Memphis: True Crime History Bus Tour

Memphis: True Crime History Bus Tour — An Authentic Dive into the City’s Dark Side

If you’re visiting Memphis and have a curiosity for the city’s shadowy past, the True Crime History Bus Tour offers a compelling and unusual perspective. For just $41 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours riding through some of Memphis’s most notorious crime scenes, haunted spots, and scandalous stories, all narrated by a lively guide. The tour departs from the Backbeat Tours ticket podium near Alfred’s, just a few blocks from Beale Street, making it easy to access whether you’re staying downtown or driving in.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances the macabre with fascinating storytelling. First, the local guides are outstanding — knowledgeable, personable, and with a knack for weaving creepy tales that stick with you. Second, the stop at the Moxy Hotel for themed cocktails or mocktails adds a fun, social element, giving you a chance to discuss what you’ve just heard and soak in Memphis’s vibrant, yet haunted, atmosphere.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves some walking (~0.5 miles) during off-bus stops, which might be a factor for travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a purely seated experience. Also, since parking isn’t included, you’ll want to plan ahead if arriving by car. Still, the overall value and quality of storytelling make this a highlight for history buffs, true crime fans, or anyone wanting a different, gripping view of Memphis.

This tour suits those who enjoy historic stories with a dark twist and appreciate a lively guide to bring history to life. It’s especially ideal if you want a memorable, engaging experience that adds a layer of depth to your Memphis visit beyond the usual music and barbecue.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from passionate, knowledgeable guides.
• Intriguing stops at sites linked to notorious crimes, scandals, and local legends.
• Affordable price for a captivating 1.5-hour experience.
• Includes transportation via air-conditioned (or heated) bus, with a stop for themed drinks.
• Some walking involved during off-bus stops, about half a mile.
• Highly rated with an average of 4.8 stars from 23 reviews, highlighting quality and entertainment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Memphis True Crime Bus Tour

An Introduction to Memphis’s Darker Side

This tour offers a twist on the typical Memphis experience. Instead of focusing solely on the music, food, or Civil Rights history, it takes you into the city’s less glamorous stories — tales of murder, scandal, and notorious figures. It’s a journey through Memphis’s hidden, sometimes chilling, history.

The short duration of 1.5 hours makes it a perfect addition to a busy itinerary, especially if you’re short on time but craving an authentic, gripping narrative. The tour’s price of $41 strikes us as reasonable for the quality of storytelling and the unique perspective it offers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

We loved the narrative style of guides like Shannon or Daniel, who are praised for their entertaining storytelling and deep knowledge. As one review states, the guide “kept it light enough to be enjoyable with enough jumps to give you thrills,” which is exactly what you want in a dark history tour. It’s not just a list of facts; it’s a lively, engaging storytelling experience.

Another aspect we appreciate is the stopping points. For example, the tour mentions the infamous Georgia Tann, who used the Tennessee Children’s Home Society to steal babies, a truly unsettling story that highlights the darker corners of Memphis’s past. Seeing the actual sites where these stories unfolded — or at least passing by — brings history to life in a visceral way.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is well-rated and popular, the fact that it involves some walking (~0.5 miles) during off-bus stops might not suit everyone. If you’re not comfortable walking or have mobility concerns, it’s worth planning accordingly. Also, parking isn’t included, so if you’re driving, you’ll want to locate nearby garages or metered parking.

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Who Will Enjoy This?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, true crime aficionados, and those intrigued by Memphis’s more mysterious legends. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with older children or teens who can appreciate storytelling about crime and scandal, as long as they’re comfortable with some spooky tales.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Access

You’ll meet your guide at Backbeat Tours’ ticket booth located on the downstairs patio of Alfred’s, a popular spot on Beale Street’s edge. Parking options are plentiful nearby, including the 149 Peabody Place garage, just two blocks away, along with several open-air lots and metered street parking. The convenience of this location makes logistics straightforward, especially after a night on Beale Street or nearby hotels.

The Bus Ride

Once aboard an air-conditioned (or heated) bus, expect a comfortable ride through Memphis’s streets, with your guide sharing stories and historical tidbits. The small group size keeps things intimate and engaging, allowing for questions and spontaneous discussions.

The Stops and Stories

• Georgia Tann and the Tennessee Children’s Home Society: This story is one of the most chilling. Georgia Tann was a notorious baby thief, and her crimes are a stark reminder of the city’s darker past. The tour takes you past the site associated with her activities, adding a tangible dimension to the story.

• Alma Theede’s Dead Husbands: Known as the “Black Widow” of Vance Avenue, Alma’s story is both creepy and fascinating. She reportedly had a long list of deceased spouses, which adds a sinister twist to Memphis’s local legends.

• Serial Killer and Mobster Stories: The tour recounts tales of serial killers that caused terror over a summer, and mobster activity that once haunted the streets. These stories are delivered with enthusiasm, making history feel alive.

• Haunted Saloon and Jail Breaks: Passing by Beale Street’s deadliest saloon and the site of Shelby County’s largest jail break, the stories evoke Memphis’s turbulent past, blending crime with ghostly legends.

• Unsolved Cases and Local Legends: The guide shares stories of cold cases and the infamous “Black Widow,” ensuring you’ll leave with plenty of chilling facts to mull over.

Stop at the Moxy Hotel

After the bus ride, you’ll get a chance to visit the Moxy Hotel, where themed cocktails, mocktails, or sodas are available. This is a great opportunity to reflect on what you’ve heard, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the hotel’s lively atmosphere. It’s a small but appreciated touch that elevates the experience beyond just a bus ride.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 1.5 hours, usually in the afternoon.
• Inclusion: The ride, guide, and the themed drink stop.
• Exclusion: Hotel pickup and drop-off, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• Accessibility: Be prepared for some walking during off-bus stops; the total walk is about half a mile.
• Reservations: You can reserve your spot with a flexible “reserve now, pay later” option and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Reviews and What Travelers Say

The high rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 23 reviews, confirms that most travelers find this tour both entertaining and educational. Many mention the excellent guides who keep the stories lively, and note that the stories are “something not usually heard on most tours,” adding an element of exclusivity.

One traveler from New Zealand praised the knowledgeable guide and the value for money, mentioning how the tour helped them plan their next days in Memphis. Others love how the tour offers a different, “obscure” perspective on the city’s history, making it stand out from typical sightseeing tours.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

The Memphis True Crime History Bus Tour offers a unique window into Memphis’s less glamourous stories. It provides a well-balanced mix of entertainment and factual storytelling that appeals to a broad audience. If you love history, enjoy a good ghost story, or are fascinated by local scandals, this tour will deliver. It’s especially good for those wanting a short, memorable experience that adds a creepy, fun layer to their Memphis visit.

While not suitable for those who dislike walking or are sensitive to dark themes, it’s an excellent choice for adventurous, curious travelers eager to explore the city’s hidden, haunting stories. The affordability and positive reviews make it a reliable pick for a unique Memphis experience.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, generally in the afternoon, offering a compact but thorough exploration of Memphis’s darker stories.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet your guide at Backbeat Tours’ ticket booth on the downstairs patio of Alfred’s on Beale Street, a central and easily accessible location.

Is parking available?
Yes, there are four parking garages within a few blocks, including the nearby 149 Peabody Place garage. Street parking and open lots are also options.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but the tour includes a stop at the Moxy Hotel for themed cocktails, mocktails, or sodas, giving you a chance to relax and discuss what you’ve learned.

Is this suitable for children?
While not specifically stated, the stories involve mature themes of crime and scandal, so travelers should use discretion based on their children’s sensitivities.

Are there any walking parts of the tour?
Yes, during off-bus stops, you’ll walk about half a mile in total, so be prepared for some light walking.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible for last-minute plans.

Is this tour good value for money?
Absolutely. With knowledgeable guides, engaging stories, and included transportation, many reviews praise it as “well worth the price.”

What kind of stories will I hear?
Expect tales of serial killers, baby thefts, murderous spouses, mobsters, and unsolved cases, all told with enthusiasm and local insight.

In short, the Memphis True Crime History Bus Tour offers a unique lens into Memphis’s shadowy past—perfect for those wanting a darkly entertaining and informative experience that complements your visit to this vibrant city.

You can check availability for your dates here: