Memphis: Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History 3-Hour Bus Tour

Exploring Memphis’s musical roots is a must for any serious music fan or history buff. This 3-hour tour offers a balanced mix of storytelling, live music, and iconic sights, led by professional musicians who bring Memphis’s vibrant culture to life. The highlight is an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, combined with a lively city tour aboard the only dedicated Memphis music bus.

What we really love about this experience is how it seamlessly combines entertaining storytelling with authentic performances, making history feel personal and engaging. Plus, passing by the homes of Elvis, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash adds a special touch for fans of these legends. One potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include hotel pickups—so it works best if you’re staying near the starting point at Alfred’s on Beale.

This experience suits anyone interested in Nashville-style music history, lively guided tours, or those who want to see Memphis through the eyes of local musicians. Families, solo travelers, and music lovers will find plenty to enjoy, especially those keen on authentic storytelling and interactive fun.

Key Points

• Behind-the-scenes access to Sun Studio, the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll
• Live guide and musician, providing entertainment and storytelling
• Pass by legendary homes of Elvis, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash
• Engaging city tour on a dedicated music bus with local musicians
• Interactive experience, including sing-alongs and playing instruments
• Great value at $66, combining multiple highlights in one tour

A Closer Look at the Memphis: Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive way to experience Memphis’s musical history without the need for multiple bookings or expensive admission tickets. It’s a mix of storytelling, live music, and sightseeing, making it suitable for travelers of all ages. Here’s what you can expect, broken down into parts.

The Sun Studio Experience

The tour kicks off with a guided visit to Sun Studio, known as the “Home of the Blues” and the recording site of Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, and many more. Guides like Davey Ray, often praised for their storytelling and musical talents, make the visit memorable. Multiple reviews highlight guides as the “greatest part” of the experience, with one reviewer praising a guide named Josh Hurley for his upbeat energy and knowledge.

Inside Sun Studio, visitors get a rare glimpse of where countless hits were recorded, adding a tangible sense of history to Memphis’s musical legacy. While the tour of Sun Studio is brief—since it’s a quick visit rather than a lengthy museum experience—it perfectly complements the bus tour, especially for music enthusiasts. The reviews mention that being in the actual recording space is a highlight for many, making the experience feel exclusive.

The Memphis City Tour on the Music Bus

Post Sun Studio, the tour continues aboard a vintage-style bus, the only Memphis-specific music sightseeing vehicle. The guides, all professional musicians, entertain with live singing and playing, sharing stories about Memphis’s legendary figures. Expect to pass areas like Beale Street, Cotton Row, the Lorraine Motel, and Overton Park, as well as the homes of Elvis, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash.

One reviewer noted, “The guide was very knowledgeable about the city and very proud,” which comes through in their storytelling. The guides do a good job of blending history, humor, and music, making the drive both educational and entertaining.

Landmarks & Local Highlights

The tour isn’t just about the big names. It also showcases sites like Stax Studio, the Peabody Hotel, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and historic Central Gardens. While some landmarks are driven past quickly, you’ll get enough context and photo opportunities to make the stops worthwhile.

The tour also offers insight into Memphis’s broader cultural significance, with mentions of Cotton Row and other historic districts. The reviews suggest you get a genuine feel for the city’s musical heartbeat, brought to life by guides who are also musicians.

Interactive & Fun Elements

A standout feature is the interactive nature of the tour. Visitors are encouraged to sing, play instruments like shakers or bongos, or simply enjoy the music and stories. Multiple reviews mention the lively singing and the fun atmosphere, with one reviewer noting, “We sang along as much or as little as we liked,” which makes the experience accessible for shy travelers and extroverts alike.

Value for Money

At $66 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s a three-hour package that includes a guided Sun Studio visit, a lively city tour, and live music. Compared to the cost of visiting Sun Studio on its own—which can be more expensive—the inclusive nature of this tour makes it excellent value, especially considering the entertainment factor.

While it doesn’t include hotel pickup, the meeting point at Alfred’s on Beale is centrally located and easy to reach. The flexibility to reserve and pay later adds convenience and peace of mind.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers frequently mention the high quality of guides, describing them as “fantastic,” “knowledgeable,” and “fun.” For example, one reviewer raved about a guide who “sang from the early rock ‘n’ roll and soul eras,” adding that the entertainment was a true highlight. Others appreciated the informative storytelling, with one stating that their guide’s “storytelling and songs were great,” making the entire experience engaging from start to finish.

Many reviews also mention the music performances, often highlighting the guides’ talent and how they brought Memphis’s musical history alive with live guitar playing and singing. One reviewer summed it up saying, “The guide and musician/singer were the best part of the tour,” emphasizing how the personal touch made this experience stand out.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour is primarily on a bus, travelers with mobility issues should note that the bus does not have a wheelchair lift. However, if you have a collapsible wheelchair and some mobility, accommodations are likely possible, but it’s best to contact the provider in advance. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to meet at the designated starting point.

Participants are asked to refrain from bringing alcohol or drugs, aligning with safety and respect for the historic sites visited.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History Tour is particularly appealing if you value genuine local insight, live music, and an interactive approach. The guides, many of whom are professional musicians, succeed at making Memphis’s history feel personal and lively, rather than just a list of facts. This is not a stuffy museum visit but a fun, engaging experience that evokes the spirit of Memphis’s musical scene.

For those with a keen interest in Elvis, B.B. King, Johnny Cash, or the origins of rock ‘n’ roll, this tour offers a concentrated dose of history combined with authentic performances. The inclusion of key landmarks like Beale Street, Stax, and the Lorraine Motel makes it a well-rounded introduction.

On top of that, the value for money cannot be overlooked. For just $66, you get a curated experience led by entertaining guides, a visit inside Sun Studio, and plenty of opportunities to sing along and take photos. It’s a fantastic way to spend a few hours soaking in Memphis’s musical soul without overloading your schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for music lovers eager to connect with Memphis’s legendary scene. Families and groups who enjoy interactive experiences will find it especially fun. If you’re looking for a way to see multiple city sites with a lively local guide, this tour hits the mark. It’s also a good choice for visitors who prefer a small-group vibe and personalized storytelling.

However, if you need hotel pickup or have mobility concerns, you might want to check the tour’s accessibility details or consider other options. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate live music, engaging guides, and a lively atmosphere.

FAQ

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts at Alfred’s on Beale Street. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the Sun Studio tour last?
The visit to Sun Studio is part of the overall 3-hour tour. The studio visit is relatively brief but impactful, giving you a behind-the-scenes glimpse of a legendary recording space.

Are the guides musicians?
Yes, all guides are professional musicians, which means they don’t just tell stories—they also perform songs from Memphis’s musical repertoire. This adds a lively, authentic touch to the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s great for all ages. The interactive singing and fun storytelling make it engaging for kids, while adults will appreciate the historical insights.

Can I reserve this tour and pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended since you’ll be traveling on the bus and walking at Sun Studio. Bring your camera for photos and your singing voice for the fun.

Final Thoughts

The Memphis: Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History 3-Hour Bus Tour delivers a lively, authentic slice of Memphis’s musical past. It combines guided storytelling, live performances, and scenic city sights into an engaging experience perfect for music fans and curious travelers alike. The guides’ professionalism and musical talent turn a sightseeing tour into a memorable event that captures the spirit of Memphis’s legendary sound.

While it’s not a comprehensive museum experience, the tour’s interactive nature, legendary landmarks, and affordable price make it a standout choice for those wanting a fun, informative introduction to Memphis’s musical history. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to see iconic sights without sacrificing entertainment or authenticity.

Whether you’re a die-hard Elvis fan, a soul music aficionado, or simply curious about Memphis’s role in shaping American music, this tour offers a genuine, lively way to learn and enjoy. It’s a fun, comfortable way to connect with the city’s musical roots and leave with memories and stories to tell.

References

• GetYourGuide listing
• Authentic reviews and insights from past participants

Enjoy your Memphis musical adventure!