Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour

Explore Memphis in a Comfortable Bus Tour for $38

The Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour offers a detailed look at one of Tennessee’s most vibrant cities for just $38 per person. With durations ranging from 2 to 6 hours, this tour combines sightseeing, cultural stops, and tastings, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a broad overview of Memphis’s highlights. The tour departs from a centrally located ticket booth and is operated by Backbeat Tours, known for their engaging guides and well-organized excursions.

This tour is especially appealing for those interested in history, music, and food. You get to visit landmark sites like the Lorraine Motel, explore the historic Victorian Village, and enjoy a barbecue tasting at Central BBQ. Optional add-ons like the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Edge Motor Museum, or a scenic Mississippi River cruise provide tailor-made experiences to suit different interests. While the tour is accessible rain or shine, it’s worth noting that the river cruise depends on weather and availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price at $38 per person with flexible duration options
• Includes a guided city tour, focusing on Memphis’s iconic sites
• Visit the Lorraine Motel to see where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spent his last moments
• Enjoy a barbecue tasting at Central BBQ, recognized for some of Memphis’s best pork
• Optional museum entries at Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and Edge Motor Museum
• Scenic Mississippi River cruise available if selected, offering beautiful views of the river

Starting Point and Overall Tour Structure

The tour begins at the ticket booth on the downstairs patio, making arrival straightforward. The guided bus tour lasts about 2 hours, providing a rundown of Memphis’s most famous sights. The group size is suited for a relaxed experience, with live guides providing engaging narration throughout. This setup allows visitors to sit back comfortably while absorbing the city’s history and culture.

The tour balances landmark visits and scenic viewpoints, ensuring a well-rounded taste of Memphis. With a duration flexible up to 6 hours, guests can choose to include additional experiences or just enjoy the core sightseeing.

Discovering Beale Street and Victorian Village

One of the tour’s primary highlights is Beale Street, known as the “home of the Blues”. Travelers learn how this historic district became a hub for musical innovation and nightlife. The tour also passes through the Victorian Village, a neighborhood famous for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, offering a glimpse into Memphis’s historic past.

Walking through these areas from the bus, visitors get a sense of Memphis’s musical heritage and architectural charm. The guides provide stories about the neighborhoods, making each stop more meaningful.

Visiting the Lorraine Motel and the Significance of the Site

A poignant stop on the tour is the Lorraine Motel, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. Tour participants view the motel’s balcony where the tragedy occurred, gaining a deeper understanding of its significance. This visit adds a profound historical dimension to the tour, connecting Memphis’s past to national history.

While the site is emotionally charged, the tour emphasizes its importance in civil rights history. It’s a quiet moment that contrasts with the upbeat atmosphere of other stops, enriching the overall experience.

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Memphis Music: Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and Its Exhibits

The Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum offers an in-depth look at Memphis’s musical pioneers, including legends that shaped genres like blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll. Admission to this museum is included if the optional museum ticket is selected. The exhibits showcase iconic artists and tell stories about Memphis’s influence on American music.

The museum provides engaging displays and multimedia presentations, making it a valuable stop for music lovers. Guides often highlight key figures such as Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and others who helped define Memphis’s musical landscape.

Car Culture at the Edge Motor Museum

For car enthusiasts, the Edge Motor Museum stands out as a highlight. It features American Muscle cars and covers the history of automotive innovation in the United States. Admission to the museum is included if this option is chosen, making it a perfect stop for those interested in vintage cars and American automotive history.

The museum’s collection provides a visual journey through muscle car development, allowing visitors to see classic models up close. Guides share interesting facts about the cars, adding depth to the experience.

Tasting Memphis: Central BBQ’s Famous Pork

A key part of the tour is the barbecue tasting at Central BBQ. Recognized for serving some of the best pork barbecue in Memphis, this stop offers a delicious break and a taste of local cuisine. Theres some good flavorful, tender pork, which is a staple of Memphis food culture.

Please note that BBQ is pork only, and substitutions are not available. This tasting is a highlight for food lovers and provides a genuine taste of Memphis’s culinary heritage.

Optional Mississippi River Scenic Cruise

If selected, the scenic cruise on the Mississippi River offers stunning views of Memphis from the water. The cruise includes a commentary that enhances the experience, although some reviews mention that it might feel rushed or include a lengthy sit in the heat if weather conditions are unfavorable.

The boat tour provides a relaxing change of pace, allowing visitors to see Memphis from a different perspective. The cruise’s availability depends on weather and scheduling, so it’s wise to confirm in advance.

Practical Details and Tips for Participants

The meeting point is conveniently located at the ticket booth on the downstairs patio. Tour participants should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a charged smartphone for photos and capturing moments. The tour runs rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is recommended. The live English-speaking guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Since the duration ranges from 2 to 6 hours, guests can plan accordingly—whether they want a quick overview or a more leisurely exploration with multiple stops.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Memphis Tour

This comprehensive tour suits those who want a multi-faceted introduction to Memphis without the need for separate tickets or multiple bookings. It’s perfect for history buffs, music fans, and food lovers alike. The guided format makes it accessible for visitors who prefer learning from expert storytellers, and the option to include museums and river cruises provides flexibility.

While the $38 price point offers good value, travelers should be aware that the river cruise is optional and may be weather-dependent. The tour’s moderate pace and well-chosen highlights make it an ideal choice for a day-long exploration or a shorter sightseeing window.

Final Thoughts on Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour

The Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour delivers an engaging, informative overview of Memphis’s best-known sights, musical history, and culinary delights. The affordable price, expert guides, and flexible options make it a popular choice for visitors seeking a structured yet personalized experience.

While the river cruise can be a highlight, it’s subject to weather and schedule constraints. The barbecue tasting at Central BBQ is a culinary treat, and the visits to historic sites like the Lorraine Motel enrich the cultural significance of the tour. This experience is especially suited for those who want a comprehensive introduction to Memphis in a comfortable, guided setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour typically last?
The tour lasts from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the options selected and how much time is spent at each stop.

What is included in the base price of $38?
The guided city tour, local guide, and barbecue tasting are included. Optional visits to the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Edge Motor Museum, and Mississippi River cruise are extra.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from the ticket booth located on the downstairs patio.

Can I choose to do the river cruise?
Yes, the Mississippi River cruise is available if selected during booking, but it depends on weather and scheduling.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for most age groups, especially those interested in history, music, and food.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a charged smartphone for photos and capturing moments.

Is the tour accessible in rain or shine?
Yes, the tour proceeds rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Are museum tickets included?
Admission to the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and Edge Motor Museum is included if the optional museum stops are selected.

Are drinks or additional food included?
No, drinks and additional food beyond the barbecue tasting are not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby