You Heard About Memphis? Don't Worry, It's Not That Murderous (Probably)
So, you're thinking about visiting Memphis, the land of blues music, delicious barbecue, and...uh...murders? Hold on there, partner, before you pack your bulletproof vest, let's get the real deal on crime in Memphis.
How Many Murders In Memphis This Year |
Murder on My Mind (But Not Literally, Let's Hope)
Look, there's no denying Memphis has had a rough reputation in the past. But hey, everyone's gotta move on, right? Thankfully, things have been looking up lately. While it's true there have been some unfortunate incidents this year (55 as of July 12th, 2024, to be exact), that number's actually on the lower end compared to, well, Memphis of yesteryear.
Here's the thing: statistics can be scary, but context is key. Those 55 murders might sound like a horror movie plot, but Memphis is a big ol' city with a whole lot of folks living there. Proportionally speaking, Memphis isn't even in the top spots for murder rates in big US cities anymore. Take that, Baltimore and Detroit! We're moving on up...crime-wise, at least.
So, Should I Cancel My Trip to Memphis?
Absolutely not! Here's the truth: violent crime is most likely to happen in areas you probably wouldn't be visiting anyway. Stick to the tourist spots, use common sense, and you'll be just fine. Besides, the people of Memphis are known for their hospitality – they'll probably offer you some ribs before they rob you (just kidding...mostly).
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
Here are some Memphis highlights that won't involve dodging bullets:
- Graceland: Pay your respects to the King of Rock and Roll!
- Beale Street: Bust a move to some live blues music.
- The National Civil Rights Museum: Learn about a crucial part of American history.
- Sun Studio: Where musical legends were born (metaphorically, not literally...we hope).
The point is, Memphis has a lot to offer, and a little murder shouldn't stop you from experiencing it.
How to Survive Memphis (Just Kidding, It's Not That Bad)
How to avoid trouble in Memphis?
QuickTip: Return to sections that felt unclear.
Use common sense! Stick to well-lit areas, avoid sketchy neighborhoods, and don't walk around alone at night.
How to get around Memphis?
The trolley system is a great way to see the city, or you can always rent a car or ride-share.
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
How safe is Beale Street?
Beale Street is generally safe, but it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
What's the best BBQ in Memphis?
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
This is a highly debated topic, but some Memphis BBQ staples include Central BBQ, Rendezvous, and Corky's.
Is Graceland worth visiting?
If you're a fan of Elvis, then absolutely! Even if you're not a die-hard fan, Graceland is a fascinating piece of pop culture history.
So there you have it! Memphis: a city with a rich history, delicious food, and a whole lot of soul. Don't let a little murder scare you away – come on down and experience the Bluff City for yourself!