Looking to take the perfect vacation this summer? Look no further than your own back yard! That’s right, Memphis has some of the most fun, interesting and historical attractions around. Put that suitcase away, forget about the hassle of airport security, and indulge in all that this wonderful city has to offer! Here are a few “staycations” in Memphis:

• Graceland — The Graceland estate is one of the most visited houses in the United States, runner-up only to the White House. This attraction brings droves of Elvis fans to Memphis from all over the world. Visitors can take an audio tour of the mansion narrated by Elvis’ daughter, Lisa Marie, view the “Jungle Room” and “Sincerely Elvis” exhibits, shop, and grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants.

• Children’s Museum of Memphis — Open since June 1990,
  

  Children's Museum of Memphis

  this museum promotes hands-on learning experiences that last a lifetime. Among the attractions are a flight simulator, wind tunnel, hot air balloon, an art studio, a tree house to explore, two live honeybee colonies, a kids’ grocery store and lots more.

• Memphis Zoo — There are nearly 3,000 animals representing 400 species sprawled out over 70 acres. The zoo contains two giant pandas, gray wolves, pythons, polar bears, alligators, Komodo dragons, thousands of tropical birds and fish and much more.

• Sun Studio — Calling itself “the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll”, Sun Studio first recorded Elvis Presley. It’s not only a historical site for music lovers to check out, but Sun Studio is also an active recording studio, recording artists such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and U2.

These are just a few of the fascinating attractions that are available to the public. Be sure to check them out!

Photo credit: Cmom.com