Images from Beale Street

Welcome to Beale Street

Neither Sandra nor I had ever been to Memphis, and fortunately for us, Saturday proved to be a brilliantly clear day to visit the city's most famous street. For a three block stretch, Beale Street is closed to regular vehicle traffic, so it's all about the storefronts, clubs, and people. While it's much more active at night, even on a February day, the street was active, particularly with tourists visiting from around the world.



Open for Business

Beale Street is Blues City and history and a party. Many of the bars have walk-up windows where you can buy beer and liquor, and open containers are allowed on the three block stretch. Add a wide range of music, including blues, and you have a very vibrant nightlife.



Past and Still Present

Though for me, it's especially neat to see the older architecture. Many of the buildings date from the 1910s or earlier. It's also interesting to step into a retail store, A. Schwab, which first opened in 1876.



A Little of This and That at A. Schwab

There is a certain lighthearted aspect to the street and lots of food. Memphis is a city where the South meets the Delta. Toss in barbecue and the cuisine showcases a variety of influences, even Mexican.



Tacos and Blues?


A Cast of Characters


Stay Funny, My Friends

It's a street worth a walk and a view.



Viewing the Signs