Memphis Discovery Tour w/ National Civil Rights Museum Admission
Active
3h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Memphis’ rich history, musical heritage, and Southern cuisine on this comprehensive “best of Memphis” tour. Take in all the highlights of downtown Memphis, from the Blues bars of Beale Street and historic Victorian mansions, to the site where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and one of Elvis’ early apartments. Get insight into the city's amazing heritage at the The National Civil Rights Museu, site of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
After visiting the museum of choice, you'll be driven safely back to Beale St., or to the Memphis Riverboat to enjoy a scenic cruise on the Mississippi River.
Available options
Memphis Discovery Tour w/ National Civil Rights Museum admission
Tour + Civil Rights +Riverboat
Civil Rights Museum +Riverboat: Tour includes admission to the National Civil Rights Museum and Riverboat Cruise<br/>Duration: 6 hours: Adds additional 3 hours to tour + museum option
What's included
Riverboat Cruise admission (if option selected)
Professional guide
BBQ tastings (BBQ is pork, we do not offer substitutions)
National Civil Rights Museum admission
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The tour starts on Beale Street at Alfred's on Beale, and begins by exploring the history of the Home of the Blues
2
Home of the Memphis Redbirds, Minor League Baseball team
3
Stop 3
Pass by
One of the city's oldest and most beautiful parks
4
Stop 4
"Millionaire's Row", beautiful historic homes of Memphis' cotton barons and
5
Memphis' oldest surviving residential home
6
History of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
7
Stop 7
Pass by
History of the Orpheum Theater
8
History of the Cotton Exchange and historic Cotton Row
9
Enjoy a tasting of Memphis BBQ
10
South Main Historic Arts District, home to local restaurants and shops
11
Stop 11
Site of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and now home to the National Civil Rights Museum
12
History and importance of the Mississippi River to Memphis
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Alcoholic Beverages
Food purchased on the Riverboat is NOT included in your ticket price
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
9 reviews
5★
4
4★
4
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
16 reviews
5★
14
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
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
We can accommodate fold-up walkers or wheelchairs. We do not have a wheelchair lift and therefore cannot assist those in powered wheelchairs or with no mobility.
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.
The Memphis Riverboat is located at the bottom of a 35% incline covered with historic cobblestones. Due to the historic nature of the cobblestones, buses or vehicles are not allowed to drop passengers off directly at the boat dock; guests will be dropped off and picked up from Riverside Dr.
Meeting point
Please check in and meet your tour guide at the Backbeat Tours podium, located on the Patio at Alfred's on Beale St.
Important notes
Tour Departs from the Backbeat Tour 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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
