Areas to Avoid in Memphis
United States
|⚠️ ModerateHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Memphis. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Memphis is generally Moderate
2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Downtown Memphis, Midtown Memphis, Cordova
Travel Insurance for Memphis
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Memphis are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
North Memphis
Certain areas can have higher crime rates and lack tourist amenities. It's advisable to stick to well-trafficked and recommended tourist zones.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Downtown Memphis
Historic heart with a lively blues and soul music scene, a mix of old and new architecture.
South Memphis (specific pockets)
While not entirely unsafe, some pockets of South Memphis have higher crime statistics and fewer points of interest for tourists. Focus on areas closer to Downtown and Midtown.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Midtown Memphis
Eclectic and bohemian, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic homes, and diverse eateries.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Memphis
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Memphis Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Memphis on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Memphis Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Memphis with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Memphis: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Memphis's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Memphis: Scenic Excursion
Escape Memphis for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Memphis Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Memphis's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Memphis
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
Compare hotels in Memphis on Expedia
Book a guided tour
Explore Memphis safely with a local guide
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Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Downtown Memphis
Historic heart with a lively blues and soul music scene, a mix of old and new architecture.
Generally safe with police presence, but be aware of surroundings, especially late at night.
Midtown Memphis
Eclectic and bohemian, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic homes, and diverse eateries.
Generally safe, but exercise caution when walking alone at night, especially in less populated side streets.
General Safety Tips for Memphis
At Night
Downtown and Beale Street are generally active and have a police presence, but side streets can become quiet and less safe. Midtown's Cooper-Young district is popular but also requires awareness after dark.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas.
Emergency Number
911
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Memphis
- 1Overpriced souvenirs or 'exclusive' tours on Beale Street.
- 2Distraction thefts in busy tourist areas.
- 3Fake parking attendants or ticket sellers near attractions.
Travel Insurance for Memphis
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Downtown Memphis
Historic heart with a lively blues and soul music scene, a mix of old and new architecture.
Generally safe with police presence, but be aware of surroundings, especially late at night.
Midtown Memphis
Eclectic and bohemian, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic homes, and diverse eateries.
Generally safe, but exercise caution when walking alone at night, especially in less populated side streets.
Cordova
Suburban and family-friendly, offering a quieter pace with access to shopping and parks.
Generally safe with typical suburban crime rates; be aware of your surroundings, especially in parking lots.
Safety in Memphis
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas.
At Night
Downtown and Beale Street are generally active and have a police presence, but side streets can become quiet and less safe. Midtown's Cooper-Young district is popular but also requires awareness after dark.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced souvenirs or 'exclusive' tours on Beale Street.
- 2Distraction thefts in busy tourist areas.
- 3Fake parking attendants or ticket sellers near attractions.
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