Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise on Mississippi River

If you’re planning a trip to Memphis, this Memphis Discovery Tour with Riverboat Cruise seems like a solid way to soak in the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. With an average rating of 4.5 stars from nearly 240 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this experience worthwhile. What really catches the eye is the mix of historic landmarks, musical insights, and a relaxing cruise on the Mississippi River—something that promises a well-rounded taste of Memphis.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its balanced itinerary, hitting key cultural and historical sites, and the inclusive river cruise that offers scenic views and a chance to unwind. On the flip side, one possible consideration is the duration of museum visits, especially if you’re a big history buff or if you’re traveling with kids who might tire out after a long day. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, music, good food, and some light walking, making it perfect if you want a comprehensive introduction to Memphis without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Convenient all-in-one experience combining sightseeing, museum visits, food, and a river cruise.
• Knowledgeable guides make the city’s stories come alive.
• The scenic Mississippi River cruise provides a relaxing end to the day.
• The tour’s value for money includes multiple attractions and tasty BBQ.
• It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness as some walking and vehicle transfers are involved.
• Weather can affect certain parts, like the river cruise, so check the forecast.

A Deep Dive into the Memphis Discovery Tour

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

This tour kicks off at 197 Beale St, the heart of Memphis’s music scene and a must-see for any visitor. The guide will share snippets of how Beale Street became one of the most famous streets in America, and you’ll get a quick, energetic walk through its lively atmosphere. Many reviews mention the guides being friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience feel both informative and fun.

Next, you’ll visit Handy Park, a small but meaningful spot commemorating WC Handy, often called the father of the Blues. Here, the stories of Memphis’s musical roots really come to life. Just a few minutes here, but enough to appreciate the city’s deep connection to blues music, which is central to Memphis’s identity.

From there, your route takes you through Victorian Village, where beautifully preserved mansions from the “Millionaire’s Row” give a glimpse into Memphis’s once-wealthy past. This part is a visual feast—think grand homes, historic churches, and the old center of the cotton industry. It’s a quick stop, but travelers note how charming and historic the area feels, with many calling it a highlight.

The I AM A MAN Plaza then provides a poignant moment to reflect on Memphis’s civil rights history, especially the impact of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. Many reviews mention how the guide’s storytelling brings this solemn site to life, emphasizing its importance in American history.

Choosing Your Museum

One of the standout features of this tour is the choice of visiting one of three Memphis-specific museums. You can opt for the National Civil Rights Museum, the Smithsonian’s Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, or the Edge Motor Museum. Each offers a different perspective—civil rights, musical heritage, or automotive history. The National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel, is highly recommended by reviews for its powerful exhibits, though the visit length is about an hour and a half, which some find a bit brief.

Tasting Memphis: BBQ and Beale Street Free Time

After the museums, you’ll stop at Central BBQ for a quick, included barbecue tasting. Here, many reviewers rave about the delicious, authentic Memphis-style BBQ—perfect for a quick but satisfying lunch. Remember, no carry-out or substitutions, so it’s best to go with an open mind and appetite.

Following lunch, there’s a generous hour of free time on Beale Street to explore shops, listen to live music, or just soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Many travelers love this part, describing Beale Street as lively, colorful, and full of character. Keep in mind, as some reviews pointed out, the time here can feel a bit rushed if you want a detailed stroll—so prioritize what interests you most.

A quick stop at A. Schwab, an old-time Memphis store, adds a dash of local charm. It’s a fun, nostalgic place with a history that visitors enjoy exploring.

Scenic Cruise on the Mississippi River

The finale is a two-hour scenic cruise on the Mississippi River. The boat departs from Memphis Riverboats, located on cobblestone streets that add to the historic feel. Many reviews highlight how relaxing and scenic this part of the tour is, with some describing it as a “trip back in time” and “loved the music and ship.” You’ll get sweeping views of the river, hear some blues or jazz tunes, and enjoy the gentle breeze—an ideal wind-down after a busy day of sightseeing.

Travelers have consistently praised the friendly staff on the boat, the cleanliness, and the well-organized nature of the cruise. It’s a lovely way to see Memphis from a different perspective and unwind before heading back.

How Does It All Add Up?

When considering the price of $87.80 per person, this tour offers quite a bit of value. You’re getting transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, multiple site visits, museum entries (if you opt in), barbecue, and a scenic river cruise—all within a six-hour window. Many review comments echo that the experience is worth every dollar, especially given the knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you enjoy a well-paced, informative day with a good mix of history, music, food, and scenery. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided experiences—the guides are often commended for their knowledge and friendly approach. It’s also a good choice for those who want a comprehensive Memphis experience without the hassle of planning multiple separate activities.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the moderate physical activity and the interest level make it suitable for most adult travelers, especially those with curiosity about Memphis’s cultural roots. If you’re traveling with children, just consider their stamina for a full day of sightseeing, and whether they’re interested in history and music.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Arrive early at the meeting point — the tour starts at 10:00am from 197 Beale St.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there’s some walking involved at each stop.
• Bring a light jacket or jumper, especially for the river cruise—it can be cooler on the water.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip; poor weather might affect certain parts, especially the boat ride.
• Parking is available nearby; there are garages and street parking options, but be prepared for the cobblestone streets leading to the boat dock.
• Consider your museum choice—if you’re particularly interested in civil rights, the National Civil Rights Museum is a must-see, but make sure you allocate enough time.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking and vehicle transfers. The boat dock is on cobblestones and located at the bottom of a 35% incline, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and dropoff are not included. You’ll meet at 197 Beale St, which is near public transportation options and parking garages.

What’s the cost of the BBQ tasting?
The BBQ tasting at Central BBQ is included in the price. Keep in mind, no substitutions or carry-out options are available.

Can I join the tour spontaneously?
Booking on average is done about 24 days in advance, and the maximum group size is 36 travelers, so last-minute spots may be limited.

Which museum can I choose?
You can select from the National Civil Rights Museum, the Smithsonian’s Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, or the Edge Motor Museum. The museum visit lasts about 1.5 hours.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the river cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, offering scenic views and relaxing vibes.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed for families, the moderate walking and interest level make it suitable for most travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, approachability, and storytelling skills, which greatly enhance the experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging way to see Memphis, this tour delivers a balanced mix of history, music, and scenic beauty without feeling overly rushed. The inclusion of a river cruise adds a special touch of relaxation, making it a perfect option for those who want a full but manageable day exploring Memphis.

While the itinerary is packed, most find the pacing just right, especially with the friendly guides who bring stories and history to life. The food, sights, and river views combine into a memorable experience that many reviews say is worth the price. It’s especially suited to travelers who enjoy guided tours and want to learn about Memphis’s soul, civil rights, and musical legacy in a single day.

For anyone interested in a well-rounded introduction to Memphis, this tour ticks many boxes—just be sure to consider your pace and museum choices ahead of time. It’s a day that combines the city’s past and present beautifully, leaving you with lots to think about—or just a lot of great photos to share back home.