The 8 Best Historical Tours in Memphis
Memphis is a city where every corner seems to whisper stories of legendary musicians, civil rights battles, and dark tales of crime. Its unique blend of music history, civil rights landmarks, and entertainment makes it a perfect place for engaging and diverse tours. Whether you’re a music enthusiast eager to walk in Elvis Presley’s footsteps or a history buff curious about the city’s darker past, Memphis offers an array of tours that showcase its rich, layered story.
Unlike many destinations that focus on one aspect of history, Memphis’s tours dig into different themes—music, civil rights, crime, and local culture—giving you a well-rounded understanding of what makes this city so special. For practical planning, we’ve rounded up the best options with insights into what makes each one unique, so you can find the right fit for your schedule and interests.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of tours including bus trips, walking explorations, and specialized themed experiences. For music lovers, the Memphis: Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History 3-Hour Bus Tour and Mojo Music History 90-Minute Bus Tour highlight Memphis’s legendary sound. Those interested in civil rights and dark tales can opt for True Crime History Bus Tour or the Stride Through History: 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour. For a more intimate experience, the Memphis History & Heritage: Private Half-Day Walking Tour offers personalized insights. Each tour offers something different—highlighting Memphis’s musical roots, civil rights icons, or hidden stories.
1. Memphis: Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History 3-Hour Bus Tour
This 3-hour bus tour is a must for music fans eager to step inside Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. Guided by a professional musician, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at this legendary recording studio where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King all made history. The tour isn’t just about the studio; it’s a lively, interactive experience that includes singing along, tambourines, shakers, and even bongos.
What makes this tour stand out is the storytelling from your guide, who shares insights into Memphis’s musical evolution with enthusiasm and depth. You’ll pass by the original homes of music icons and visit landmarks that shaped the city’s sound. Rated 4.8/5 from 254 reviews, travelers rave about the energy and knowledge of the guide, calling it a “fab experience” and “thoroughly recommended.” For about $66, this tour offers a lively look at Memphis’s musical legacy, perfect for those who want a mix of history, entertainment, and local flavor.
Bottom Line: A lively, interactive tour for music fans who want a deeper dive into Memphis’s legendary sound with expert insights and lots of singing.
2. Memphis: Mojo Music History 90-Minute Bus Tour
For those short on time but eager to experience Memphis’s musical heartbeat, the Mojo Music History 90-Minute Bus Tour offers a compact, engaging experience. Led by a professional Beale Street musician, this tour covers highlights like Sun Studio, Beale Street, and Stax Studio, giving you a quick yet rundown of Memphis’s musical landmarks. The tour is lively and interactive—participants are encouraged to grab a tambourine or bongos and join in a sing-along, making it fun for all ages.
Rated 4.8/5 from 94 reviews, travelers appreciate the guide’s humor, knowledge, and entertainment value. One reviewer notes, “The guide was excellent, interesting, funny and entertaining,” and many mention how the tour is the highlight of their trip. At only $38, this 1.5-hour experience offers great value, especially when combined with other sightseeing. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick, energetic taste of Memphis’s musical history without sacrificing depth.
Bottom Line: A fun, fast-paced introduction to Memphis’s music scene, perfect for those with limited time but a desire to learn and sing along.
3. Memphis 2-Hour Historic Walking Tour: Beyond Beale
Walking through Memphis, especially with an expert guide, uncovers stories that driving can’t match. The 2-hour Historic Walking Tour: Beyond Beale takes you beyond the well-known Beale Street to explore the city’s deeper history. You’ll see the legendary Peabody Duck March, a Memphis tradition since 1933, and hear stories about the characters who shaped the city’s past.
Rated 4.7/5 from 62 reviews, this tour impresses with its knowledgeable guides like Kate and Shannon, who share concise, engaging stories that bring Memphis’s history to life. The tour’s pace is leisurely, making it great for those who prefer walking and want to take their time absorbing local lore. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want a mix of culture, stories, and iconic landmarks in just two hours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers who want a relaxed walk with insightful stories, including the iconic Duck March and hidden city tales.
4. Memphis: True Crime History Bus Tour
If you’re fascinated by mystery, scandal, and the darker side of Memphis, this True Crime History Bus Tour offers a 1.5-hour ride through the city’s most notorious stories. Led by a lively guide, you’ll hear about Georgia Tann’s baby-stealing schemes, Alma Theede’s long list of dead husbands, and other chilling tales that haunt Memphis’s past.
Rated 4.9/5 from 14 reviews, participants highlight the engaging storytelling and the mix of lighthearted and eerie moments. One reviewer describes the guide as having a “great personality” and making the dark stories enjoyable without being too heavy. For $41, it’s a small price for a tour that combines history, crime, and suspense—perfect for those interested in Memphis’s more sinister stories.
Bottom Line: A captivating mix of crime and history, ideal for those who like a little thrill with their insights into Memphis’s shadows.
5. Memphis History & Heritage: Private Half-Day Walking Tour
For travelers wanting a personalized, in-depth experience, the Memphis History & Heritage: Private Half-Day Walking Tour provides a customized exploration of the city’s cultural highlights. Starting with panoramic views from the Peabody Hotel’s Skyway Roof, the tour includes a visit to Beale Street, the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, and the Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel.
Rated 5.0/5 from 6 reviews, this private tour is praised for its flexibility and expert guidance, with itineraries tailored to your interests. The price is higher at $225 per person, but it includes insider tips, a sample of Memphis BBQ, and a chance to see attractions like the Cotton Museum and Orpheum Theatre. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a thorough, intimate introduction to Memphis’s musical, civil rights, and cultural sites.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a flexible, personalized tour that covers Memphis’s key cultural and historic landmarks.
6. Memphis African American Music History Tour
A deep dive into Memphis’s African American musical roots, this African American Music History Tour is a 2.5-hour experience led by Jackie Murray, a recognized local expert. She guides you through Sun Studio, where blues legends recorded in the 1950s, and Stax Records in Soulsville USA, home to artists like Isaac Hayes and Otis Redding. The tour also highlights Beale Street’s cultural impact and features the B.B. King Museum.
Rated 5.0/5 from just 1 review, this tour offers an intimate, expert-led look at a key part of Memphis’s musical heritage. The tour is priced at $99 and is ideal for those specifically interested in blues, soul, and African American cultural contributions.
Bottom Line: An immersive, expert-led tour for music lovers who want to focus on Memphis’s African American musical legacy.
7. Arkansas Experience USA Nature Culture History Discover
If you’re craving a trip beyond Memphis, this 12-day Arkansas tour offers a comprehensive look at America’s natural beauty, historic sites, and local culture. From Johnny Cash’s childhood home to Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center, this small-group journey combines spectacular landscapes with authentic cultural experiences. It’s a longer, more immersive trip designed for those who want to combine history, music, and nature.
While this tour is more intensive and costly at $3,990 per person, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a deep dive into regional history and scenic adventures. It’s ideal for those with flexible schedules and an adventurous spirit.
Bottom Line: A thorough, multi-day tour for history and nature enthusiasts looking for an in-depth Arkansas experience.
8. Stride Through History: 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour
This 2-hour African American Heritage Tour offers a focused walk through downtown Memphis, emphasizing civil rights landmarks like Handy Park, the Lorraine Motel, and the I AM A MAN Plaza. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about pivotal moments and figures who shaped Memphis’s African American community.
Though reviews are not yet available, the tour’s concise format and focus on civil rights sites make it a good choice for travelers interested in Memphis’s social history. The $30 price point makes it accessible for those wanting a quick, meaningful experience.
Bottom Line: An effective, quick introduction to Memphis’s civil rights landmarks, suitable for history buffs interested in social change.
How to Choose the Right Memphis Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your specific interests and available time. If you’re passionate about music history, the Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History offers a comprehensive, lively experience. For a more intimate and flexible exploration, the Private Half-Day Tour allows customization. Those intrigued by civil rights should look at the Stride Through History or True Crime tours for focused insights.
Budget-conscious travelers will find the Mojo 90-Minute Tour and the African American Heritage Tour offer excellent value. Keep in mind that booking early can secure spots, especially for popular guided experiences.
Final Thoughts
Memphis’s range of historical tours reflects its deep musical roots, civil rights struggles, and sometimes darker stories. For a well-rounded trip, consider combining a music-focused tour like Sun Studio with a civil rights walk, such as the Civil Rights Museum. For those on a tight schedule, the 90-minute bus tour offers a quick but meaningful taste.
Whether you choose an interactive bus ride, a personalized walk, or a specialized theme like crime or African American heritage, Memphis’s stories are sure to enrich your visit. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these compelling insights into a city that’s loud with history and music.
Happy exploring, and remember—every corner of Memphis has a story waiting to be told.