Davis joined the Atlanta Police Department in 1986. In 2006 and 2007 she was Commander of the disbanded Red Dog unit; which used "aggressive crime fighting strategies in high crime areas citywide". She was demoted and then fired from the Atlanta Police Department in 2008 for her alleged involvement in a sex crimes investigation into the husband of an Atlanta police sergeant, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She was reinstated after an appeal process. In the same year O, The Oprah Magazine, named Davis as one of eighty women forming the O White House Leadership Project, Women Rule!. She became deputy chief of the Atlanta Police Department, and in 2016, became chief of the Durham Police Department in North Carolina . Davis has served as president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. In 2020, Davis appeared on Good Morning America calling for "sweeping changes and police reform" following the death of George Floyd.
Davis was sworn in as the Memphis police chief in 2021. In 2021, she created the Street Crimes Operation to Restore Peace in Our Neighborhoods Unit (SCORPION); which is associated with killing of Tyre Nichols. She is the Memphis Police Department's first Black female chief, and is also the first female police chief of Memphis.]
Looking for things to do in Memphis, TN? From its role in the Civil Rights Movement to its deep connection to the blues and rock ‘n’ roll, Memphis is a place with a rich and diverse past that continues to influence the city to this day. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, here are 40 fun facts about Memphis that will give you a new appreciation for this fascinating city and some great ideas of things to do there.
Memphis, Tennessee is a city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of rock and roll and the home of the blues, Memphis is a must-visit destination for music lovers. But there’s much more to Memphis than just music. From world-famous barbecue to stunning museums and beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone in this southern gem. Here are some of the best things to do in Memphis.
If you’re an Elvis fan, then you likely know one of the things to do in Memphis, TN… One of the most iconic landmarks in Memphis is Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley. Visitors can tour the mansion, see Elvis’ collection of cars, and pay their respects at his final resting place. The tour includes a multimedia iPad tour of the mansion, showcasing Elvis’ life and career. For Elvis fans, a visit to Graceland is a must.
Another iconic Memphis attraction is Beale Street, a historic district lined with blues clubs, restaurants, and shops. The street comes alive at night with live music and the smell of delicious barbecue wafting through the air. Beale Street is also home to the Beale Street Music Festival, a three-day music festival held annually in May.
If you’re a fan of the blues, a visit to the Blues Hall of Fame is a must. The museum houses exhibits on the history of the blues and its most famous artists. Visitors can see artifacts from famous blues musicians like B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Robert Johnson. The museum also hosts live music performances and special events.
The National Civil Rights Museum is another must-visit attraction in Memphis. Located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the museum tells the story of the American Civil Rights Movement. The exhibits include interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that bring the history to life. Visitors can see the room where Dr. King stayed the night before his assassination and stand in the spot where he was fatally shot.
For those interested in history, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is a fascinating look at the city’s musical heritage. The museum traces the history of rock and soul music from the 1930s to the 1970s, showcasing the city’s rich musical legacy. Visitors can see exhibits on famous Memphis musicians like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Otis Redding, and learn about the city’s role in shaping the sound of American music.
You’re likely to get hungry as you’re exploring all the things to do in Memphis, TN. For a taste of Memphis’ famous barbecue, head to Central BBQ. Voted one of the best barbecue spots in the city, Central BBQ serves up mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. The restaurant has a casual, laid-back atmosphere and is the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the city.
Another great spot for barbecue is The Bar-B-Q Shop, a family-owned restaurant serving delicious barbecue since 1987. The menu features a variety of barbecue options, including pulled pork, ribs, and brisket. The restaurant also serves up classic southern sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw.
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Shelby Farms Park. Located just outside Memphis, the park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Visitors can hike or bike the trails, fish in the lakes, and even ride horses. The park also hosts events throughout the year, including concerts and farmers markets.
Shopaholics are also in luck when looking for things to do in Memphis, TN. For a unique shopping experience, head to the Memphis Farmers Market. Held every Saturday from April to October, the market features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Visitors can sample local food and drink, listen to live music, and mingle.
Memphis, TN is known for its rich history and cultural significance, but the city is also a culinary destination. With a diverse mix of Southern and international cuisine, there are plenty of options for food and drinks in Memphis.
One must-try food item in Memphis is barbecue. The city is known for its unique style of barbecue, which features slow-cooked meats like ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. Some of the most popular barbecue spots in Memphis include Central BBQ, Corky’s BBQ, and The Bar-B-Q Shop.
Another classic Memphis food is hot chicken. This spicy fried chicken originated in Nashville but has become a staple in Memphis as well. Hattie B’s, a popular Nashville hot chicken chain, has a location in Memphis where you can try this fiery dish.
If you’re looking for something sweet, Memphis has a few options. The city is known for its banana pudding, a creamy dessert made with vanilla pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers. You can find this classic Southern treat at places like The Arcade Restaurant and Hog & Hominy.
For drinks, Memphis is famous for its bourbon and whiskey. The Old Dominick Distillery is a local distillery that produces a variety of spirits, including bourbon, vodka, and gin. You can take a tour of the distillery and taste some of their products.
Beer lovers can also find plenty of options in Memphis. Wiseacre Brewing Company is a popular local brewery that serves up a variety of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. The brewery also has a taproom where you can sample their beers and enjoy some food from a rotating list of food trucks.
Overall, Memphis is a food and drink lover’s paradise with plenty of options to satisfy any craving. From classic Southern barbecue to international cuisine and craft beers, there’s plenty of things to do in Memphis, TN.
We have to give a special mention of the Memphis PD Motor Unit and the Shelby County Motor Unit. For the past many years these guys come out and meet us at the East End Grill and escort us out of Memphis. In my humble opinion, these guys are some of the best riders I've ever seen. (Check out the video below.) This past year (2024) there were a number, combined with the two Motor Units about 20 officers on motorcycles that took us out of Memphis. They shut down the freeways and city streets for us, and escorted us out of the heavy traffic with a style and efficiency that is truly a marvel to watch. We LOVE these guys... they fellowship with us and you can feel the brotherhood. Not to mention that you can see that these guys really love to ride! So, thank you guys... we deeply appreciate you and have this to say... 'Keep the rubber side down and the shiny side up, guys... we'll see you ALL next year!'