Memphis Discovery Tour National Civil Rights Museum Admission

Memphis Discovery Tour with Civil Rights Museum Admission: A Deep Dive into Music, History, and Southern Charm

When you think of Memphis, what comes to mind? For us, it’s the soulful sounds of the Blues, historic streets lined with Victorian mansions, and a powerful civil rights legacy. This tour packs all that into a manageable 3 to 6-hour experience, starting at Alfred’s on Beale Street and weaving through Memphis’s vibrant streets, historic districts, and cultural landmarks. For $65.85 per person, you’ll get a solid overview of the city’s core attractions, plus the opportunity to visit the National Civil Rights Museum and enjoy a scenic Mississippi River cruise—if you opt for the latter.

What we love about this tour is how it balances history and entertainment. The stops on Beale Street give you a taste of Memphis’s musical roots, while Victorian Village showcases the city’s grandeur during its cotton boom. The visit to the Civil Rights Museum offers a sobering yet essential perspective, and the river cruise provides a relaxing way to see Memphis from the water. Plus, the included BBQ tasting is a savory bonus that truly captures the local flavor.

One thing to consider is that the tour can feel a bit rushed, especially when it comes to the Civil Rights Museum—many reviews note that time can be tight here. If you’re a history buff wanting a more in-depth look, this might be a sprint, but for most travelers, the overall pacing offers a practical snapshot. This tour is especially ideal for first-time visitors who want a taste of Memphis’s diverse heritage in a single day.

If you enjoy guided explorations with a knowledgeable guide, authentic local eats, and scenic views, you’ll find this tour a good fit. It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but eager to soak up Memphis’s highlights without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covers music, history, and scenic river views.
• Includes Civil Rights Museum and optional riverboat cruise for a well-rounded experience.
• Good value with food tastings, museum admission, and guided commentary.
• Rushed at times; some stops may feel hurried, especially at the Civil Rights Museum.
• Accessible for travelers with moderate physical activity levels.
• Ideal for first-timers wanting a comprehensive, guided introduction to Memphis.

A Detailed Look at the Memphis Discovery Tour

What to Expect at the Starting Point

Your day begins at 197 Beale Street — the heart of Memphis’s lively blues scene. Alfred’s on Beale is a classic starting spot, buzzing with musical history. From here, you’ll dive into the story of Beale Street as the Home of the Blues, where legends like B.B. King and Louis Armstrong got their start. The tour is designed to give you a quick yet colorful overview of Memphis’s musical soul.

Beale Street and Surroundings

The initial stops are short, around 10 minutes each, but they offer enough flavor to set the tone. You’ll see the Memphis Redbirds stadium, home to the city’s minor league baseball team, and walk through a historic park with lush greenery that’s perfect for a quick photo. These initial sights underscore Memphis’s blend of sports, culture, and history, creating a lively, inviting atmosphere.

Victorian Village Historic District

Next, the tour heads to Victorian Village, often called “Millionaire’s Row.” Here, you’ll see beautifully preserved historic homes that echo Memphis’s cotton wealth days. Highlights include the city’s oldest surviving residence, along with stories about the cotton exchange and the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This segment offers a glimpse into Memphis’s grandeur during its economic heyday, with stops that are just long enough to admire the architecture and snap photos.

Lunch at Central BBQ

Mid-morning, you’ll stop at Central BBQ, a Memphis staple famous for pork barbecue. Expect a tasting included in your ticket—think tender, smoky pulled pork that captures the soul of Memphis cuisine. Many reviews praise the quality and authenticity of the BBQ, with one reviewer noting it was “just enough” to satisfy without overdoing it. The South Main Historic Arts District nearby is full of local shops and art galleries, adding a bit of modern Memphis to your day.

The Civil Rights Museum at Lorraine Motel

The emotional core of this tour is the National Civil Rights Museum, housed at the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. Spending about an hour and a half here, you’ll explore exhibits that confront the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement. Many visitors find this a deeply moving experience, and one review highlights it as “something everyone should see.” The museum’s layout makes it accessible, but be prepared for a sobering experience that can evoke strong feelings.

Mississippi River Views and Scenic Cruise

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to the Mississippi River, where you’ll learn about its crucial role in Memphis’s history and economy. For those who opt for the riverboat cruise, this is a relaxing way to wind down, with scenic views of the river, historic cobblestones, and a sense of connection to Memphis’s most iconic natural feature. The boat dock is at the bottom of a slight incline, so wear comfortable shoes for the short walk.

The Overall Experience

Throughout the tour, your guide is key. Many reviews praise guides like Vera and others for their knowledge and friendly attitude. The tours are capped at 36 travelers, keeping the group manageable and allowing for better interaction. The combination of walking, bus rides, and scenic stops keeps the day dynamic and engaging.

Practicalities and Value

The ticket includes snacks, BBQ tastings, museum admission, and the river cruise if you select that option. This makes it a good value, considering the depth of experiences offered. The tour is designed to accommodate travelers with moderate physical activity levels; however, the Memphis Riverboat’s cobblestone dock and inclines require some mobility. Parking is available nearby, with several garages within a few blocks, making logistics manageable.

What Reviewers Say

The overall reviews are quite positive, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5. Many mention the knowledgeable guides and the excellent value for money. One reviewer appreciated how the tour avoided long waits at restaurants, and others enjoyed the scenic views and informative stops. A small critique was about tight timing at the Civil Rights Museum, but most agree this tour offers a solid introduction to Memphis.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors eager to get a broad overview of Memphis’s highlights. It’s perfect if you want a guided, hassle-free day that covers key sites without the stress of planning. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Civil Rights Museum, while music lovers will enjoy Beale Street’s roots. Foodies will find the BBQ tasting a highlight. However, if you desire an in-depth, leisurely exploration of each site, you might want to supplement this tour with additional visits.

Final Thoughts

The Memphis Discovery Tour with Civil Rights Museum admission offers a well-balanced introduction to a city brimming with culture, history, and soul. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed, all while enjoying local cuisine and scenic views. With knowledgeable guides, good value, and meaningful stops, it’s a solid way to kick off your Memphis adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for travelers with moderate physical activity levels. It’s a good choice for families, history buffs, and music fans alike.

How long does the Civil Rights Museum visit last?
You’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, enough to get a meaningful overview but potentially rushed if you want a detailed exploration.

Can I customize the river cruise?
The riverboat cruise is included if you select that option when booking. The dock is at the bottom of a cobblestone incline, so wear comfortable shoes.

Is there food included in the tour?
Yes, the BBQ tasting at Central BBQ is included in your ticket. Lunch food purchased on the riverboat is not covered.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 197 Beale Street and ends back at the same location.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Service animals are allowed, and the tour can accommodate most travelers with moderate physical fitness. Keep in mind that parking options are nearby, and some walking is involved.

What’s the best way to get there?
Public transportation is accessible, and several parking garages are within a few blocks. The closest is at 149 Peabody Place.

In summary, this Memphis Discovery Tour provides a genuine, well-rounded glimpse into what makes Memphis special—music, history, and natural beauty—all wrapped into one engaging day. It’s especially suited for those new to Memphis or visitors wanting a taste of the city’s iconic sites without the hassle of independent planning.