Memphis’s best city tours efficiently pack the essentials into well-organized routes. The standout Memphis City Discovery Bus Tour hits all the must-sees while treating visitors to authentic barbecue and key museum stops – perfect for first-timers. History buffs will appreciate the Memphis City Tour with Sun Studio, which includes entry to the legendary recording space where Elvis and Johnny Cash launched their careers. For flexibility, we especially like the Memphis City Tour with Optional Sun Studios & Riverboat combo, letting you decide between studio time or Mississippi River views.
All three tours effectively cover crucial stops like historic Beale Street and the Civil Rights Movement’s Lorraine Motel. Based on decades of Memphis visits, these are our recommended tour picks for experiencing the city’s music, history, and soul.
Let’s explore the details of Memphis’s top guided experiences.
Key Points
- Memphis City Tours offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural heritage.
- Memphis City Discovery Bus Tour provides a 2-to-6-hour tour with visits to Lorraine Motel, Beale Street, and Central BBQ tasting.
- Memphis City Tour with Sun Studio Admission includes a personal touch with group size capped at 42 and admission to the birthplace of rock and roll.
- Memphis City Tour with Optional Sun Studios & Riverboat features flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Guided Memphis City Tour with Riverboat Cruise covers iconic sights and includes a cruise aboard the Island Queen steamboat with live narration.
Memphis City Tour With Optional Riverboat Cruise & Sun Studio Add-On Options
Offering a comprehensive sightseeing experience, the Memphis City Tour takes visitors on an exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage.
With over 1,669 reviews and a 90% traveler recommendation, this tour showcases the best of Memphis, including the Memphis Pyramid (Bass Pro Shops megastore), National Civil Rights Museum (Lorraine Motel), Peabody Hotel (famous duck march), and Beale Street. Guests can also opt for additional experiences like a Mississippi Riverboat Cruise and a visit to the legendary Sun Studio.
The tour starts at 9:00 am with hotel pickup and takes guests through notable locations such as Victorian Village, statues of B.B. King and Elvis Presley, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Highlights include a stop at the Peabody Hotel to witness the famous duck march and an hour-long exploration of the vibrant Beale Street. Priced from $45 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and can accommodate up to 42 travelers, making it an accessible and flexible option for exploring the rich history and culture of Memphis.
Read our full review: Memphis City Tour With Optional Riverboat Cruise & Sun Studio Add-On Options Review
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Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour
The Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage.
Priced at $38.41 per person, this 2-to-6-hour English-language tour offers an immersive experience, with flexible booking and a generous cancellation policy.
Guests will visit the Lorraine Motel, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, and explore the vibrant Beale Street, known as the home of the Blues.
The tour also includes a barbecue tasting at Central BBQ and admission to either the Rock n Soul Museum or the Edge Motor Museum.
For those who opt for the riverboat cruise, the tour offers a scenic voyage along the mighty Mississippi River.
The highly-rated guides receive praise for their excellent knowledge and informative commentary, and the overall experience is valued for its quality and value for money.
Read our full review: Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour Review
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Memphis City Tour With Sun Studio Admission
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Memphis’s vibrant culture and history, the Memphis City Tour with Sun Studio Admission provides an immersive experience.
This highly-rated tour, with a 4.5/5 rating from over 550 reviews, takes visitors on a journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks and landmarks.
With a maximum group size of 42 travelers, the tour offers a personal touch, led by knowledgeable and engaging local guides.
Highlights include a stop at the Peabody Hotel to witness the famous duck march, as well as visits to the Lorraine Motel and Beale Street.
The tour also includes admission to the legendary Sun Studio, where visitors can step back in time and learn about the birthplace of rock and roll.
At €72.27 per person, the tour provides excellent value, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included for select downtown Memphis hotels.
With a 94% recommendation rate and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, the Memphis City Tour with Sun Studio Admission is a must-do for anyone exploring the city.
Read our full review: Memphis City Tour With Sun Studio Admission Review
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Memphis: City Tour With Optional Sun Studios & Riverboat
Explore the vibrant heart of Memphis on this comprehensive city tour, which offers an optional add-on to tour the iconic Sun Studios and cruise along the mighty Mississippi River.
Priced from $45 per person, this 2 to 7-hour excursion showcases the city’s top landmarks, including the Peabody Hotel, Memphis Pyramid, Lorraine Motel, Beale Street, and Victorian Village.
Witness the famous duck march at the Peabody Hotel, and let a knowledgeable local guide provide insights into Memphis’ rich history and culture.
For an enhanced experience, upgrade to include a Mississippi River cruise and a tour of Sun Studios, the legendary recording site where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and other musical icons got their start.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to book now and pay later, this tour offers flexibility and convenience.
Rated 4.5/5 by previous guests, this Memphis city tour promises an engaging and memorable exploration of the city.
Read our full review: Memphis: City Tour With Optional Sun Studios & Riverboat Review
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Guided Memphis City Tour With Riverboat Cruise Along Mississippi River
This guided Memphis city tour with a riverboat cruise along the mighty Mississippi River offers an immersive experience that showcases the vibrant heart of the city.
With over 500 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, the tour is a popular choice for visitors looking to explore Memphis’ historic landmarks and scenic waterways.
The tour covers a range of iconic sights, including Beale Street, the Lorraine Motel, and the Peabody Hotel’s famous duck march.
Travelers will also enjoy a cruise aboard the Island Queen steamboat, where they can take in the scenic views and learn about the river’s history from the captain’s live narration.
While the riverboat cruise has received some criticism regarding accessibility and narration quality, the overall tour is praised for its knowledgeable and entertaining guides.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, free time to explore Beale Street, and a duration of approximately 6.5-7 hours, this tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the best of Memphis.
Prices start from $85 per person, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Guided Memphis City Tour With Riverboat Cruise Along Mississippi River Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Ideal Duration for a Memphis City Tour?
The ideal duration for a Memphis city tour is typically 2-3 hours, allowing visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, musical heritage, and cultural attractions at a comfortable pace. Many tour companies offer both shorter and longer tour options to accommodate different schedules and interests.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
Many tour companies offer discounts for group bookings in Memphis. Typically, groups of 10 or more people can receive a reduced rate per person. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour operator to learn about their specific group pricing and policies.
Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?
Yes, you can typically customize the tour to fit your interests. Many tour companies offer flexible options and are willing to adjust the itinerary to accommodate your preferences and ensure you have an enjoyable and personalized experience.
Are the Tour Guides Knowledgeable About the City’s History?
The tour guides are highly knowledgeable about the city’s history, providing visitors with engaging and informative narratives that bring the past to life. They’re equipped to customize tours to suit individual interests, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.
Are There Any Food or Beverage Options During the Tour?
Many city tours offer food and beverage options, allowing visitors to sample local cuisine and refreshments during the tour. These can enhance the overall experience and provide a more well-rounded understanding of the city’s culture and history.
Recap
Memphis offers a variety of city tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history and culture. From bus tours to riverboat cruises, these tours provide an immersive experience, often including popular attractions like Sun Studio. Whether you’re interested in music, history, or just want to see the sights, Memphis has a tour option to suit your needs.