15 Must-Try Tours & Things To Do In Memphis

Memphis isn’t just about Elvis and the blues; this city offers a surprising variety of tours and things to do that capture its soul from multiple angles. Whether you want to sample authentic barbecue, walk through legendary streets like Beale Street, or learn about the Civil Rights movement, Memphis’s unique culture shines through each experience.

We’re especially fond of the Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour, which combines flavorful tastings with local history, and the Memphis Discovery Tour, a well-rounded way to see key landmarks without breaking the bank. For music lovers, the Sun Studio bus tour offers behind-the-scenes stories of rock ‘n’ roll pioneers.

You’ll want to explore this list to find activities tailored to your interests, from ghost walks to horseback rides in the city’s parks.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a wide range of tours and activities in Memphis, including guided food tours, civil rights history explorations, walking adventures, and music-themed excursions. There are intimate experiences such as the Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour, which offers seven tastings from local family-owned eateries, and energetic outings like the Axe Throwing in Memphis.

For a mix of history and scenery, the Memphis City Tour with Sun Studio combines city highlights with a legendary recording studio visit.

If you’re after something spooky, the Haunted Memphis Ghost Tour brings Memphis’s darker tales to life. Read on for a detailed look at each experience.

1. Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour

At number one, this Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour delivers more than just bites; it immerses you in Memphis’s culture, history, and culinary scene.

For around $75, you’ll enjoy about three hours of tasting seven different dishes at six spots ranging from family-run joints to award-winning eateries. Each sample is prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and the tour emphasizes sustainable practices.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of delicious food and fun storytelling about Memphis’s colorful past, especially around Beale Street and the Mississippi Delta.

The guide, Taylor, has a reputation for her knowledgeable explanations and personable approach, making you feel like a local in just a few hours.

The tour is designed for smaller groups (just two people can book), which means a more personalized experience. Expect to walk leisurely between locations, learning about Memphis’s history as you go. Reviewers praise it as the highlight of their trip, with “super tasty food, great amounts, and engaging stories.” It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, flavorful introduction to Memphis.

Bottom Line: If your goal is to enjoy authentic, hearty Memphis food while learning about the city’s music, culture, and history, this private-style tour is a strong choice.

2. Memphis Discovery Tour

The Memphis Discovery Tour offers a comprehensive downtown experience at about $38, making it excellent value. Spanning roughly two to three hours, it hits many historic and cultural highlights—Beale Street, the Lorraine Motel, the Mississippi River, and even a BBQ tasting.

This guided tour is perfect for travelers who want an overview of Memphis’s iconic sites but don’t want to spend all day doing it.

Admission to the Rock ’n’ Soul Museum is included if you select that option, giving you a deeper dive into Memphis’s musical roots.

Guides like Larry are praised for being entertaining and knowledgeable, making history come alive with stories about Memphis’s Civil Rights movement, music legends, and local neighborhoods.

The tour also includes quick visits to historic homes and cotton exchange buildings, providing a well-rounded snapshot of the city’s past and present. Reviewers note how much they learned and enjoyed the delicious BBQ sample at Central BBQ.

Bottom Line: If you’re after a cost-effective, engaging overview that combines history, music, and food, this tour covers the essentials in a manageable timeframe.

3. Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour: Memphis Beyond Beale

At number three, the Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour explores the city’s Civil War, Yellow Fever, and Prohibition past in a manageable two- to three-hour walk. Starting outside the famous Beale Street, this stroll takes in landmarks like Court Square, Confederate Park, and Memphis’s oldest residence, revealing stories behind each site.

The tour culminates with the March of the Ducks at the Peabody Hotel, a Memphis tradition and a fun way to end a sightseeing walk.

The guide, Charlie, is praised for her wealth of knowledge and storytelling ability. Visitors say the length is just right, and the inclusion of the Peabody ducks adds a fun, memorable element. The tour is ideal for those who want history, local lore, and a relaxed pace.

Bottom Line: A great choice for history enthusiasts who enjoy a leisurely walk combined with iconic Memphis sights and a classic hotel experience.

4. Memphis Horseback Trail Ride Tour

For a different kind of adventure, the Memphis Horseback Trail Ride takes you into a 4,500-acre urban park right in Memphis. This one-hour ride is suitable for all experience levels, thanks to well-trained horses and friendly guides. The trails wind through lush landscapes that are home to deer, cranes, and ducks, offering a peaceful break from urban sightseeing.

What makes this experience unique is riding in the city’s largest park, giving a taste of countryside without leaving Memphis. Multiple departure times mean flexibility, and all equipment is provided. Reviewers love how relaxing and easy the ride is, with many noting it as a highlight of their visit.

Bottom Line: Perfect for animal lovers and those wanting a nature escape that’s accessible to everyone, regardless of riding experience.

5. Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour

If you’re intrigued by Memphis’s spooky side, the Haunted Memphis Ghost Tour offers a 90-minute walk through some of the city’s most haunted spots. Led by a storyteller, you’ll visit Earnestine & Hazel’s, a former brothel, and other locales like the Orpheum Theatre and Alexander House, hearing tales of spirits and strange happenings.

Rated 4.5/5 with over 760 reviews, this tour is praised for entertaining storytelling and eerie details. The tour includes inside visits to some haunted buildings, and although drinks aren’t included, the spooky stories and atmosphere make it worth every penny—at just under $30.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who enjoy history with a supernatural twist and a touch of Memphis’s darker stories.

6. 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour

This African American history tour focuses on Memphis’s Civil Rights and African-American legacy. It’s a two-and-a-half-hour drive that covers key sites like the Lorraine Motel, birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, and places like Slave Haven and Beale Street. The guide offers engaging commentary, making complex history accessible and personal.

Rated 5/5 with many reviewers emphasizing how powerful and educational the experience is. The tour is perfect for history buffs or anyone wanting a meaningful perspective on Memphis’s role in social justice movements.

Bottom Line: A deeply insightful, thoughtfully narrated tour that’s especially suited for history lovers and those interested in civil rights.

7. Beale Street Guided Walking Tour

Following the footsteps of legends like B.B. King and Louis Armstrong, the Beale Street Guided Walking Tour is a one-hour stroll through Memphis’s most musical street.

Your guide, Mary, shares stories about the blues origins, iconic stores like Lansky Brothers (Elvis’s favorite shop), and the street’s Civil Rights significance. You’ll see historic buildings, including W.C. Handy’s “shotgun house” and the oldest general store, A. Schwab.

This tour is highly rated at 5/5, praised for its friendly, knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling. It’s perfect for music fans and those interested in Memphis’s cultural evolution.

Bottom Line: An affordable, lively walk that gives a musical and cultural introduction to Memphis’s most famous street.

8. Memphis: Big Mojo Sun Studio + Music History 3-Hour Bus Tour

Music fans will enjoy the Big Mojo Sun Studio tour, which combines a guided tour of Sun Studio with a broader look at Memphis’s musical landscape. Led by a professional musician, you’ll visit famous landmarks, sing along during the trip, and hear stories about Elvis, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King. The tour lasts about three hours and costs $66, offering a fun, interactive experience at a reasonable price.

Guests mention the behind-the-scenes access to Sun Studio as a highlight, along with the engaging narration of Memphis’s musical legacy. It’s ideal for music lovers wanting a mix of history and hands-on fun.

Bottom Line: An engaging, music-centric tour suited for those who want to learn and participate in Memphis’s legendary sound.

9. Memphis City Tour with Sun Studio Admission

This comprehensive city tour offers a 4- to 5-hour look at Memphis’s highlights, including Sun Studio. For $75, you’ll cruise past historic neighborhoods, the Mississippi River, and Victorian architecture. The guided bus makes it easy to cover more ground than a walking tour, with stops at iconic sites like the Lorraine Motel and the Cotton Exchange.

The tour is praised for its balanced itinerary and knowledgeable guides, with many visitors saying it’s a good introduction for first-timers. The inclusion of Sun Studio makes it especially appealing for music fans.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded option for those wanting a broad overview with the bonus of a legendary recording studio visit.

10. Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour

If craft beer is your thing, the Memphis Beer Tour is a delightful way to explore the city’s local brewing scene. For about $62, you visit three breweries—such as Grind City Brewing and Wiseacre Brewing—sampling up to a dozen beers. Led by a beer expert, the tour offers insights into Memphis’s brewing history and the craftsmanship behind each brew.

Guests praise the friendly guides and a variety of large, flavorful samples. The relaxed bus transportation means you can focus on tasting without worry. It’s perfect for beer enthusiasts or those seeking a fun social experience.

Bottom Line: A tasty, educational outing that appeals to adults interested in Memphis’s craft beer culture.

11. Guided Memphis City Tour that includes Riverboat Cruise

This full-day Memphis experience combines a city tour and Mississippi River cruise for about 6.5 hours. Starting with a guided bus tour of downtown, Victorian Village, and Beale Street, it includes a paddlewheel boat cruise on the river. The $85 price includes hotel pickup, making it very convenient.

Highlights include the Lorraine Motel, the Peabody Ducks, and historic homes. Reviewers note the engaging guides and the relaxing cruise as major pluses. It’s ideal if you want an all-in-one experience.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive day combining city sights and river scenery.

12. Elvis Presley Birthplace Park in Tupelo with Transport from Memphis

For Elvis fans, the Tupelo Elvis Tour offers a stress-free day trip to Elvis’s hometown. For $215, you get round-trip transportation, a guided tour of his modest birthplace, elementary school, and the soda fountain where he hung out. The tour is highly praised for the friendly guides and authentic experiences like viewing Elvis’s childhood home.

Traveling about 1.5 hours each way, this tour suits fans wanting a personal connection to Elvis’s roots. Reviewers love the informative guides and recommend it for first-time visitors.

Bottom Line: A meaningful, hassle-free way to see Elvis’s early life, especially if you’re a dedicated fan.

13. Memphis: City Tour with Optional Sun Studios & Riverboat

This flexible city tour allows you to customize your experience, with options to include Sun Studio and a riverboat cruise. Starting at $45, it’s ideal if you want to tailor your Memphis visit. The guided tour covers downtown, Victorian Village, and other highlights, making it suitable for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.

Guests appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and the ability to add specific experiences. It’s best suited for travelers who want flexibility and a personalized itinerary.

Bottom Line: Great for those who prefer a customizable Memphis experience with optional extras.

14. 1 Hour Axe Throwing in Memphis

Looking for something fun and active? The Axe Throwing experience is a 60-minute session where you can learn to throw axes safely, under the guidance of professional instructors. For just $26, you get all equipment included and the chance to compete against friends in a lively, relaxed setting. It’s stroller and wheelchair friendly, making it accessible for most.

Reviewers mention how fun and challenging it is, and many say Dex, the instructor, made the experience especially enjoyable. This activity is perfect for groups, families, or even bachelor parties.

Bottom Line: A unique, active experience suited for adventure seekers and groups wanting to try something different.

15. Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise on Mississippi River

Our final pick, this Memphis Discovery Tour, combines the city’s history, music, and food into a full-day adventure. For about $87.80, you visit Beale Street, Victorian mansions, and the Lorraine Motel, then relax with a paddlewheel cruise on the Mississippi. The tour lasts roughly six hours and is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at Memphis.

Reviewers highlight the informative guides and the beautiful river cruise as key highlights. It’s ideal for those wanting an all-in-one experience that covers Memphis’s core attractions and its iconic river.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for travelers who want a complete day exploring Memphis’s past and present from multiple angles.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Memphis

When deciding which Memphis experience to book, consider your interests, budget, and time. If you love food, the Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour offers a flavorful deep dive.

For those curious about civil rights and history, the 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour is highly recommended. If music is your passion, the Sun Studio and Big Mojo tour combines iconic landmarks with hands-on stories.

Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Beale Street Walking Tour, which is affordable and packed with cultural insights. For activity lovers, the Axe Throwing provides a fun, active break from sightseeing.

Booking early is advised, especially in peak seasons or if you want private groups. Also, check if tours include entrances or if you need to purchase tickets separately.

Final Thoughts

Memphis offers a wide variety of tours and activities that cater to almost every interest. For a culinary adventure with local flavor, the Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour is hard to beat. For a musical immersion, the Sun Studio experience ranks high. If your curiosity leans toward civil rights history, the Essence of Memphis African American History Tour provides powerful storytelling.

Whatever your style, Memphis’s diversity of experiences promises a memorable visit. Consider your priorities—whether it’s food, music, history, or fun activities—and book early to ensure you don’t miss out on these top-rated tours.