As the birthplace of rock 'n' roll, Memphis has long been a place to get down and boogie. And Memphis is also getting its groove back in a big way—abandoned warehouses have emerged as artists' studios, indie concert venues, and hip bars, and the rising culinary scene is focusing less on the everything-buttered-and-fried version of Memphis and more on local, seasonal fare. Experience a bit of the new along with the classics—like the National Civil Rights Museum and pulled-pork sandwiches—on an Escape to the burgeoning Home of the Blues.The Madison Hotel—a AAA Four-Diamond, ten-year old luxury boutique hotel housed in the historic Tennessee Trust Bank building, one of downtown Memphis' first skyscrapers—sits just a block from the Mississippi River.Today, the Art Deco lobby and rooftop bar (with, hands down, the best view in the city) ooze Southern hospitality and the contemporary-yet-cozy guest rooms boast bold colors and geometric patterns. After undergoing an "enhancement" last year, you can now enjoy a host of top-notch amenities: an oversize bathroom with a deep soaking tub and rain shower head, Molton Brown bath products, bathrobes, flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and Egyptian linens with down duvets.Stay for two nights in a Deluxe King Room, including a half-bottle of white wine, deluxe truffles, daily valet parking, and daily $10 breakfast credit ($299).While the King may have left the building, his house is still rockin'. Pay homage to the music legend with a visit to Graceland, his well-preserved mansion, followed by a tour of Sun Studio, where the icon laid down his first tracks. Afterward, make your way to Stax Museum of American Soul Music, a mecca for music enthusiasts.Tasting the barbecue in Memphis is an absolute must-do, and while the most popular joints can get pretty packed, they are well worth a little wait—sample the ribs at Charles Vergos' Rendevous, named one of the city's best by Travel Leisure.In the evening, take a dip in the heated indoor pool before enjoying a cocktail and the sunset views on the rooftop garden. Downstairs at eighty3—the hotel's recently revamped restaurant and local hot spot—highlights on the designed-to-share menu include lump-crab-and-shrimp ceviche, grilled oysters, steak frites, and mouthwatering sides of green beans braised in bacon and soy and Gruyère mac 'n' cheese. Order the signature jalapeño-mint margarita and top off the meal with the oh-so-Southern deep-fried Oreo cookies.Later, head to the usual suspects on Beale Street, like B.B. King's Blues Club, or hit the Midtown scene and spots like Earnestine & Hazel's
. Whether you go with the old or the new Memphis, your Escape will be served with a side of serious soul.