Guided Memphis City Tour that includes Riverboat Cruise

Memphis , United States

Guided Memphis City Tour that includes Riverboat Cruise

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(576 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This combo tour will help you experience all Memphis has to offer. Our professional humorous guides will help you discover downtown Memphis and the Mississippi river all in one package. You will not leave feeling like you missed out on Memphis. It's a great opportunity to see it all while you are here. After your City Hour, you'll have free time to explore Beale Street or stop for lunch on your own before heading to the riverboats.

Next, enjoy a cruise on the Memphis Riverboats, a Paddlewheel sail along the Mississippi River. Cruise down the Mississippi River and soak in the sights as you hear interesting commentary from your captain. Pass by Tom Lee Park and learn about its namesake, then discover how Mississippi influenced commerce in Memphis and the surrounding areas along the way.

Available options

Memphis City Tour/Riverboat

Pickup included

What's included

Complimentary Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off (select Memphis hotels only)

Professional Guide with Live Narration

Pass Victorian homes, historical statues and cultural landmarks

Guided Memphis City Day Tour with Riverboat Cruise

Pass sites such as Pyramid Arena and Lorraine Hotel, where Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated

Admission to Memphis Riverboats: Paddlewheel Cruise along the Mississippi River

Free time to explore famous Beale Street in Downtown Memphis

Detailed itinerary

After pickup from your downtown Memphis hotel, Our professional humorous guides will help you discover downtown Memphis and the Mississippi river all in one package. You will see some of the most famous and infamous sites around our historical city.

Stop 2

Sites such as Beale Street, which is a location where all the blues clubs are located and has become a major attraction here in Memphis. We will also show you Victorian Village which are homes built in the 1800's, two statues of the Kin Elvis Presley and B.B King.

Stop 3

Don't forget about The Peabody Hotel to stop and see the March of the World Famous Ducks!

Stop 4 Pass by

You will witness history at the Lorraine Hotel where Martin Luther King was assassinated on the balcony

The Island Queen, a historical paddle-wheel boat with three decks offering great views. We will cruise down the mighty Mississippi River and soak in the sights as you hear interesting commentary from your captain.

Pass by Tom Lee Park, named after Tom Lee, a worker who jumped into the river to save the lives of 32 passengers of a sinking steamboat in 1925. Along the way, you'll learn all about the history of the river and discover how Mississippi influenced commerce in Memphis and the surrounding areas. After this combo tour, you’ll be taken back to your hotel.

What's not included

Gratuities

Lunch (time for lunch on own between city tour and riverboat cruise)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

345 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.4

231 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.

Total tour duration is approximately 6.5-7 hours

Please note: Our buses are not wheelchair accessible. We can accommodate if they can get out the chair and step on the bus.

Important notes

• Company: Memphis Best Tours
• Hotel Pick-up commence 30-60 minutes prior to tour departure time selected at check-out. Hotel pick-ups are for local Memphis Hotels only.
• Please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

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