Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise on Mississippi River

If you’re considering taking a guided tour to uncover what makes Memphis special, this Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise is an engaging way to see the city’s highlights in one day. Offered by Backbeat Tours, it promises a blend of history, music, culture, and scenic river views—all wrapped into six hours.

While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the feedback from hundreds of travelers offers a good sense of what you can expect.

What we love about this tour is its balanced combination of attractions—it hits the high points of Memphis’s soul, from legendary Beale Street to the Civil Rights Museum—plus a relaxing cruise on the mighty Mississippi River. The knowledgeable guides and the delicious BBQ tasting are often praised, making it a solid value for just under ninety dollars.

On the flip side, one consideration is the time allocated for museum visits, which some may find a bit tight, especially if they want a deeper dive.

This tour is best suited for those who want a rundown of Memphis in one day, particularly first-time visitors eager to get their bearings with a friendly group.

This experience made our article of 3 Most Highly Rated Boat Tours & Cruises In Memphis.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Memphis’s musical roots, historic districts, and civil rights landmarks
• Includes a scenic Mississippi River cruise—a relaxing way to end the day
• Excellent value for money, combining multiple attractions, a museum visit, and BBQ tasting
• Guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Moderate walking and weather considerations—bring a jacket if cool
• Limited museum time may require prioritizing what interests you most

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This 6-hour adventure offers a well-rounded look at Memphis, balancing city highlights with cultural depth and scenic relaxation. Starting at Beale Street, you’ll quickly get a taste of the legendary music scene and the street’s significance, all within a brisk 5-minute stop. From there, your guide will lead you through Handy Park, sharing the story of WC Handy and the birth of the blues—a foundational part of Memphis’s musical identity.

The tour then takes you through a series of neighborhoods and landmarks that reveal Memphis’s architectural and industrial past, including Victorian mansions in the historic Victorian Village district and the city’s oldest home. These stops are brief but packed with stories that bring the city’s history into focus, especially if you appreciate stately Victorian-era architecture and the stories of Memphis’s “Millionaire’s Row.” The inclusion of the oldest church and the center of cotton industry offers insight into Memphis’s development from a trading hub to a vibrant city.

The emotional highlight for many is the visit to I AM A MAN Plaza and the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel. The plaza provides a poignant tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the ongoing struggle for equality. The museum itself, included if you select that option, is deeply moving and educational, although some reviews note the allocated 1.5 hours can feel rushed if you want to spend more time exploring.

After a quick BBQ tasting at Central BBQ, you’ll enjoy some free time on Beale Street—perfect for browsing shops, listening to street musicians, or grabbing a local snack. The historic charm of A. Schwab’s store adds a nostalgic touch, giving visitors a glimpse into Memphis’s retail past.

The day concludes with an enjoyable Mississippi River cruise aboard a classic paddle steamer. This two-hour cruise offers views of the river, live music, and a sense of going back in time. Travelers often highlight this as a relaxing and scenic end to a busy day.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Beale Street and Handy Park

Starting at Beale Street, you’ll instantly sense its significance as a birthplace of American blues and jazz. While just a 5-minute stop, it’s enough to soak in the atmosphere and capture some photos. The story of WC Handy at Handy Park complements this, emphasizing Memphis’s musical origins.

Victorian Village and Historic Districts

The visit to Victorian Village is brief but insightful. The beautiful mansions of “Millionaire’s Row” showcase Memphis’s affluent past, with structures dating back to the Victorian era. Standing amidst these stately homes, you get a sense of the city’s early prosperity. The included stops at the oldest home, church, and cotton industry center deepen your understanding of Memphis’s foundational industries and religious history.

Civil Rights Landmarks

The I AM A MAN Plaza is more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a reflective space honoring the courage of the sanitation workers’ strike and Dr. King’s legacy. The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel is a must-see for visitors interested in social history. Although the 1.5-hour visit is somewhat constrained, many agree it’s a powerful experience that adds emotional weight to the day.

Food and Free Time

The BBQ tasting at Central BBQ is often highlighted for its delicious flavor and substantial portions. It’s a good introduction to Memphis’s famous barbecue scene, though some might prefer more options or substitutions. The hour of free time on Beale Street lets you explore independently, soak up live music, or browse local shops like A. Schwab—a nostalgic store with a history dating back decades.

Mississippi River Cruise

The highlight for many is the scenic cruise on the Mississippi River. The boat, with its historic charm and gentle rhythms, offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. It’s relaxing after a busy morning of sightseeing and provides some classic Memphis ambiance, especially with the onboard music and storytelling.

What Travelers Say

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with 4.7 out of 5 stars from 240 reviews. Travelers often praise guides like Kate and Larry for their knowledge, warmth, and storytelling skills, making the tour engaging and informative. Many note that the BBQ was delicious and that the river cruise was a wonderful way to unwind. A common sentiment is that this tour offers great value, combining multiple attractions into a single seamless experience.

Some reviewers mention that museum time can feel tight, especially if you’re eager to explore more deeply. Others appreciate the comfortable, air-conditioned transport and the friendly staff. A few had minor weather-related issues, but the tour provider’s flexible cancellation policy helps ensure peace of mind.

Practical Considerations

The tour departs promptly at 10:00 am from 197 Beale St, with a maximum group size of 36 travelers. Expect a fair amount of walking and some outdoor exposure, so dressing appropriately for the weather is advisable. The riverboat dock is accessible via Riverside Dr., which is a short walk from parking garages and street parking options.

While the price is under $90, it covers an impressive list of attractions, a scenic cruise, museum admissions (if selected), and a BBQ snack. It’s a solid investment for those wanting a broad overview of Memphis’s cultural tapestry without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

The Sum Up

This Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise offers a thoughtfully curated experience suitable for first-timers and those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Memphis in a single day. With its combination of historic landmarks, musical history, civil rights education, and scenic river views, it really captures the city’s soul.

The guides’ knowledge and approachable manner elevate the experience, making it both educational and fun. The delicious BBQ, the relaxing river cruise, and the free time on Beale Street are highlights that many travelers appreciate. While museum time may be limited for those eager to explore in depth, the itinerary is designed to give you a meaningful taste of Memphis’s diverse character.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, culturally rich tour that offers good value, this is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for history buffs, music lovers, and first-time Memphis visitors eager to make the most of their day in this vibrant city.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle between the stops.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level, including some walking and standing.

What should I bring?
Bring a jacket if it’s cool, comfortable shoes for walking, and some cash or cards for souvenirs or additional snacks.

Does it include hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts at 197 Beale St. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, thanks to the flexible policy.

Is the Mississippi River cruise included in the price?
Yes, the scenic cruise is part of the package, providing a relaxing end to your day.

Can I customize the museum visit?
The tour offers a choice of three museums; you select one to visit, with about 1.5 hours allocated.

Are drinks available during the tour?
No, drinks are not included or provided, so bring your own if desired.

How long is the free time on Beale Street?
You have about an hour to explore shops, listen to music, or grab a snack.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 36 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

This tour strikes a practical balance between sightseeing, storytelling, and relaxation. It’s a fine way to get to know Memphis beyond just the surface, with enough flexibility to tailor your experience if you choose to explore more on your own afterward.