Free cancellation

Memphis Discovery Tour – Experience the Heart of the City

4.8 (770 reviews) · By Backbeat Tours

Experience Memphis like never before on this all-inclusive Memphis Discovery Tour. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, and local flavor, designed to give you a true taste of what makes Memphis special. From the legendary Beale Street to the historic Cotton Row, you'll see the sights that define this vibrant city.

Enjoy a mouthwatering barbecue tasting at one of Memphis’s top joints, and explore iconic landmarks like the Mississippi River, Victorian Village, and the historic Court Square. The tour also takes you to the Lorraine Motel, where you'll learn about the history of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and visit the National Civil Rights Museum.

Whether you're a music lover, history buff, or just looking to soak up Memphis’s unique atmosphere, this tour offers a memorable way to experience the city’s rich heritage and lively culture. Plus, optional visits to the Rock 'n' Soul Museum and Edge Motor Museum add even more depth to your adventure.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Memphis Discovery Tour last?

The tour lasts between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the options you choose and the pace of the group.

What is included in the tour?

Your ticket includes a professional guide, BBQ tasting, and optional admissions to the National Civil Rights Museum, Rock 'n' Soul Museum, or Edge Motor Museum if selected.

Can I visit the National Civil Rights Museum during the tour?

Yes, admission to the National Civil Rights Museum is included if you select that option during booking.

Is the tour suitable for children and infants?

Absolutely. Infants and small children can ride in strollers or prams. The tour is designed to accommodate families, but travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.

Are there any exclusions I should be aware of?

Gratuities, hotel pickup and drop-off, and drinks (including alcohol) are not included in the tour price.

How do I meet the tour guide?

Meet at the starting point on Beale Street at Alfred's. Check in is at the ticket podium located on the patio downstairs.

Free cancellation

Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.

Reserve now

Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.

Duration 2 hours – 3 hours

Check availability to see start times.

Live tour guide

English

Key facts

Duration 2 to 3 hours
Languages English
Group size Up to 9 people
Ages accepted Infants 0–6; Children 7–12; Adults 13–64
Accessibility Infants and small children can ride in strollers; participants should have at least moderate physical fitness

What's included

Included

  • National Civil Rights Museum admission (if option selected)
  • BBQ tasting (pork, no substitutions)
  • Professional guide
  • Rock 'n' Soul Museum admission (if option selected)
  • Edge Motor Museum admission (if option selected)

Not included

  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Drinks (alcohol)

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    Start on Beale Street at Alfred's, exploring the history of the Home of the Blues.

    10 minutes
  2. Stop 2

    Visit the world-class music museum (admission included if selected) to learn Memphis's musical story.

    1 hour
  3. Stop 3

    Taste authentic Memphis BBQ at a renowned local joint.

    15 minutes
  4. Stop 4

    Learn about the 1968 Sanitation Strike and Dr. King's assassination. Admission included if selected (1.5-hour tour).

    10 minutes
  5. Stop 5 Pass by

    Hear about the Mississippi River's role in Memphis history.

  6. Stop 6 Pass by

    Discover 'Millionaire's Row,' historic homes of Memphis' cotton barons.

  7. Stop 7 Pass by

    Visit Memphis's oldest surviving residence.

  8. Stop 8 Pass by

    Explore the Cotton Exchange and Cotton Row district.

  9. Stop 9 Pass by

    Learn about the Presley family's first home in Memphis.

  10. Stop 10 Pass by

    Discover the history of Danny Thomas and St. Jude’s Hospital.

  11. Stop 11 Pass by

    Visit one of Memphis's oldest and most beautiful parks.

  12. Stop 12 Pass by

    Learn about the historic Orpheum Theater.

  13. Stop 13 Pass by

    Explore Memphis's baseball history.

  14. Stop 14

    Hear about WC Handy, the 'Father of the Blues,' and blues origins on Beale Street.

    5 minutes
  15. Stop 15 Pass by

    Learn about the Shelby County Courthouse.

  16. Stop 16 Pass by

    Visit Memphis's oldest church.

  17. Stop 17 Pass by

    Explore the South Main Historic District.

  18. Stop 18

    Optional visit to Memphis's newest attraction on American sports cars (admission included if selected).

    1 hour

Meeting point & pickup

Meet at the starting point

Please check in at our ticket podium, located on the patio at Alfred's downstairs.

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Cancellation & confirmation

Free cancellation

Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.

  • 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day in advance
  • No refund if cancelled within 24 hours
  • Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or low bookings

Instant confirmation

Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.

From $49.39 per person

Infant Age 0–6
0
Child Age 7–12
0
Adult Age 13–64
1
Senior Age 65–99
0
  • Free cancellation
  • Secure checkout with our booking partner

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