Memphis Self Guided Driving Audio Tour

Thinking about exploring Memphis’s legendary music scene but not quite sold on a guided tour? This self-guided driving audio tour might be just what you need. It promises a flexible, wallet-friendly way to soak in the city’s rich musical heritage without the rigidity of traditional tours. We haven’t personally tried it, but based on the details and reviews, it’s worth considering if you enjoy exploring at your own pace and love stories about icons like Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Johnny Cash.

We particularly like how this tour offers offline maps — a real lifesaver when you’re out and about in a city where service can sometimes be spotty. Plus, the engaging storytelling and great value (just $16.99 per car) make it appealing for budget-conscious travelers or those planning multiple visits in the next year. But a possible downside could be the route through some areas that some might find less inviting or a little sketchy, according to a few reviews. So, if you’re cautious about your surroundings or traveling with kids, it’s worth bearing in mind.

This tour appears best suited for independent explorers who enjoy the freedom to stop when they want, listen to stories of Memphis’s music legends, and learn about the city’s cultural significance without a strict schedule. If you’re comfortable with a little driving and are looking for a cost-effective way to see some of Memphis’s top sights, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Flexible self-guided format allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Affordable price point makes it accessible, especially for multiple trips within a year.
• Rich historical and musical stories enhance the experience without the need for a guide.
• Route through some areas that may feel less safe or less appealing to some travelers.
• Detailed stops include famous landmarks like Sun Studio, Beale Street, and Graceland.
• Requires good internet or Wi-Fi for initial setup, but works offline afterward.

An In-Depth Look at the Memphis Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

If you’re considering a way to experience Memphis’s vibrant musical scene with a bit of independence, this self-guided audio tour could be a good option. It’s designed as a mobile ticket that you download once and keep for up to a year, making it ideal for both first-time visitors and those planning multiple trips. The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, but how long you spend exploring each site is entirely up to you.

How the Tour Works

After booking, you’ll receive an email with setup instructions and a password. You’ll need to download the Tour Guide App by Action—it works offline, so once downloaded, you’re free from cellular signal concerns. The app uses GPS-triggered audio cues that play automatically as you approach each stop, giving you historical context, stories, and fun facts without the need for a guide standing beside you.

This setup makes for a very hands-free experience—you can focus on the road, your surroundings, and taking photos. Plus, you can pause, restart, or skip stories as you like, giving you control over how you spend your time.

Route and Stops Breakdown

Stop 1: Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

Your Memphis adventure begins at this iconic shopping and entertainment complex. While the tour doesn’t include entry, this is a central starting point that sets the tone for your musical journey. It’s a lively hub and a good place to get your bearings.

Stop 2: Beale Street

Driving past or stopping here gives you a taste of Memphis’s nightlife and blues scene. The street is pedestrian-only, with plenty of parking options. The guide offers bonus stories about Beale Street’s history, so if you want to get out and soak in the vibe, it’s worth a quick walk.

Stop 3: Sun Studio

No visit to Memphis is complete without stopping at Sun Studio, often called the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll.” The familiar brick building with a giant guitar out front is a must-see. The tour does not include admission, but it’s a place that historically attracted legends like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

Stop 4: Elmwood Cemetery

Here, you’ll find the grave of Ma Rainey, a trailblazing blues singer who ran away from her preacher father to join a traveling show. The cemetery offers a glimpse into the lives of musical pioneers and is an interesting stop for those wanting a mix of music and history.

Stop 5: Stax Museum of American Soul Music

This is one of the most celebrated stops, showcasing the soul sounds that defined an era. The museum boasts recordings from Otis Redding, the Staple Singers, and even Jesse Jackson. You can explore this site further if you choose to park and walk around.

Stop 6: Birthplace of Aretha Franklin

Visit the city where Aretha Franklin’s gospel roots took hold. Her early performances in church and the gospel caravan are a big part of her story. The tour highlights her Memphis beginnings before she moved to Detroit.

Stop 7: Royal Studios

Housed in a building that started as a movie theater, Royal Studios became a legendary recording studio in 1957. It’s a fascinating piece of Memphis’s musical infrastructure, especially for those interested in the recording process behind hits.

Stop 8: Graceland

No Memphis trip would be complete without a visit to Elvis Presley’s estate. The tour brushes over the history, and while it’s not an entry ticket, it’s a must-see landmark that draws fans from around the world. Be prepared for the crowds and the hype that surrounds this famous mansion.

What Travelers Are Saying

Some reviews highlight the value — with one reviewer noting it’s “awesome for the price” and mentions the flexibility of exploring at their own pace. They appreciated the engaging stories and helpful directions, which made the drive smooth and educational.

Others point out that some areas along the route might feel a bit rough, with one reviewer mentioning they skipped certain parts that seemed unsafe. If you’re not comfortable navigating through less inviting neighborhoods, this is something to keep in mind.

A few users found the stories informative and appreciated the optional detours that added depth to their experience. Conversely, one reviewer felt the route takes you through “sketchy” neighborhoods and suggested maybe doing a guided tour instead, especially for those unfamiliar or uneasy with the areas.

The feedback is mixed but leans toward positive for those who enjoy self-guided exploration and value the storytelling aspect.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: $16.99 per group (up to 4 people). For the cost, it’s a pretty good deal, especially if you’re planning multiple trips within the year.
• Duration: About 2-3 hours, but flexible based on how long you linger at each stop.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 5 days in advance, which gives you enough time to prepare.
• App and Download: Make sure to download the tour app while connected to Wi-Fi for a smooth experience.
• Starting Point: You begin at the Bass Pro Shops, with no guide waiting—you just start the tour on your app.
• Parking and Accessibility: Some stops like Beale Street have parking options, and the route is designed for driving, not walking.
• What’s Not Included: Entry tickets or reservations for attractions like Sun Studio or Graceland are not part of the tour, so plan to buy those separately if you want to go inside.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This self-guided tour is perfect for independent travelers who want to explore Memphis’s music scene without the constraints of a guided group. It’s suitable for those comfortable with driving and navigating on their own, and who appreciate storytelling to enrich their visit. If you’re budget-conscious, the price makes it especially attractive, and the ability to revisit the tour for a full year makes it a flexible option.

Those who prefer a structured, guided experience might find this less satisfying, especially if they want a guided commentary or insider tips from a local expert. Also, travelers who are uneasy about potentially driving through less safe or less appealing neighborhoods might want to consider other options.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is self-guided and doesn’t have strict age limits, it’s best suited for older children who can handle a bit of driving and are interested in music history. The stops are mainly cultural and historical landmarks, with no particular restrictions, but parents should assess based on their kids’ comfort with traffic and walking.

Do I need to buy tickets for attractions along the route?
Yes, the tour does not include admission to any stops like Sun Studio, Graceland, or the museums. You’ll need to purchase tickets separately if you want to go inside.

How do I access the tour?
After booking, you’ll receive an email with instructions and a password. Download the Action Tour Guide App, enter your password, and the tour will be ready to go. It works offline after the initial download.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, you can start whenever you like—there’s no scheduled departure. Just launch the app when you’re ready to begin your adventure.

How long does the entire tour take?
Expect around 2 to 3 hours, but you can take as long as you wish. You can pause, skip stops, and explore sites on foot at your leisure.

Is the route safe to drive?
Most of the route is designed for driving and is accessible for most vehicles. However, some reviews mention passing through neighborhoods that may feel less secure. Use your judgment and stay alert.

What’s the best way to use this tour?
Plan to start at the Bass Pro Shops, then follow the audio cues as you drive through Memphis. Allow some flexibility for exploring on foot and taking photos. It’s ideal if you enjoy learning while seeing the sights from your car.

Final Thoughts

This Memphis self-guided driving audio tour offers a budget-friendly, flexible way to explore some of the city’s most iconic music landmarks. It’s perfect for travelers who like to go at their own pace, enjoy storytelling, and want to avoid the expense of guided tours. The app’s offline capability and the ability to revisit the tour for up to a year add to its appeal.

While it’s not without its quirks—like passing through some areas that some might find less appealing—the overall experience seems to balance educational storytelling with practical convenience. Be prepared to buy attraction tickets separately and plan your route around the stops that most interest you.

If you’re comfortable with self-guided exploration, enjoy music history, and want the flexibility of a personal journey through Memphis’s musical landscape, this tour is worth considering.

Final Recommendation

If you’re a curious traveler who loves learning about music legends and prefers exploring at your own pace, this tour can be a fun, affordable option. It works especially well if you’re planning to revisit Memphis or want a flexible way to see the highlights without a guided group. Just keep in mind the route and neighborhoods you’ll pass through, and plan accordingly for a smooth, enjoyable experience.