When most people think of Memphis, their minds jump to Beale Street, blues music, and barbecue — and for good reason. But beyond Downtown’s storied streets lies a community that’s quietly carving out its own identity while staying rooted in Southern charm and heritage.
Welcome to Germantown — a thriving suburb just 20 minutes east of Downtown Memphis that blends historic character with modern flair. Far from being just another stop on the map, Germantown has earned accolades from outlets like iHeartRadio as one of the coolest towns in Tennessee — and it’s easy to see why.
From 19th-century architecture to nationally recognized dining, Germantown invites you to slow down, savor the experience, and discover a new side of the Memphis region.
A Place Where History Lives
Founded in the 1800s by German immigrants, Germantown carries its past with pride. Stroll through the area and you’ll find echoes of its origins — from the red-brick Germantown Train Depot, now a museum open on Saturdays, to the 1870 Germantown Historic Church. Other notable landmarks include the John Gray House, dating back to 1840, and the stately Gorman Residence, built in 1905.
These preserved sites offer a glimpse into the roots of the community and highlight the care taken to honor the stories that helped shape this part of the Mid-South.
Where the Food Scene Shines
If you’re coming hungry — and you should — Germantown delivers in a big way. Start at the iconic Germantown Commissary, a local go-to for smoky barbecue done right, or elevate your evening at Southern Social, where upscale Southern classics come with an intimate, polished vibe.
Craving something more global? Nearby favorites like Limelight (with seasonal menus and half-price wine Mondays) and Sufi’s Mediterranean Grill and Bar offer flavorful options that reflect the area’s growing diversity.
Further east, you’ll find Blue Honey Bistro, a James Beard semifinalist serving creative, comforting fare in an inviting space that’s just as beloved by locals as it is by food critics. No matter where you land, Germantown is full of unexpected delights — from fried chicken and seafood to Mexican staples and soul food. Just be sure to bring your appetite.
Easy to Reach, Hard to Forget
Getting to Germantown is simple — when flying into Memphis, drive just 20 minutes east for an easy ride out of the city. While Germantown is home to familiar hotel options like Hilton and Marriott, staying in the city’s iconic Peabody Hotel is a timeless Memphis experience, putting you near Beale Street and the Mississippi River — and giving you easy access to explore both Downtown and Germantown with ease.
Make it a day trip or spend a weekend — either way, Germantown offers a slower pace without sacrificing access to the amenities and culture that make Memphis one-of-a-kind. From there, it’s an easy drive to the Memphis Botanic Garden’s 96 acres of natural beauty or even to the nearby manmade crystal cave, a dazzling natural wonder just outside city limits.
Memphis is more than a destination — it’s a collection of communities with soul, stories, and something for everyone. Germantown is proof of that. So next time you’re in the 901, take a detour and discover why this vibrant suburb is one of Tennessee’s most talked-about towns.
