground culinary delights, or lesser-known events, Memphis has a treasure trove of secrets waiting to be uncovered.