Memphis: 90-minute Haunted Walking Tour

Memphis: 90-minute Haunted Walking Tour — A Deep Dive Into the City’s Darker Side

If you’re heading to Memphis and crave a little adventure beyond the usual blues and barbecue, the Haunted Walking Tour offers a fascinating peek into the city’s spooky past. Spanning just 90 minutes, this guided stroll takes you through some of Memphis’ oldest and most haunted spots, from the legendary Orpheum Theater to the notorious Ernestine & Hazel’s.

What We Love: The guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, making the stories come alive, and the stops inside historic buildings like Ernestine & Hazel’s offer a rare peek into the city’s haunted history. The tour’s length is perfect for a quick but memorable experience, fitting well into a busy day of sightseeing.

A Potential Drawback: Some reviews mention that the walking can get tiring, especially on hot days, and a few felt the tour lacked detailed inside visits to buildings. If you’re expecting a full-blown inside tour of each haunted site, you might be a bit disappointed, but for storytelling and atmosphere, it hits the mark.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and those interested in Memphis’s more mysterious tales. It’s also a good fit if you enjoy walking tours with lively guides and a bit of creepy fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Stories: Guides share vivid ghost tales, making history come alive.
• Historic Stops: Inside visits to iconic and haunted buildings like Ernestine & Hazel’s.
• Variety of Sites: From theaters to Victorian mansions, each location offers a different spooky vibe.
• Short & Sweet: At 90 minutes, it’s a manageable and engaging experience.
• Great Guides: Multiple reviews praise the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides.
• Limited Inside Access: Some might wish for more inside tours, as only certain sites allow entry.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Alfred’s on Beale

Your journey begins at Alfred’s, a lively spot that’s easy to find, inside the patio area marked by a neon ghost and a red podium. It’s a good meeting point that sets the tone for the night — lively but with a hint of ghostly intrigue.

The Orpheum Theatre

First stop is the Orpheum Theatre, where the legend of Mary has haunted performances since 1921. You’ll hear about her ghostly appearances during shows, making this a fascinating glimpse into Memphis’ entertainment past. The tour includes a guided walk around the exterior, and if the theater is open, there’s a chance to peek inside, though the inside visits depend on the day.

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The John Alexander Austin House

Next, we visit this Victorian-era mansion, famed for its haunting presence and the tragic love stories of star-crossed lovers. The guide shares tales of ghostly sightings and eerie happenings within these historic walls, which still stand as a testament to Memphis’s layered past.

Downtown Memphis & South Main

The tour continues through the historic heart of Memphis, where ghost stories are woven into the very streets. While walking, the guides offer insights into the city’s vice and voodoo history, adding context to the ghostly tales. These areas form the perfect backdrop for stories of lost souls and spirits lingering in the shadows.

Ernestine & Hazel’s

The highlight for many is going inside Ernestine & Hazel’s, often called Memphis’ most haunted bar. This former brothel has a dark reputation, and you’ll hear about the various ghosts said to haunt its rooms and jukebox. Reviews describe this as a particularly atmospheric stop, with some guests feeling genuine chills.

Memphis’ Oldest Tavern & Green Beetle

Finally, the Green Beetle, Memphis’ oldest tavern, is pointed out as home to two long-fighting spirits. You can imagine the kind of lively, haunted history this place has seen over the centuries.

End Point: 531 S Main St.

The tour wraps up within walking distance back at 531 S Main St. Guests are encouraged to stay, enjoy a drink, or walk back to Beale Street, with the option to join the guide for the return or head off on your own.

What to Expect from This Tour

This walk combines storytelling with the chance to see some of Memphis’s most historic buildings and streets. Expect a casual pace, about 10 minutes at each major site, with stories that elevate the city’s dark side. While inside access is limited to certain locations like Ernestine & Hazel’s, the guides make the most of the outdoor views and facades, filling the space with legends and lore.

The guides’ enthusiasm is a real highlight — reviews frequently mention how engaging and passionate they are, which makes the stories more compelling. However, some visitors noted that on certain days, the inside visits may not be possible, so if inside tours are important to you, check ahead.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history lovers who enjoy ghost stories, walking enthusiasts comfortable with a bit of a trek, and those curious about Memphis beyond the typical tourist spots. If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of storytelling with a sense of place, you’ll find this tour rewarding. However, if you’re expecting extensive inside visits or are sensitive to walking in heat, plan accordingly.

The Value of the Experience

For roughly 1.5 hours and a moderate price, you get a lively guide, stories rooted in the city’s past, and visits to some of Memphis’ most iconic, haunted sites. The tour’s strength lies in its storytelling quality and the authenticity of the stories told — many guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. It’s a fun, atmospheric way to learn about Memphis from a different perspective, especially if you love ghost tales or enjoy hearing local legends.

The inside visit to Ernestine & Hazel’s adds a tactile element that many guests find memorable. Plus, the mix of outdoor buildings and street walking keeps it lively without feeling rushed or overly structured.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in a short, engaging ghost-themed experience, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a taste of Memphis’s eerie side without a full-day commitment. The knowledgeable guides and vivid stories make it a highlight, especially if you enjoy urban legends and historic sites.

However, those seeking comprehensive inside tours or a more relaxed pace might want to look at other options. Still, for a fun, spooky walk with authentic stories, this experience offers really good value and memorable moments.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts approximately 90 minutes.

• Where does the tour start?
  At Alfred’s on Beale, check in at the Backbeat Tours podium inside the patio fence marked by a neon ghost.

• Is there inside access to the buildings?
  Only certain sites, like Ernestine & Hazel’s, are accessible inside, and this depends on the day.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking for about an hour and a half.

• Can I bring a camera?
  Yes, bringing a camera is encouraged to capture the ambiance and any ghostly sights.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  It’s best for guests who are comfortable with walking and spooky stories; unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

• What happens if I need to cancel?
  You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
  No, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with low fitness levels.

• What is the guide’s role?
  Guides are live, English-speaking storytellers who make the tales engaging and informative.

• Can I stay at Ernestine & Hazel’s after the tour?
  Yes, you are welcome to remain, enjoy a drink, and soak in the haunted atmosphere.

In essence, the Memphis Haunted Walking Tour offers an engaging blend of history, storytelling, and atmosphere — perfect for those who want to see the city’s darker, ghostly side in just a short time. It’s a lively, well-reviewed experience that brings Memphis’s haunted legends vividly to life.

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