Memphis City Tour + Elvis Experience with entry to Graceland

If you’re planning a visit to Memphis, Tennessee, and want to combine a lively city exploration with a splash of rock ‘n’ roll legend, this tour promises a full day packed with iconic sights and fascinating stories. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to see the city’s highlights without the hassle of planning, and who also crave a deep dive into Elvis Presley’s world at Graceland.

What we love about this experience is how it balances informative city touring with the personal touch of a knowledgeable guide and the magic of Elvis’s estate. The second favorite? The seamless convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which means less time for logistics and more time for enjoyment. The main consideration? It’s a full 7 hours, so expect a busy day, which might be a stretch if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore independently.

This tour is ideal for music lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a well-rounded Memphis experience. If you’re short on time but want to see the city’s key landmarks and visit Graceland, this offers good value with expert guiding and comprehensive access.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary offering both city sights and Elvis’s home
• Expert guides provide insightful, friendly commentary
• Hotel pickup simplifies logistics and saves time
• Access to Graceland attractions include mansion, cars, airplanes, and exhibits
• 7-hour duration requires an energetic day of sightseeing
• Good reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and memorable experiences

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Memphis Tour Experience

This tour provides an excellent overview of Memphis’s sights and culture in just one day, perfect for visitors who want to maximize their time. Starting with hotel pickup in downtown Memphis, the group usually meets at 119 N Riverside Drive if not staying directly at a hotel. The small-group style of the tour means a cozy experience, with comfortable transportation and a guide who is often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

What the City Tour Covers

Your guide will steer you through some of Memphis’s most iconic landmarks. The journey begins with glimpses of statues honoring B.B. King and Elvis Presley, setting the tone for a city rooted in musical legends. Passing the Lorraine Motel—where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was tragically killed—gives a poignant reminder of Memphis’s role in civil rights history.

The tour also takes in A. Schwab, a true Memphis institution where you can browse everything from local crafts to candies—ideal for picking up souvenirs. The route includes a drive past the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which showcases Memphis’s contributions to medical research and community service.

A highlight is the Memphis Pyramid—a striking modern structure transformed into a Bass Pro Shops megastore with restaurants, a hotel, and an observation deck with sweeping views of the Mississippi River. The group also gets a brief look at the Peabody Memphis, famous for its ducks marching across the lobby, which remains a fun and quirky Memphis tradition.

Driving through the Victorian Village neighborhood reveals stately 19th-century homes, reminding visitors of Memphis’s historic cotton wealth. And of course, no visit to Memphis is complete without soaking in the lively atmosphere of Beale Street, lined with blues clubs, restaurants, and neon lights.

The Elvis Experience at Graceland

After the city tour, the focus shifts to Graceland, Elvis Presley’s legendary home. The attraction is a highlight for music fans, offering a glimpse into the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll with guided access to the mansion, where Elvis lived, loved, and created his music.

In the Mansion Tour, you’ll walk through rooms filled with Elvis’s personal effects and memorabilia. The Car Museum displays a stunning collection of vehicles, including Cadillacs and Harley-Davidson motorcycles, reflecting Elvis’s style and personality. The airplanes reveal his private jets, giving a sense of his soaring career.

The Elvis Discovery Exhibits share stories of his early days, rise to fame, and legendary performances. The Career Showcase traces his musical journey from Sun Studio recordings to his iconic Las Vegas shows, providing context for his influence on music and pop culture.

Finally, the Elvis Entertainment Complex includes gift shops and dining options, offering a chance to shop for souvenirs and reflect on Elvis’s enduring legacy. The tour’s structure means about 4 hours at Graceland, plenty of time to soak it all in and explore at your own pace.

The Value and Practicalities

For $195, this tour delivers a comprehensive, well-organized package. The small-group setting, guided commentary, and included entries provide significant value—especially when compared to booking individual tickets or trying to DIY your visit.

The duration of seven hours includes travel time, guiding, and sightseeing, making it a full but rewarding day. The guides often receive high praise; reviews mention how knowledgeable, witty, and considerate they are—crucial for making a busy tour feel personalized.

One review highlights the emotional impact of being inside Graceland, calling it “absolutely amazing,” while others mention how the city tour made their Memphis trip more meaningful by adding context and local insights.

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Considerations

Given the length of the tour and the amount of walking involved at Graceland, it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate level of energy. If you’re prone to fatigue or prefer a more relaxed pace, consider whether a shorter or self-guided option might suit you better.

Weather can also influence the outdoor elements, especially since parts of the city tour and Graceland include outdoor viewing. The tour’s flexibility with date changes or refunds if canceled due to weather is a plus.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to Memphis who want a structured day of sightseeing, blending history, culture, and music. It’s also ideal for Elvis fans eager to see his home and artifacts with expert narration. If you prefer independent exploration, this tour still offers a great foundation and convenience.

Travelers with an interest in civil rights history will appreciate the stop at the Lorraine Motel, while those wanting a taste of Memphis’s vibrant music scene will enjoy the Beale Street pass-by.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Memphis, combining city highlights with a deep dive into Elvis’s world. The guided approach makes it easier to understand the city’s stories and significance, especially for those unfamiliar with Memphis’s musical and civil rights history.

The value for money is strong considering the inclusions—hotel pickup, guided city tour, and entry to Graceland’s most iconic exhibits. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

For those who want a convenient, engaging way to see Memphis’s top sights and meet the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, this tour hits the right notes. It’s most suitable for travelers with a full day to spare and a curiosity about Memphis’s cultural tapestry.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you are staying at a downtown Memphis hotel. If not, you can meet the tour at 119 N Riverside Drive by 9:15 AM.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and time at Graceland.

What attractions are included in the city tour?
You’ll see landmarks like the Lorraine Motel, Beale Street, Memphis Pyramid, Peabody Ducks, Victorian Village, and more.

What do I get at Graceland?
Access includes the mansion tour, car museum, Elvis discovery exhibits, airplane displays, and the career showcase.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews often mention guides being friendly, witty, and very informed about Memphis and Elvis.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later for greater flexibility.

Is this suitable for kids?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on Elvis and Memphis sights is generally family-friendly, but consider the duration and walking involved for younger children.

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