Walking tours in Memphis deliver the city’s fascinating story through three main themes: music history, civil rights heritage, and ghostly tales. The most worthwhile tours include the Beale Street walk, where guides expertly connect the dots between blues music and social change, and the excellent Downtown Memphis circuit, covering essential landmarks in just two hours.
I’m particularly fond of the music-focused walks – they’re well-researched and take you beyond the typical Elvis stops. The haunted history tours, running nightly from Confederate Park, offer a spine-tingling but factual look at Memphis’s darker past.
Let’s explore the top Memphis walking tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Historic Memphis Tour offers a 90-minute walk covering Civil War history, notable landmarks, and the city’s musical heritage with a 96% recommendation rate.
- Haunted Walking Tour provides a 2-hour spooky experience exploring Memphis’ haunted sites and ghost stories, with engaging storytelling and a 4.4/5 rating.
- Beale Street Guided Tour is a 1-hour stroll highlighting the street’s landmarks, civil rights history, and musical legends, with a 94% recommendation rate.
- Memphis Music Scene Tour is a half-day private tour celebrating the city’s music legends, including a full-day trolley pass and Rock n’ Soul Museum tickets.
- Self-guided experiences like the Beale Street Experience App and Memphis Music Magic Tour offer interactive and immersive ways to explore the city’s musical heritage.
Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour
This historic Memphis guided walking tour offers travelers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich past.
With 381 glowing reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, the tour guides visitors through Memphis’ history, from the Civil War to modern times.
Highlights include iconic landmarks like Beale Street, the Mississippi River, and the Peabody Hotel’s famous duck march.
Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories about notable figures and eras, including the Civil War, Prohibition, and the city’s musical heritage.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, lasts around 90 minutes, and includes an optional guided visit to the Orpheum Theater.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this walking tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Memphis’ captivating history.
Read our full review: Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour Review
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Memphis: 2-Hour Haunted Walking Tour
For those seeking to uncover the haunted side of Memphis, the 2-Hour Haunted Walking Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s spooky history.
During this 2-hour excursion, you will visit notable haunted locations, including the Orpheum Theater, the John Alexander Austin House, and Ernestine and Hazels – a former brothel recognized as one of the most haunted buildings in Memphis.
Led by knowledgeable guides, guests will learn about ghost stories, voodoo, and Memphis history. Priced at $30.73 per person, the tour features flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 and high praise for the engaging storytelling, this haunted walking tour provides a thrilling and informative experience.
Read our full review: Memphis: 2-Hour Haunted Walking Tour Review
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Beale Street Guided Walking Tour
Exploring the vibrant heart of Memphis, the Beale Street Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich musical heritage.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the 1-hour stroll covers 0.5 miles, introducing attendees to iconic landmarks like the A. Schwab General Store and Lansky Bros. Clothier, Elvis’ favorite shopping spot.
Along the way, guests will learn about musical legends and civil rights history that have shaped Beale Street, fondly known as the “Home of the Blues.”
With a maximum group size of 15, this highly-rated tour (94% recommendation) is accessible and flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
For those seeking an immersive Memphis experience, the Beale Street Guided Walking Tour delivers an engaging and informative exploration.
Read our full review: Beale Street Guided Walking Tour Review
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Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour
Beckoning visitors to uncover Memphis’s haunted history, the Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour offers an eerie yet captivating exploration of the city’s most infamous paranormal hotspots.
For $30.73, participants embark on a 2-mile walking journey, starting at Alfred’s On Beale and ending at the Orpheum Theatre.
Led by expert storytellers, the tour delves into the ghostly tales of locations like the Orpheum Theatre, the John Alexander Austin House, and the Ernestine and Hazels.
While guests won’t enter the buildings, the outdoor exploration provides an immersive experience.
Recommended for families, history enthusiasts, and ghost hunters alike, this tour promises a unique blend of Memphis’s past and supernatural elements.
Read our full review: Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour Review
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Memphis Music Scene: Private Half-Day Walking Tour
Immersing visitors in Memphis’s rich musical heritage, the Memphis Music Scene: Private Half-Day Walking Tour offers an intimate exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, the tour celebrates the legacies of legendary artists like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and B.B. King. Guests can expect to visit Beale Street‘s musical hotspots, the Peabody Ducks, and the option to explore the Memphis Music Hall of Fame.
With a full-day trolley pass and Rock n’ Soul Museum tickets included, the tour provides ample opportunities for photo ops and hands-on engagement with Memphis’s vibrant music culture.
Wheelchair-accessible and suitable for moderate fitness levels, this experience caters to various traveler needs.
Read our full review: Memphis Music Scene: Private Half-Day Walking Tour Review
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Beale Street & Sun Studio: Private Half-Day Walking Tour
Visitors can embark on a captivating private half-day walking tour that delves into the heart of Memphis’s legendary Beale Street and the iconic Sun Studio.
This 3-hour, 2.5-mile experience boasts a 4.5-star rating across 34 reviews, with highlights including friendly, knowledgeable guides, Sun Studio admission, and a Memphis Trolley pass.
The tour starts at the Memphis Music Hall of Fame and ends at Sun Studio, with travelers responsible for their own transportation back.
While the Beale Street commentary receives mixed reviews, the Sun Studio tour is praised for its informative guides.
Wheelchair accessibility and moderate fitness levels make this tour accessible to most visitors.
Read our full review: Beale Street & Sun Studio: Private Half-Day Walking Tour Review
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Memphis History & Heritage: Private Half-Day Walking Tour
Travelers seeking to uncover Memphis’s storied past and vibrant heritage can embark on a captivating private half-day walking tour.
This immersive experience highlights the city’s renowned musical legacy and rich history, with stops at iconic landmarks like Beale Street, the Mississippi River, and the Peabody Ducks.
The tour culminates at the Lorraine Motel, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, which is now home to the powerful National Civil Rights Museum.
Guided by a friendly, professional expert, this tour offers an in-depth look at Memphis’s pivotal role in the civil rights movement and leaves a lasting emotional impact on travelers.
Read our full review: Memphis History & Heritage: Private Half-Day Walking Tour Review
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Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour
On Beale Street, the pulse of Memphis’s vibrant musical heritage comes alive through the captivating Beale Street Experience Audio App.
This self-guided walking tour allows you to learn about the stories and history of this iconic street at your own pace. Starting at the Beale Street Baptist Church and ending at BB King’s Blues Club, the tour delves into the African American influence that has shaped Beale Street over the decades.
With an engaging narrative and practical details like operating hours and accessibility, this experience provides an educational and authentic glimpse into Memphis’s rich cultural legacy.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast or simply seeking to explore the city’s heritage, the Beale Street Experience is a must-do.
Read our full review: Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour Review
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Walking Ghost Tour in Memphis
Venture into the shadowy realms of Memphis’s haunted history on the captivating Walking Ghost Tour.
Praised by 93% of travelers, this 4.5-star rated experience takes you on a journey through the city’s supernatural side.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll uncover eerie tales and use ghost-hunting tools to enhance the atmosphere.
The tour starts at the Broom Closet and ends at the iconic Earnestine & Hazels, making it easy to access via public transportation.
Whether you’re a history buff or a thrill-seeker, this wheelchair-accessible tour promises an unforgettable night of exploring Memphis’s spooky past.
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Memphis Music Magic: A Walking Tour for Music Lovers
For music lovers seeking to enjoy the rich tapestry of Memphis’ musical heritage, the Memphis Music Magic walking tour offers an unparalleled experience.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on reviews, this private group tour is led by experienced guides who share the city’s blues, rock, and soul history.
Although museum visits aren’t included, the tour provides narration as you pass by iconic sites like the Orpheum Theatre and Sun Studio.
Optional add-ons like museum tickets and an all-day trolley pass allow you to customize your experience.
Whether you’re a casual music fan or a passionate aficionado, this tour promises to transport you through the evolving soundscapes that have defined Memphis’ musical landscape.
Read our full review: Memphis Music Magic: A Walking Tour for Music Lovers Review
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Elvis Unleashed: Private Elvis Walking Tour
Enjoy the captivating legacy of the King of Rock and Roll with the Elvis Unleashed: Private Elvis Walking Tour.
This 5-star rated experience in Memphis takes you on a personalized journey through the city’s iconic Elvis sites. Led by a professional guide, you’ll have ample time for memorable photos and recommendations for local culinary delights.
Optional add-ons include visits to the Rock n Soul Museum, Sun Studio, and an all-day trolley pass.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour provides a seamless and unforgettable exploration of Elvis’ Memphis.
Reviewers praise the informative guides and exceptional service, ensuring a truly memorable experience for any Elvis fan.
Read our full review: Elvis Unleashed: Private Elvis Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tour?
Most walking tours don’t allow pets due to safety and space constraints. However, some may accommodate service animals. It’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to see their pet policy before bringing your furry friend along.
Are the Walking Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Many walking tours accommodate guests with mobility needs. Tour operators often provide wheelchair-friendly routes and have staff on hand to assist. It’s best to inquire about accessibility when booking to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience.
How Long Are the Walking Tours Typically?
The typical walking tour lasts 1-2 hours, depending on the specific tour. Many offer both shorter and longer options to accommodate different fitness levels and interests. It’s always best to check the tour details beforehand.
Is It Safe to Walk Around Memphis at Night?
Walking around Memphis at night can be safe, but it’s important to exercise caution. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, and avoid isolated or high-crime neighborhoods. It’s best to go with a group or take a guided night tour for the safest experience.
Can I Take Photos During the Walking Tours?
Yes, you can generally take photos during the walking tours in Memphis. Most tour companies encourage participants to capture the sights and share their experiences. Just be mindful of any restricted areas and follow the guide’s instructions.
Recap
Memphis offers a wealth of walking tour options for visitors, from exploring the city’s rich musical heritage and haunted past to discovering its historic sites. Whether you’re a music aficionado, a history buff, or simply seeking a unique way to experience the city, there’s a walking tour that caters to your interests. With so many engaging options, you’re sure to find the perfect way to learn about the vibrant culture and stories of Memphis.