A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis

If you’re planning a trip to Memphis and want to soak in the city’s vibrant culture without the fuss of a guided tour, this self-guided walking experience might just be what you need. Designed to help you explore at your own pace, it’s perfect for curious travelers who love history, great food, and iconic music scenes without feeling rushed or crowded.

What’s especially appealing is the deep dive into Memphis’s musical roots and civil rights history, combined with stops at legendary eateries and lively streets. Plus, the price point—just under $15—makes it accessible for most travelers, offering a lot of value in exchange for your time.

However, since it’s a self-guided tour, it relies heavily on your smartphone and headphones—so be prepared to bring your own devices and be comfortable navigating on your own. Also, it’s a walking tour so good footwear is a must if you want to enjoy it fully.

This experience suits those who appreciate flexibility in their sightseeing, enjoy learning from self-paced exploration, and want an authentic taste of Memphis’s food, music, and history scenes. If you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or even a small group, it’s a solid, cost-effective choice.

Key Points

• Flexible exploration: Set your own pace and linger as long as you like at each stop.
• Rich cultural insights: Learn about Memphis’s civil rights history and musical heritage through engaging points of interest.
• Culinary highlights: From Beale Street to iconic BBQ joints, you’ll discover Memphis’s food culture firsthand.
• Historic landmarks: See famous sites like the Lorraine Motel and Orpheum Theatre, with plenty of story-sharing along the way.
• Affordable price: At $14.99, it offers a lot of bang for your buck.
• Self-guided convenience: Unlimited access before and after your booking date makes it easy to fit into your trip.

Exploring Memphis at Your Own Pace

This self-guided tour is a fantastic way to experience Memphis without the constraints of a group. It’s designed to give you control over your schedule, so you can stop, explore, or skip parts as you see fit. Plus, with detailed directions and GPS, it’s straightforward to follow even if you’re not familiar with the city.

Starting at Central Station Memphis in the South Main Arts District, the tour kicks off in style. This vintage trolley station, now transformed into a hotel, welcomes you into the historic core of Memphis. The tour’s route then takes you through the downtown core, where historic buildings and vibrant streets await.

What makes this experience stand out is the balance it strikes between history and modern Memphis. You’ll pass by places with layers of stories—like Earnestine & Hazel’s, a building that’s served as everything from a church to a brothel to a reputable club, giving you a window into the city’s colorful past.

Highlights of the Itinerary

• Historic sites and landmarks: The tour covers major points like the Orpheum Theatre and Memphis Pyramid, giving you a taste of Memphis’s entertainment history and its modern architectural iconography.
• Civil Rights and cultural landmarks: You’ll see the Lorraine Motel (site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination) and the National Civil Rights Museum, which offer profound insights into the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement. As one reviewer mentioned, “Without the walking guide you have no appreciation of the history and building meanings,” emphasizing how this tour adds context to these powerful sites.

Food and Drink Stops

While the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, it points you to classic Memphis eateries like the Arcade Restaurant—a charming diner with a retro vibe and tasty fare—and Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, known worldwide for its mouthwatering barbecue. You’ll even pass by Gus’s Fried Chicken, a local favorite renowned for its crispy, flavorful fried chicken.

These stops aren’t just about eating; they’re about understanding Memphis’s culinary scene—its roots, its evolution, and what keeps locals and visitors alike coming back.

Music and Art

Walking through Beale Street, the heartland of blues, you’ll get a vibe of Memphis’s musical soul. The Blues Hall of Fame Museum and the “I am a Man” mural are visual representations of the city’s struggles and triumphs, adding depth to your walk. As one reviewer shared, “Great tips on bars and restaurants. Great knowledge of town and history,” indicating that the tour’s extra insights enhance the experience.

Architecture and Hidden Gems

From the Sterick Building—once the tallest in Memphis—to General Washburn’s Escape Alley, there are plenty of architectural and local stories to discover. These alleys hide intriguing tales and are fun to explore as part of the self-guided adventure.

Authentic Memphis Vibes and Personal Touches

What we loved about this tour is how it combines informative commentary with the freedom to explore on your own. It’s like having a knowledgeable friend guiding you, but with the flexibility to pause, take photos, or linger. The reviews highlight this too—“Very interesting information shared” and “Great tips on bars and restaurants”—show that the tour’s added insights are appreciated.

And for the food lovers, this tour’s stops and nearby restaurants serve as excellent launch points for further culinary adventures. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing Memphis’s flavor and vibe firsthand.

Price and Value

At $14.99 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. Considering you can explore at your own pace and access the tour before and after your booking date, it becomes a flexible, budget-friendly option. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer independent exploration over group tours, yet still want structure and some guidance.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a packaged tour with transportation or food included, so your additional costs will be for meals, drinks, and any extra attractions you choose to visit. Still, the core experience of discovering Memphis’s history, music, and culinary scene makes this a worthwhile investment.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for independent travelers, history buffs, music lovers, and foodies who want to shape their own Memphis adventure. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with using your smartphone for navigation and enjoy exploring at a relaxed pace.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local stories and wants a cost-effective way to see key sights without feeling overwhelmed by large tour groups, this self-guided walk is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

In summary, this self-guided walking tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Memphis—covering its historic sites, musical roots, and delicious food spots—all at your own pace. It’s a smart, budget-friendly way to experience the city’s vibrant culture without the pressure of guided groups.

The combination of interesting landmarks, cultural insights, and food stops makes it an experience that keeps you engaged while giving you the freedom to explore on your own terms. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Memphis veteran, it’s a flexible way to deepen your understanding of this city’s soul.

While it’s not perfect—there’s no included food or transportation, and it relies on your own devices—it’s a good pick for travelers who want a personalized, authentic Memphis experience that fits into their schedule.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for walking with children?
While the tour doesn’t specify family-friendliness, it’s primarily walking around downtown Memphis, so comfortable shoes and a bit of patience are recommended.

Do I need to bring my own smartphone?
Yes, you’ll need your own smartphone and headphones to follow the GPS directions and enjoy the commentary.

Can I do this tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is available 24/7, and you can start it at your convenience during the open hours.

How long does the tour take?
It typically lasts between 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on how much you stop and explore along the way.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private, self-guided experience designed just for your group.

What sites are included in the tour?
Major highlights include Central Station Memphis, Earnestine & Hazel’s, The Arcade Restaurant, the Civil Rights landmarks, Beale Street, and the Memphis Pyramid, among others.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the tour points you toward some of Memphis’s best eateries.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible to fit your plans.

This self-guided tour of Brews, Blues, and BBQ in Memphis offers a genuine way to connect with the city’s soul—perfect for those who love discovering things on their own schedule while soaking in history, music, and incredible local flavor.