Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour

Imagine spending a day in Memphis, Tennessee, uncovering the city’s soul through a well-rounded tour that hits all the high notes—from legendary music sites to historic landmarks and mouthwatering BBQ. For $38 per person, you get a flexible experience lasting anywhere from two to six hours, depending on your pace and chosen add-ons. Guided by knowledgeable locals (we’ve heard glowing reviews about guides like Larry and Shannon), this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Memphis’s unique character.

Two aspects that truly shine are the authentic storytelling at each stop and the delicious Central BBQ tasting. The guides don’t just point out sights; they share stories and context that make Memphis’s history and culture come alive. The BBQ, famously some of the best in Memphis, provides a tasty break to enjoy some local flavor. A slight drawback might be the optional river cruise, which isn’t included in the base price and can be weather-dependent, but overall, this tour hits a wonderful balance of seeing key sights without feeling rushed.

This tour is best suited for those who love a guided overview of a city, want to hit multiple landmarks efficiently, and enjoy learning from enthusiastic guides. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad sense of Memphis’s vibe, history, and music roots without committing to more expensive or packed tours.

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Key Points

Comprehensive coverage of Memphis highlights in a single tour.
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging stories.
Affordable price for a multi-site introduction to Memphis.
Flexible options include museums, river cruise, and BBQ tasting.
Authentic local flavor through BBQ and cultural sites.
Good for first-time visitors wanting an overview without hassle.

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Exploring Memphis: The Complete Bus Tour Experience

An Introduction to Memphis’s Best Sights

Starting at the ticket booth on the downstairs patio, you’ll hop onto a comfortable bus for a lively 2-hour guided tour. This isn’t just a drive-by—your guide, often praised for their energy and depth of knowledge, will bring Memphis’s stories to life as you pass by iconic landmarks. We loved the way guides like Larry and Shannon infused humor and history, making the 2-hour journey feel engaging without ever dragging.

The tour’s route covers many must-see sights: the I Am A Man Plaza, the Mississippi River, the Orpheum Theater, and the historic Cotton Row. You’ll also see Hotel Chisca, where Elvis’s early radio days took place, and learn about the roots of Memphis’s famous music scene. Expect a balance between sightseeing and storytelling—making every stop meaningful.

Visiting the Lorraine Motel: A Powerful Moment

One of the tour’s focal points is the Lorraine Motel, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. You’ll see the balcony where he was shot and hear about the significance of this site. While the tour doesn’t include a deep dive into the Civil Rights Museum, just standing there gives you a tangible sense of history. Several reviews mention how impactful it is to visit this site, with one reviewer calling it “a very moving experience.”

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Beale Street: The Heart of Memphis’s Blues Heritage

No visit to Memphis is complete without experiencing Beale Street. It’s the birthplace of the Blues, and the tour gives you a taste of its vibrant atmosphere. Though the tour passes by, you’ll have time to explore further if you wish—many guides recommend returning later for live music and a night out. Beale Street’s history as “the home of the Blues” is palpable, and guides often share stories of legendary performers who played there.

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Tasting Memphis: Central BBQ

Lunchtime is a highlight, with a stop at Central BBQ. The reviews rave about their pork BBQ, a true Memphis specialty. Be prepared for a pork-centric tasting—no substitutions—and the experience is worth it for the authentic flavors. The BBQ serves as a tasty break and a chance to sample the city’s culinary pride.

Museums and Optional Add-Ons: Rock ‘n’ Soul and Edge Motor Museums

For those interested in deeper dives into Memphis’s music and car culture, you can opt to visit the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum or the Edge Motor Museum. The former explores Memphis’s musical pioneers, while the latter showcases American muscle cars. Reviewers have noted that these visits add value and enrich your understanding of Memphis’s diverse heritage. However, keep in mind that these are paid extras and require a bit more time and energy.

Scenic Mississippi River Cruise

An optional highlight is the scenic cruise on the Mississippi River. Many travelers find the views of Memphis’s riverfront stunning, and the commentary often includes local stories about the river’s importance. Be aware that the cruise isn’t included in the base price and weather can impact availability. Some reviewers have enjoyed the boat ride, though one felt it was a bit rushed with a short commentary, and others found it a bit pricey for the duration.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is rain or shine, so dress accordingly—comfortable shoes are a must.
The meeting point is straightforward, located on the patio of the ticket booth, which helps start your day smoothly.
Duration varies from 2 to 6 hours, depending on your selected options and pacing.
The tour’s price includes the guided bus, BBQ tasting, and optional museum entries.
Additional costs include museum admissions and the river cruise if you choose to add them.
The tour is in English with a live guide, ensuring you can ask questions and get personalized stories.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Guests consistently praise the guides for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and humor. One reviewer calls Larry “a great tour guide,” highlighting his storytelling ability. Another mentioned that the pacing was perfect, allowing enough time at each site without feeling rushed—a key factor for a city tour.

The BBQ stop receives high marks, with one guest describing it as “awesome,” and several reviews mention how the tour provided a good value for money. The combination of sights, stories, and local flavors makes it a well-rounded introduction to Memphis.

However, not all feedback is glowing. One reviewer felt the river cruise was “a rip-off,” citing a short commentary and long wait times in the heat. This underscores the importance of choosing the cruise as an optional add-on rather than a core part of the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This bus tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Memphis’s main attractions without the hassle of navigating on your own. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate stories from passionate guides and enjoy sampling local food. The flexible options for museums and river cruising make it a customizable experience suited to various interests.

Travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and value informative commentary will find this tour a worthwhile investment. It’s suited for those who want a balanced mix of history, culture, music, and food within a manageable timeframe.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re new to Memphis and want a comprehensive, engaging introduction, this tour offers excellent value, especially with the knowledgeable guides and delicious BBQ. It gives you a taste of everything—historic sites like the Lorraine Motel, the vibrant energy of Beale Street, and Memphis’s musical legacy.

For travelers on a budget or those short on time, it’s an efficient way to see many highlights in one go. The tour’s flexible options mean you can tailor it to your interests, whether that’s museums, a river cruise, or just soaking in the city’s ambiance from the bus.

Just keep in mind that the river cruise is optional and weather-dependent, and the BBQ is pork-only. If you’re a fan of history, music, and authentic Southern cuisine, this tour makes it all accessible and enjoyable. It’s a fantastic starting point for your Memphis adventure, offering insights you’ll carry with you long after the bus stops rolling.

FAQ

Is the Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly tour that’s suitable for all ages, with a relaxed pace and engaging stories.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration ranges from 2 to 6 hours, depending on your chosen options and pace.

Does the tour include visits to Graceland?
No, this tour does not include Graceland. It focuses on Memphis’s core sights, museums, and landmarks listed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and a charged smartphone are recommended for photos and navigation.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the river cruise included?
No, the Mississippi River cruise is an optional add-on and not included in the base price.

Is there a lunch included?
The tour includes a BBQ tasting at Central BBQ, but no additional meals are provided.

Are the tours accessible for people with mobility issues?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility, so it’s best to check directly with the provider if needed.

What language is the tour conducted in?
All tours are in English, with a live guide leading the group.

This Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour offers an authentic, accessible, and flexible way to start understanding what makes Memphis special. Whether you’re into music, history, food, or just soaking up a new city’s vibe, this experience provides a solid foundation—at a price that’s hard to beat.