Memphis, Tennessee, which is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, is well-known for its civil rights history, barbecue, and blues and rock ‘n’ roll music. Taking a guided tour is one of the greatest ways to experience its many attractions.
This list of the best tours was put up by U.S. News using feedback from reviewers and experts. These five activities, which range from walking and pedaling tours to bus and boat cruises, provide a great way to see the city.
Best Celebrity: Graceland – Elvis Entourage VIP Tour
This tour to Graceland, the singer’s former home, allows you to spend a whole day discovering everything Elvis. A VIP transport to the estate is included in the package. After you get there, bypass the lineups, watch an orientation video, and then take an audio-guided tour of the grounds. Additional attractions include complete access to Elvis Presley’s Memphis Entertainment Complex and a unique VIP exhibit.
You can explore museums at this location that showcase Elvis Presley’s collection of cars, his well-known jumpsuits, and other displays regarding his life outside of show business. You can even attempt a number of interactive displays and activities. Fans of Elvis gush about the encounter and claim to still sense his presence in the house.
Best Bus: Memphis Best Tours – City Tour
Tour-goers are introduced to downtown Memphis and the Mississippi River’s sights on this bus ride. The Memphis Pyramid, the B.B. King statue, and the National Civil Rights Museum near the Lorraine Motel are noteworthy sights. In addition, the bus makes stops at Sun Studio, Beale Street, and the Peabody Memphis, where the Peabody ducks are kept. Reviewers appreciate the educational guides and the opportunity to learn about the city’s past.
Every day, tours leave at 9:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. For groups of ten or more, round-trip transportation is offered from a few downtown hotels. The organization provides a number of additional tours, some of which have an Elvis theme.
Best Ghost: Backbeat Tours – Walking Ghost Tour
Take a walking tour that explores the city’s eerie past and some of its lesser-known figures. The John Alexander Austin House, the Orpheum Theatre, and Earnestine & Hazel’s are among the stops. Guides will tell you stories about the beloved dead as you stroll. Visitors gush about the guides’ expertise and wisdom. Additionally, they mention that there will be a lot of walking on the tour, so wear comfortable shoes.
Every night at 8 p.m., tours are offered; however, during the winter, the precise times may change. In addition to strolling historic tours and excursions showcasing the city’s music past, the firm offers a Friday Night Ghost Hunt trip.
Best Food: Tastin’ ‘Round Town – Memphis BBQ Tastin’ Food Tour
Bring your appetite and skip lunch for this strolling food tour that highlights BBQ, one of the city’s most delectable traditions. Customers remark that they like the meal just as much as they like learning about the city’s past. Others say it’s among the best cuisine trips they’ve ever been on. At restaurants like Central BBQ, A&R BBQ, and Arnold’s BBQ & Grill, indulge in pulled pork, barbecue spaghetti, dry-rubbed and sauced ribs, and pork nachos while on the tour.
Tours are offered Monday through Friday and start at 1 or 2 p.m., depending on the season.
Best Boat: Memphis Riverboats – Sightseeing Cruise
For a distinctive view of the city’s scenery, take a ride on the powerful Mississippi, the second-longest river in North America. Live narration on the past and present of living along the Mississippi is included in this paddlewheel boat cruise. Refreshments can be purchased, and there are facilities on board. Customers report that it’s a fun experience and give largely positive feedback. Others remark that the sights are uninteresting and the boat gets crowded.
Seasonal variations in the operation schedule include daily excursions from March through October at 2:30 p.m., and a Saturday tour at 5 p.m. from May through August. In November, tours depart at 2:30 p.m. on Friday through Sunday. A dinner and music cruise is another service provided by Memphis Riverboats.