When it comes to America's music history, there really is no better place to experience it then in Memphis, Tennessee.

As the home to greats such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and B.B. King, as well as being the birthplace of the blues, this city is densely steeped with music history and pride that is unique to any other place in the states.

Situated in the south-west corner of Tennessee, Memphis rises majestically above the Mississippi River on the fourth Chickasaw Bluff, which is positioned just south of the mouth of the Wolf River. The beautiful landscapes here are expressive of this city's amazing contributions to the identity of the American south and offer a never-ending array of places to explore and discover.

Although musical history tends to dominate most holidays here, there are plenty of other fantastic attractions that are just begging to be visited.

1. Memphis in May

This annual festival would have to be the city's largest celebration, running for the entirety of the month of May. This series of events celebrates the great history and heritage of Memphis, with a strong focus on the importance of music in the city. The festival hosts four major events including the Beale Street Music Festival, International Week, the World Championship BBQ Cooking Contest and the Sunset Symphony.

This festival is a great event to visit if you are here around this time of the year. It is an excellent showcase of local and international talent and is a great demonstration of the lifestyle that can be enjoyed in Memphis.

2. National Civil Rights Museum

As mentioned previously, music isn't the only draw card of Memphis; political history is also dominant here. This is most evident through the National Civil Rights Museum, which holds significant importance here. Built around the former Lorraine Motel, which is where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4. 1968, this building is remembered by all who were around during these times and all those who have the slightest interest in political history.

On the large scale, the museum tells the story of the struggle for African American civil rights, and depicts the hardships and sacrifices that were made during this struggle. This is the perfect place to visit if you are after an important slice of American history or simply want to see where it all happened.

3. Graceland

No visit to Memphis is complete without visiting the home of the "King", Elvis Presley. Graceland is one of the most visited houses in the United States, attracting over 600,000 visitors each year. The house has actually achieved museum status and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This is the perfect place to visit for all those Elvis fans from far and wide. It is a true pilgrimage and will give you a dramatic insight into the life of the "King of Rock".

4. Memphis Botanic Garden

All the excitement of Memphis is sure to wear you down, so why not pay a visit to the Memphis Botanical Gardens where you will able to stop and smell the roses, literally. This garden is one of the mid-south's finest examples of horticulture, as it is positioned on 96 acres of sweeping vistas, lakes and woodlands. The entirety of the gardens is sure to take your breath away, but there are certain areas in particular that simply cannot be missed. The Japanese Garden of Tranquility is renowned across the world and is the perfect place to soak up the best that nature has to offer.

The fantastic thing about these gardens is that they offer opportunities for people to connect with the plants, while gaining an increased awareness and appreciation of our natural environment.

5. Pink Palace Museum

The Pink Palace Museum is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the south-east. It is a museum that depicts the cultural and natural history of the mid-south, through the clever use of exciting exhibits, dioramas and audio-visuals. This is an ideal place to visit for the entire family.

Memphis seems to offer something for everyone, of every age and for every taste. Whether you want a slice of nature, history of culture, or if you simply want to bask in the music glory of the special region, feel free to because there will be something here to help you do it.

Christine Barton