anyone familiar with Memphis?

[luvflorida]

Every spring, my daughter, (13), and I take a girl's only vacation. This year my cousin will join us, and, for the first time, my daughter is bringing a friend, (also 13). We are driving from Maine to Memphis, Tennessee. None of us have ever been to Memphis. We thought it sounded like a fun place to visit, (Graceland, Beale Street, the zoo, Mississippi River boats, etc.).

Is anyone familiar with the Embassy Suites in Memphis? It sounds like a nice place to stay, but I don't know how close it is to area attractions. Their website doesn't say. Also, any tips or ideas on things not to miss in Memphis? What is the weather like in mid-April?

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[Duchie]

Hi luvflorida!

I grew up in Memphis. It's been 15 years since I lived there, though, but I'll try to answer as much as I can.

The things you mentioned are great things to see, especially the zoo. Also, with kids be sure to check out The Pink Palace - very cool and usually has kid-centered exhibits. Also do not miss the Peabody Ducks. It's in the grand hotel downtown (near the river), and every morning the ducks come down their private elevator and waddle to the fountain in the hotel lobby. Very Memphis thing to do. I think they also built something close to the Peabody that's an entertainment plaza. It might be called Peabody Place. Sorry to be so fuzzy on this point. I've not been there but my sister works in an office building close to there and was telling me about it.

If I recall correctly, the Embassy Suites is downtown, close to the river. Everything in Memphis is VERY spread out, so you'll have to drive a bit to get to some of the sites (like Graceland). But it's not too bad as long as you avoid rush hour.

April weather is usually pretty moderate, but can tend to still be on the cool side. Not too hot yet. May is an awesome time to visit because they have the Memphis in May celebration all month.

Hope this helps. Feel free to PM if I can answer any more questions. If I don't know, I'll call family and ask

 

[TTFN]

I think there is only one Embassy Suites in Memphis, and it is on the far eastern edge of town. It is a beautiful hotel (and really got me hooked on Embassy Suites), but it is not really close to the downtown area. The zoo, which is great, is about half way between the downtown area and the hotel. The downtown area is where Beale Street is and is right at the Mississippi River. Graceland is on the far southern edge of the city as best I remember. If you are into barbequed ribs, I recommend the Rendevous Restaurant. Its a little hard to find, but it is an easy walk from Beale street and almost anyone can direct you. There are several hotels in the downtown area, but they can be pricey and parking can be difficult. Wish I was going with you!

 

[TTFN]

This site seemed to have a good bit of info: www.memphistravel.com

 

[perdidobay]

Hi luvflorida,
I live just ouside of Memphis.
The Embassy suites is a very nice hotel in a very nice part of town. I'm sure you will enjoy it. It is not really located near any tourist areas, but all should be within a 15-30 minute drive
( depends on time of day).
The average temps in mid April are 72/52, so the weather should be pleasent. Rain does happen alot in April here, so bring an umbrella just in case.
The Zoo is an excellent one.....
http://www.memphiszoo.org/splash2.html
I have never been to Graceland! But here is the web site.
http://www.elvis.com/graceland/
Beale street is fun and Peabody Place is sure to be a hit with your girls
http://www.belz.com/peabody/entertainment/index.html
A walk along the river front in mid April is nice with all the trees and flowers blooming
http://www.memphisriverfront.com/1_0-todays_riverfront.cfm
and Mud Island is nice too
http://www.mudisland.com/
I hope these give you some ideas.... if you are in town before the 16th come see me at the Disney Store at Wolfchase Galleria
http://www.simon.com/mall/default.aspx?ID=840

 

[Duchie]

I second TTFN's recommendation - Rendezvous is my favorite restaurant in the world. I never miss it when we go home for a visit!

 

[crazelion]

Just the question I was on ask about Memphis.

Is there any other good hotels besides the Embassy Suites to stay at.

I am going to a wedding on June 11 I need a good hotel that is under 100.00 dollars a night.

Is Librtyland worth going to.

Is there any good outlet malls there.

How far is the casios is from Memphis.

 

[Candace]

Crazelion - Memphis has many good hotels. All kinds of chains, etc. Get on expedia.com and you will find many to choose from. Stay away from hotels near Graceland - just a rough part of town (used to be great - but no more. That is actually South memphis, so just be aware of that.) If you want to go to the casinos in Tunica, Mississippi, they are less than an hour away. Exit 7 off of I-240. In fact, you could even stay at one of the many casino hotels in Tunica (very nice) and still be close to Memphis. there is an outlet mall near Memphis called Belz Outlet. It's at the east end of Memphis, off I-240 East toward Nashville. It will be past Wolfchase Galleria area, which is a huge shopping, dining area, which also has many hotels. Libertyland probably should not waste your time. Oh, also, Tunica has a smallish outlet mall. Hope this helps and enjoy Memphis!