Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise on Mississippi River

Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise on Mississippi River: A Deep Dive into the Heart of the South

Planning a visit to Memphis? This day-long tour offers a balanced look at the city’s fascinating sites, from legendary streets to musical museums and a relaxing river cruise. For $87.80 per person, you get about six hours of sightseeing, history, culture, and delicious food—all in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience packs in the highlights of Memphis, making it ideal for first-timers or anyone eager to soak up the city’s unique vibe.

Two things we love about this tour: First, the way it combines cultural insights with authentic Memphis flavor—whether through the story of Beale Street or a taste of Central BBQ. Second, the scenic Mississippi River cruise at the end provides a relaxing, picturesque finale that many travelers find memorable.

A possible consideration? The tour’s pace is quite full, with many stops in a single day. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, you might find the museum visits or walking segments somewhat brisk. But for those who want an energetic overview, it’s perfect.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Memphis, enjoy a mix of history, music, and local cuisine, and appreciate the convenience of an organized group experience. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but want to see a lot with expert narration guiding the way.

Key Points

• Diverse Itinerary: From Beale Street to Victorian mansions, and the Civil Rights Museum, there’s a lot to see in one day.
• Authentic Memphis Flavor: BBQ tasting and street exploration give you a real taste of the city’s soul.
• Educational and Entertaining Guides: Tours led by locals like Kate and Shannon earn high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Scenic Mississippi River Cruise: A relaxing two-hour boat ride to conclude your day offers stunning river views and a touch of history.
• Balanced Experience: Mix of walking, driving, museum visits, and cruising provides varied ways to engage with Memphis.
• Good Value: For under $90, you get transportation, museum admissions (if selected), a meal, and the cruise—a lot for your money.

A Complete Guide to the Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise

When we think of Memphis, images of blues, legendary musicians, and soulful streets come to mind. This tour captures that essence while offering a practical, well-organized way to experience many of the city’s highlights. With a price of $87.80, it’s remarkable how much ground you cover in just six hours, especially with the convenience of included transportation and a scenic river cruise.

The tour begins on Beale Street, the heart of Memphis’s musical heritage. It’s only a five-minute stop, but the street’s history as a birthplace of blues and its vibrant energy make it worth your quick visit. As you walk along, you’ll hear about its transformation from a rough-and-tumble street to a celebrated icon of American music. Many reviews rave about guides like Shannon, who bring the stories alive with her friendly approach and deep local knowledge.

Next, you visit Handy Park, where you’ll learn about WC Handy, often called the “Father of the Blues.” This short stop offers a chance to appreciate Memphis’s role in shaping American music. We loved the way guides connect these small sites to the larger story of American culture. Afterwards, the tour takes you through the Victorian Village Historic District, with its elegant mansions of “Millionaire’s Row.” Walking among these stately homes gives a glimpse into Memphis’s prosperous past, and it’s a reminder of how the city grew during the Victorian era.

Other stops include the oldest home in Memphis, the historic center, and the city’s first church—each offering a quick but meaningful look at Memphis’s early days. The I AM A MAN Plaza provides a powerful moment, with its tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. and the 1968 Sanitation Strike that fueled civil rights activism. It’s a place that leaves a lasting impression, especially for those interested in social justice and history.

The highlight is the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel. Your ticket (if you select the included option) grants 1.5 hours to explore the museum—an emotionally impactful experience that many reviews describe as a “must-see.” If you choose not to enter, you’ll still get a sense of the site from outside, but the museum’s exhibits are deeply moving and worth the dedicated time.

Lunch is a quick yet satisfying BBQ tasting at Central BBQ, renowned for its flavorful Memphis-style ribs. Many guests comment on how generous the snack was, making it a perfect energizer before heading back into exploration. The free time on Beale Street afterward allows you to browse shops or grab a drink—an excellent way to soak in Memphis’s lively atmosphere.

The tour concludes with a visit to A. Schwab, a historic store that’s been a Memphis fixture since 1876. Its old-time charm makes for fun browsing and souvenir shopping. Finally, the river cruise on the Memphis Riverboats is a two-hour scenic trip along the Mississippi. The boat’s gentle sway, combined with live music (some reviews mention the music as a highlight), creates a relaxing atmosphere. It’s a beautiful way to see Memphis from the water, with views of the river’s broad expanse and the city skyline.

What Real Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially mentioning how they bring Memphis’s stories to life with humor and insight. One review mentions that guide Kate’s storytelling made the experience “just the right amount of time at each stop.” Others highlight the delicious BBQ, which is described as “amazing” and more substantial than expected, making it a highlight for food lovers.

The scenic river cruise also receives high marks, with many describing it as “wonderful,” “relaxing,” and “a lovely way to end the day.” A few reviewers note that the boat’s music and atmosphere evoke a sense of nostalgia, adding to the overall charm.

Some travelers mention minor drawbacks, such as the museum time feeling a bit long or the busy schedule making the day somewhat rushed. The weather can also influence the river cruise, so be prepared for possible cancellations or changes.

Practical Tips for Your Memphis Adventure

• Arrive early at the meeting point on Beale Street to enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps grab a coffee before the tour begins.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Victorian mansions and city streets.
• Bring a jacket or sweater for the river cruise, especially if you’re sensitive to cool breezes on the water.
• If you want to explore further, consider staying longer at the Civil Rights Museum or Beale Street after the tour ends.
• Parking is available nearby, with several garages and street meter options, but plan to arrive a little early for a convenient spot.
• Remember, the riverboat is accessible only via Riverside Dr., and vehicles cannot drop guests directly at the dock because of historic cobblestones.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, music lovers, and foodies eager to get a broad yet authentic taste of Memphis. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a well-organized, guided experience without the hassle of planning multiple visits. The mix of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights makes it a great choice for first-time visitors or those short on time but wanting to make the most of their trip.

If you appreciate storytelling, local cuisine, and scenic water views, this tour will leave you feeling more connected to Memphis’s soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at 197 Beale Street, and transportation to and from your hotel is not included.

How long is the river cruise?
The river cruise lasts approximately two hours, offering scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.

Can I choose which museum to visit?
Yes, you can select from three museums: the National Civil Rights Museum, the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, or the Edge Motor Museum. Admission is included if you opt for the museum visit.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and a light jacket or sweater for the river cruise are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking and standing, and the riverboat dock has a steep incline covered with cobblestones. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

What about food?
The BBQ tasting at Central BBQ is included, and no substitutions are available. It’s a hearty, flavorful snack, perfect for fueling the day’s activities.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience that captures the city’s essence through history, music, cuisine, and scenic water views. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate an engaging guide, authentic local flavors, and a relaxed yet rundown of Memphis. For travelers wanting to tick many boxes in one day, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Southern life.