Memphis Discovery Tour National Civil Rights Museum Admission

If you’re planning a trip to Memphis and want a guided experience that hits all the highlights, the Memphis Discovery Tour offered by Backbeat Tours could be just what you need. Priced at $65.85 per person, this roughly 3-6 hour adventure combines history, music, and Southern cuisine in a way that’s engaging and accessible. While it’s not a private tour, it packs enough content to make it feel personalized.

What we love about this experience is the knowledgeable guides who bring Memphis’s stories to life and the diverse stops that offer a mix of cultural, historical, and scenic sights. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or simply curious about the city’s soul, this tour offers a fine introduction. That said, a potential consideration is the tight schedule—some reviews mention feeling rushed through the Civil Rights Museum, so if you prefer more time at each stop, this might be a factor. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a well-rounded overview with convenient logistics, especially those who appreciate guided insights and a mix of outdoor and indoor experiences.

Key Points

• Comprehensive overview of Memphis’ musical, cultural, and civil rights history in one tour
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with storytelling and local insights
• Balanced itinerary combining walking, sightseeing, and optional river cruise
• Authentic experiences, including a BBQ tasting and visits to iconic sites like Beale Street and the Lorraine Motel
• Good value for money given the inclusion of museum tickets, a riverboat cruise (if booked), and food tastings
• Potential for a rushed feeling at the Civil Rights Museum, so time management is key

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting on Beale Street: The Heart of Memphis Blues

The tour kicks off at Alfred’s on Beale, right in the middle of the famous street. Here, your guide will introduce you to Beale Street’s legendary role in blues music. Expect stories about the clubs and musicians who made the street famous. The first few minutes are free, so take in the lively atmosphere and maybe snap a few photos of the historic facades.

Beale Street is more than just music; it’s a symbol of Memphis’s vibrant culture. You’ll pass by the home of the Memphis Redbirds, the city’s beloved minor league baseball team, and see a historic park that offers a peaceful respite amid the city’s energetic vibe.

Victorian Village Historic District: A Glimpse of Memphis’ Gilded Age

Next, the tour heads to Victorian Village, also called “Millionaire’s Row”. The stately homes of cotton barons from Memphis’s past are still standing, giving a tangible sense of the city’s prosperity during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The stops here include Memphis’ oldest residential home, which offers a glimpse into domestic life long ago, and the historic Cotton Exchange, a reminder of Memphis’s role in commerce.

You’ll also hear about St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Orpheum Theater’s storied history—both institutions integral to Memphis’s identity. These quick stops are perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the architecture that tells stories of wealth and ambition.

Tasting Memphis: Central BBQ and the South Main Arts District

One of the tour’s treats (literally) is a sampling of Memphis BBQ at Central BBQ. This stop is included in the ticket and usually lasts about 15 minutes. Expect a satisfying pork barbecue, a true Memphis specialty. It’s a great way to taste the city’s culinary pride without needing to seek out restaurants on your own.

Following the tasting, you’ll explore the South Main Historic Arts District. This neighborhood is buzzing with local shops, galleries, and eateries—an ideal spot to see Memphis’s creative side and maybe pick up a souvenir.

The Civil Rights Legacy: Lorraine Motel & the National Civil Rights Museum

This is the tour’s emotional centerpiece. You’ll visit the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, and now home to the National Civil Rights Museum. Expect to spend about 90 minutes here. The museum offers a powerful, sobering look at the civil rights movement, and many reviews highlight it as a must-see.

However, some travelers have noted that the museum’s visit can feel rushed—so plan your time wisely. As one reviewer said, “Tour needed to start earlier as we were rushed going through Civil museum,” which suggests that if you’re a history enthusiast, you might want more dedicated time.

Mississippi River: Scenic Views and Historic Significance

No visit to Memphis is complete without viewing the mighty Mississippi. The tour concludes with a scenic stop at the river, where you’ll learn about its importance to Memphis’s development and economy. Depending on your package, you may also enjoy a riverboat cruise, which offers a relaxing way to see the city from the water.

The river cruise is a popular add-on, praised for its scenic views, though it’s worth noting that logistics involve a quick drop-off from the cobblestone dock area, and vehicles aren’t allowed directly at the dock.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 3 to 6 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each stop and whether you add the river cruise. The group size is capped at 36 travelers, making it a reasonably intimate experience without feeling crowded.

Cost and Value

At $65.85 per person, including museum tickets, some food tastings, and optional cruise, this tour offers substantial value. The inclusion of the Civil Rights Museum provides a cultural and historical depth that would typically cost more to visit independently.

Accessibility and Parking

The tour starts at 197 Beale St, and there are several parking options nearby, including garages and open-air lots. The closest garage is at 149 Peabody Place. For those using public transport, the location is near public transit stops. The riverboat dock is accessible, but the cobblestone surface and 35% incline mean that mobility considerations are worth noting.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the tour is outdoors and involves walking, good weather enhances the experience. The tour can be canceled for poor weather, with the offer of alternate dates or refunds. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility.

Considerations Based on Reviews

Several reviewers praise the guides for their storytelling skills and depth of knowledge. One noted, “Our guide was fantastic,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide to get the most out of the experience. Others mentioned feeling a bit rushed at the Civil Rights Museum, so if you’re deeply interested in civil rights history, consider the timing or spending extra time on your own there.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad yet manageable overview of Memphis. History lovers will appreciate the Civil Rights Museum and Victorian architecture, while music fans will enjoy Beale Street’s storytelling. Foodies will enjoy the included BBQ tasting, and those interested in scenic views will find the Mississippi River stop rewarding.

If you prefer a slow pace or more time at individual sites, this might not be the best fit. The tour strikes a balance—providing highlights without going into extreme depth—and is perfect for travelers seeking an efficient, guided introduction.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Memphis Discovery Tour delivers on its promise of covering the city’s essentials in a day. With engaging guides, a variety of stops, and tickets included for key sights, it represents good value. The stops at Beale Street, Victorian Mansion District, and the Civil Rights Museum give a well-rounded taste of Memphis’s past and present.

Travelers who enjoy guided tours find this a convenient way to see the city without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets individually. The inclusion of food tasting and optional river cruise adds a layer of enjoyment and relaxation. While some may feel a touch rushed at the museum, the ability to see so much in a single day makes it worthwhile.

This tour suits those who want an interactive, informative overview and are comfortable with a moderate pace. It’s especially good for first-timers wanting a structured, insightful introduction to Memphis’s soul, music, and history.

FAQ: Practical Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically takes between 3 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and if you choose to add the riverboat cruise.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes admission to the Civil Rights Museum, a BBQ tasting, a professional guide, and the riverboat cruise if selected.

Is there transportation between stops?
Yes, you’ll be driven between locations in a bus, making it easy to cover a lot of ground comfortably.

Can I book this tour for a specific time?
The tour starts at 10:00 am from Beale Street, and the schedule is fixed. Confirmations are received at booking.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, so families with children should consider their kids’ comfort with walking and museum visits.

What if I want more time at the Civil Rights Museum?
It’s worth noting that some reviews suggest the museum visit can be rushed. If civil rights history is a priority, you might want to plan extra time on your own or consider an independent visit.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there are several parking garages close to Beale Street, including one at 149 Peabody Place, just two blocks away.

In short, this guided tour offers a practical, enriching way to experience Memphis’s highlights in one day. It’s a solid choice for travelers who value storytelling, cultural insights, and a taste of the city’s musical and civil rights legacy—all at a reasonable price.