Memphis in May
Great time to visit
Memphis at its most electric with world-class festivals and perfect weather. But you'll pay premium prices and battle serious crowds for everything from hotels to barbecue joints.
Weather
May brings warm, sunny days that make you understand why people love the South. Temperatures hover in the mid-20s with pleasant evenings perfect for outdoor dining. The notorious Memphis humidity starts building, but it's not oppressive yet.
27°C high16°C low9 rain days
Crowds & Cost
high crowds
~$140/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Memphis in May International Festival
- •Beale Street Music Festival
- •World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest
May Tips
- •Book accommodations 3+ months ahead for festival weekends
- •Expect massive crowds downtown during festival weeks
- •Restaurant wait times double during major events
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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