6 days in Memphis & Gatlinburg Itinerary

The largest city on the Mississippi River, Memphis bills itself as both the "Birthplace of Rock" and "Home of the Blues." With such a rich musical heritage, it shouldn't come as a surprise that Elvis Presley chose to live in Memphis during his later years.

On the 8th (Thu), try to win big at Southland Casino Racing. Here are some ideas for day two: go on a hair-raising tour with Backbeat Tours, pause for some photo ops at National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel, and then steep yourself in history at Sun Studio.

For ratings, other places to visit, and other tourist information, refer to the Memphis trip itinerary builder site.

Waco to Memphis is an approximately 9-hour car ride. You can also fly; or drive; or take a bus. While traveling from Waco, expect slightly colder days and about the same nights in Memphis, ranging from highs of 77°F to lows of 56°F. You'll have a few hours on the 10th (Sat) to wrap things up before traveling to Gatlinburg.

Nestled in the lush, wooded forests of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is Tennessee’s premier mountain resort destination.

On the 11th (Sun), identify plant and animal life at Roaring Fork, hike along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, then sample the fine beverages at Ole Smoky, then brush up on your knowledge of spirits at Sugarlands Distilling Company, and finally brush up on your knowledge of spirits at Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine. On the next day, explore the wealth of natural beauty at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

To see photos, reviews, and other tourist information, refer to the Gatlinburg route planner.

You can drive from Memphis to Gatlinburg in 7.5 hours. Other options are to fly; or do a combination of bus, subway, and car. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 1 hour traveling from Memphis to Gatlinburg. Expect slightly colder evenings in Gatlinburg when traveling from Memphis in October, with lows around 51°F.