Memphis True Crime Tour

Memphis True Crime Tour Review: A Night of Crime and History

If you’re into true crime stories or just curious about Memphis’s shadowy past, the Memphis True Crime Tour looks like a compelling option. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the reviews and details paint a picture of an experience that’s both entertaining and insightful — especially if you love hearing captivating stories about infamous murders, daring jail breaks, and notorious figures.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the way it combines storytelling with a bit of city exploration, all wrapped up in a manageable 90-minute format. The fact that it’s guided by knowledgeable locals who can share authentic details makes all the difference. Plus, the inclusion of themed cocktails and mocktails at the stylish Moxy Hotel adds a fun, relaxed vibe.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour is mostly bus-based with just a handful of short, on-foot stops. If you’re looking for a walking-heavy experience, this might not be your best bet. Also, this experience doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point.

This tour seems suited for history buffs, true crime fans, or anyone interested in the darker stories that Memphis has to tell. It’s a good pick if you want an engaging, relaxed way to learn about the city’s more scandalous past, and if you’re in Memphis for a short visit but want a memorable experience that’s both fun and educational.

Key Points

• Storytelling by Local Guides: The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge, energy, and storytelling skills, making the stories come alive.
• City Highlights and Offbeat Stories: The stops cover both well-known sites and lesser-known but fascinating crime stories.
• Comfortable Transportation: The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle and a bus, making it easy to sit back and enjoy the stories without walking long distances.
• Casual, Social Atmosphere: The inclusion of themed cocktails and mocktails at the Moxy Hotel adds a fun, social twist.
• Limited Walking: Expect just about half a mile of walking during off-bus stops, suitable for most moderate fitness levels.
• Affordable Price: At around $40.61 per person, it offers good value, especially considering the storytelling, transportation, and drinks included.

A Deep Dive into the Memphis True Crime Tour

What You Can Expect from the Experience

The Memphis True Crime Tour is designed to be a twilight exploration of the city’s darker aspects. Starting at Alfred’s On Beale, you’ll join a guided bus tour that takes you around downtown Memphis, stopping at notable crime sites and stories that have shaped the city’s history. The tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for an evening activity after your daytime adventures.

You’ll sit comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, listening to your guide’s lively narration about Memphis’s most infamous crimes, from a summer of terror involving serial killers to legendary mobster tales. The tour is quite interactive, with guides who are described as energetic, funny, and very knowledgeable — guests frequently mention their guides as the highlight of the experience.

The Stops: What You’ll See and Hear

Stop 1: Beale Street
Your journey kicks off on Beale Street, famous for its vibrant music scene but also home to the “Castle of Missing Men,” a saloon known as Memphis’s deadliest. Here, you might find it interesting how a lively street with a rich musical history also carries a dark past linked to crime. The stop is quick, about 10 minutes, but enough to set the tone for the stories ahead.

Stop 2: Victorian Village Historic District
Next up is the Victorian Village Historic District, where you’ll learn about Georgia Tann, a baby thief whose notorious activities have left a lasting scar on Memphis’s reputation. This 10-minute stop invites a brief but impactful look into one of the city’s most scandalous figures.

Stop 3: Court Square
A 15-minute visit to Court Square introduces you to Memphis’s longest family feud, adding a layer of personal drama to the crime stories. You’ll get a sense of the city’s historic conflicts and how they intertwined with criminal activity.

Stop 4: South Main
Moving to South Main, the tour covers Alma Theede, known as the “Black Widow,” another chilling figure whose story has captivated local lore. This stop also lasts around 15 minutes, enough to absorb the eerie details.

Throughout these stops, the tour combines historical context with the thrill of the macabre, giving a well-rounded picture of Memphis’s darker side.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost covers guided narration, air-conditioned transportation, and a themed cocktail or mocktail at the Moxy Hotel. Guests rave about the drinks, often citing the fun of grabbing a drink on the bus, which adds a relaxed, social element to the tour. No additional admission fees are required for the stops, as they’re on public or open-access sites, making it a budget-friendly option overall.

However, it’s important to note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included — you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point on your own. There are plenty of parking options nearby, with several garages and open-air lots within just a few blocks, so arriving by car or public transport shouldn’t be an issue.

How the Tour Runs

The tour kicks off at 4:30 pm from Alfred’s On Beale, a lively spot to start your evening. The group size is limited to 36 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging. The majority of the time is spent on the bus, with only brief off-bus stops, so if you’re not a big walker, this is a plus. The tour is suitable for most moderate physical fitness levels, with only about half a mile of walking involved.

Authentic Feedback from Guests

Guests consistently praise the guides’ storytelling skills. Serena W says, “Sheena was literally such an amazing tour guide,” while Elizabeth G mentions, “Mary was fantastic and super knowledgeable.” Reviewers love that guides blend humor and respect, making the stories both educational and entertaining.

Multiple reviews mention how much fun they had, with comments like “Lots of fun,” “Great time,” and “Highly recommend!” The inclusion of a drink, the lively guides, and the interesting stories all contribute to a memorable evening.

A recurring highlight in reviews is the guides’ personality — they’re described as energetic, personable, and clearly passionate about their stories. Several reviewers even joke about guide Sheena or Mary should have their own podcasts based on their storytelling talent.

Price and Value

At just over $40 per person, the tour offers a lot for the money. It’s a budget-friendly way to get a taste of Memphis’s more mysterious side without committing to a longer or more expensive activity. The stories are detailed and delivered with enthusiasm, and the drinks add a fun touch that other tours might not include.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for true crime enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone curious about Memphis’s darker stories. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy a social, relaxed atmosphere — with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with guides. If you’re interested in a short, engaging, and story-rich experience about Memphis’s notorious past, this tour is a solid choice.

However, if you prefer walking tours or want a more physically active experience, this might not be ideal. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children, this may not be the best fit, given the content’s dark nature.

Final Thoughts

The Memphis True Crime Tour offers a compelling mix of history, storytelling, and city sights, all delivered by guides who are clearly passionate. The focus on true crime and local legends makes it stand out among typical city tours, providing a different perspective on Memphis’s past. The addition of themed cocktails and a lively bus atmosphere keeps things fun and social.

For adventurous travelers eager to hear about Memphis’s most notorious stories in a relaxed setting, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a well-priced, enjoyable way to see a different side of the city, especially after sunset when the stories feel even more fitting.

While it’s not a walking tour and doesn’t include hotel transport, the convenience of a short bus ride and the engaging guides make it worth considering. If you’re open to a slightly spooky, story-driven evening that blends history with entertainment, this Memphis True Crime Tour will likely leave a lasting impression.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Since the tour covers dark and potentially adult themes like murders, mobsters, and scandals, it’s best suited for adults or older teens.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to meet at the starting point, Alfred’s On Beale.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with most of the time spent on the bus and a few short off-bus stops.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers guided narration, transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle, and a themed cocktail or mocktail at the Moxy Hotel.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are there parking options nearby?
Yes, there are four parking garages and several open-air lots within a few blocks, with the closest garage at 149 Peabody Place.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 36 travelers, which helps keep things friendly and intimate.

What’s the best time to join?
The tour departs at 4:30 pm, making it a great evening activity to wind down your day exploring Memphis.

Are drinks included?
Yes, each guest receives a themed cocktail or mocktail, and soda or water is also available.

All in all, if your curiosity leans toward Memphis’s mysterious side and you enjoy engaging storytelling, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just plan your logistics accordingly, and be ready for a fun, slightly spooky, and very Memphis experience.