Memphis’s 10 Best Walking Tours

The 10 Best Walking Tours in Memphis

Memphis isn’t just about blues, barbecue, and Beale Street. It’s a city where every corner whispers a story—some haunting, some historic, and many musical. Exploring Memphis on foot lets you soak in its contradictions: the lively energy of its streets juxtaposed with ghostly tales from its darker past. Walking tours here uncover layers of history, from haunted venues to the roots of rock ‘n’ roll, all with a personal touch that a bus or self-guided route can’t match. Whether you’re a history lover, a music enthusiast, or just in search of some spooky stories, Memphis’s compact downtown makes it a perfect city for walking.

In this guide, we’ll look at the best walking tours in Memphis—from ghostly encounters in historic sites to private excursions across Beale Street and Sun Studio. Each offers a different perspective on the city, and understanding what makes each unique will help you choose the right one for your interests, schedule, and budget.

Quick Overview

Our list features a variety of walking tours that showcase Memphis’s haunted sites, musical heritage, civil rights landmarks, and private custom experiences. For example, the Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour explores eerie stories of spirits and haunted buildings, while the Memphis 2-Hour Historic Walking Tour: Beyond Beale covers the city’s key historic sites and the Peabody Duck March. For those interested in Memphis’s musical roots, the Memphis Music Magic hits the themes of blues and rock celebrated in the city, and the Elvis Unleashed** tour delves into the King’s Memphis landmarks. For a personalized experience, the Private Guided Walking Tour offers a fully customizable exploration with a local guide.

1. Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour

This tour is a must for anyone interested in Memphis’s ghost stories and supernatural lore. Starting with some of the city’s most haunted spots, such as Earnestine & Hazel’s and the Orpheum Theatre, your guide shares spine-tingling tales of spirits that supposedly still linger. The tour includes a walk past the John Alexander Austin House, said to be home to several ghosts, and visits to Green Beetle and Puck Food Hall, both linked with eerie histories involving gangsters and hoodoo practices.

What makes this tour stand out is its storytelling approach—guides like TC and Daniel combine humor with chilling facts, enhancing each story with historical context. Guests often mention how engaging and entertaining the guides are, adding a personal touch to Memphis’s haunted past. The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with some sites visited outside only, and no additional admission costs for most locations. While drinks and food at Earnestine & Hazel’s aren’t included, many visitors enjoy grabbing a drink after the walk to discuss what they’ve seen.

Bottom Line: If you love ghost stories and want a lively, slightly spooky walk through downtown Memphis, this tour offers a good balance of entertainment and history at a reasonable price.

2. Memphis 2-Hour Historic Walking Tour: Beyond Beale

This tour is ideal for history buffs looking for a concise but rundown of Memphis’s historic sites. Over two hours, guides like Kate and Shannon take you through landmarks like Peabody Hotel—famous for the Duck March—and the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel. The walk is leisurely, giving you plenty of time to absorb the stories behind each site, including the city’s evolution from cotton hub to music mecca.

What’s special about this tour is its focus on Memphis’s diverse character—from its civil rights struggles to its legendary music scene. Reviewers mention guides being knowledgeable, personable, and ready to answer questions, enhancing the experience. The tour’s value lies in its inclusion of key sites without feeling rushed, perfect for travelers with limited time who want depth without complexity. The starting times vary, so check availability before booking.

Bottom Line: For a well-rounded, insightful tour lasting just two hours, this tour hits the mark with its balance of history and entertainment, making it perfect for first-time visitors.

3. Memphis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Poltergeists Walking Tour

If you’re craving spooky stories with a side of Memphis’s haunted reputation, this tour offers a spooky spin on the city’s landmarks. You’ll pass by the Arcade Restaurant, where ghostly figures are reportedly seen in the windows, and visit the John Alexander Austin House—home to spirits according to local legend. The tour also explores the Lorraine Motel, site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, where many feel a ghostly presence.

The guide shares captivating tales about Memphis’s haunted theaters, saloons, and historic buildings, with optional ghost-hunting equipment available for rent. The tour lasts about an hour, making it ideal for a quick, immersive experience. Reviewers praise guides like Mary and Brandon for their engaging storytelling and knowledge. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy a mix of history and ghost lore without it feeling too intense.

Bottom Line: This walking tour is perfect for travelers wanting a short, spooky experience with a mix of Memphis’s eerie tales and historical insights.

4. Memphis 3.5h Walking Tour with Beale Street & Sun Studio

This private tour offers an in-depth look at Memphis’s musical roots. It combines visits to iconic sites like Beale Street, Sun Studio, and Memphis Central Station in a personalized 3.5-hour experience. Led by a music historian guide, you’ll learn about Elvis signing his first RCA contract, the birthplace of blues at Handy Park, and the evolution of Memphis’s sound from W.C. Handy to modern legends.

What makes this tour stand out is its private format—ideal for travelers seeking a flexible, tailored experience. All entrance fees and transit between sites are included, making it a smooth day. Guests rave about guides like Mike, who combines deep musical knowledge with storytelling flair, and appreciate the chance to see Sun Studios with a guide who shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes.

Value-wise, at $175, it’s more expensive than group options but offers personalized attention and insider insights. It’s best suited for serious music fans and those wanting a comprehensive, private overview of Memphis’s musical history.

Bottom Line: For music lovers wanting a deep, custom dive into Memphis’s legendary scene, this private tour provides a memorable, flexible experience.

5. Memphis History & Heritage: Private Half-Day Walking Tour

This private tour is perfect for learners who want an intimate, detailed look at Memphis’s civil rights, music, and architectural landmarks. Over roughly three hours, your guide takes you from Beale Street and the Mississippi River to the National Civil Rights Museum, the Lorraine Motel, and the Peabody Ducks. It’s a flexible experience, with the option for morning or afternoon sessions, allowing customization based on your interests.

Highlights include visiting W.D.I.A. radio building, the Heritage of the Orpheum Theatre, and sampling Memphis BBQ. Reviewers like those who describe it as “powerful and impactful” appreciate the thoughtful narration and personalized attention. The tour is suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed experience with insights into Memphis’s social, cultural, and musical evolution.

While at $225 per person, it is on the pricier side, the private nature and tailored itinerary make it worthwhile for those seeking a bespoke, in-depth introduction.

Bottom Line: If you crave a customized, meaningful exploration of Memphis’s landmarks and stories, this private tour offers a thoughtful, intimate experience.

6. Memphis Music Magic: A Walking Tour for Music Lovers

For music fans, this walk explores Memphis’s musical legends. Starting at the Orpheum Theatre, the tour takes you through Beale Street, W.C. Handy Park, and the Peabody Ducks. Guides like Brandon highlight stories of how Memphis shaped the blues and soul, connecting landmarks like B.B. King’s Blues Club to the broader musical legacy.

Guests highlight Brandon’s storytelling and the tour’s focus on significant music sites, including the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and historic clubs. It’s a shorter, two-hour walk, making it a good option for those wanting a music-themed intro without a full-day commitment.

At $30, the tour is an affordable way to get a musical overview, especially for first-timers. It’s best suited for music lovers who appreciate stories about legends and want to see the city’s hotspots in a lively, engaging way.

Bottom Line: A perfect short tour for those interested in Memphis’s musical roots, blending history and local legends with an energetic guide.

7. Walking Ghost Tour in Memphis

If ghost stories are your thing, this 1 hour 30-minute walk offers a spooky overview of Memphis’s most haunted sites. Starting outside the Lorraine Motel and ending at Earnestine & Hazel’s, the tour combines history, legend, and paranormal tales. You’ll visit the Arcade Restaurant and Green Beetle—both associated with eerie legends—and learn about local hauntings.

Guides like Damon and Matt receive praise for their engaging, story-driven narration, making the mysterious tales feel authentic. The tour is perfect for those who want a short but atmospheric experience, especially since it’s a small-group walk.

While geared towards ghost enthusiasts, the tour also offers a good sense of Memphis’s dark side. Many reviewers mention how well the guides blend history with supernatural tales, making it both fun and informative.

Bottom Line: If you enjoy ghost stories combined with Memphis history, this walk offers a memorable, spine-tingling experience in a manageable timeframe.

8. Elvis Unleashed: Private Elvis Walking Tour

This private Elvis-themed tour is tailored for music fans interested in the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s Memphis roots. Over about two hours, guides will take you through landmarks like South Main Street and The Orpheum Theatre, sharing stories about Elvis’s early days and his rise to fame. You’ll also visit significant sites like the Chisca Hotel and walk along Beale Street, soaking in the atmosphere where Elvis performed and hung out.

What sets this tour apart is the personalized storytelling from Brandon, a musician with over ten years of experience. Guests love how he combines Elvis’s story with Memphis’s musical landscape, making the history come alive. The tour is small and intimate, with no admission fees, but offers behind-the-scenes stories that enrich your understanding of Elvis’s connection to Memphis.

For $30, this is a cost-effective private experience for Elvis fans or those wanting a focused, personalized look at Memphis’s musical scene.

Bottom Line: If Elvis’s story is what draws you, this private tour offers a tailored, engaging experience that complements any Memphis visit.

9. Private Guided Walking Tour in Memphis

This completely customizable private tour allows you to explore Memphis at your own pace. With a dedicated guide, you can focus on particular neighborhoods, landmarks, or themes such as civil rights, music, or architecture. The flexible schedule can span from 2 to 8 hours, making it ideal for travelers with specific interests or those who want a slow, detailed exploration.

Reviews highlight guides like David, who personalizes the experience based on your preferences, sharing insights about hidden gems and local favorites. The tour can include visits to areas like the Cotton Museum or the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, depending on your wishes.

While this option is more expensive at $98.30 per person, the personalized attention and tailored itinerary make it worth considering. It’s perfect for travelers who want a private, in-depth, and flexible exploration of Memphis’s diverse neighborhoods.

Bottom Line: For those who prefer a bespoke, in-depth experience, this private guide offers total customization and a personal touch.

10. Memphis Music Scene: Private Half-Day Walking Tour

Finally, this tour blends music history and local sights in a half-day private walk. Over approximately three hours, guides lead you through Beale Street, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, and B.B. King’s Blues Club. You’ll see the Peabody Ducks and visit landmarks like the Orpheum Theatre, while listening to stories of musicians such as Johnny Cash and W.C. Handy.

What makes this tour attractive is the inclusion of a full-day trolley pass and tickets to the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, adding value for those wanting a comprehensive musical overview. Guests mention guides like R.J. and Grahame for their knowledge and ability to tailor the experience based on interests.

This tour is well suited for music fans who want a relaxed, yet in-depth, private experience of Memphis’s musical heritage.

Bottom Line: For a half-day, personalized music-focused tour with added museum tickets and transit, this option offers a rich, flexible experience.

How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Memphis

When selecting a walking tour, consider your budget, schedule, and specific interests. If you’re eager to hear spooky stories and ghostly legends, the Haunted Memphis Ghost Tour offers a lively, entertaining experience. For music lovers, the Memphis Music Magic or the private Elvis Unleashed provide focused themes. Those wanting a rundown or tailored experience should consider Memphis 2-Hour Historic Tour or the Private Guided Tour, which allows customization.

Timing also matters. The ghost and historic tours tend to be shorter and fit well into a half-day, while private tours can be scheduled around your plans. For the best experience, book early, especially for private options, and check the availability during your travel dates.

Final Thoughts

Memphis’s walking tours cover haunting tales, legendary music, civil rights milestones, and personalized explorations. For a spooky night out, the Haunted Memphis Ghost Tour is a standout. Music fans will find the Memphis Music Magic or Elvis Unleashed perfect for deep dives into Memphis’s musical soul. If you prefer a flexible, private experience, the Private Guided Tour can be tailored to your interests.

No matter which you choose, these walking tours offer a wonderful way to see Memphis from a local’s perspective. Remember to book early, especially for private options, and prepare to experience the city’s stories, melodies, and spirits firsthand.