Memphis Discovery Tour: Civil Rights Museum & More
Explore Memphis’s vibrant history, lively music scene, and delicious Southern cuisine on this comprehensive Memphis discovery tour. Starting on Beale Street, you'll get a taste of the city’s legendary blues bars and historic Victorian mansions. The tour also takes you to significant sites like the place where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and Elvis Presley’s early apartment.
One of the highlights is visiting the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the site of Dr. King’s assassination. This museum offers powerful insights into the struggle for equality and the city’s pivotal role in civil rights history.
If you choose, enjoy a scenic Mississippi River cruise on a Memphis Riverboat after your museum visit. This relaxing ride provides stunning views and a chance to unwind while taking in the river’s importance to Memphis’s story.
With flexible timing ranging from three to six hours, this tour is perfect for anyone wanting to see Memphis’s top sights, learn about its heritage, and experience its rich culture firsthand.
Frequently asked questions
What is included in the Memphis Discovery Tour?
The tour includes admission to the National Civil Rights Museum, a professional guide, BBQ tastings (pork only, no substitutions), and optional scenic Mississippi River cruise admission.
How long does the tour last?
The tour duration varies from 3 to 6 hours, depending on your interests and pace.
Is the tour suitable for children and infants?
Yes. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. The tour is suitable for ages 0-4 (infants), 5-12 (children), and 13-99 (adults).
Do I need to arrange transportation to the meeting point?
Yes, you'll meet at the Backbeat Tours podium on the patio at Alfred's on Beale Street. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes. You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled tour time. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Are there any physical requirements for the tour?
Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, as some walking and standing are involved.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 3 hours – 6 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Riverboat Cruise admission (if option selected)
- Professional guide
- BBQ tastings (pork only, no substitutions)
- National Civil Rights Museum admission
Not included
- Gratuities
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Alcoholic beverages
- Food purchased on the Riverboat (not included in ticket)
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Begin on Beale Street at Alfred's on Beale, exploring the history of the Blues' birthplace.
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Stop 2
Pass by the home of the Memphis Redbirds, Memphis’s minor league baseball team.
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Stop 3
Drive through one of Memphis’s oldest and most scenic parks.
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Stop 4
View 'Millionaire's Row,' historic mansions of Memphis cotton barons.
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Stop 5
See Memphis’s oldest surviving residential home.
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Stop 6
Learn about the history of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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Stop 7
Discover the history of the Orpheum Theater.
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Stop 8
Explore the Cotton Exchange and historic Cotton Row district.
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Stop 9
Enjoy a 15-minute tasting of Memphis BBQ.
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Stop 10
Pass through the South Main Historic Arts District, full of local shops and eateries.
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Stop 11
Visit the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, now home to the National Civil Rights Museum.
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Stop 12
Learn about the Mississippi River’s significance to Memphis’s history and economy.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
Please check in and meet your tour guide at the Backbeat Tours podium, located on the patio at Alfred's on Beale Street.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day before
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or insufficient bookings
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $82.31 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
