Museum culture in Memphis, Tennessee!

A. Schwab

Why Visit?

Day Out at A. Schwab: A Dive into Memphis" Eccentric History

Begin your museum-style tour at A. Schwab, the oldest store on Memphis" iconic Beale Street, for a uniquely original peek into the past. Established in 1876, this store-turned-museum isn"t just a shopping spot; it"s a treasure trove of Memphis history, culture, and oddities that captures the quirky spirit of the city.

Getting There

A. Schwab is located at 163 Beale Street. If staying downtown, it’s a scenic walk amongst historic landmarks. Alternatively, hop on the Main Street Trolley line which stops just a block away from Beale Street, offering a nostalgic ride through downtown Memphis. For those driving, parking is available at nearby Peabody Place.

Exploring A. Schwab

Start your visit by stepping through its creaky wooden door into a scene barely changed since the 19th century. The ground floor, with its original wooden floors, hosts a dizzying array of merchandise from vintage clothing to quirky Memphis memorabilia. But it’s the second floor that museum lovers will find particularly captivating.

Attractions & Exhibits

Head upstairs to explore the small but fascinating museum area. Here, A. Schwab displays an eclectic mix of artifacts that tell the story of Beale Street and Memphis at large. From old pharmacy bottles and historic photographs to blues memorabilia and odd local artifacts, each piece has its own story.

Must-See

Don’t miss the 1950s soda fountain — a delightful nod to Memphis’ past social scenes. It"s a perfect spot to pause and imagine the bustling life of Beale Street in its heyday.

Fun Fact

Look out for the "If you can"t find it at A. Schwan, you"re probably better off without it!" sign, encapsulating the store’s whimsical charm and eclectic inventory that’s been growing since the 19th century.

Finish your tour with a stroll down Beale Street, absorbing the vibrant energy that makes this area a national treasure. A visit to A. Schwab is more than just a shopping experience; it"s a journey through the soul of Memphis.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Peabody Hotel Ducks

Why Visit?

Embark on a whimsical journey through the heart of Memphis at the Peabody Hotel, renowned not only for its opulent charm but also for its most unconventional and feathery celebrities – the Peabody Ducks. This unique attraction offers a blend of luxury, history, and a touch of animal magic, making it a must-visit on your museum culture tour.

Arrival and Viewing:

To witness the famed Peabody Duck March, arrive at the Peabody Hotel, located at 149 Union Avenue. The hotel is easily accessible via the Memphis Area Transit Authority services or by taxi from any part of downtown Memphis. Aim to get there by 10:30 AM or 4:30 PM to secure a good viewing spot in the grand lobby.

The Peabody Duck March:

The tradition, which began in the 1930s, features a delightful spectacle where five mallard ducks descend from their $200,000 rooftop "Duck Palace," ride the elevator down, and waddle along a red carpet to splash around in the ornate lobby fountain. The ducks perform this march twice daily, and the ceremony is overseen by the Duckmaster, a role unique to the Peabody Hotel.

Interesting Facts:

- The original ducks were placed in the fountain by the hotel"s general manager in the 1930s as a prank after a hunting trip.

- The Duck Palace on the rooftop features a replica of the hotel itself and offers a fantastic view of the Mississippi River.

- Celebrities including Oprah Winfrey and U.S. Presidents have witnessed this famed tradition.

Exploring Further:

After enjoying the march, delve into the history of the Peabody with a visit to the "Duckmaster Hall" off the main lobby, where you can learn more about the tradition, the role of the Duckmaster, and the famous guests who have visited the hotel. Don’t miss the memorabilia and photos that chronicle the hotel"s storied past.

The Peabody Ducks offer a charming slice of Memphis history, combining elegance with a uniquely playful tradition that captivates visitors of all ages.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Handy Park

Why Visit?

Morning Start: Arrival at Handy Park

Begin your cultural journey in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, at the historic W.C. Handy Park, named after the Father of the Blues, William Christopher Handy. This public park, lined with markers and statues commemorating its musical heritage, serves as a perfect preamble to the city’s rich cultural narrative.

How to Get There: Handy Park is easily accessible via public transportation or car. Located on Beale Street, it"s a short walk from many downtown hotels and parking is available in nearby lots.

Stop 1: W.C. Handy Home and Museum

From the park, take a scenic 10-minute walk to the W.C. Handy Home and Museum. Explore the modest shotgun house where Handy composed some of his most famous works. Inside, find a collection of personal memorabilia, including original sheet music and handwritten letters, offering a deep dive into the life of a music legend.

Stop 2: Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

Next, make your way to the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, a quick 5-minute stroll from Handy’s home. Created by the Smithsonian Institution, this museum tells the comprehensive story of musical pioneers who overcame racial and socio-economic barriers. Audio-guided tours feature stories and songs from the delta bluesmen to 1970s soul stars.

Lunch Break: Blues City Café

Refuel with some Southern comfort food at the Blues City Café, just around the corner from the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Enjoy their famous ribs or catfish while soaking in the ambiance of live blues music.

Afternoon Exploration: Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Conclude your tour with a visit to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, a 10-minute drive from Beale Street. Housed in the original site of Stax Records, this museum showcases over 2,000 exhibits related to soul legends like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes.

Departure: End your day enriched with the soulful sounds and stories of Memphis, knowing you"ve walked the path of musical giants.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Overton Park

Why Visit?

Set amidst the lush canopies in the heart of Memphis, Overton Park is not just a natural retreat but also a cultural hub. Begin your museum tour at the renowned Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee. Established in 1916, it houses an impressive collection spanning over 10,000 works, including Renaissance masterpieces and contemporary American art. Dive into artistic marvels from around the world, and don"t miss the special exhibitions that change periodically.

From the Brooks Museum, take a leisurely stroll through the park"s green spaces to reach the Memphis College of Art (MCA). Although the college ceased operations in 2020, the Rust Hall building remains an iconic architectural gem worth admiring from the outside. Enrich your understanding of Memphis" art scene by considering the legacy of MCA’s alumni and faculty, who have significantly shaped local and national art landscapes.

Next, head towards the Overton Park Shell, famously known for its historical concerts, including a 1954 performance by Elvis Presley that rocketed him to fame. The Shell continues to host free concerts and community events, making it a living museum of Memphis" musical heritage.

Wrap up your tour at the Overton Park Formal Gardens. Here, history intertwines with horticulture in a beautifully landscaped area that offers a tranquil conclusion to your day. Each pathway and bench tells a story, echoing gatherings and celebrations from decades past.

Getting around Overton Park is easy on foot, and each attraction is just a short walk from the other. If you"re driving, parking is available at various points around the park. Public transportation options include bus routes that stop directly outside the park, making it accessible from anywhere in Memphis.

Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring along a camera to capture the aesthetic and historical beauty of Overton Park"s museums and gardens.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Victorian Village

Why Visit?

Victorian Village Museum Tour Itinerary

Morning: The Ewart-Beil House

Start your day at the Ewart-Beil House, a grand example of Victorian architecture with its ornate decorations and authentic period furnishings. Located on the corner of James Street and Park Avenue, it"s easily accessible by public transport (bus line 5 stops right outside) or by car with street parking available.

Upon arrival at 9:00 AM, join the guided tour that begins every hour to uncover the fascinating stories of the Ewart family and their influence in Victorian society. Don"t miss the beautifully restored drawing room with its original 19th-century wallpaper and the expansive Victorian garden, a perfect spot for a serene morning walk.

Midday: The Victorian Arts Center

A short walk from Ewart-Beil House, the Victorian Arts Center awaits. This museum, housed in a former Victorian-era school building, showcases a stunning collection of Victorian art and sculpture. Take bus line 7 or enjoy a 15-minute walk along Maple Avenue to reach the center.

Explore exhibitions that delve into the daily life and artistic expressions of the Victorian period. The highlight is the "Victorian Visions" gallery, which features rotating exhibits of Victorian paintings and decorative arts. Enjoy a scheduled workshop at noon where you can try your hand at traditional Victorian crafts.

Afternoon: High Tea at Miss Penelope’s Tearoom

Conclude your tour with a traditional high tea at Miss Penelope’s Tearoom, just a short stroll from the Victorian Arts Center. Located in a beautifully preserved Victorian townhouse on Rose Street, Miss Penelope’s offers a quaint, authentic experience. Indulge in scones with clotted cream, a selection of fine teas, and an array of delicate sandwiches, all served on fine china.

Getting Around

Victorian Village is pedestrian-friendly, making it enjoyable to explore by foot. Alternatively, the local bus service is reliable and offers day passes, ideal for tourists. Each site is steeped in history, offering a glimpse into the opulent Victorian era, perfect for museum enthusiasts and culture vultures alike.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.