Memphis Extended Stay Travel Guide

Set along the Mississippi River, Memphis has deep roots and a whole lot of heart. It’s known for music, food, and genuine Southern hospitality—a city that’s easy to settle into without feeling overwhelmed.

This Memphis travel guide is built with extended stays in mind. From affordable grocery stores to live music, local parks, and neighborhood spots that don’t break the bank, Memphis offers a lifestyle that keeps things simple. It’s the kind of city where doing more doesn’t mean spending more, and that’s part of the charm.

If you're planning to stay a while, WoodSpring Suites hotels help make it even easier. With in-room kitchens, clean rooms, and free WiFi, you’ll have everything you need to stay comfortable and on budget for as long as you're in town.

Getting Around Memphis

You’ll find plenty of affordable ways to get around Memphis, whether you're commuting to work or exploring the city in your downtime.

Public Transit: The MATA Bus & Trolley system covers most key routes across the city. Adult base fare is $1.00, and the Daily Fast Pass is $2.00. Use the free MATA Tracker app to view real-time arrivals, route maps, and service alerts.

Bike Sharing: For shorter trips or exercise-friendly travel, Explore Bike Share provides rental bikes throughout downtown and midtown. Rides start at $5 for 20 minutes, a Three-Day Pass costs $35, and an Annual Membership is $120. The service operates 24/7, and bikes can be rented via the BCycle app.

Rideshare: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and set fares dynamically based on time, distance, and demand. Use each app’s fare estimator for real-time pricing. For trips starting at Memphis International Airport (MEM), Lyft includes a $2 surcharge in the fare.

Scooters: For quick trips in neighborhoods like Downtown, Midtown, and the University District, electric scooters from Bird and Lime are another solid option. Just check the app to find one nearby and see the current unlock and per-minute rates.

Local Apps

MATA Tracker
Free to download, this app provides real-time updates for Memphis bus and trolley routes. Users can view arrival times, check service alerts, and plan trips more efficiently.

BCycle (Explore Bike Share)

The free BCycle app makes it easy to find available bikes, check docking stations, and pay for rides straight from your phone. It’s especially useful for keeping track of your ride time or switching bikes mid-trip. No matter which pass you’re using, the app helps keep everything organized and stress-free.

Eventbrite
Free to install, Eventbrite lets you browse and register for local events, including free or low-cost concerts, workshops, and community gatherings.

Meetup
Also free, Meetup connects you with local groups and activities, from hiking clubs to book discussions, often at no charge or low cost.

Memphis Grizzlies
The official Grizzlies app is free and features game schedules, live score updates, ticket deals, and exclusive team content to keep you connected all season.

Memphis Weather

Memphis experiences all four seasons, and each one brings its own unique rhythm. Understanding the local weather patterns can help pack wisely and stay comfortable during a longer stay.

Spring (March–May)

Temperatures climb from the mid-60s to the high 70s, with April bringing the most rain. Bring a light jacket or a small umbrella just in case. Mornings often start cool and warm up by afternoon, so layered clothing works best. 

Spring is also a great time to check out local parks and farmers markets while everything’s in bloom.

Summer (June–August)

Summers are hot and humid, with highs often in the upper 80s or low 90s. Morning humidity often tops 70%, and quick afternoon thunderstorms pop up several times a week. Wear breathable fabrics like cotton and keep a refillable water bottle on hand. 

Schedule outdoor activities for the early morning or in the evening to avoid peak heat. If you choose to stay indoors at midday, you can enjoy free museum days or air-conditioned cafes without spending extra.

Fall (September–November)

Fall temperatures drop from the mid-80s in September to the mid-50s by November. Humidity decreases, and rainfall is lighter than in spring. 

A light jacket or sweater is useful, especially on cooler evenings. Fall is ideal for walking tours, bike rides along the Wolf River Greenway, and checking out local fall festivals—many of which are free or low-cost.

Winter (December–February)

Daytime highs stay in the 40s and 50s, with occasional dips into the 30s. Snow is rare, but light rain is common, so a waterproof layer helps. A medium-weight coat and closed-toe shoes are usually enough. Winter tends to be quieter and more budget-friendly, with lower hotel rates and free holiday light displays around town.

When to Visit

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for exploring Memphis on foot or by bike. If budget and outdoor exploration are your priorities, plan your extended stay during those months.

Restaurants

Central BBQ – A go-to for slow-smoked Memphis-style barbecue. Their pulled pork, ribs, and BBQ nachos are crowd favorites. Generous portions and combo plates stay reasonably priced for a hearty lunch or dinner. At all locations, kids eat free from 5-8 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays with an adult plate, perfect for budget-minded families.

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken – Spicy, crispy fried chicken served with Southern staples like baked beans and slaw. Most combo plates fall under $20, making it an affordable pick for hearty portions. No specials needed—prices usually stay consistent every day.

Global Café – A nonprofit food hall spotlighting immigrant chefs from Syria, Venezuela, and Sudan. Most entrées are priced under $15, and weekly specials like Taco Tuesday and Torta Thursdays offer even more value. Swing by for happy hour from 3-6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, for discounted drinks with food.

Brother Juniper’s – A top local brunch spot known for hearty breakfasts and homemade bread. Try their #1 Two Eggs, Any Style special served with your choice of grits or home fries and a biscuit or toast.

Payne’s Bar-B-Que – A cash-only, no-frills BBQ joint run by the Payne family since 1972. You’ll find classic Memphis-style chopped pork sandwiches and smoked sausage served with mustard slaw and homemade sides for a true taste of the city.

City Silo – A bright, modern café serving smoothies, grain bowls, wraps, acai bowls, and healthy shareables made with inclusive, clean ingredients. Order ahead using their free City Silo app and settle into the light-filled dining room. They also include a number of outlets and offer free WiFi, making it a solid laptop-friendly option for remote work.

Shopping

Stocking up on essentials in Memphis is simple, and there are plenty of ways to keep costs down while you do it.

Groceries & Everyday Basics

• Aldi and Save A Lot are great for affordable produce, frozen meals, and pantry staples. They’re ideal for weekly grocery runs when you want to keep things under budget.

• Kroger locations across the city offer a good mix of national brands and store-brand options. Plus Card members can clip free digital coupons for extra savings on meat, dairy, and household essentials. 

• Cordelia’s Market (Harbor town) stocks full-service groceries plus a deli that serves a hot lunch box for about $13, Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. This is handy when you need a quick, homestyle meal without restaurant prices.

Pharmacies & Convenience

• Dollar General and Family Dollar are reliable for grab-and-go snacks, basic toiletries, and home essentials. Most items are under $5, and they often rotate seasonal stock.

• Walgreens and CVS are good for pharmacy needs and quick pickups. Both apps offer weekly “Buy One, Get One” deals and digital rewards—just add them before checkout to save on everyday items.

Local Boutiques & Resale Shops

• Goodwill Memphis sells items by weight. It has a wide range of secondhand clothing, shoes, and kitchenware. Check the bargain bins for $1–$5 deals, which are great for extras you forgot to pack.

• City Thrift (5124 Summer Ave.) and smaller shops in Cooper-Young carry gently used clothing, books, and unique home finds at reasonable prices, perfect for budget-conscious browsing.

Farmers Markets

• Memphis Farmers Market (Downtown): Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., April through October. A lively spot with fresh produce, handmade goods, and local food vendors, and entry is free.

• Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market (First Congo parking lot):
  – April to October: Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
  – November to March: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
  Expect seasonal veggies, baked goods, and small-batch pantry items from local growers and makers on a budget.

Memphis Attractions

There’s no shortage of things to see in Memphis, and plenty of them are free or affordable for guests on extended stays.

Beale Street (Downtown Memphis)

Free to explore most days. Stroll neon-lit sidewalks, watch street performers, and soak up live blues at no charge. Note that on select Friday, Saturday, and holiday evenings after 9 p.m., a $5 security fee applies.

Shelby Farms Park (East Memphis, about 7 miles from downtown)

This 4,500-acre urban playground is open daily from sunrise to sunset and offers free entry. Pack a picnic, wander miles of trails, and let the kids play at the adventure playground—most park features are free. Note: the seasonal Water Play Sprayground requires a ticket (about $11; reserve ahead).

Mud Island River Park (Downtown)

The park is free to enter and includes the 932-foot Riverwalk—a scale model of the Mississippi River that’s fun to explore on foot or let kids splash through in warmer months. Snap a photo with the giant 50-foot “MEMPHIS” sign and enjoy wide-open lawns for picnics and skyline selfies. 

Seasonal concessions and kayak or pedal-boat rentals are available at the marina for a small fee. But most visitors come simply to stroll the riverfront paths and soak up the views with no ticket required.

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art (Overton Park, Midtown)

Tennessee’s oldest and largest art museum, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, is nestled in leafy Overton Park just minutes from Midtown. You’ll find a broad collection of American and European works alongside rotating special exhibitions and a tranquil outdoor sculpture garden. 

Admission is $18 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, $10 for youth, and free for kids under 5. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, but it offers free entry every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid (Downtown)

Browse the massive store, aquarium, and indoor wilderness-themed features at no cost. The Sky High Ride observation deck costs $8 for adults and $5 for children (ages 5–12), but browsing is free. 

Stax Museum of American Soul Music (South Memphis, ~5 miles from downtown)

General admission is $20 for adults, $16 for ages 7–12, seniors (62+), veterans, military, and AAA members. Kids 6 and under enter free, and Shelby County residents receive free entry on Tuesdays from 1-5 p.m. with ID. It’s a good pick for local music history, so plan for Tuesdays if you’re nearby and want to save.

National Civil Rights Museum (Downtown Memphis)

Located at the historic Lorraine Motel, the National Civil Rights Museum features powerful interactive exhibits tracing America’s civil rights journey. Admission ranges from $17 to $20, but kids under four and active military get in free. Plan for at least a few hours, as this is a deep, impactful visit often accompanied by free community events or guest talks.

Sun Studio (Downtown Memphis)

Sun Studio is known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. This legendary recording studio offers guided tours through the original recording booth where artists like Elvis Presley and B.B. King made music history. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for kids. 

Things to Do in Memphis

Here are a few easy ways to enjoy Memphis without spending a lot. From outdoor adventures to free local events, the city offers plenty of low-cost activities that are great for extended stays.

Big River Crossing (Downtown → West Memphis, AR)

Walk or bike across the Mississippi River at no cost on this 1-mile pedestrian bridge. It’s stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, with skyline views on both sides, making it a perfect free outing for families.

Shelby Farms Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals (East Memphis, about 7 miles from Downtown)

Shelby Farms is free to enter. At the Hyde Lake Boat House, you can rent a single kayak for $15/hr, a stand-up paddleboard for $18/hr, or a canoe for $20/hr—still under the $20 mark for a family-friendly water adventure.

Wolf River Greenway (East Memphis, ~8 miles from Downtown)

Explore over 14 miles of paved, shaded trail at no cost. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or biking, the Greenway’s creekside scenery makes it a budget-friendly activity the whole family can enjoy. Trails connect to neighborhood parks, so you can plan a longer outing or a simple stroll.

Levitt Shell Free Outdoor Concerts (Overton Park, Midtown)

The Orion Free Concert Series brings free live music to the historic shell each spring through fall. Check the Overton Park Shell calendar for exact dates and enjoy evening performances under the oaks.

Memphis Farmers Market (Downtown, April–October)

Open Saturdays 8 a.m.-1 p.m. (plus special holiday markets), this market offers free entry to browse seasonal produce, local honey, and baked goods. It’s a fun, budget-friendly weekend stop with or without a shopping list.

Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market (Cooper-Young, year-round)

Every Saturday, the Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market brings together local farmers, bakers, and artisans in the First Congo Church parking lot. You can explore fresh produce, handmade soaps, local honey, and seasonal plants while enjoying casual live music. Entry is free year-round, with spring–fall hours from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and winter hours from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cooper-Young Festival (Cooper-Young, September)

Each September, this free Cooper-Young Festival fills the streets with local art, live music, food trucks, and a dedicated kids’ zone. With more than 400 booths to explore, it’s a great way to enjoy the area on foot. Admission is free—just bring spending money for art, snacks, and a cold lemonade.

Memphis Juneteenth Parade & Cultural Festival (Downtown routes, mid-June)
Each June, Medical District Park transforms into a vibrant celebration for Memphis’s free, two-day Juneteenth Festival held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. 

The festival offers more than 30 live acts across multiple stages, a bustling vendor village with barbecue, soul food, and vegetarian options, plus cultural highlights such as Greek TakeOver step performances and the Men of Impact community discussion. Exact dates vary each year, but this festival is always family-friendly, free to enter, and honors Black freedom and culture right in the heart of the city.

Emergency Info

In case of illness, injury, or unexpected situations, here are some key numbers and medical locations around Memphis:

• Emergency: Dial 911

• Non-Emergency Police: 901-545-COPS

Urgent Care (hours vary):

• Fast Pace Health Urgent Care – 2747 Kirby Road (Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun 1 p.m.–5 p.m.)

• Methodist Minor Medical Center – 1803 Union Ave. (Open daily 8 a.m.-8 p.m.)

Hospitals (24/7 Emergency Departments):

• Regional One Health – 877 Jefferson Ave

• Baptist Memorial Hospital–Memphis – 6019 Walnut Grove Rd

• Methodist University Hospital – 1265 Union Ave

Extended Stay Hotels

WoodSpring Suites locations offer a practical and budget-friendly home base for longer visits to Memphis. Each property combines affordability and comfort, with in-room kitchens, free WiFi, and easy access to grocery stores, major highways, and everyday essentials.

Guests can take advantage of flexible weekly and monthly rates, designed to keep extended stays affordable without sacrificing convenience.

Memphis-area WoodSpring Suites locations include:

• WoodSpring Suites Memphis Southeast – 7060 Riverdale Bend Road, Memphis, TN 38125

• WoodSpring Suites Memphis Northeast – 5787 Shelby Oaks Drive, Memphis, TN 38134-7316