Condé Nast Names Memphis Top 2027 Destination
The magazine picked Memphis among 27 worldwide cities to visit in 2027, citing its arts scene, museums, live music, and dining.
Updated on Nov. 14, 2026 in Europe
Live Poll
Do you think your community's arts and culture scene is getting better?
Condé Nast Traveler named Memphis, Tennessee, among 27 cities worldwide it considers the best places to visit in 2027. San Diego was the only other U.S. city on the list.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights Memphis's growing cultural profile for travelers planning trips in the coming year. For residents, it reflects the city's recent cultural investments being noticed beyond the region.
The list names 27 cities worldwide, with two U.S. entries: Memphis and San Diego. Memphis's inclusion is its second in four years, though the magazine's full selection methodology was not provided.
The players
Condé Nast Traveler
Condé Nast Traveler is a travel magazine published by Condé Nast, known for its annual lists of recommended travel destinations and hotels.
The details
Condé Nast Traveler cited Memphis's growing arts scene, live music venues, and dining, including Michelin Guide-recognized restaurants. The Metal Museum opened in Overton Park earlier this summer, and a new art museum is set to open in Downtown Memphis, while the National Civil Rights Museum is expanding with a new legacy wing.
Timeline
Earlier summer 2026: The Metal Museum opens in Overton Park.
2027: Condé Nast Traveler's best-places-to-visit list takes effect.
Four years before 2026: Memphis previously appeared on a Condé Nast Traveler list.
Seasonal Patterns
Memphis's second selection in four years on Condé Nast Traveler's annual list extends a recent run of national travel-press attention to the city's cultural offerings. The 2027 list places Memphis alongside 25 other worldwide cities, with San Diego as the only other U.S. entry.
Travelers planning a 2027 trip to Memphis can use the list as a starting point for itineraries built around the Metal Museum, the expanding National Civil Rights Museum, and the upcoming Downtown art museum. Booking early may help with lodging and dining reservations as the city's visitor interest grows.
The takeaway
Memphis's rising cultural offerings, from new museums to live music and dining, make it worth adding to a travel plan for the coming year. The city's recognition suggests its arts and food scene are gaining attention well beyond Tennessee.
Further reading
Explore more on Europe travel destinations to compare with Memphis's new recognition.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Actionnews5.
Live Poll
Do you think your community's arts and culture scene is getting better?
