When to Visit
Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.
January
Memphis starts the year with cooler, but relatively mild weather. With average temperatures ranging between 3°C and 10°C, the city’s Graceland and National Civil Rights Museum remain top indoor attractions for visitors. The Memphis Zoo offers winter discounts and special events, including Winter Wonderland. Although outdoor activities like mud island river park might be less appealing in the chillier temperatures, the city still has plenty to offer with fewer crowds.
February
February brings similar cool weather, with temperatures hovering anywhere around 10°C or so. This is a great time to explore Beale Street without the usual crowds, while enjoying Memphis' vibrant blues music scene in intimate venues. Valentine's Day sees romantic dinner cruises on the Mississippi River, making for a charming getaway. The city hosts the Memphis in May kick-off events, with local festivals getting early attention for the upcoming months.
March
Temperatures in March range from 10°C to 18°C, with the early signs of spring starting to emerge. March is also the beginning of festival season, with the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest attracting food lovers and offering a glimpse into Memphis’ culinary scene. Mild weather also makes it a good time to take a bike ride along the Mississippi River Trail or visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.
April
April is one of the best times to visit Memphis, with temperatures up to 23°C towards the end of the month. The weather is comfortable and ideal for outdoor festivals and live music performances, with Memphis in May kicking off. The International Blues Challenge in downtown Memphis brings musicians from around the world for incredible performances. The Shelby Farms Greenline, a 10.5-mile path, also provides beautiful spring views of the park and surrounding areas.
May
By May, Memphis is truly experiencing spring in full swing, with temperatures reaching up to 24°C. The city blooms with flowers and outdoor events, making it perfect for walking tours and enjoying alfresco dining. With the return of Memphis in May International Festival, the Beale Street Music Festival brings some of the biggest names in music, with concerts spread across multiple stages.
June
With temperatures close to 30°C, June is the beginning of summer heat in Memphis. It's also the start of the peak travel season, so the Sun Studio and Graceland are popular for those interested in Memphis’ rich musical history. For some cool relief, head to Mud Island River Park for water activities or relax with river views. Local festivals, like the Memphis Pride Festival, also draw a lively crowd throughout the month.
July
Hot and humid, with temperatures soaring between 24°C and 34°C, July can be sweltering, making it perfect for visitors who enjoy a mix of history and air-conditioned museums. Cool off at Splash Memphis Water Park, or head to the Mississippi River for a refreshing riverboat cruise. Fourth of July celebrations include spectacular firework displays, and Graceland holds special events for Elvis fans to celebrate the King’s legacy.
August
Like July, August brings hot temperatures around 24°C to 33°C, with humidity to match. It's a quieter month for tourists, so it’s an excellent time to explore the city's museums and indoor activities, including the National Civil Rights Museum and Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Visitors can also catch the tail end of summer concerts and enjoy outdoor dining in the shade at Central BBQ or Gus’s Fried Chicken.
September
As temperatures cool to a more comfortable range of 20°C to 30°C, September marks a great time to visit Memphis before the busy fall season. Beale Street offers plenty of live music, and the cooler temperatures make it an excellent time to stroll through Overton Park or rent a bike to explore the Shelby Farms Greenline. The Memphis Italian Festival also takes place in September, offering food, music, and cultural events celebrating Italian heritage.
October
October in Memphis is a delightful time for outdoor activities, with average temperatures between 13°C to 24°C. The city bursts into colour with autumn foliage, perfect for taking a scenic drive or exploring Shelby Farms Park. The Cooper-Young Festival celebrates the city’s arts and crafts scene, while Halloween festivities in Midtown Memphis bring haunted houses, pumpkin patches, and spooky fun for all ages.
November
With temperatures ranging from 7°C to 17°C, November cools down, making it ideal for exploring indoor attractions such as the Pink Palace Museum and Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Thanksgiving in Memphis is a significant event, with many local restaurants offering Southern-style feasts. The Memphis Symphony Orchestra also has performances to usher in the holiday season.
December
December brings winter temperatures around 5°C to 12°C, though it rarely gets too cold, making for a pleasant winter getaway. Holiday lights in Shelby Farms Park and downtown Memphis make the city sparkle, while Graceland is beautifully decked out for the Christmas season. The Mississippi River and Beale Street take on a festive atmosphere, with live music and special Christmas-themed events drawing in the crowds.
Our Ratings
Most Recommended
Recommended
Highly Recommended
Not Recommended
