Memphis City Tour with Sun Studio Admission

Driving past the Mississippi River, historic Victorian homes, and iconic landmarks, the Memphis City Tour with Sun Studio Admission offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s musical and cultural soul. Priced at $75 per person, this half-day tour typically lasts 4 to 5 hours and departs from downtown Memphis, conveniently including hotel pickup and drop-off for select locations. With a high rating of 4.5 stars from 625 reviews, the tour is highly recommended by 94% of participants, many of whom find it to be a valuable introduction to Memphis.

While the tour covers essential sights and includes a tour of Sun Studios, it is especially ideal for visitors wanting an organized overview that combines history, music, and local color. The inclusion of landmarks like Beale Street and the Peabody Ducks gives a taste of Memphis’s vibrant scene, with a few reviewers noting that pacing can be slow at times. This tour appeals to those looking for a comprehensive yet manageable sightseeing experience.

Key Points

• Price & Duration: $75 per person, lasting around 4 to 5 hours
• Includes Sun Studio Admission: Visit the legendary recording studio with a guided tour
• Hotel Pickup: Round-trip transportation from select downtown Memphis hotels
• Major Landmarks: Beale Street, Peabody Ducks, Lorraine Hotel, Civil Rights Museum, Pyramid Arena
• Expert Guides: Guides like Darryl and Michelle receive high praise for their knowledge and humor
• Cancellations & Weather: Free cancellation with weather-related rescheduling possible

Memphis City Tour Starting at 119 Riverside Drive

The tour kicks off at 119 Riverside Dr in downtown Memphis at 9:00 am. This meeting point is easily accessible, and the tour group is capped at 42 travelers to ensure a comfortable experience. The bus used is a mini-coach, offering an easy and relaxed way to see the city while enjoying narration from a friendly, professional guide.

The hotel pickup option is available for select downtown hotels, making it convenient for those staying nearby. The tour’s round-trip transportation allows guests to relax without the hassle of navigating Memphis’s streets or parking.

Exploring Memphis Landmarks in a Comfortable Bus

Throughout the 4 to 5-hour experience, the bus takes visitors past key locations including St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Pyramid Arena, and Victorian Village. The narrated commentary highlights Memphis’s cultural and historical significance, giving context to the sights seen from the bus.

The tour emphasizes beyond the obvious sights, offering insight into the city’s musical heritage and notable buildings. The group passes the Lorraine Motel (now the Civil Rights Museum) and views statues of Elvis Presley and BB King, setting the stage for a richer appreciation of Memphis’s musical legends.

Visiting Sun Studio—Music History at Its Core

The highlight for many is the hour-long visit to Sun Studio, where legendary artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and BB King recorded their groundbreaking tracks. The studio tour is guided, providing detailed stories about the musicians and recordings that shaped music history.

Participants see the actual recording spaces and learn how Sun Studios became known as the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll.” The admission is included for guests aged 7 and above, and reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guide Darryl for sharing interesting anecdotes and making the experience engaging.

The Peabody Ducks and Historic Landmarks

A key visual highlight is the March of the Peabody Ducks at the Peabody Hotel. This famous daily event features ducks parading from the rooftop pond to the hotel lobby, a spectacle enjoyed by many on the tour.

The bus also makes a brief stop at Schwab, a 120-year-old general store, and passes the St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The route includes a scenic drive along the Mississippi River, giving visitors great photo opportunities and a sense of Memphis’s scenic setting.

Strolling Down Beale Street and Cotton Row

The tour offers a one-hour cruise down Beale Street, famous for its live music, restaurants, and vibe. Passengers get a glimpse of the lively nightlife and historic venues that made Beale Street iconic.

Another hour is dedicated to exploring Cotton Row, an area historically linked to Memphis’s cotton trade, and Victorian Village, where homes from the 1800s stand as reminders of the city’s past prosperity. This segment offers a mix of cultural history and scenic views.

Visiting the Lorraine Hotel and Civil Rights Museum

While passing the Lorraine Hotel, the tour briefly mentions its significance as the site of Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination, now home to the National Civil Rights Museum. Although the museum itself isn’t part of the tour, the proximity underscores Memphis’s pivotal role in civil rights history.

A photo stop here allows visitors to reflect on the city’s struggles and triumphs. The tour’s narration ties this history into the broader story of Memphis’s cultural landscape.

The Pacing and Group Experience

Most reviews highlight the good timing at each stop, with guides like Darryl and Michelle praised for their knowledge, humor, and helpfulness. The pace tends to be comfortable, though some note that certain stops like Beale Street could use a bit more time.

The small group size (max 42 travelers) enhances the experience, enabling more interaction and personalized commentary. The tour is suitable for most ages (7+), but the focus on historic and musical sites makes it especially appealing to music enthusiasts and history buffs.

The Value and Practicalities

At $75 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included Sun Studio visit, hotel transfers, and comprehensive sightseeing. While food and drinks are not included, guests often find the timing convenient for additional meals in downtown Memphis.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, with weather cancellations possible—rescheduled tours or full refunds are available. The most common reason for cancellations is weather conditions like snow, which the tour organizers prioritize for safety.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for visitors wanting a structured overview of Memphis’s musical and civil rights history, combined with the convenience of hotel pickup. It suits those with limited time but who want to see key sights without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

Music lovers will appreciate the Sun Studio visit and the chance to see statues of Elvis and BB King. History enthusiasts benefit from the narration about civil rights landmarks and the story of Memphis’s growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include lunch or food?
No, food and drinks are not included in the package, but the tour schedule offers opportunities to explore local dining options afterward.

Can children participate in the Sun Studio visit?
Yes, admission is available for guests 7 years and older. Younger children can join the bus tour but do not receive a ticket for Sun Studio.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions like snow can lead to cancellations, which are rescheduled or refunded. The tour organizers prioritize safety and will cancel if conditions are unsafe.

How flexible are the start and end times?
The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at 119 Riverside Dr and ends back at the same location. Early arrivals or late arrivals are not accommodated.

Is hotel pickup guaranteed?
Hotel pickup is available for select downtown Memphis hotels, making it a convenient start for most guests in the city center.

This Memphis City Tour with Sun Studio Admission offers a balanced mix of history, music, and local culture in a comfortable, guided setting. It provides a solid overview of Memphis’s most significant sights, perfect for first-time visitors seeking an efficient, enjoyable introduction to this vibrant city.