Spend Christmas in Memphis

Christmas in Memphis is nothing short of magical. There are many Christmas events, attractions and restaurants for people of all ages to enjoy. Here are just a few of them to check out on your Christmas vacation in Memphis.

Christmas in Memphis

Christmas at Graceland

You have not fully experienced all that is The King of Rock n’ Roll if you have not been to Christmas at Graceland. Elvis Presley’s estate is turned into a winter wonderland. After you pick up your Christmas at Graceland tickets and watch a short video highlighting the life of Elvis Presley, you are shuttled to his mansion. Christmas lights line the driveway and in the front lawn are a life-sized Nativity scene and Santa with his sleigh. During the self-guided audio tour, you are able to see how Elvis lived and decorated for the holidays as you walk through the iconic Jungle Room, Vernon’s office, Racquetball Building and Meditation Garden. The interior of the mansion is decked out in Christmas decorations including the traditional red velvet drapes and Presley Christmas artifacts. 

Christmas Lights at Shelby Farms Park

Take your family along for a magical nighttime experience featuring dazzling Christmas lights at Shelby Farms Park. The park has over 2 miles of light displays you and your family can enjoy as you drive along the trail listening to Starry Radio, a station curated just for this attraction, playing all of the holiday classics. There are also displays along Hyde Lake you can view if you park and take the walking trail. The fun at Shelby Farms is not limited to lights. Kids can visit with Santa in his workshop and drop off their Christmas wish list letter, experience pony and camel rides along with the petting zoo, and create their very own bear in the new Build-A-Bear Workshop.

The Memphis Museum of Science & History

Filled with artifacts, replicas, and exhibits, The Memphis Museum of Science & History is rich in cultural and natural history. From the 3D Theater and planetarium to the nature and science center, fun can be had by all ages. During the Christmas season, the museum has an exhibit called Enchanted Forest: Festival of Trees. In the Enchanted Forest, animated penguins, elves and other holiday characters are playing in the snow and making toys while a model train circles the snow-filled village. Local Christmas enthusiasts and professionals decorate dozens of trees for guests to admire in the Festival of Trees display. These make for great photo opportunities, too.

Memphis Zoo Lights

Bring out your inner child at the Memphis Zoo this holiday season. Learn about polar bears in the intimate Polar Bear Chat, be entertained by the Sea Lion Show, and experience the new Zambezi River Hippo Camp during the day. At night, enjoy Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo. Be in awe by a beautiful Christmas Tree and snowfall. As you make your way to the back of the zoo, you can enjoy rides and attractions including a Ferris wheel. Bundle up and ice skate to create even more holiday memories.

Crosstown Concourse

Located in the historic Sears, Roebuck & Company building, Crosstown Concourse is a treasure trove for local events and activities. For the art enthusiast, enjoy the Crosstown Gallery that showcases a variety of artistic mediums. There is also a shared art-making workspace for the professional and hobbyist wanting to bring their creative vision to life. Looking to stay fit during your Christmas visit to Memphis? You can get in a workout at the YMCA, shop and have delicious cuisine. There are many food options at the concourse ranging from coffee shops and bakeries to casual American cuisine and breweries. Before you leave the concourse, be sure to get family photos at one of the many large, beautifully decorated Christmas trees.

Christmas Dining in Memphis

Rendezvous

You can’t visit Memphis without getting Memphis barbecue. Located downtown is Rendezvous, a historic barbecue restaurant known for their savory dry rub ribs. If ribs are not your preference, they also have brisket, pulled pork, chicken and red beans & rice on the menu. Upon arrival you are greeted with smiles from all of the staff and immediately feel like family. As you dine, you can feel how the restaurant’s rich history and traditions have stood the test of time. Rendezvous also has specialty dry rub available for purchase in stores.

Young Avenue Deli

Step into Young Avenue Deli for delicious eats, local brews and Christmas vibes under twinkling lights. Enjoy a variety of pizzas and sandwiches like the Heat Miser (smoked turkey marinated in hot sauce then topped with jalapenos, banana peppers, hot mustard and pepper jack cheese), homemade vegetarian chili, burgers including black bean burgers and a foot-long hot dog. Cap off your meal with the fried MoonPie sundae. They have an extensive beer list including locals from High Cotton Brewing Co., Grind City Brewing Company and Ghost River Brewing among others.

Hog & Hominy

If you have a hankering for Italian, head to Hog & Hominy where you can dine on salad with crispy chicken, collards, meatballs, sweet potato slices and pizza. Save room for the Carol's Delightful Smile dessert - a malted chocolate mousse pie with an Oreo crust and Whoppers chocolate candy. 

Where to Stay during Christmas in Memphis

The Peabody Memphis

Known as the “South’s Grand Hotel,” the Peabody extends gracious hospitality to all guests. As soon as you step inside you're swept up into a sophisticated Christmas atmosphere during the holiday season. You’ll find luxury accommodations, Feathers Spa, world-class dining and, of course, the twice daily marches of the famous Peabody Ducks. Be sure to grab a seat in the lobby every day 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to see their march to the fountain. 

Central Station Hotel

Cozy up in your sumptuous room after a long day of fun in the city. The Central Station Hotel has 123 beautifully-designed rooms which include king or double queen plush beds, custom artwork and amenities like products from the William Roam Steam Collection and complimentary WiFi. You can even enjoy an in-room, custom Eggleston Works speaker so you can jam to The Central Station’s Memphis-inspired playlist.

Big Cypress Lodge

A stay at the Big Cypress Lodge inside Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid will give guests the best view of the pyramid’s interior decorated like a winter wonderland in addition to the big comfy beds, warming fireplaces, and cozy cabin feel. Find your peace at the Big Cypress Spa by Gould’s with relaxing treatments such as massages, lymphatic drainage, facials, nail treatments and more.