Top 15 Memorable Tours in Memphis

Situated in the southwestern region of Tennessee along the Mississippi River, Memphis is recognized as one of the most historically significant and culturally rich cities, not only in Tennessee but throughout the United States.

Currently, Memphis serves as a center for commerce, education, the arts, and entertainment. Renowned for its contributions to blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll music, the city possesses a unique charm, complemented by its traditional cuisine. The blend of traditional and contemporary experiences available ensures an enriching experience during sunny days as well as exciting nights.

To ensure you experience the pinnacle of what this city has to offer, here are 15 exceptional tours that showcase the best of Memphis.

1. Memphis Tour With Optional Graceland Admission

Embark on a journey through Memphis and uncover significant landmarks, including the Memphis Pyramid, the National Civil Rights Museum, and an optional visit to Graceland.

Over the course of three hours, this tour provides a narrated experience filled with intriguing facts about various sites. Guests will enjoy a cruise on the Mississippi River, visit iconic locations such as the Pyramid Arena, Lorraine Hotel, and Peabody Hotel, culminating with entry into Graceland Mansion.

This tour encompasses prominent sights, from the location of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination to the former residence of Elvis Presley, ensuring an experience not to be overlooked.

2. Sun Studio Guided Tour

Discover one of Memphis’s essential attractions, Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, blues, and soul music.

This guided 45-minute tour will take participants through the most famous recording studio globally, where legendary artists such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King recorded their unforgettable tracks. Additionally, visitors receive a voucher for purchases at the Sun Studio store.

3. Historic Memphis Walking Tour

Delve into the rich history of Memphis through an immersive walking tour while discovering its renowned hotspots. Appreciate its beautiful and iconic landmarks while expanding your knowledge of the city’s heritage.

This two-hour tour encompasses significant and historic sights, including the famed Beale Street. Attendees will visit architectural gems such as the Court Square Fountain, Lincoln American Tower, and Calvary Episcopal Church, as the guide shares insights into the city’s civil war history, prohibition era, and vibrant culture.

4. Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission

Explore a historically significant mansion that once belonged to the Woodruff and Fontaine families, adorned with exquisite Victorian antiques.

This one-hour tour enriches your understanding of Memphis in the nineteenth century and provides a glimpse into the era’s lifestyle.

Experience a self-paced exploration of the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum, utilizing QR codes placed throughout the venue for additional historical learning.

5. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum Admission

Immerse yourself in the musical heritage of Memphis at the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, where the legacy of music comes to life.

Dedicate your visit to learning about influential musicians like B.B. King and Muddy Waters, who were instrumental in shaping the music industry.

Examine artifacts including costumes, instruments, and photographs, accompanied by an audio guide featuring up to five hours of information and over 100 musical tracks for an unparalleled experience.

6. Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour

This culinary exploration combines the history of Memphis with its traditional cuisine as you visit six distinct restaurants with a knowledgeable local guide.

Enjoy three hours of savoring traditional Memphian dishes across various eateries, showcasing both acclaimed establishments and beloved family-owned venues. Acquire insights into the local dining scene, escaping tourist traps as you discover exceptional culinary delights.

7. Memphis Mojo Music Bus Tour

Experience the essence of Memphis through this musical bus tour, guided by local musicians who will keep the atmosphere lively.

For up to three hours, engage with performers and explore major city sites, including Beale Street and Stax Studio, concluding with a visit to Sun Studio.

This tour promises an enjoyable blend of music, history, and entertainment, making for a distinctive outing.

8. Haunted Pub Crawl In Memphis

Prepare for a thrilling experience on this pub crawl exploring some of Memphis’s haunted establishments.

Over the course of two and a half hours, venture through three haunted pubs, where participants can listen to eerie local tales and legends narrated by knowledgeable guides.

Your guide, a paranormal investigator, will share genuine ghost stories, ensuring an engaging and spine-tingling experience at the bars.

9. Elvis Memories Sightseeing Tour

Trace the footsteps of Elvis Presley throughout Memphis as you explore significant locations from his life.

This two-to-three-hour tour allows participants to visit key sites such as his childhood home, schooling locations, and the picturesque Botanical Garden, while a local guide provides detailed narratives about Elvis’s life and legacy.

Ideal for fans of the legendary artist, this family-friendly tour even includes a taste of Elvis’s favorite fried peanut butter and banana sandwich from a beloved local restaurant.

10. Hard Rock Cafe

Take a respite from extensive tours and enjoy a relaxing lunch at the popular Hard Rock Cafe, strategically located in the vibrant Beale Street area.

Delight in a prix-fixe menu featuring genre-themed dishes and beverages rooted in classic American cuisine.

Experience priority seating and delectable meals while surrounded by renowned rock memorabilia and a comfortable atmosphere.

11. Memphis Ghosts Walking Tour

Embark on an exploration of Memphis’s darker and more secluded areas, which are rich in hauntings, during this engaging walking tour.

Led by a local guide, this two-hour adventure unveils chilling ghost stories and legends from across the city, taking you through notorious locations such as the former brothel Ernestine and Hazel’s, believed to be home to various spirits.

Experience firsthand accounts of hauntings as narrated by knowledgeable guides and locals throughout this gripping tour.

12. Memphis City Tour And Riverboat Cruise

Embark on a sightseeing adventure in downtown Memphis, guided by an expert, and enjoy a scenic ride on a historic paddlewheel boat down the Mississippi River.

This comprehensive tour spans over six hours, incorporating both land and water exploration of Memphis, allowing for firsthand experiences of iconic locations like Beale Street and magnificent mansions in the Victorian Village neighborhood, all while learning about their historical and cultural significance.

13. Self-Guided Memphis Music Tour With Transportation

Experience an exploration of three of Memphis’s most renowned musical landmarks at your convenience with this self-guided tour.

Lasting five hours, this tour provides visits to Stax Records, Sun Studio, and the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, allowing for personal exploration at your own pace, while gaining insights into the legacy of each site.

This tour is ideally suited for music enthusiasts, complemented by live commentary throughout and round-trip transportation included.

14. Memphis Discovery Tour Including Rock & Soul Museum

Discover the rich cultural heritage of downtown Memphis through this guided coach tour that includes many of the city’s key attractions.

This three-hour tour provides insights into Memphis’s vibrant music scene at Beale Street and the Orpheum Theater, along with historical civil rights landmarks such as the Lorraine Motel. Participants will also explore significant sites like the Court Square, Victorian Village, and Cotton Row. Savor local barbecue at a restaurant to conclude your experience.

15. City Of Memphis Tour

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Memphis, offering visits to all significant landmarks while providing insights into the city’s rich history and present-day culture.

The three-hour itinerary encompasses notable sites, including Beale Street, Graceland, and the historic Victorian Homes, detailing their importance and relevance.

Participants can select from morning or afternoon departure options, and enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation to and from their accommodations.