Memphis: Mojo + Stax Studio 3-Hour Bus Tour

Imagine spending three hours exploring the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll—all from the comfort of a lively, music-filled bus. That’s exactly what the Memphis: Mojo + Stax Studio 3-Hour Bus Tour promises. Whether you’re a dedicated music fan or simply curious about the city’s legendary sounds, this tour offers an engaging way to experience Memphis’s musical soul.

Two standout features make this tour particularly appealing. First, you’ll get admission to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music—a must-see for any soul enthusiast. Second, the guided city tour led by a professional musician adds an authentic, behind-the-scenes feel that’s hard to match with a self-guided stroll.

That said, a consideration to keep in mind is the tour’s focus on the bus ride and landmarks, rather than lengthy in-depth visits. If you’re looking for a slow, contemplative museum experience or in-depth exploration, this might not be your perfect fit.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a quick, energetic overview of Memphis’s musical history without sacrificing authenticity. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see key landmarks while hearing stories straight from musicians who know the scene inside out.

Key Points

• Musical storytelling from professional guides makes the history come alive
• Includes admission to the Stax Museum for deeper soul music discovery
• Landmarks like Beale Street and Sun Studio are highlighted during the tour
• Self-guided tour of Stax Studios offers a unique behind-the-scenes look
• Three-hour format balances sightseeing and storytelling
• Accessible for those with some mobility, though the bus lacks a wheelchair lift

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Memphis: Mojo + Stax Studio Tour

If you’re hunting for a tour that combines music history, lively storytelling, and authentic landmarks, this trip is worth considering. We’ll walk through what to expect, highlighting both the highlights and possible pitfalls, so you can decide if it fits your travel style.

Starting Point and Comfort

The tour begins at Backbeat Tours, a well-regarded company with a 4.8 rating. Check-in is straightforward—just a quick visit to the ticket podium at Alfred’s on Beale Street. The meeting point’s central location makes it easy to access from nearby accommodations or other Beale Street adventures.

Once onboard, you’ll spend about 15 minutes traveling between stops, which we find ideal for keeping energy high without feeling rushed. The bus itself is comfortable enough for the short rides, but it does lack a wheelchair lift; travelers with collapsible wheelchairs and some mobility should contact the provider ahead of time for accommodations.

The Stax Museum Experience

The first major stop is the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, where you’ll get a self-guided tour lasting about an hour. This museum is a treasure trove of soul music memorabilia—think legendary costumes, instruments, and stories behind hits by Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. & the MG’s.

Many reviews praise the museum’s engaging exhibits. One reviewer notes, “The museum’s displays are well-curated and make the legends feel real,” highlighting how this visit deepens understanding of Memphis’s transformative soul scene. Because the tour is self-guided, you can take your time and focus on what interests you most.

The Heart of Memphis: Beale Street and Surroundings

After the museum, it’s back on the bus for a 15-minute ride to Beale Street, the heartbeat of Memphis’s blues scene. This guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the vibe, see historic clubs, and hear stories about this legendary street.

The guide, a professional musician, brings a rare authenticity. We loved the way they shared personal anecdotes and played snippets of famous blues and jazz tunes, making history sound as lively as the street itself. Multiple reviews mention the guide’s knowledgeable and engaging storytelling, which really helps bring Memphis’s musical past to life.

During this portion, you’ll also see other iconic landmarks like the Sun Studio, where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis launched their careers, and the Lorraine Motel, site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. These stops are more than just names—they’re places that tether Memphis’s musical and civil rights history together.

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Behind the Scenes at Stax Studios

One of the tour’s unique features is the self-guided visit to Stax Studios. While the bus parks outside, you’ll have the chance to explore the legendary recording space independently. The museum provides a chance to see historic recordings, studio equipment, and learn about the artists who recorded there.

Though brief, this stop lets you imagine the creative energy that poured through those walls. Many visitors find it a highlight for its personal connection to soul music’s golden era.

Wrapping Up and Return

The tour concludes with a final short bus ride back to the starting point, making it easy to continue exploring Memphis on your own or head to your next destination.

Why Choose This Tour?

What makes this experience stand out is its blend of live storytelling, convenient transportation, and curated visits. It’s not a marathon sightseeing day but rather a well-paced, engaging overview suited for those who want to hear stories directly from musicians and see key landmarks without spending hours on foot.

The value is also notable. For a three-hour experience that includes a museum ticket and guided city tour, the cost is reasonable considering the depth of sights and stories you’ll experience.

The Authentic Connection

Perhaps the best part—according to reviews—is the guides’ knowledgeability. Multiple travelers praise the guides as “enthusiastic and well-informed,” which elevates the tour from a simple sightseeing bus to a true education about Memphis’s musical identity.

A Practical Perspective

Remember, since most of the tour is on the bus, it’s ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. If you love in-depth museum visits or want to explore sites at your own pace, this might feel a bit quick. However, for a lively, energetic overview, it’s hard to beat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits those interested in music history, especially if you want a blend of storytelling, landmark viewing, and museum access. First-time visitors will appreciate the broad sweep of Memphis’s musical landscape, while seasoned fans might enjoy the insider stories from guides who are musicians themselves.

It’s also a good fit for travelers with limited mobility who can handle brief walking and bus rides, but it’s best to contact the provider if wheelchair access is needed.

The Sum Up

The Memphis: Mojo + Stax Studio 3-Hour Bus Tour offers a lively, authentic way to explore one of America’s most iconic music cities. With insightful guides, a mix of landmarks, and the chance to see inside Stax Studios, it delivers a memorable snapshot of Memphis’s musical soul.

While it’s not an in-depth deep dive into each site, it’s perfect for travelers who want a fun, informative, and well-organized overview that feels genuine and engaging. It’s especially valuable for first-timers eager to understand why Memphis is called the “Home of the Blues,” and for those who love stories told by musicians themselves.

If you’re looking for a balance of sightseeing and storytelling, and want to make the most of a short time in Memphis, this tour delivers good value and a friendly, lively atmosphere.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The bus does not have a wheelchair lift, but travelers with collapsible wheelchairs and some mobility should contact the provider beforehand. The tour involves some walking, especially at landmarks like Beale Street and the museum.

How long is each part of the tour?
The self-guided visit to Stax Museum lasts about an hour. The guided tour of Beale Street is around 1.5 hours, with brief bus rides in between.

Are the guides musicians?
Yes, the tour is led by professional musicians, who bring authenticity to the storytelling and share personal insights into Memphis’s musical culture.

What’s included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers transportation, the guided city tour, and admission to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is this tour good for repeat visitors?
While it’s an excellent overview, repeat visitors might prefer more in-depth, site-specific tours or visits to other Memphis landmarks not covered here.

In summary, the Memphis: Mojo + Stax Studio 3-Hour Bus Tour strikes a fine balance between entertainment, education, and accessibility. It’s an authentic way to connect with Memphis’s soulful roots—and a great choice for travelers who want a lively, guided introduction to the city’s legendary musical landscape.

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