The Johnsons' Journal

We made it to Memphis checked into our hostel then went out to get some dinner, where else, but Central BBQ, the best ribs joint in this Mecca of BBQ. It did not disappoint. The ribs were literally fall off the bone tender and spiced to perfection. The sauce was awesome.

Memphis BBQ Ribs

In the morning we went to the Stax Museum which was formerly the Stax Recording Studio starting the careers of  names like Otis Redding, and Issac Hayes.

Soulville, USA

The museum had lots of history of Soul music in Memphis and elsewhere and had some cool artifacts. One of which was Issac Hayes sweet ride. A Peacock Blue Cadillac with Gold Trim and white fur interior.

SHAFT!

How can you not feel like a pimp driving that car.

We worked up quite an appetite so we stopped off for some more BBQ at the Neely’s (they have a show on Food Network). The food was great, but the service kinda stunk for how uncrowded the restaurant was.

Down Home With the Neelys

Later we checked out the Civil Rights Museum which was build out of the Motel where MLK was killed.

Lorraine Hotel

It has a pretty thorough telling of the entire civil rights movement. You can also go across the street and see the  special exhibit which describes the events leading up to the death of Dr. King and see the window where his killer shot from. Its definitely worth the trip and you can also get a combo ticket with the Stax museum and save a few bucks!

After the museums we were near downtown so upon recommendation from my cousin Kristen we checked out the “Duck March” at the Peabody Hotel.

Ducks Marching

I guess they have ducks that live during the day in the fountain in the center of the hotel (indoors) and in the evening the “Duck Master” ushers them down a red carpet into a waiting elevator up to the roof where they have a “Palace” to live during the night.  After the Duck March we headed to Beale Street to take a look at the many blues clubs and nightlife.

Beale Street

The next day, heading towards St. Louis, we stopped at Lambert’s Cafe, home of the” throwed rolls”.  We got giant plates of chicken fried steak and sausage.  And in addition to the rolls, they offered all you can eat sides including macaroni and tomatoes, fried okra, potatoes and onions, and black eyed peas.

Throwed Rolls!