It’s 901 Day, the annual celebration of all things Memphis and the Mid-South. With nearly 20 years of experience working with and promoting the city’s and its businesses’ prowess, Obsidian is eager and well-equipped to celebrate. 

This year, we decided to take a look at how our team spends its time in and around Memphis. We all have different interests, neighborhoods we call home, favorite types of cuisine and ways we like to pass the time. And that created a beautiful glimpse into the millions of ways you can make Memphis a place where you love to live and work. 

So, here is how we get down in Memphis. To make things a little fun, we added a Memphis superlative for everyone. If you resonate with one of them, then you know that person’s recommendations should be at the top of your 901 Day to-try list! 

Courtney – Most likely to bring you delicious, hand-picked fruit from a local farm or orchard.

If you’ve met with Courtney, you may have been greeted by a basket of seasonal goodies! She loves to spend time with her family traipsing the vineyards and orchards rooted (literally) in Memphis’ soil. “In the summer, we love to hit as many orchards as we can,” Courtney said. “Picking our own peaches, blueberries, blackberries and strawberries is our annual tradition!”

As a Collierville native, it’s no surprise that the town’s iconic district is a familiar haunt for her. “The Historic Square in Collierville is a regular destination for us,” she said. “From eateries (like Maeve’s Tavern) and concerts to boutique shopping and classic car shows, there’s something fun going on all year long.”

It’s not a conversation with Courtney without a discussion of the arts. From film to theater, she’s well-versed in the latest cultural happenings. That translates to Memphis’ galleries, too. “One of my favorite spots is Dixon Gallery & Gardens,” Courtney shared. “While the kids aren’t ‘into art’ just yet, this is my personal happy place and one of the most scenic and lovely places in Memphis.”

Gracie – Most likely to try to convince you to head Downtown.

For nearly as long as she’s been at Obsidian, Gracie has been one of our steadfast Downtowners. It makes sense – she has confessed to experiencing FOMO and is always aware of where the fun is happening around her. Of course, she knows what to recommend when you make your trek down to the river. “As the resident Downtowner of our firm, I take full advantage of everything the South Main area has to offer,” she said. “From hot yoga classes at YogaSix Downtown to cheering on the Grizzlies at the FedExForum to pasta at Catherine & Mary’s to monthly Trolley Nights, there’s always something to experience in this vibrant neighborhood.” 

Haley – Most likely to chant “Whoop That Trick.”

Though her roots are across the river in Arkansas, Haley has a passion for Memphis sports that runs deep in her family. Want to see her enjoying Memphis? You’ll have to head to the FedExForum. “I love going to the University of Memphis Men’s Basketball games with my family,” Haley said. “My grandfather has season tickets, so we catch every home game we can!”

If she’s not shouting at the opposing team during their free throws, you might be able to find her enjoying breakfast near one of Memphis’ iconic college campuses. “Brother Junipers and Cafe Eclectic are my go-to breakfast spots. I especially love the pancakes – either blueberry or chocolate chip,” she said. They’re always good, but the best after a Saturday morning pilates class.”

Murray – Most likely to find a great bite and a better walking trail.

Murray is the queen of an efficient workout and decadent meal. Thankfully, her recommendations to get out in the 901 check both boxes! “I love Tom Lee Park in Downtown Memphis,” she said. “The trails, landscaping and views it offers are fantastic. I lived right above the park for a couple of years and would always end my morning workouts with a walk along the river.” 

If you’re tuckered after a sunrise jog along the river, she’s got a recommendation to fuel back up afterward. “My favorite local spot to visit for breakfast is The Hive Bagel & Deli,” she said. “I highly recommend getting a rosemary sea salt bagel with bacon and egg!”

But the good bites don’t end there! Murray heads east to one of Memphis’ newest and brightest eateries for lunch and dinner. “When I have family or friends in town, Bog & Barley in East Memphis is a must,” Murray shared. “They’re always taken aback by the restaurant’s beauty as soon as we walk through the doors.”

Rebecca – Most likely to take the stage.

Wonder what one-act or musical you can catch across the city? Rebecca’s your girl! Her theater background (and sometimes current hobby) plays into her love of Memphis’ various stages. “I enjoy the vibrant community theater scene in Memphis,” she said. “It’s inspiring to experience the city’s art culture by going to shows at one of the many incredible theaters.” 

She’s another of our basketball fans, cheering on the Grizzlies as loudly as she can – either from her living room or the grandstands in the FedExForum. Beforehand, you might see her sipping beers and eating pretzel nuggets at Wiseacre Downtown!

Caroline – Most likely to hit up a marquee landmark. 

Not one to miss out on seasonal happenings, Caroline makes the most of the different offerings that only come around a few times a year! “One of my favorite spots is the farmer’s market at the Agricenter,” she said. The bounty of fresh produce almost makes the 100+ degree summer weather worth it. She’s also a fan of Puppy Pride at the Moxy downtown during Pride Month and Zoo Lights at the holidays. 

When she’s hosting out-of-town visitors, Caroline has a great list of Memphis’ best attractions teed up to share. “I have to include the Mississippi Riverboat Tour, a touristy but fun activity that’s always a hit when I have people visit from out of town,” she said. “Other things I love to do in Memphis: Watching live music on Beale St. (especially BB Kings, Rum Boogie), taking a tour of Old Dominick’s Distillery, walking around Tom Lee Park, going to the top of the Pyramid at sunset and heading to the Cooper-Young farmer’s market.”

Lauren – Most likely to stop and smell the roses (or at least visit the garden). 

As one of our native Memphians, Lauren has a special connection to certain spots that hold sentimental value. “Memphis Botanic Garden will forever be a special place to me,” she said. “From attending kindergarten field trips myself to joining my own kids on their school outings there and holding my wedding at the garden in 2010, it always brings back great memories. The venue and grounds have grown to bring something all ages can enjoy, whether it’s the gardens and ponds, My Big Backyard play area or music at Live at the Garden. My whole family enjoys every visit.”

When she makes the trip up from Mississippi, you might catch her grabbing a slice (or a whole pie) at one of Memphis’ swankiest parlors. “You don’t have to ask me twice to go to dinner at Hog & Hominy,” she shared. “The restaurant’s unique but familiar dishes and drinks never disappoint, and I love the environment!”

Addison – Most likely to introduce you to somewhere new. 

If you were to compile our team’s Instagram stories on any given weekend, Addison’s would undoubtedly introduce you to a new place or two! Born and raised in the 901, she knows which popular events are worth fighting the crowds for and which hidden gems to put on the map. “When it’s not too hot, it’s great to catch a concert at the Overton Park Shell,” she said. “I’m also prone to check out Drag Brunch at Fawn, a new restaurant in Cooper-Young.”

While she’s the queen of getting out and about, she’s also eager to find cozy corners to get some much needed R&R. You might catch her browsing the shelves at Novel Bookstore in Laurelwood or grabbing coffee and a snack from Park + Cherry after checking out the new (free!) exhibitions at Dixon Gallery & Gardens.

Carlee – Most likely to need medical attention for aggressively rowdy-toweling.

To Carlee, Memphis has a lot of heart. And what makes that heart beat? Basketball. “The Grizzlies are the heart and soul of our city,” she said. “I think Grizzlies games are the best way to see Memphians in their true form. The energy is unmatched (especially during the playoffs), the fans are friendly (as long as you’re cheering for the Grizz) and the food options? Unbeatable. I’m looking at you, Rendezvous Barbecue Nachos.”

She’s also quick to give up her favorite spots, even if it could make them more popular in the process! Swamp Bar in Midtown is her go-to happy hour hangout. If she’s looking to catch a game? Find her cozied up to the bar at Max’s in the South Main Arts District. Looking to browse an off-the-beaten-path exhibition, visit Tops Gallery. “Hidden away in a basement in the South Main Arts District is one of my favorite best-kept secrets in the Memphis art scene – Tops Gallery,” she shared. “It primarily exhibits works from living contemporary artists and self-taught artists from Memphis and the South. Tops is open from 12-4 on Saturdays and by appointment, but it also has an exhibition space at Madison Avenue Park, illuminated and available for 24/7 viewing.”

Peyton – Most likely to become an honorary Duckmaster. 

Few things are more quintessentially Memphis than the Peabody Hotel. Beyond the lobby and the famed waterfowl, the hotel offers an incredible afternoon special that’s borrowed from our friends across the pond. “The Peabody is a classic, but for good reason,” she said. “There are so many wonderful things to do – Afternoon Tea at Chez Philippe, rooftop parties during the summer, watching the ducks march to the rooftop and just taking in the beauty of the lobby.

Like other members of our team, the ambiance of the Dixon has drawn Peyton in! She’s an avid supporter of Park + Cherry, making a special note to tour not only the art gallery, but the expansive seasonal gardens!

Whitney – Most likely to visit the bison.

When you take Walnut Grove to the eastern edge of Memphis, you’ll find a few bison roaming the grassy plains. Once you see them, you know you’ve hit one of Memphis’ most iconic parks – and a place where Whitney goes to spend a peaceful afternoon. “When we’re feeling outdoors-y, to Shelby Farms Park we go! I love to take my 2-year-old on walks or let him ride in his motorized car around the open space,” she shared. “It’s serene at its best.”

Whitney is another member of the Grit and Grind supporters in the office, noting that her love of basketball fully developed after relocating to the Bluff City. “I didn’t realize how much I loved basketball until I moved to Memphis! One of my favorite places to go is the FedExForum,” she said. “As soon as I walk in and feel the energy, I’m reminded of what Grit and Grind means and why I chose this city.”

As one of our office suburbanites, Whitney had an aptly named restaurant to add to our list of favorites. “We’re no strangers to Mexican food in the Nolan household – it’s one of our favs! Coincidentally, there’s a cozy, tasty spot in Cordova called My Favorite Place that we love,” she said. “I’d venture to say they have the best white queso in the city. It’s a must-try.”

Christina – Most likely to check out a tasting menu. 

Christina is one of our only team members who is from Memphis, spent time away, and relocated back to the city. Her experience in NYC deepened her appreciation for walkable attractions and expansive culinary favorites. If you’re looking for the best bite in town, she’s the person on our team to ask! When she wants to hit up a few spots in one evening, she’s heading to our old neck of the woods. “It’s always fun walking up and down South Main Street,” she said. “Dropping in different shops and art galleries during Trolley Night each month gives me a glimpse into what’s new and happening from month to month.” 

Need a new spot to eat? Here’s a place to check out! “I love trying new restaurants across Memphis (when my wallet allows me!),” she said. “My favorite spot right now is JEM in the Edge District.”

Taylor – Most likely to prioritize stroller accessibility above all else.

If Taylor’s getting out, it’s a family affair. She’s looking for spots that keep the kids happy, so, unsurprisingly, a few childhood relics make her list. “You really can’t have a better day with kids in the 901 than a day spent visiting the Children’s Museum of Memphis,” she said. “It’s not just for the kids, it’s larger than life and lets adults bring out their inner child for the day. I leave feeling enriched, and the kids leave ready for a nap.” While CMOM is great to visit rain or shine, she also loves to stroll through one of Memphis’ most iconic outdoor attractions when the weather’s just right. “The Memphis Zoo is a can’t-miss weekend activity when my parents come to town,” she shared. “On a fall or spring day, we love nothing more than feeding a giraffe or checking on my daughter’s favorite exhibit: Cat Country.”

On the rare occasion she finds herself across the table from her husband for a dinner after 8 p.m. bedtime routines (her preference), she’s choosing an unassuming, but nationally recognized, spot right around the corner from her in Germantown. “We went to Blue Honey for Valentine’s Day this year, and I can confidently say it was the best meal I’ve had locally since moving to Memphis,” she shared. “With a James Beard Finalist mention this year, I can’t say it’s a hidden gem anymore. But I love that the spot balances a comfortable, somewhat casual experience with stellar dishes.”

As you can see, our team is passionate about supporting Memphis establishments – from the well-known to the underappreciated. Hopefully, this 901 Day, you’ll be able to take inspiration from our team and celebrate all of the incredible things that our community has to offer!