A Memphis luxury holiday is a fusion of globally-recognized music and charming southern comfort. The sultry climate of this Tennessee city is a perfect conduit for the intoxicating tunes emanating from Beale Street. The pedestrian-friendly avenue is touted as the “Home of the Blues” and is constantly abuzz. Dozens of bars—some of them selling beverages to-go—trade in heartfelt live music and abundant conviviality.

Elvis Presley fans have long made the pilgrimage to Memphis for the singular shrine to the famous crooner: Graceland. His palatial mansion and its grounds are open for exploring, stocked with his collection of costumes, gold records, classic cars, plus the artist’s final resting place. You must also visit the recording booths at Sun Studio where Elvis and Johnny Cash each made their first-ever recordings.

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music honors recording artists Otis Redding, Sam and Dave, and Isaac Hayes. Find original recording equipment among its treasures and, should the music inspire you to groove, there’s even a dance floor. Back on Beale Street, walk through the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, just across the street from the Gibson guitar factory.

Memphis is a musical city with a beautiful soul. The Mississippi River runs through downtown Memphis, feeding the lush parks and green spaces found all over town. The National Civil Rights Museum is part of the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was tragically killed in 1968. It’s a thoughtful space born of somber events that highlights human civil right pioneers across the centuries.

Memphis pairs well with Nashville, another hub of America’s musical history just three hours away. What Memphis is to rhythm and blues, Nashville is to country music with its legendary Grand Ole Opry. Together, these two Tennessee destinations enrich any journey through the southern United States. Make your mark on your own Memphis luxury holiday, and contact Ker & Downey to begin curating your own experience.