Memphis True Crime Tour

Exploring Memphis’ Dark Side: The True Crime Tour

If you’re looking to see Memphis through a different lens, the Memphis True Crime Tour offers an engaging journey into the city’s more sinister stories. For around $40, you’ll spend about an hour and a half riding through downtown Memphis with a knowledgeable guide, uncovering tales of serial killers, mobsters, and unsolved mysteries. Starting at Alfred’s on Beale Street, the tour covers iconic sites like Victorian Village, Court Square, and South Main, with a special stop at the stylish Moxy Hotel for a themed cocktail or mocktail.

What we love about this experience is how it combines interesting storytelling with historical context. The guides are clearly passionate and well-informed, making the stories of Memphis’s notorious figures come alive. And the fact that it’s conducted mostly from a comfortable air-conditioned bus means you can relax while soaking up the atmosphere of Memphis’s darker history.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of riding with just a few short stops on foot—about half a mile total—so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Also, it’s a night tour, which adds to the thrill but might not be ideal for travelers preferring daylight sightseeing.

This tour is perfect if you’re curious about Memphis’s less-glamorous past and enjoy a mix of storytelling, history, and a bit of local color. It’s especially suited for true crime enthusiasts or anyone wanting a memorable, offbeat way to explore Memphis’s streets.

Key Points

• Rich storytelling from guides who are both engaging and knowledgeable.
• Comfortable transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle suited for group sizes up to 36.
• Focus on dark history and unsolved cases that reveal Memphis’s more scandalous side.
• Includes a themed cocktail or mocktail at the Moxy Hotel, adding a fun social element.
• Nighttime setting enhances the spooky and mysterious atmosphere.
• Limited walking makes it accessible for most travelers with moderate fitness.

A Deep Dive into the Memphis True Crime Tour

The Memphis True Crime Tour is a one-of-a-kind experience designed for those who love history, mysteries, or just a slightly darker side of travel. At just over a hundred dollars per person, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s most notorious stories, told by guides who genuinely seem to love sharing these tales.

Starting at Alfred’s on Beale Street, the tour kicks off in the heart of Memphis’s famous entertainment district. Here, the guide will point out the site of the “Castle of Missing Men,” a saloon with a bloody history. Even if you’re not a history buff, the stories of violence and intrigue make this an eye-opening introduction to Memphis’s shadowy past. You’ll be on a comfortable, air-conditioned bus for most of the journey, which makes for a relaxing way to take in multiple sites without the fatigue of walking long distances.

The first stop at Victorian Village offers a quick glimpse into Georgia Tann’s infamous kidnapping ring. Her name might not mean much to everyone, but her stories of baby thefts and corruption make her one of Memphis’s most notorious villains. The guide’s storytelling brings her story vividly to life, making it clear why she remains a figure of fascination.

Next, at Court Square, you’ll learn about Memphis’s longest family feud. These stories aren’t just about murders—they reveal the intense personal conflicts that have shaped the city’s history. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most captivating stories are rooted in everyday human drama.

South Main’s stop introduces Alma Theede, the “Black Widow,” whose story is as chilling as it is intriguing. The guide’s descriptions make it easy to picture the tension and secrets that surrounded her.

Throughout the tour, stories are peppered with details about cold cases and unsolved mysteries, which add an element of suspense. Reviewers often comment on how the guides are both informative and entertaining, with some saying, “Sheena was literally such an amazing tour guide,” and “Mary did an amazing job of explaining all Memphis true crimes.” These guides are clearly passionate about their stories, making the experience feel authentic and personal.

The highlight for many is the stop at the Moxy Hotel, which offers themed cocktails and mocktails. It’s a chance to unwind, discuss what you’ve learned, and maybe toast to the city’s intriguing history. This addition elevates the experience from a simple bus tour to a social outing, where you can share reactions with fellow travelers.

What’s Included and What Not

The tour includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, guided narration, and a themed beverage. It’s a good deal considering that guided tours of similar length in other cities often cost more, and this one offers a solid balance of entertainment and education.

What’s not included is hotel pick-up or drop-off, so you’ll need to meet at Alfred’s on Beale Street. Parking nearby is plentiful—just a couple of blocks away—making logistics straightforward. The tour begins at 4:30 pm, which allows you to enjoy Memphis’s evening atmosphere and avoid the daytime heat.

The Group Size and Pace

With a maximum of 36 travelers, it’s a comfortably-sized group that encourages interaction with guides and fellow guests. The majority of the tour is on the bus, with just a few short stops, so it’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a relaxed pace and don’t want to spend hours on their feet.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Feedback from previous participants consistently highlights the quality of guides and the engaging storytelling. One reviewer called Shannon “born to do this,” and others praised the “fantastic” and “knowledgeable” guides like Mary and Taylor. Many mention the stories’ similarity to a true crime podcast, describing the guides as “informational, funny, and detail-oriented.”

The value for money is also a recurring theme—reviewers feel the experience is well worth the price, especially given the fun atmosphere, interesting stories, and the chance to see several historic sites in a short time. As one said, “It was good. I liked the pinball machines at the Moxy,” showing that small touches like the themed drinks and the social vibe add to the overall enjoyment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy history, crime stories, or a blend of both. If you love listening to true crime podcasts or reading about unsolved mysteries, you’ll feel right at home. It’s also great for those who want an entertaining way to explore Memphis’s streets without dedicating an entire day.

Because it involves some bus riding and only a bit of walking, it’s suitable for most people with moderate physical fitness. Night owls and those interested in Memphis’s darker stories will find the tour’s timing and content especially appealing.

The Sum Up

The Memphis True Crime Tour offers a lively, well-paced look at Memphis’s most notorious stories, delivered by guides who know how to keep the audience engaged. Its combination of comfortable transportation, fascinating stories, and a social element at the Moxy Hotel makes it a memorable activity for curious travelers. The price point strikes a good balance between value and quality, especially considering the engaging narration and exclusive stops.

If you’re someone who appreciates a good story—whether it’s about a serial killer, a mobster, or an unsolved mystery—this tour will add some intrigue to your Memphis visit. It’s particularly well-suited for fans of true crime, history buffs, or anyone interested in Memphis’s more colorful past. The relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and fun cocktails make for an experience that’s both informative and entertaining.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect short evening activity.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Alfred’s on Beale Street, an iconic Memphis location well-known for live music and nightlife.

Is there a need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about two weeks ahead is typical, and the tour can be canceled free of charge if done at least 24 hours in advance.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee includes guided narration, transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle, and a themed cocktail or mocktail at the Moxy Hotel.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Most of the tour is on the bus, with a few stops totaling about half a mile of walking. It’s suitable for travelers with moderate fitness.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

Is parking available near the meeting point?
Yes, there are four parking garages nearby, including a convenient one just two blocks from Alfred’s.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of participants is 36, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Would this tour be appropriate for children?
While not explicitly stated, the dark themes and storytelling style suggest it’s best suited for teens and adults interested in crime stories.

This Memphis True Crime Tour offers a lively and authentic way to explore a different side of Memphis. It’s perfect for travelers who love engaging storytelling, historic sites, and a fun social atmosphere—all at a reasonable price. If you’re after a memorable, slightly spooky evening with a local guide who really knows their stuff, this is a great choice.