10 Fun Things to Do in Memphis, TN When It’s Cold Outside

When winter winds blow through Memphis, the city transforms into a cozy haven filled with indoor adventures and warm Southern hospitality. Cold weather doesn’t mean staying home—it means discovering museums, music venues, and mouthwatering BBQ joints that make the city famous.

Whether you’re a history buff, music lover, or foodie, Memphis offers countless ways to stay entertained without freezing your toes off.

1. Explore the National Civil Rights Museum

Standing at the former Lorraine Motel, this museum preserves one of America’s most important chapters. You’ll walk through exhibits that chronicle the civil rights movement from slavery through modern times, with artifacts and stories that bring history to life in powerful ways.

The indoor setting makes it perfect for escaping chilly weather while spending hours absorbed in meaningful displays. Interactive exhibits engage visitors of all ages, helping everyone understand the struggles and triumphs that shaped our nation.

Plan to spend at least three hours here—there’s so much to see and reflect upon.

2. Visit Graceland

Elvis Presley’s legendary mansion welcomes visitors year-round, but winter brings special perks like smaller crowds and more elbow room. You can tour the king’s home at your leisure, exploring the famous Jungle Room, trophy building, and car collection without battling summer heat or tourist rushes.

Inside the climate-controlled spaces, you’ll discover personal artifacts, stage costumes, and gold records that tell the story of rock and roll royalty. The audio tour guides you through each room with fascinating details about Elvis’s life and legacy.

Bundle up for the brief outdoor walks between buildings, then warm up inside again.

3. Spend the Day at the Memphis Zoo’s Indoor Exhibits

Cold-blooded creatures don’t mind winter one bit, which makes the zoo’s reptile house and aquarium exhibits ideal destinations when temperatures drop. Watching colorful fish glide through massive tanks or observing snakes and lizards up close provides entertainment that keeps you toasty and fascinated.

The Northwest Passage exhibit features seals and polar bears who actually prefer chilly weather, giving you outdoor viewing options if you’re feeling brave. Inside areas offer plenty of seating where you can rest while kids press their noses against the glass to watch penguins waddle.

4. Warm Up With BBQ at a Memphis Classic

Nothing chases away winter chills quite like smoky, tender BBQ piled high on your plate. Memphis claims the title of BBQ capital, and legendary spots like Central BBQ and The Rendezvous prove why with every succulent bite of ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.

The Rendezvous hides in a downtown alley, serving dry-rubbed ribs in a basement dining room that feels wonderfully warm and welcoming. Central BBQ offers wet and dry options with sides like baked beans and coleslaw that complement the meat perfectly.

Come hungry—portions are generous, and the flavors will make you forget the cold entirely.

5. Catch Live Music on Beale Street

Blues music pulses through Beale Street every night, regardless of what the thermometer reads outside. Duck into dimly lit clubs where talented musicians play soulful tunes that make your heart beat faster and your worries melt away.

Venues line both sides of the historic street, each offering its own vibe—from rowdy bars with dancing crowds to intimate spots where you can sit close to the stage. Warm drinks flow freely, and the energy inside these clubs creates its own heat that battles any winter chill.

6. Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Built on the original site of Stax Records, this museum celebrates the soul music that put Memphis on the map. You’ll find Isaac Hayes’s gold-plated Cadillac, Otis Redding’s stage clothes, and countless artifacts from legends who recorded hits in this very neighborhood.

Interactive exhibits let you try mixing tracks or dancing to classic grooves, making history feel alive and relevant. Don’t miss the vintage recording studio replica where you can imagine the magic that happened decades ago.

7. Go Museum-Hopping at the Pink Palace

The Memphis Museum of Science and History houses everything from natural history displays to cultural exhibits under one massive pink marble roof. Rotating galleries ensure there’s always something new to discover, whether you’re fascinated by dinosaurs, local history, or hands-on science experiments.

The attached planetarium offers shows that transport you to distant galaxies without leaving your heated seat. Families can easily spend an entire day here, moving between exhibits and shows while staying warm and engaged throughout.

8. Enjoy a Show at the Orpheum Theatre

This beautifully restored 1928 theater hosts Broadway touring productions, concerts, and classic film screenings in an elegant setting that feels like stepping back in time. Ornate chandeliers, plush seating, and stunning architecture create an atmosphere of old-world glamour.

Winter months bring a packed schedule of performances, from musicals to comedy shows that provide perfect date nights or family outings. The heated theater keeps you cozy while talented performers entertain from the grand stage.

9. Browse Local Shops at Crosstown Concourse

A former Sears distribution center transformed into a vibrant vertical urban village, Crosstown Concourse packs shops, restaurants, art galleries, and community spaces into one climate-controlled building. You can wander for hours, discovering local boutiques selling handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and unique gifts.

Food vendors offer everything from tacos to gourmet donuts, giving you plenty of options when hunger strikes. Art installations rotate regularly, and events like yoga classes or live performances add extra entertainment.

10. Sip and Snack at a Memphis Brewery or Coffee Shop

Local gathering spots like Wiseacre Brewing and City and State serve up warmth in liquid form, whether you prefer craft beer or perfectly roasted coffee. Wiseacre’s taproom features seasonal brews and a welcoming atmosphere where locals gather to escape the cold and catch up with friends.

City and State combines quality coffee with a full menu of breakfast and lunch items, making it ideal for leisurely mornings or afternoon work sessions. Both spots feature comfortable seating and friendly staff who make you feel right at home.