Memphis in January
Good time to visit
Memphis hibernates in January, which means cheap hotels and empty tourist spots. The weather is miserable, but you'll have Beale Street practically to yourself.
Weather
January brings cold, damp days with occasional ice storms that can shut down the city. Expect overcast skies most days and that bone-chilling Mississippi River humidity that makes 2°C feel like -5°C. Snow is rare but freezing rain isn't.
9°C high-1°C low8 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$85/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Elvis Birthday Celebration at Graceland
- •Martin Luther King Jr. Day events
January Tips
- •Pack layers and waterproof shoes for icy sidewalks
- •Many outdoor attractions have reduced hours
- •Hotel rates are at their lowest of the year
All Months
Spring and fall hit the sweet spot - March through May and September through November give you perfect weather for walking Beale Street and touring Graceland's outdoor areas. Summer's brutal with 90-degree heat and humidity that makes you question your life choices. And Memphis in July during Elvis Week? Forget about it unless you love crowds and paying triple for hotels. Winter works if you don't mind gray skies and 40-degree days, plus you'll have the city mostly to yourself. The Memphis in May festival brings great music but also massive crowds. Book early or skip it entirely.
Memphis Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
6/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
4/10
Budget
8/10
Luxury
5/10
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