About the Port
Memphis rises from the bluffs above the Mississippi River, a city whose story runs through the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the birth of American music. Beale Street remains its beating heart, lined with clubs where blues and soul still spill into the evening air, while Sun Studio and Graceland trace the rise of rock and roll and its most famous son, Elvis Presley. Oak-shaded parks and riverfront views add a graceful, unhurried backdrop to a city built on rhythm.
Serving as a gateway to Mississippi River voyages, Memphis rewards an extra day or two on either end of a cruise for deeper exploration. The National Civil Rights Museum, housed at the former Lorraine Motel, offers a sobering counterpoint to the city's musical exuberance, and its downtown core keeps landmarks, barbecue joints, and river views within easy walking distance of the pier.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Memphis Tennessee.
Tour Graceland
Elvis Presley's mansion and grounds offer an in-depth look at his life and legacy, with exhibits on his cars, costumes, and career; plan at least half a day and book tickets ahead for timed entry.
Visit the National Civil Rights Museum
Housed in the former Lorraine Motel where Dr. King was assassinated, this museum traces the movement's history through powerful exhibits; allow two to three hours for a full visit.
Hear Live Music on Beale Street
Duck into a club for blues, soul, or rockabilly and catch the city's musical pulse after dark; it's a short walk from most downtown hotels and the riverfront.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Memphis Tennessee
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 5, 2026 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 14 | $17,199 | |
| Oct 17, 2026 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 10 | $11,999 | |
| Oct 27, 2026 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $5,799 | |
| Nov 3, 2026 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $7,999 | |
| Nov 10, 2026 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $5,299 | |
| Nov 17, 2026 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $4,299 | |
| Nov 24, 2026 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $5,049 | |
| Dec 8, 2026 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $5,099 | |
| Jan 26, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $4,199 | |
| Feb 2, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $4,299 | |
| Feb 9, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $4,299 | |
| Feb 16, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $4,499 | |
| Feb 23, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $4,999 | |
| Mar 2, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $4,799 | |
| Mar 9, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $4,999 | |
| Mar 16, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $5,299 | |
| Mar 23, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $5,499 | |
| Mar 30, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $4,999 | |
| Apr 6, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $6,299 | |
| Apr 13, 2027 | Viking River Cruises | Viking Mississippi | 7 | $6,299 |
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