Memphis — a city synonymous with the heart and soul of American music — proudly marks a monumental milestone: 100 years of tourism. For a century, Memphis has been a beacon for travelers from around the globe, drawing millions to its vibrant streets where blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll were born and continue to thrive.

From the early days when Memphis first opened its doors to curious visitors by train and riverboats, the city has been a cultural crossroads and a dynamic hub for music lovers, history buffs, and adventurers alike. Today, Memphis welcomes over 13 million visitors each year, making tourism a cornerstone of the local economy. This booming industry, valued at more than $4 billion annually, supports thousands of jobs and sustains more than 60 unique attractions that showcase the city's rich heritage and dynamic present.

The story of Memphis tourism is inseparable from the city's musical legacy. Home to legends like B.B. King, Elvis Presley, Otis Redding, and countless other trailblazers, Memphis offers an unparalleled musical journey, inspiring local artists of today such as Justin Timberlake and Glorilla. Visitors can walk the hallowed halls of Graceland, explore the historic Sun Studio where rock 'n' roll was ignited, and lose themselves in the rhythm of Beale Street, a National Historic Landmark that pulses with live music, vibrant nightlife, and southern hospitality.

But Memphis is much more than music. Its story is etched in the powerful landmarks of the Civil Rights Movement, including the National Civil Rights Museum, built around the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. made his final stand. The city's riverfront along the mighty Mississippi offers stunning views, rich history, and unforgettable experiences such as riverboat cruises and festivals that celebrate the soul of this Southern city.

Memphis' 100th anniversary of tourism is not just a celebration of the past—it's a promise for the future. As the city continues to evolve, it remains a place where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. Whether it's savoring world-class barbecue and world class culinary scene, exploring cutting-edge art galleries taking shape along its riverfornt, or attending electrifying live music performances, visitors discover a city that is alive with stories waiting to be told.

This centennial milestone is an invitation to experience Memphis like never before—a city that has shaped the soundtrack of a nation and continues to welcome the world with open arms, unforgettable memories, and a timeless spirit. Here's to 100 years of tourism, and to many more decades of welcoming the world to the home of the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. Welcome to Memphis.