Memphis Self Guided Driving Audio Tour

Memphis Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Review

Starting with a quick snapshot, this self-guided driving tour offers a flexible way to explore Memphis’s legendary music history. For $16.99 per group, up to four people can enjoy a 2 to 3-hour journey that takes you from the bustling Downtown area to the famed Graceland estate. Along the way, you’ll visit well-known music landmarks like Sun Studio, Stax Museum of Soul, and the birthplace of Aretha Franklin, with the added bonus of hearing engaging stories from your audio guide.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines entertaining storytelling with the freedom to explore at your own pace. The offline maps ensure you won’t get lost or disconnected, and the hands-free audio lets you focus on the sights without fiddling with your phone. Also, purchasing the tour once means you can revisit it over the next year, making it an excellent option for both your initial visit and return trips.

A potential drawback is that some of the route takes you through less-polished neighborhoods, which might make some travelers hesitant to stop and explore more leisurely. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy a flexible, self-directed experience and are comfortable driving through various parts of the city. If you prefer guided groups or want guaranteed entry to attractions, this might not be the perfect fit. But if you’re eager to soak in Memphis’s musical soul at your own rhythm, this tour offers a practical and affordable way to do so.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for music lovers on a budget who want to create their own schedule. It’s also great for visitors who enjoy audio-guided tours and are comfortable navigating on their own. If you’re planning multiple visits or want the flexibility to pause and revisit stories, purchasing the tour for a year adds real value.

Key Points

• Flexible pacing allows you to start, pause, and revisit stories whenever you like.
• Affordable price point makes it a good value for groups up to four.
• Self-guided format gives you control over the route and timing, perfect for independent explorers.
• Offline maps ensure navigation without worrying about Wi-Fi or cellular service.
• Engaging stories about Memphis’s iconic music landmarks and artists make it more than just a drive.
• Potential route concerns include passing through some rougher neighborhoods, which may influence stopping points.

In-Depth Review of the Memphis Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

An Introduction to Memphis’s Music Legacy

Memphis is a city that breathes music in every corner, from its deep blues roots to the birthplace of rock and roll. This tour attempts to capture that essence by guiding you through key sites that shaped American music. At $16.99 per group, the cost is quite reasonable considering what you’re getting: a carefully curated route with narration that brings stories to life. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer to explore independently without the constraints of a guided bus.

How the Tour Works

After booking, you’ll receive an email with instructions to download the Tour Guide App by Action. You’ll need a good internet connection initially, but once downloaded, the tour works offline—a major plus in areas where cellphone signals might falter. The app is designed to operate hands-free, with stories starting automatically when you reach each stop, making it easy to focus on the sights.

You start at Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, a striking landmark that welcomes you to Memphis. From there, the route is a mix of iconic sights, historical landmarks, and cultural touchstones, all narrated by a knowledgeable voice that we found engaging and easy to follow. The route is a thoughtfully planned circle, allowing you to finish back near the start or at your convenience.

Stop-by-Stop Breakdown

Stop 1: Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid
This is a great starting point—an architecturally stunning building with a spectacular city view. Although there’s no included admission, the location itself sets the tone for Memphis as a city that celebrates its music and culture.

Stop 2: Beale Street
Known worldwide as the heart of Memphis nightlife and blues, Beale Street is where you’ll hear stories about legendary musicians and the vibrant scene that continues today. The tour suggests parking nearby and walking through the pedestrian-only area if you want to get a quick feel for its lively atmosphere. The stories here are fun, though some travelers (like Thomas) mentioned that the area can feel a bit rough, so proceed with comfort in mind.

Stop 3: Sun Studio
Often called the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll,” Sun Studio’s iconic brick façade and hanging guitar make it a must-see. For those wanting to go inside, tickets are not included, but the building itself is a photo-worthy stop, and your narration covers its importance in music history.

Stop 4: Elmwood Cemetery
This peaceful spot is where Ma Rainey, “The Mother of the Blues,” is buried. Her story of running away from her pastor father to sing on Beale Street makes her one of Memphis’s most intriguing figures. It’s a quiet place, perfect for a brief stop to reflect on her rebellious spirit.

Stop 5: Stax Museum of American Soul Music
On your right, you’ll find the Stax Museum, a treasure trove of soul music history. From Otis Redding to the Staple Singers, the stories here are rich and lively. Parking is straightforward, and the tour suggests tapping “Learn More” to explore deeper into soul’s influence once you arrive.

Stop 6: Birthplace of Aretha Franklin
This site highlights Aretha Franklin’s roots in Memphis before she moved to Detroit. Her early gospel performances in her father’s church laid the groundwork for her legendary career. It’s a short stop but offers an important piece of her story.

Stop 7: Royal Studios
Once a silent movie theater, Royal Studios became a recording hub for artists like Al Green and others in 1957. The historic building’s transformation into a recording studio adds a layer of authenticity to Memphis’s musical landscape.

Stop 8: Graceland
No Memphis tour is complete without Elvis Presley’s estate. The tour notes the dramatic rise of Elvis from a local boy to a global superstar, along with the inevitable fan frenzy that followed. While the tour doesn’t include entry, viewing the estate from outside is a quintessential Memphis experience.

Authenticity and Value

Throughout the tour, the narration is praised for engaging storytelling and good route directions. As Lisa commented, “It’s great that there are also some optional routes added into the audio tour,” which adds flexibility. The value here is clear—pay once, and you can revisit the stories for up to a year. It’s ideal for those planning to spend several days in Memphis or making a return trip.

Real Traveler Perspectives

From reviews, we see a mix of impressions. Lisa loved the “informative guidance,” while Thomas appreciated the value for money and the ability to explore at his own pace. Conversely, Krusten’s experience points out that certain areas felt less safe, which is an important consideration. This feedback highlights that while the tour covers Memphis’s highlights, some neighborhoods might not be suited for leisurely exploration.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s self-guided structure makes it a flexible option, especially for travelers who dislike big groups or rigid schedules. However, it’s not an entry ticket to any attractions—so plan accordingly if you want inside visits. The parking situation varies depending on the stop, with some areas being more straightforward than others. You’ll want to check opening hours for the attractions if you wish to go inside.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

If you’re a music enthusiast eager to understand Memphis’s legendary sound, this tour offers a well-curated, cost-effective way to do so. It’s best suited for independent travelers who want control over their sightseeing and enjoy storytelling. The ability to revisit stories and the flexible schedule makes it great for families or groups who want to explore at their own pace. However, if safety or comfort in certain neighborhoods is a concern, some stops might warrant caution.

Summary

The Memphis Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour delivers a solid overview of Memphis’s musical icons and landmarks, all wrapped in an accessible package. Its affordable price combined with engaging narration and offline capabilities makes it a practical choice for those looking to customize their Memphis experience. While some may find certain areas less inviting, most will appreciate the freedom to explore at their own speed and revisit stories as often as they like.

This tour isn’t for everyone—those seeking guided, in-depth museum visits or guaranteed access to attractions might prefer other options. But for a flexible, budget-friendly way to get a deep sense of Memphis’s musical soul, this tour offers undeniable value.

FAQ

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, you can begin whenever you’re ready. The tour is self-guided, so you set the schedule.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes. The stories are engaging and family-friendly, but keep in mind the drive through some neighborhoods might feel less safe for stops outside.

Do I need a Wi-Fi connection once I download the app?
No, once downloaded, the tour works offline, so you don’t need cellular service while on the route.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how long you linger at each stop.

Are attraction tickets included?
No, this is a driving tour with narration; entry to sites like Graceland or Sun Studio requires separate tickets.

Can I revisit the tour after my initial trip?
Absolutely. You can use the tour for up to one year after purchase, making it perfect for multiple visits.

What if I have technical issues?
Contact support as suggested in the instructions—most issues are easily resolved, and the app is designed to be easy to use.

In all, this self-guided tour is a practical, budget-friendly way to learn about Memphis’s musical history at your own pace. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value storytelling, flexibility, and affordability, with the understanding that some neighborhoods may require cautious exploration. If you’re eager to trace the roots of blues, soul, and rock ’n’ roll with an authentic and independent approach, this tour deserves serious consideration.