Memphis Winter City Tour: Private 1.5-Hour Music & History Drive
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This isn’t a script — it’s Memphis told by a musician who lives it. What sets this private 1.5-hour winter tour apart is how your guide blends music, culture, river history, and true local stories into one unforgettable ride. You’ll see Beale Street, Sun Studio (exterior), the Civil Rights Museum, Cotton Row, the Mississippi River, the Peabody Hotel, and Victorian Village or Overton Park — all from the comfort of a warm private vehicle with minimal walking, making it perfect for colder days. Along the way, you’ll hear how the river shaped the city, how blues shaped rock ’n’ roll, and where to find the best BBQ (including a drive-by of a local favorite). You’ll also receive a FREE illustrated eBook about Elvis’s early Memphis life — exclusive to this tour. Fast, fun, and rich with insider detail, it’s the perfect winter-friendly introduction to Memphis — created by a guide travelers consistently call “the highlight of your trip.”
Available options
Memphis Winter City Tour: Private 1.5-Hour Music & History Drive
What's included
Private tour for your group
Expert commentary from a local musician
FREE eBook: Before Graceland: The Hidden Homes of Elvis in Memphis
Flexible pickup and drop-off (hotel or downtown)
Bottled water
Transportation in comfortable SUV
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Hear the story of America’s most famous music street, W.C. Handy, and the clubs that shaped blues and rock ’n’ roll.
2
Take in views of the mighty Mississippi and hear stories about how this river shaped Memphis — from trade and culture to music and migration.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Learn the powerful story of the Lorraine Motel and its lasting impact on civil rights in America.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
See the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis made history.
5
See one of Memphis’s most unique landmarks — a massive glass pyramid that’s become a modern icon of the city’s skyline.
6
Hear the legendary tale of the Peabody Ducks and Memphis’s most famous luxury hotel.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
Choose between historic mansions from the 1800s or Overton Park and its Shell — the site of Elvis’s first paid performance.
8
Choose between historic mansions from the 1800s or Overton Park and its Shell — the site of Elvis’s first paid performance.
9
Stop 9
Pass by
See the “South’s Finest Theatre."
10
Explore the historic heart of Memphis commerce and hear how cotton shaped the city long before rock ’n’ roll.
11
Discover one of Memphis’s legendary BBQ institutions. Learn how Memphis barbecue styles differ — from dry rub to wet ribs — and hear recommendations for where to eat based on your tastes.
What's not included
Entrance fees (Sun Studio or other attractions if you choose to return later)
Gratuities
Food or drinks beyond bottled water
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The guide will meet you underneath the marquee of the The Orpheum Theatre with a black 2025 Hyundai Sante Fe with blinkers on.
About Memphis
Memphis, Tennessee, is a vibrant city rich in musical heritage and Southern charm. Known as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll and the home of the blues, it offers a unique blend of history, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. The city's iconic landmarks, live music venues, and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in the American South.
Top Attractions
Graceland
The former home of Elvis Presley, Graceland is a must-visit for music fans. The mansion and museum offer a glimpse into the life of the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
Historical
3-4 hours
Moderate ($38 for adults, $25 for children)
Beale Street
A historic street in downtown Memphis, Beale Street is famous for its live music venues, bars, and restaurants. It's the heart of the city's nightlife and a major tourist attraction.
Entertainment
2-3 hours or more
Free to explore, variable for food and drinks
National Civil Rights Museum
Located at the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum chronicles the history of the civil rights movement in the United States.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate ($17 for adults, $15 for seniors, $14 for children)
Memphis Zoo
One of the largest zoos in the United States, the Memphis Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals and 500 species. It features a variety of exhibits and conservation programs.
Nature
3-4 hours
Moderate ($22 for adults, $16 for children)
Sun Studio
Known as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll, Sun Studio is where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their early hits. The studio offers tours and recording sessions.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate ($15 for adults, $12 for children)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Memphis Barbecue
Slow-smoked pork ribs and pulled pork, often served with a tangy, spicy sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made gluten-free
Fried Chicken
Crispy, golden-fried chicken, often served with sides like coleslaw and macaroni and cheese.
Main Course
Contains gluten and dairy, can be made gluten-free
Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich
A classic Elvis Presley favorite, made with peanut butter, banana, and sometimes bacon.
Breakfast
Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts
Sweet Tea
A refreshing, sweetened iced tea, a staple in Southern cuisine.
Drink
Contains sugar, can be made with alternative sweeteners
Popular Activities
Hiking
Biking
Fishing
Boating
Picnicking
Birdwatching
Shopping
Dining
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts several festivals and events during these periods.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, French, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT), UTC-6 (Standard Time), UTC-5 (Daylight Saving Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Memphis is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Some areas of the city have higher crime rates, and it's important to stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
Getting there
By air
- Memphis International Airport • 10 miles (16 km) from downtown
By bus
Memphis Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
MATA operates a network of buses that serve the city and its surrounding areas. Fares are affordable, and buses are a convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Memphis
Midtown Memphis
East Memphis
Cooper-Young Historic District
Day trips
Arkansas River Museum
15 miles (24 km) • Half day
Located in North Little Rock, Arkansas, this museum offers a variety of exhibits and programs focused on the history and culture of the Arkansas River and its surrounding regions.
Hernando de Soto Park
20 miles (32 km) • Half day
A beautiful park located along the Mississippi River, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. The park is named after the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who is believed to have crossed the Mississippi River in this area.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
25 miles (40 km) • Full day
A beautiful state park located along the Mississippi River, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species.
Festivals
Memphis in May International Festival • May
Beale Street Music Festival • Early May
Memphis Grizzlies Playoffs • April-May (varies by season)
Pro tips
- Visit Graceland early in the morning to avoid crowds and long lines
- Explore Beale Street in the evening for live music and a lively atmosphere
- Try the famous Memphis barbecue at Central BBQ or Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
- Take a stroll through the Memphis Farmers Market on Saturday mornings for fresh produce and local goods
- Visit the National Civil Rights Museum to learn about the history and legacy of the civil rights movement
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
