Beale Street
Beale Street
4
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas
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Renovation and renewal have come to this historic street known as the "Home of the Blues." Flashy music clubs and restaurants abound.
Suggested duration
< 1 hour
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from $8.00
All you need to step foot in the door.
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Top ways to experience Beale Street
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
355 within 3 miles
Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar
2,823
0.3 mi$$$$ • Seafood
Itta Bena
564
135 ft$$$$ • American • Cajun & Creole • Vegetarian Friendly
Majestic Grille
1,206
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Grill • Contemporary
Maciel's Tortas & Tacos
197
0.3 mi$ • Mexican • Latin • Vegetarian Friendly
B.B. King's Blues Club
4,272
137 ft$$ - $$$ • American • Cajun & Creole • Bar
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
4,439
0.3 mi$ • American
McEwen's Memphis
655
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
Blues City Cafe
3,514
150 ft$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Barbecue
Aldo's Pizza Pies - Downtown
610
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • Pizza • Vegetarian Friendly
Texas de Brazil - Memphis
694
0.1 mi$$$$ • Steakhouse • Brazilian • Gluten Free Options
Attractions
96 within 6 miles
Beale Street Blues Museum
8
133 ftSpeciality Museums
FedExForum
583
432 ftArenas & Stadiums
Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum
2,348
0.1 miSpeciality Museums • History Museums
Belz Museum of Asian & Judaic Art
279
0.2 miArt Museums
Withers Collection Museum & Gallery
152
0.2 miArt Museums
Handy Park
35
476 ftParks
Memphis Music Hall of Fame
83
260 ftSpeciality Museums
AutoZone Park
725
0.2 miArenas & Stadiums
The Peabody Ducks
6,286
0.2 miHistoric Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
The New Daisy Theatre
35
0.1 miTheaters
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
8,706 reviews
Excellent
3,698
Very good
2,671
Average
1,635
Poor
469
Terrible
233
Emptynesters09
Port Saint Lucie, FL482 contributions
As an average tourist, go by day and take in all the shops/bars/breweries. At night the street is barricaded and blocked off by security. You must show ID to enter the Beale Street area as well as pay a $5/per person fee. Plenty of bachelor and bachelorette parties having a blast in the area as well as college age partiers.
Written August 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Katie
Henrico, VA24 contributions
The cover charge was back into effect when we were there, but we visited earlier in the day around noon and we were able to get in without paying. We had our dog with us so we were only able to visit during the day while he was at daycare. I've read that dogs are not allowed but even if they were I wouldn't take my dog due to the large amounts of people. We quickly walked through during the day to take pictures and stop into some shops but a lot of restaurants and stores still weren't open around noon. Overall, you have to just go, but I wouldn't expect to stay for long amounts of time unless you're eating and drinking there.
Written July 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Trish
1 contribution
Couples
Visited Memphis for the first time and we stayed at the Big Cypress Lodge it was very well worth it very nice and entertaining, they have a gun range and archer range but you must bring your own weapon they do not rent out weapons. Visited the Lorraine Hotel where MLK was shot you can go in the hotel and see the rooms where he stayed. We also went on Beale street Friday night it was nice live music everywhere but everything closes at 10pm because of COVID-19. To many idle and suspect teens standing around watching you. To many beggars harassing you. Please be aware of your surrounding at ALL times! They watch tourist very closely. I reccomend exercising your 2nd amendment right if you plan on visiting beale street at night with your family.
Written July 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Sharon H
Houston, TX436 contributions
Solo
Enjoyed Beale street.
Don't dress up, wear very comfy foot wear as you maybe standing for busy shows.
Some venues have old staircases and most have uneven floors!
Great place to bar hop, everything is in a few blocks.
Each venue has its own funky vibe and a lot of memorabilia inside.
Note some bars allow outside drinks but not all.
Check venues before you buy your big ass street beer.
Best tasting food on Beale was Blues City Cafe or BB Kings!
If the city is busy plan some wait time to eat,
If you plan to spend evenings on Beale St...it's worth it to stay DT nearby & walk over.
Will save parking cost/hassle/ drinking concerns.
I used Uber / Lyft from airport & to/from Graceland & walked pretty much everywhere else in a few minutes.
Note always be safe.
Leave your jewelry & designer bags at home.
Nobody cares about it in Memphis. I found being alone in Memphis felt safe.
I never wear flash when traveling.
Carry enough cash for the evening and take a credit card and drivers ID regardless of age, some bars will card obvious adults.
Most clubs will have a cover charge...probably $10 cash, might depend on event.
Its the Blues!
Get out and support live music & have fun!
Everyone smiles while listening to Blues & Blues fans are friendly!
Some of the best bands in the world are located in Memphis, as well as world touring bands.
Don't dress up, wear very comfy foot wear as you maybe standing for busy shows.
Some venues have old staircases and most have uneven floors!
Great place to bar hop, everything is in a few blocks.
Each venue has its own funky vibe and a lot of memorabilia inside.
Note some bars allow outside drinks but not all.
Check venues before you buy your big ass street beer.
Best tasting food on Beale was Blues City Cafe or BB Kings!
If the city is busy plan some wait time to eat,
If you plan to spend evenings on Beale St...it's worth it to stay DT nearby & walk over.
Will save parking cost/hassle/ drinking concerns.
I used Uber / Lyft from airport & to/from Graceland & walked pretty much everywhere else in a few minutes.
Note always be safe.
Leave your jewelry & designer bags at home.
Nobody cares about it in Memphis. I found being alone in Memphis felt safe.
I never wear flash when traveling.
Carry enough cash for the evening and take a credit card and drivers ID regardless of age, some bars will card obvious adults.
Most clubs will have a cover charge...probably $10 cash, might depend on event.
Its the Blues!
Get out and support live music & have fun!
Everyone smiles while listening to Blues & Blues fans are friendly!
Some of the best bands in the world are located in Memphis, as well as world touring bands.
Written February 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
warrenbruin
Tehachapi, CA93 contributions
Solo
Saturday night, I found a parking spot quickly nearby, then walked to the 4th Street entrance and passed through security and began the people watching extravaganza. Along the way I listened to some really good live music, including a female artist backed by a great guitarist, drummer, and keyboard player performing an excellent rendition of Purple Rain. I was up and back in about 45 minutes and loved every second. Go and drink it in, especially if you can do it on a Friday or Saturday night.
Written July 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
sandra c
7 contributions
We went to BB King's in the daytime, since there's no music then, no cover charge, just great BBQ and Collard Greens and Cornbread. We stayed at the Peabody for 1 night and I believe that is the most beautiful hotel I've ever seen at Christmas. The duck parade is twice a day. And during the Christmas season they have a different choir singing everyday at 11 am. Their Gingerbread House has to be seen to be believed, so beautiful and detailed.
Written August 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Isa b
Gatineau, Canada1,234 contributions
We were the preceeding week in Nashville and I had felt Broadway to be dirty, even in the afternoon. I loved Beale street in comparision. It was always lively, with fun amusements, people selling water or drinks, street entertainment, souvenir shops, bars, restaurants, etc. I felt it was very happening.
Although ( and maybe because of it) you were asked to pay a cover to go into some bars-restaurants or even to walk on the street, I didn't feel the drinks were all that expansive compared to HK highway. Also the performers didn't harass you for tips.
I much prefered that approach. We had a lot of fun.
Although ( and maybe because of it) you were asked to pay a cover to go into some bars-restaurants or even to walk on the street, I didn't feel the drinks were all that expansive compared to HK highway. Also the performers didn't harass you for tips.
I much prefered that approach. We had a lot of fun.
Written August 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Crabby061
Manchester, UK228 contributions
Couples
Having just spent 3 nights in Nashville, we felt the music scene on Beale Street fell a bit short and didn't live up to expectations. We definitely expected more of a buzz around the place. There were only 3 or 4 bars with live music and one of them (BB Kings) charged entry ($5 cover charge) the only place during our 3 week musical tour of the US to do this. The food choices were pretty mediocre too. It felt a bit sad that the local authorities nd businesses don't give this potential cultural hotspot the TLC it deserves.
Written March 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Lauri Z
Champlin, MN57 contributions
During our visit, Beale Street seemed quiet. Maybe it was the time of year, or that we were there on a Thursday night. I was expecting to find more bands playing in the various venues. We still enjoyed the bands that were there, but the scale is much smaller than Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Worth a visit if you are in Memphis.
Written March 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Emily46217
Indianapolis, Indiana58 contributions
We visited on a Sunday afternoon, maybe 1ish, and already the drunks were stumbling around yelling at people. A lot of the businesses were closed, either too early, because of Covid, or because it was a Sunday. I wouldn't recommend it right now. Maybe once we have moved past some of the more strict Covid measures, but right now it's just a sad street crowded with drunks.
Written April 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
does Guest House have busses for tour of river front
Michael C
5 contributions
Yes Memphis City bus tour has an option to ride on the River boat along with seeing Sun Studios, Peabody and the Lorraine Motel where MLK was assassinated.
Joseph C
Manteno, IL64 contributions
How are the crowds and live music during the weekdays currently? I would like to do a Monday - Wednesday visit this month. Is there stuff to do during the day?
tlf610
Topeka, KS51 contributions
Yes, you can walk through Beale Street. There are a few shops, bars, & restaurants. The live music usually doesn't start till late afternoon or evening.
Are all the outdoor venues open with live music? Even during the weekdays. I went two years ago this week and we had an awesome time just meandering the open street and the blues playing. We are wanting to be back in a couple of weeks but always go during the weekdays as it is cheaper on room rates. Thank you.
chulalita
Albany, NY371 contributions
Not sure. When we went in March it was kinda dead only blue street Cafe was open on weekdays. Maybe restrictions were lifted a bit
cdrz1971
Muskegon, MI45 contributions
With the current covid restrictions are restaurants open for eat in dining?
frenchval88
Sigonella, Italy101 contributions
We went to Memphis a few weeks ago. Most of places to eat were opened however most of restaurants/bar shut early!
Hi. I have a friend who suggests that Beale Street and downtown Memphis is to be avoided these days. Is the crime so bad that my bf and I should think twice about visiting? We were hoping to get a hotel room in the area. Or should we room outside of Memphis and enjoy the festivities during daylight hours?
Richard T
Burnley, UK1,126 contributions
We were on Beale Street in August 2019 in daylight and also late evening. We never saw any crime. We took the usual precautions like we do in any city Worldwide - such as keeping wallet/monies in front pocket, no loose jewelry, careful when getting cash and cards out to pay, and that sort of thing. We stayed in a downtown hotel and walked to Beale Street.
Nicolle W
Belfast, UK240 contributions
Does anyone know what time the bars/clubs starting turning on their lights at night?
Thanks in advance.
Nicolle
FJ traveler
Houston, TX72 contributions
I don't know what time the lights are turned on, but I am sure there are different places that light up at different times. By the time the sun sets all lights are on who's places are open for business.
Is there admission to get on Beale street at a certain time
peterglassman
Schaumburg, IL201 contributions
No. It's a street. You will spend money once you are on the street but not to get on the street.
Beale Street (Memphis) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Beale Street
- Beale Street admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost $8.00, while a popular guided tour starts around $15.38 per person. See all 23 Beale Street tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- Beale Street can be crowded, so we recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. See all 23 Beale Street tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Beale Street:
- Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket (From $8.00)
- Beale Street Guided Walking Tour (From $16.46)
- Memphis City Tour with Optional Riverboat Cruise & Sun Studio Add-On Options (From $38.00)
- Memphis Mojo Bus Tour (From $32.92)
- City of Memphis Guided Bus Tour (From $30.77)
- Hotels near Beale Street:
- (0.03 mi) Hidden gem in heart of Downtown Memphis
- (0.06 mi) Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street
- (0.06 mi) The Westin Memphis Beale Street
- (0.16 mi) Talbot Heirs Guesthouse
- (0.20 mi) The Peabody Memphis
- Restaurants near Beale Street:
- (0.01 mi) Miss Polly's Soul City Cafe
- (0.01 mi) Burrito Blues Mexican Grill
- (0.01 mi) King Jerry Lawler's Hall of Fame Bar & Grille
- (0.02 mi) Itta Bena
- (0.02 mi) King's Palace Cafe
- Attractions near Beale Street:
- (0.01 mi) Memphis Music
- (0.01 mi) Tater Red's Lucky Mojos
- (0.01 mi) Club 152
- (0.02 mi) Blues City General Store
- (0.02 mi) Absinthe Room