Memphis City Tour with Optional Riverboat Cruise & Sun Studio Add-On Options

Explore Memphis for $45: A Well-Rounded City Tour with Optional Riverboat and Sun Studio Add-Ons

Memphis Best Tours offers a comprehensive city tour of Memphis for $45 per person, lasting approximately 2 to 7 hours. This tour begins with hotel pickup in downtown Memphis and covers iconic landmarks such as Beale Street, the Pyramid Arena, and the Lorraine Motel, home to the Civil Rights Museum. It also provides access to A. Schwab, a historic general store, and the Peabody Hotel, famous for its marching ducks. An attractive feature is the flexibility to upgrade the experience with a Mississippi River paddlewheel cruise or Sun Studio visit—both highly praised by past participants.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, especially those wanting a broad overview of Memphis in a single day. While the group size is limited to 42, reviews highlight the importance of punctuality and the potential for weather-related cancellations. The price and included hotel pickup make this tour a convenient and accessible way to see Memphis’s top spots.

Key Points

• Affordable city tour at $45, with options to add a river cruise and Sun Studio.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from downtown Memphis hotels.
• Passes Beale Street, Lorraine Motel, Peabody Hotel, and Victorian Village with a narrated mini-coach.
• Optional upgrades include a Mississippi River paddlewheel cruise and Sun Studio admission.
• The tour duration varies from 2 to 7 hours, allowing flexibility for full or half-day experiences.
• Well-rated with a 4.5-star rating from over 1,700 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and good value.

Starting Point and Tour Logistics

This tour departs at 9:00 am from 119 Riverside Dr, Memphis, TN 38103, with hotel pickup available from select downtown hotels. It ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward. The group size is capped at 42 travelers, maintaining a friendly and manageable atmosphere.

Past reviews emphasize the convenience of hotel pickup and the timely service, although some mention occasional delays, such as late pickups or weather cancellations affecting the river cruise. The tour’s mobile ticket system simplifies entry, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start provides flexibility.

Visiting Memphis Landmarks: What Stops Are Included

The tour includes visits to several of Memphis’s most famous landmarks. First, it passes the Pyramid Arena, an imposing 20,142-seat structure now hosting a Bass Pro Shops megastore with restaurants, a hotel, a bowling alley, and an archery range. You’ll also see St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a major medical facility in Memphis.

Next, the Lorraine Motel is a key stop, where the National Civil Rights Museum resides, marking the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. The A. Schwab store offers a chance to browse local arts, crafts, candies, and Memphis-themed memorabilia. The Peabody Hotel provides a highlight with its famous marching ducks, a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

The tour then guides you through Victorian Village, a neighborhood filled with homes from the 1800s, and along Cotton Row and Beale Street, the heart of Memphis’s blues scene and nightlife.

Beale Street and Victorian Village: A Walk Through Memphis’s Historic Districts

The tour spends about an hour exploring Beale Street and Victorian Village. Beale Street is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, live music venues, and soulful eateries, making it a lively spot for lunch and shopping during free time. The Victorian Village offers a peaceful contrast with its historic homes from the 1800s, providing insight into Memphis’s architectural past.

Reviewers appreciate the informative narration during this section, with guides sharing stories about Memphis’s musical legends like B.B. King and Elvis Presley. The lively street scene and charming architecture make this part of the tour both enjoyable and educational.

Optional Mississippi River Paddlewheel Cruise: Relax on the Water

The river cruise is an upgrade option that many travelers find worthwhile. This leisurely boat ride along the Mississippi River features commentary from the captain about Memphis’s river history and culture. The paddlewheel boat offers a relaxing perspective of the city from the water, with some reviews describing it as a very relaxing and scenic experience.

Be aware that the cruise is not included unless purchased during booking. Past guests highlight the captain’s anecdotes and the peaceful ambiance as the highlights, although others note that diesel fumes from the paddleboat can be noticeable. Weather can also affect this part of the experience, so it’s wise to check weather conditions.

Discovering Sun Studio: Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll

The Sun Studio visit is another optional add-on. Known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, it’s where Elvis Presley recorded his first song at age 18. The tour includes a guided look at this historic recording studio, offering a behind-the-scenes perspective on Memphis’s musical legacy.

Guests praise the Sun Studio tour for its engaging guides and the chance to see memorabilia and historic recordings. This stop is not included unless selected during checkout, making it a flexible addition for music enthusiasts wanting to deepen their Memphis experience.

Guide Quality and Tour Pacing

Multiple reviews commend the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor. Guides like Darrell and Sam are highlighted for their entertaining storytelling and helpfulness, making the tour both informative and fun.

The pacing of the tour varies depending on the selected upgrades and weather conditions. While the standard route allows for a thorough overview, some guests feel that more time on Beale Street or at Sun Studio would have enhanced their experience. The longer durations ensure ample opportunity to explore at each stop.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Travelers should arrive promptly for the 9:00 am departure to avoid missing parts of the tour. Weather can impact certain activities, particularly the river cruise, which might be canceled or rescheduled. Be prepared for possible delays and check the weather forecast.

The tour’s flexibility with admission options allows guests to tailor the experience to their interests. The tour is suitable for most people, with minimal physical demands, but mobility considerations should be taken into account for walking around Beale Street and Victorian Village.

Who Will Enjoy This Memphis Tour Most

This tour appeals to history buffs, music lovers, and first-time visitors seeking a rundown of Memphis. The small group atmosphere and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for those who appreciate detailed stories and a friendly, relaxed environment.

The price point and inclusion of hotel pickup make it a convenient choice for travelers wanting a cost-effective and well-organized guided experience. The optional add-ons allow for a more personalized visit, especially for fans of Memphis’s musical heritage and river views.

Final Thoughts on Memphis Best Tours’ City Experience

The Memphis City Tour with optional Riverboat Cruise & Sun Studio add-ons delivers a broad introduction to Memphis’s most iconic sites for $45. It balances cultural landmarks with entertainment and history, making it a worthwhile option for those wanting to see the city in a single day.

While the pace can be busy, and the river cruise is weather-dependent, the expert guides, comfortable transport, and flexibility in add-ons elevate this tour. It’s particularly suitable for first-timers or anyone seeking an accessible, affordable way to experience Memphis’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for select downtown Memphis hotels.

Can I upgrade to include a river cruise and Sun Studio?
Absolutely. These add-on options can be selected during checkout, and past reviews highlight their popularity.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration varies from 2 to 7 hours, depending on the selected options and pace.

What landmarks will I see during the tour?
You’ll see Beale Street, Lorraine Motel, Peabody Hotel, Pyramid Arena, Victorian Village, Cotton Row, and statues of B.B. King and Elvis Presley.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
The tour involves some walking and standing, especially at stops like Beale Street and Victorian Village. It is generally accessible but should be checked with specific mobility needs.

What should I do if the river cruise gets canceled due to weather?
If canceled, you will be offered a different date or a full refund, as weather-related cancellations are part of the policy.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals are not included. However, free time on Beale Street allows for food and shopping.

What is the price of the tour?
The base price is $45 per person. Upgrades for the river cruise and Sun Studio are available at checkout.