If you’re after a unique way to soak in the sights of Memphis, this 1.5-hour public party bike tour offers a lively spin through downtown that many find adds a playful twist to sightseeing. From the moment we first heard about it, what caught our attention was how this experience combines passionate guides, customizable music, and a chance to enjoy some drinks while taking in the city’s most famous spots.
Two things we really like? First, the social vibe—it’s designed to keep the energy high, with a guide who knows how to keep the party going. Second, the flexibility—you can bring your own drinks and tunes, making it feel more like a celebration with friends than just a sightseeing tour.
One thing to note, though: the seats are small, which could be a bit uncomfortable if you’re larger or tall. Also, since it’s BYOB, you’ll want to plan ahead for snacks or drinks in plastic or cans, and not everyone may be pedaling all the time. This tour suits those who enjoy a laid-back, social experience and don’t mind a bit of exercise mixed with sightseeing.
Key Points
- Flexible and social: Bring your own drinks and music to make it your own party on wheels.
- Great guide: The guides are energetic, knowledgeable, and keep the vibe fun.
- Easygoing pace: Pass by famous Memphis landmarks without the pressure of intense pedaling.
- Scenic views: Enjoy remarkable sights like the Mississippi River and downtown skyline.
- Accessible for most: Group size is small, and there’s an option to sit out pedaling if needed.
- Cost-effective: For $40, you get a memorable, personalized city tour with a party atmosphere.
A Deep Dive into the Memphis Party Bike Experience
This tour is billed as a public party bike ride that takes you around Memphis’s downtown area, but don’t expect a traditional city tour. Instead, think of it as a moving social gathering that hits some of the city’s most iconic spots, with plenty of room for your own drinks and music. It’s a notably different way to experience the city, especially if you’re looking to keep things casual and fun.
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Start and End at Rock N Dough
The experience kicks off and wraps up at Rock N Dough, a well-rated pizza and brewery spot. This is a smart choice, since it offers a hearty, well-priced meal and a lively atmosphere to set the tone before hopping on the bike. Many reviews mention how the restaurant’s vibe and food help make the whole afternoon or evening special, with one reviewer calling it “fantastic” and noting the great music along the way.
The Route and Stops
The itinerary is designed to give a taste of Memphis’s most significant sights, with some flexibility. The first stop on Beale Street is a classic start for anyone interested in Memphis music roots. Starting and ending here, the tour makes it easy to either dine or keep the party alive after the ride. You’re free to explore Beale Street afterward—lots of lively bars and live music options.
Next, the bike passes by the Lorraine Motel, now home to the Civil Rights Museum. Guests often stop here to take in the outside of the historic site, which adds a meaningful pause during the tour. The guide is happy to accommodate this, so if you want a quick break here, just let them know.
Pass by Famous Landmarks
Throughout the ride, you’ll pass by several Memphis icons: the Peabody Hotel (famous for its ducks), AutoZone Park (home of the Memphis Redbirds baseball team), and the Fire Museum of Memphis. The route is designed to give you glimpses of these landmarks while keeping the energy fun and relaxed.
The Flexibility of the Tour
One of the biggest perks? You control the vibe. You can play your own playlist via Bluetooth, and you’re encouraged to bring your own drinks—no glass, no straight liquor, but pre-mixed cocktails in plastic or cans are fine. Some reviews mention how this freedom enhances the experience, making it feel more like a party with friends than a typical tour.
Stops to Grab a Drink or Take a Break
You can choose to visit Earnestine & Hazel’s, a dive bar with a reputation for being haunted and a history as a former brothel. If you’re interested in grabbing a drink there, just tell your driver during the ride. Many guests rave about the bar’s relaxed, divey vibe, and it’s a fun way to break up the pedaling.
Big River Crossing offers spectacular views of the Mississippi River and Downtown Memphis skyline—perfect for photos and those picturesque moments during your tour. The ML14 Suffrage Monument is also nearby, honoring women who fought for voting rights, adding some cultural depth to your sightseeing.
Logistics and Practical Details
The bike itself features ten pedal seats and six non-pedal seats, so if you’re feeling a bit tired or prefer to sit back, there’s an option. Keep in mind, though, the seats are small—some reviews mention they might be tight for larger individuals. Also, the tour is about 90 minutes long, with some stops that allow for about 20 minutes each.
The price? Just $40 per person, which many find to be quite reasonable for a lively, flexible experience that combines sightseeing, music, and socializing. Included are a cooler, helmets, and the use of the bike’s Bluetooth speakers. You just need to bring your drinks, snacks, and a charged phone if you want to connect your playlist.
Group Size and Atmosphere
With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour remains intimate enough for everyone to feel involved. Many reviews highlight the friendly guides—some mention guides like Joy, who went out of her way to make the experience memorable—even celebrating her birthday during one ride. The guides not only keep the party vibe lively but also ensure safety and help with any requests.
The Reviews Speak Volumes
The reviews paint a picture of consistent fun, with many guests praising the guides for their energy and friendliness. Several mention how the experience is perfect for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just a fun day out with friends. Some reviews note minor issues, like the seats being small or people pedaling less than expected, but these are outweighed by the overall good time.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This party bike tour is ideal for groups of friends looking to merge sightseeing with some laid-back partying. It’s especially suited to travelers who appreciate flexibility—bring your own drinks, choose your music—and value the social element. If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of exercise with your fun and likes to keep things casual, you’ll find this a great way to experience Memphis.
It’s important to note that this isn’t a quiet, contemplative tour. It’s loud, lively, and designed to keep the good times rolling. The guide’s energy and the ability to customize your playlist help make each ride feel personal and spontaneous.
If you’re visiting Memphis and want something a little different from the usual city tours—something that combines sights, music, and a party atmosphere—you’ll likely find this experience a memorable highlight of your trip. Do keep in mind the small seats and the need to plan your drinks and snacks ahead, but overall, it offers a fun, affordable way to see downtown Memphis.
1.5-Hour Public Party Bike Ride in Downtown Memphis
“Fun afternoon. The restaurant where you start and end was fantastic. Great food, good atmosphere and well priced. Made it a great afternoon. Great …”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for people who don’t want to pedal much?
Yes, there are non-pedal seats available, and the bike features six of them. If you prefer to sit back and enjoy the ride, you can.
Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely. BYOB is encouraged. Just remember, no glass or straight liquor—pre-mixed cocktails in plastic or cans are fine.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with time allocated for stops and sightseeing.
What landmarks will I see?
You’ll pass by Beale Street, the Lorraine Motel outside Civil Rights Museum, Peabody Hotel, AutoZone Park, and the Fire Museum, among others.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many guests praise their guides for being fun, friendly, and informative. They’re there to keep the energy high and help you make the most of the experience.
What should I bring?
Bring your charged phone for music, snacks, your drinks in plastic or cans, and appropriate clothing for weather conditions. Helmets are provided, but if you need more, just ask.
This Memphis party bike tour offers a laid-back, customizable, and lively way to see downtown. It’s best for those who want to combine sightseeing with social fun and are ready to enjoy an energetic, informal tour with the added bonus of personal touches like your own music and drinks.
