Upon arriving in Memphis, one's journey should undoubtedly begin at the legendary Sun Studio, where stars like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded iconic tracks that forever altered the landscape of music. Touring this hallowed space offers a glimpse into the raw energy that sparked a musical revolution. Just a short drive away, Graceland awaits, inviting fans to explore the King of Rock 'n' Roll's opulent mansion, where the echoes of Elvis's storied past still resonate.

Continuing the musical pilgrimage, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum provide deep dives into the roots and evolution of soul-stirring melodies that shaped generations. For a live experience, Beale Street serves as Memphis's vibrant artery of nightlife, boasting an array of lively bars and clubs where the thrum of live music is an ever-present pulse.

Aside from the sonic wonders, history enthusiasts can steer their rolling retreat towards the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the famed Lorraine Motel, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination. The museum offers an educational and moving experience, chronicling the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement.

No visit to Memphis is complete without relishing in its culinary delights. The allure of tangy, smoked Memphis-style barbecue calls for a visit to local staples like Central BBQ or The Rendezvous, where the taste of slow-cooked meats and zesty sauces linger on the palate like the city's soulful tunes.

Nature lovers can find respite from urban excitement at Shelby Farms Park, a massive green space offering a plethora of outdoor activities from paddle boating to horseback riding. The Mississippi River also offers scenic campsites along its banks, where one can witness spectacular sunsets that paint the waters with blushes of gold.

As the journey winds down in Memphis, reflect upon the city’s seamless blend of historical significance and progressive charm. From the hallowed halls of music fame to the quiet whispers of nature, a camper van pilgrimage to Memphis is not just a trip through geographical locations, but a voyage through the very heartstrings of American culture.

Memphis has been name-dropped by more popular artists than any other city in the world, with over 400 appearances according to Billboard.

Memphis is the capital of pork barbecue, thanks to its annual Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest and more than 100 specialty restaurants.

Home to the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies and AAA's Memphis Redbirds, this city is a prime location for sports fans.

Home to W.C. Handy, the Father of Blues, and Robert Church's first black millionaire in America, told by George Gershwin.