Memphis , United States

Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour

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(805 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy the darker side of Memphis and hear tales of the city's haunted heritage as told by professional storytellers. The city’s South Main Historic District – an eclectic, colorful area with some of the city’s oldest buildings – has a long history of sensational murders and ghostly activity. On this 90-minute outdoor walking tour, you'll visit a number of haunted sites, including:
• The Orpheum Theater, home of "Mary," who has haunted performances since 1921
• The John Alexander Austin House, a Victorian era mansion haunted by star-crossed lovers
• The notorious Ernestine & Hazel's, a former brothel long recognized as one of the most haunted buildings in Memphis. We'll take you inside this creepy establishment (Wednesday-Sunday ONLY), home to several ghosts as well as a haunted jukebox.

Available options

Departure

What's included

Local Taxes

Guided Walking Tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Memphis' most famous ghost, 12 year-old Mary
(outside only)

A beautiful - but haunted - love story
(outside only)

One of the creepiest and most haunted places anywhere!

A haunted gangster's hideout (outside only)

Voodoo and hoodoo in Memphis
(outside only)

Stop 6

Site of Memphis' oldest former cemetery, Morris Cemetery.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop off

Drinks or food at Earnestine & Hazel's not included in ticket price.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

436 reviews

5★

311

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

369 reviews

5★

290

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.

After the tour has concluded, guests are welcome to stay at Earnestine & Hazel's, just a short 10-minute walk back to Beale St. (traveling North on Main St.). Guests are always welcome to join their tour guide in walking back to Beale St. as well.

This tour covers a distance of approximately 2 miles on public sidewalks with some elevation.

This tour is conducted mostly outside and does not include entrance into any of these buildings. Please dress accordingly.

Important notes

Please check in at the Backbeat Tours ticket counter at Alfred's on Beale (197 Beale St.)
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.

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