Memphis Discovery Tour: History, Food & Sights
From$49.39
2 hours – 3 hours
Memphis, USA
About this activity
Experience Memphis' rich history, culture, and cuisine on this guided tour, including visits to iconic landmarks and a delicious barbecue lunch.
Highlights
- Explore Beale Street's vibrant nightlife
- Visit the National Civil Rights Museum
- Discover the history at Sun Studio
- Enjoy a traditional Memphis barbecue lunch
- Stroll through the historic Victorian Village
Full description
Dive into the heart of Memphis with this engaging tour that combines history, culture, and culinary delights. Visit iconic landmarks like Beale Street, the National Civil Rights Museum, and Sun Studio. Savor authentic Memphis barbecue for lunch and explore the charming Victorian Village. This tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the soul of the city, making it perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Memphis' historic sites
- Admission to the Rock 'n' Soul Museum
- Authentic Memphis barbecue lunch
- Gratuities for the tour guide
Itinerary
1
The tour starts on Beale Street at Alfred's on Beale, and begins by exploring the history of the Home of the Blues
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Admission included (if option selected) to this world-class museum telling the complete story of Memphis music
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
3
Enjoy a delicious tasting of Memphis BBQ
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4
History of the 1968 Sanitation Strike and the assassination of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Admission included if option selected (1.5 hours tour)
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NO
5
Pass by: History and importance of the Mississippi River to Memphis
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6
Pass by: History of "Millionaire's Row," the beautiful historic homes of Memphis' cotton barons
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7
Pass by: History of the city's oldest surviving residence
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8
Pass by: History of the Cotton Exchange and historic Cotton Row
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9
Pass by: History of the Presley family's first real home in Memphis
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
10
Pass by: History of Danny Thomas and St. Jude's
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
11
Pass by: History of one of the city's oldest and most beautiful parks
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
12
Pass by: History of the Orpheum Theater
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
13
Pass by: History of baseball in Memphis
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
14
History of WC Handy, the "Father of the Blues," and the birth of the blues on Beale Street
Duration: 5 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
15
Pass by: History of the Shelby County Courthouse
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
16
Pass by: History of the city's oldest church
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
17
Pass by: History of the South Main Historic District
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
18
Admission included (if option selected) to see Memphis' newest attraction exploring the history of the American sports car.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately
- Vegetarian options available upon request
- Please inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions in advance
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour
- Bring a camera to capture memorable moments
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Within a few blocks there are four different parking garages, and several open-air parking lots. The closest garage to our location (just two blocks away) is at 149 Peabody Place between Second Street and BB King Blvd., next to the Hampton Inn. You can try your luck with on-street metered parking, too, on Second Street just south of Beale; on Beale between Front and Second; or along Peabody Place from Front to Fourth Street.
Traveler reviews
4.8759 reviews
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Great Time
The tour guy John was very informative. He had a great personality. I would recommend this tour to anyone that decides to check out Memphis.
paulaKup1Jul 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR
The tour was...
The tour was informational surrounding the history of Memphis’ music and economic history. The tour guide was exceptional, knowledgeable, personable, energetic!
Avis_BJun 28, 2026VIATOR
Memphis Discovery Tour
Details of trip were explained well (pick up location, drop off, where to park, etc). Guide was both informative and personable with an obvious possion for Memphis. Stopping for BBQ was a bonus. Very well organized.
V2115ESroxannemJun 22, 2026TRIPADVISOR
A Tour to Remember
Our tour docent was great! She was so knowledgeable of Memphis history and current community activities. She had a fun sense of humor and made the tour one to remember and recommend.
690daltJun 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Excellent Guide!!!!
We enjoyed our tour immensely - Mary was an exceptional host - She was very knowledgeable!! Loved every minute of it
LadyluckinoklahomaJun 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
Within a few blocks there are four different parking garages, and several open-air parking lots. The closest garage to our location (just two blocks away) is at 149 Peabody Place between Second Street and BB King Blvd., next to the Hampton Inn. You can try your luck with on-street metered parking, too, on Second Street just south of Beale; on Beale between Front and Second; or along Peabody Place from Front to Fourth Street.