Staying Safe When Visiting Memphis

01 Understanding Memphis’ Crime Landscape

Memphis has a higher-than-average crime rate, with statistics showing a violent crime rate of 19.5 per 1,000 residents. While this can sound concerning, it’s worth remembering that many visitors enjoy safe, memorable stays by focusing on safer areas and remaining vigilant.

Crimes to be aware of include theft, auto break-ins, and, in rare instances, robberies in quieter parts of town. The Memphis Police Department has ramped up efforts to keep popular tourist areas secure with increased patrols, community programs, and a real-time crime center. Tourists can feel safer in areas like Downtown, Midtown, and East Memphis, where high visibility and community presence contribute to lower crime rates.

Meanwhile, neighborhoods such as North and South Memphis can require extra caution, particularly after dark. Staying within well-patrolled and popular areas, especially for evening outings, is a reliable way to stay safe. Community efforts, like neighborhood watch programs and youth services, also support crime prevention, fostering a sense of security for residents and visitors alike.

02 A Vibrant and Safe Hub for Tourists

Downtown Memphis is one of the city’s most popular areas for visitors, packed with historic sites, music venues, and rich cultural landmarks. Attractions here include the iconic Beale Street, bustling with live blues and jazz performances every night, and the National Civil Rights Museum, a powerful testament to the American civil rights movement. The Peabody Hotel, with its famous daily duck march, and Cotton Row, a historic marketplace, add charm to the area.

To enhance safety, the Blue Suede Brigade, a team of friendly city ambassadors, patrols the downtown area. These helpful guides offer directions, assist with safety escorts, and act as extra eyes for law enforcement. They’re one of the many initiatives that make downtown a welcoming space for tourists. Additional safety measures include well-lit streets, security cameras, and police presence during peak tourist seasons. For easy and reliable transportation, visitors can hop on the Memphis Trolley or take a guided tour to explore the sights worry-free.

Downtown is a blend of past and present, honoring Memphis’ legacy while embracing its future. With its active atmosphere and enhanced security measures, it’s an ideal starting point for exploring the Bluff City.

03 Practical Safety Tips for Exploring Memphis

Memphis is an incredible city, and with a few practical safety tips, you can enjoy it to the fullest. Here’s how to keep your trip secure and enjoyable:

• Stick to Well-Lit, Busy Areas: After dark, focus on popular spots like Beale Street and Overton Square, which are lively and well-monitored.
• Navigate Public Transit with Care: Use the MATA bus system during the day and opt for the Memphis Trolley downtown, which is tourist-friendly and secure. If you’re traveling alone, sit near the driver.
• Protect Your Belongings: Opt for anti-theft bags with hidden zippers, keep wallets in front pockets, and avoid flashy jewelry.
• Politely Handle Panhandlers: If approached for money, politely decline and continue walking. Direct those in need to local shelters like the Memphis Union Mission if appropriate.
• Leverage Safety Apps: Download the MPD CyberWatch app for crime alerts, and consider SafeTrek or bSafe for emergency contact features.
• Blend in Like a Local: Avoid holding large maps or looking lost; ask for directions from business staff rather than on the street.
• Stay Alert in Parking Areas: Use well-lit, attended lots, have your keys ready, and check your backseat before entering your car.

By taking these simple precautions, you can minimize risk and enjoy a safe, relaxed visit to Memphis.

04 Exploring Memphis’ Safer Neighborhoods

Beyond the bustling downtown, several Memphis neighborhoods offer safe, culturally rich experiences. Midtown is one of the city’s most eclectic neighborhoods, home to Overton Square—a lively district with theaters, restaurants, and music venues. The area is well-lit and frequently patrolled, with community watch programs in place.

East Memphis offers a suburban feel with a mix of residential and commercial spaces, where popular sites like Shelby Farms Park, Memphis Botanic Garden, and Lichterman Nature Center draw families and tourists alike. Germantown, a suburb east of the city, is also known for its low crime rates, upscale shopping at Saddle Creek, and family-friendly events.

When planning your stay, consider hotels in these safe neighborhoods. The Peabody Hotel, Hilton Memphis, and Hampton Inn & Suites Germantown all provide excellent options for safe, comfortable accommodations. Dining in these areas is also a treat, with upscale options like Restaurant Iris in Midtown and Folk’s Folly Prime Steak House in East Memphis.

For festivals, the Cooper-Young Festival in September and the Levitt Shell Free Music Concert Series in Overton Park offer fun, family-friendly experiences in safe settings.

05 Preparing for Emergencies in Memphis

While no one expects emergencies, it’s always helpful to be prepared. If you find yourself in an unexpected situation, follow these steps for a swift and safe resolution:

• In Case of Crime or Suspicious Activity: Call 911 immediately, move to a safe location, and cooperate fully with law enforcement.
• Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Store numbers for non-emergency police services (901-545-2677), the fire department (901-320-5300), and the Memphis Tourism Visitor Center (901-543-5333).
• Weather Preparedness: Memphis can experience tornadoes and flash floods, especially in spring and summer. Download the NOAA Weather Radio app for real-time alerts and stay updated through local news.
• Locate Nearby Medical Facilities: Major hospitals like Methodist University Hospital and Baptist Memorial Hospital are available for emergencies. Be sure to carry essential medical information, such as a list of medications, allergies, and your blood type.

By keeping emergency contacts and resources readily accessible, you can navigate unexpected situations calmly and effectively.

06 Cultural and Historical Attractions Worth Visiting

Memphis is a city of rich cultural significance, offering unique experiences that connect visitors to its profound history and vibrant present. From the roots of blues music to the civil rights movement, every corner of Memphis tells a story.

Music lovers will find themselves drawn to Graceland, Elvis Presley’s legendary mansion, and Sun Studio, known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, where icons like Johnny Cash recorded. At the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, visitors can immerse themselves in the sound that defined an era, exploring the stories behind Stax Records artists.

Memphis played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, and visiting the National Civil Rights Museum is a powerful experience. Housed at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the museum traces the struggle for equality with interactive exhibits. The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum offers insights into Memphis’ part in helping enslaved people escape to freedom, while Mason Temple, the site of Dr. King’s final speech, provides a poignant historical landmark.

For a taste of local flavor, don’t miss Memphis-style barbecue at iconic spots like Central BBQ or The Bar-B-Q Shop. The Beale Street Music Festival and the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art also bring art and music enthusiasts together to celebrate the city’s unique offerings.

Each neighborhood contributes to Memphis’ vibrant cultural tapestry. From Cooper-Young’s eclectic shops and eateries to the South Main Arts District’s galleries and the historical charm of Overton Square, there’s plenty to explore with a strong sense of safety.

07 Embracing Memphis’ Cultural Legacy Safely

By following these tips and choosing your destinations wisely, Memphis opens up as a city of warmth, music, and history. While every city has its challenges, being prepared and staying informed ensures that your focus can remain on the incredible sights, sounds, and tastes that make Memphis a beloved destination. With the right balance of caution and curiosity, you’ll create lasting memories in the Home of the Blues—experiencing all that this soulful city has to offer.