Free Things And Giveaways In Memphis A Guide To No-Cost Activities Items And Cultural Experiences

Memphis, Tennessee, offers a wide range of free experiences, from cultural landmarks and music events to generous community giveaways. Whether you're a local looking for ways to explore your city without spending money or a visitor seeking budget-friendly activities, Memphis provides numerous opportunities to enjoy its rich history, music scene, and community spirit at no cost.

This guide outlines the many free and no-cost offerings available in Memphis, focusing on cultural experiences, community events, and free items that are often shared by residents and businesses. These opportunities reflect the city's commitment to making its vibrant culture and history accessible to all.

Free Cultural and Historical Attractions

Memphis is home to numerous cultural and historical landmarks that offer free or discounted access to residents and visitors. These locations provide a window into the city’s storied past and its contributions to music, civil rights, and American culture.

Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, located on Beale Street, offers a deep dive into the city’s musical heritage. Shelby County residents can visit for free on Tuesdays. The museum features seven galleries that cover the evolution of Memphis music from the 1930s to the 1970s. Visitors can explore over 100 songs, 40 costumes, and 30 instruments. An audio guide is available to enhance the experience.

Dixon Gallery & Gardens

The Dixon Gallery & Gardens is a 17-acre site that includes a Georgian-style home, public gardens, and a certified arboretum. The gallery features one of the largest collections of decorative arts in the United States. Free admission is available on Sundays and Tuesdays at 2 p.m. without the need for reservations. School groups can also enter for free with prior reservations. The gallery offers educational programs and guided tours, and advance reservations are recommended for larger groups.

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art offers free admission to residents of Shelby County. The museum’s collection includes works from a wide range of periods and styles, making it a great option for art enthusiasts. The museum also hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year.

National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, provides a powerful and moving look at the history of the civil rights movement in the United States. While general admission is not free, the museum offers free admission to residents of Shelby County on Tuesdays.

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is another must-visit location on Beale Street. This museum tells the story of soul music and its impact on American culture. It is part of the National Civil Rights Museum complex and offers a unique perspective on the intersection of music and civil rights.

Free Music and Entertainment

Music is at the heart of Memphis, and there are numerous opportunities to enjoy live performances and music events without spending a dime.

Beale Street

Beale Street is one of the most iconic streets in Memphis and a hub for live music. While entry to the clubs and venues is typically not free, the street is alive with music, street performers, and vibrant energy. Visitors can stroll the street and enjoy the music and atmosphere from the outside.

Beale Street Flippers

The Beale Street Flippers are a group of acrobatic street performers who put on dazzling shows on Beale Street. These performances are free to watch and provide a fun and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.

Overton Park Shell Concerts

The Overton Park Shell is a historic venue that hosts free concerts throughout the year. These concerts feature a variety of musical genres and attract local and regional artists. The concerts are open to the public and offer a great opportunity to enjoy live music in a beautiful setting.

Memphis Listening Lab

The Memphis Listening Lab is a treasure trove of music history, offering free public access to an extensive collection of records and CDs. This unique space allows visitors to explore Memphis’s musical legacy and enjoy a wide range of music from different eras.

Free Community Events and Markets

Memphis has a thriving community scene with numerous free events and markets that offer a mix of food, art, and culture.

Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market

The Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market is a popular weekly event that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and live music. The market is located at 1000 Cooper St. and is open on Saturdays. It is a great place to support local farmers and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the community.

South Main Trolley Nights

South Main Trolley Nights is a monthly event held on the last Friday of each month. This event offers free trolley rides to the South Main Arts District, where visitors can explore art galleries, shops, and enjoy cultural performances. The trolley provides a convenient and free way to experience the area's vibrant arts scene.

First Fridays on Broad

First Fridays on Broad is an event held on the first Friday of each month on Broad Avenue in Binghampton. The event features local artists, live music, food trucks, and special treats from local stores. It is a great opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy the creative energy of the neighborhood.

Beale Street Bike Night

Beale Street Bike Night is a seasonal event held every fourth Wednesday night during the summer. The event includes free bike shows and live music, offering a fun and active way to enjoy the street's vibrant atmosphere.

Free Educational and Family-Friendly Activities

Memphis offers a variety of free educational and family-friendly activities that provide engaging and enriching experiences for all ages.

Memphis Public Libraries

The Memphis Public Libraries offer a wide range of free programs and events, including workshops, storytimes, and cultural events. The libraries are a great resource for families and individuals seeking educational and recreational activities.

Memphis Art Walks

Memphis hosts monthly free art walks in the South Main Arts District. These walks provide an opportunity to explore local galleries and support the city’s vibrant arts community. The events are free to attend and offer a great way to discover new artists and works.

Memphis Mural Tours

Memphis is known for its vibrant public art scene, with murals found throughout the city. Visitors can embark on a self-guided mural tour to discover these public works of art. The city’s murals offer a colorful and creative backdrop for photos and selfies. The Paint Memphis and Memphis Art Project websites provide guidance on where to find some of the most impressive murals.

Downtown Memphis Commission Sidewalk Stories

The Downtown Memphis Commission has created a series of bronze plaques known as Sidewalk Stories. These plaques are located throughout downtown Memphis and tell the story of the city’s rich history. The plaques offer an interactive way to explore the city’s past and are a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Free Giveaways and Free Stuff

In addition to the many cultural and community activities, Memphis is also known for its generous giveaways and free items. These items are often shared by residents and businesses and can range from furniture and appliances to tools and household goods.

Craigslist Memphis Free Stuff

Craigslist Memphis is a popular resource for finding free items and giveaways. The site features a wide range of listings, including furniture, appliances, tools, and more. Some recent listings include free lawn service, wood scraps, a queen-size memory foam mattress, free chickens, and a free upright piano. These items are often given away for good use and require pickup from the listed location.

Free Community Items

Various neighborhoods and communities in Memphis also offer free items to residents. For example, Bartlett and Southaven have listings for moving boxes, tools, and other household goods. These items are often available for pickup and are given away to those who can use them.

Free Public Items and Services

Memphis also offers free public items and services, such as free popcorn packing material, free chickens, and free chickens again, which are occasionally given away. These items are often available for pickup at designated locations and require no cost or purchase.

Free Events and Special Offers

Memphis hosts a variety of free events and special offers throughout the year. These events provide opportunities to enjoy the city’s culture, music, and community spirit without spending money.

Memphis for Free

Memphis for Free is a list of attractions and experiences that are available at no cost. This list includes Graceland, the Memphis Zoo, the National Civil Rights Museum, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. While some of these locations charge admission, they offer free days or special promotions for residents and visitors.

Free Event Calendar

The Choose901 website offers a free event calendar that lists upcoming events in Memphis. These events include art shows, performances, workshops, and community gatherings. The calendar is a great resource for finding free activities and events throughout the year.

Rainy Day Activities

If the weather isn’t cooperating, there are still plenty of free things to do in Memphis. The city offers a variety of indoor activities, including visiting museums, exploring libraries, and enjoying live music and performances. These options provide a fun and engaging way to spend time even when it’s raining.

Conclusion

Memphis offers a wealth of free experiences, from cultural and historical attractions to community events and generous giveaways. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there are numerous ways to enjoy the city without spending money. These free activities reflect Memphis’s commitment to making its vibrant culture and history accessible to all. By taking advantage of these opportunities, residents and visitors can experience the best of Memphis without the need for a large budget.

Sources

1. Craigslist Memphis Free Stuff
2. Free Things to Do in Memphis
3. Free and Discounted Doings in Memphis
4. Free Things to Do in Memphis, TN