Memphis: City Tour with Optional Sun Studios & Riverboat

If you’re planning a trip to Memphis and want to get a good overview of this vibrant city without spending your entire visit wandering aimlessly, a guided city tour might be just what you need. Based on many traveler reviews and detailed descriptions, this tour offered by Memphis Best Sightseeing Tours promises a friendly, informative experience that hits the highlights — and some hidden gems — of Memphis in a manageable timeframe.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines iconic landmarks with local stories, making Memphis feel alive and personal. Plus, the option to upgrade with a riverboat cruise or a visit to Sun Studios means there’s flexibility depending on your interests. That said, since the tour involves a fair amount of bus time and scheduled stops, it might feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to explore on foot or linger longer at certain spots.

This tour works best for those who want a solid introduction to Memphis without the hassle of figuring out transportation or navigating alone. It’s also a good pick for travelers who appreciate storytelling along with sightseeing. If you’re a music enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious about Memphis’s culture, this tour can make for a memorable experience — but keep in mind it’s not tailored to those seeking deep dives or extended exploration.

Key Points

Balanced sightseeing with stops at Memphis’s top landmarks
Knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights
Flexible options like river cruises and Sun Studios visits
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Memphis
Good value for the price, considering the number of attractions covered
Some bus time involved, so be prepared for a full day or a shorter experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Memphis City Tour

When we think of Memphis, music, history, and vibrant street life often come to mind. This tour does a pretty good job of encapsulating that vibe, offering a broad sweep of the city’s most recognized sites. It’s especially suitable for those visiting Memphis for the first time or those who prefer a guided overview that takes care of transportation and logistics.

The Itinerary and What You’ll See

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in downtown Memphis, which is a real plus for convenience. Once on the mini coach, your guide will lead you past the statues of legends like B.B. King and Elvis Presley, giving you some context about Memphis’s musical roots. The first major stop is the National Civil Rights Museum at Lorraine Motel, a site that’s both historically significant and emotionally impactful. Many reviews highlight this as a meaningful part of the experience, with guides providing insights that deepen your understanding of the city’s past.

Next up is a visit to A. Schwab, a local institution that sells everything from regional crafts to candies. It’s a great chance to pick up some souvenirs or just soak in the local flavor. Then, the tour moves on to the Memphis Pyramid, a striking Egyptian-style structure that’s now a sprawling Bass Pro Shops. This stop is more about the visual experience and gives you a sense of Memphis’s bold approach to architecture and entertainment.

From there, you’ll visit the Peabody Hotel to watch the famous duck march. It’s a lighthearted but iconic moment that many visitors find charming — a true Memphis tradition. The tour wraps up at Beale Street, where you’ll see the stretch of blues clubs and bars that are the heartbeat of Memphis nightlife. Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling here, making the street come alive with music legends and local characters.

The Additional Options: Sun Studios & Riverboat

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the option to add Sun Studios, often called the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” For music lovers, this is a must-see that brings you closer to the roots of American popular music. Many reviewers call their visit here a highlight, especially the guided tour inside the studio. However, note that children under 5 aren’t allowed, which is worth considering if you’re traveling with little ones.

The Mississippi River paddlewheel cruise is another upgrade, giving you a chance to see Memphis from the water. The boat ride offers a relaxing view of the city’s skyline and some entertaining anecdotes from the captain. Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are during the cruise, making it a worthwhile addition for those wanting a leisurely experience.

How the Tour Is Delivered

The tour lasts between 2 to 7 hours, so you can choose a quick overview or a more leisurely exploration. The average price is $45 per person, which, when you consider the multiple stops and the inclusion of hotel pickup, feels like good value. The group size is small enough to foster a friendly atmosphere, and the guides are consistently praised for their enthusiasm, humor, and local knowledge.

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Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing is key: If you’re not staying downtown, you’ll meet at 119 N Riverside by 9:15 AM. Parking is free, but punctuality is important since the tour can run long or be tight on schedule.
• Weather matters: Since the experience is outdoors and on a bus, poor weather could lead to cancellations or changes. You’ll be offered a new date or a full refund if that happens.
• Food and breaks: Pack a snack if you’re doing the longer tour, especially if you plan to include the river cruise or Sun Studios, as times can be tight.
• Family-friendly? Not specifically tailored for children, especially since the Sun Studios tour isn’t suitable for kids under 5, but older kids who enjoy history and music might still have a good time.

What People Are Saying

Reviewers consistently highlight the guides as a standout feature, often describing them as knowledgeable, funny, and engaging. Many mention how much they learned about Memphis’s music, history, and culture, with some calling the guides “fantastic” and “a true asset” to the experience.

Multiple reviews also mention that the price is reasonable given the number of attractions visited, and that the tour offers great value for money. The inclusion of hotel pickup, especially in downtown Memphis, is a big win for convenience.

However, some travelers note that the tour involves a good amount of bus time, and others wish for more time to explore certain areas on foot, like Beale Street or Lorraine Motel. If you’re someone who prefers to walk and soak in the environment at your own pace, this might feel a little rushed.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This city tour is best suited for first-time visitors who want a well-rounded introduction to Memphis’s most famous sights. It’s perfect for those who appreciate storytelling and guided experiences, and who want the comfort of organized logistics. The optional additions — Sun Studios and the river cruise — make it flexible depending on your interests, especially if music history or relaxing boat rides appeal to you.

If you’re looking for a quick but comprehensive way to see Memphis’s highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly good for travelers who value expert guides and want to learn about the city’s history, music, and culture in a lively, friendly setting.

That said, if you’re already familiar with Memphis or prefer to explore independently and at your own pace, you might find this tour a bit structured. It isn’t designed for deep dives into each site, but rather an overview that whets your appetite for further exploration.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Memphis, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying in that area.

Can I join the tour if I don’t stay downtown?
Absolutely. If you’re not in downtown Memphis, you can meet at 119 N Riverside by 9:15 AM. Just be sure to arrive on time.

How long does the tour last?
It can run from 2 to 7 hours, depending on whether you add the optional activities and how much time you spend at each stop.

What sites are included in the basic tour?
You’ll see the Lorraine Motel, Peabody Hotel, Beale Street, Memphis Pyramid, and drive through Victorian Village. You’ll also pass statues of B.B. King and Elvis Presley.

Is Sun Studios suitable for children?
Children under 5 aren’t allowed on the Sun Studios tour, but older kids interested in music and history might enjoy it.

What is the cost?
The base price is $45 per person. The optional river cruise and Sun Studios visits are paid separately, but many find it’s a good value considering the attractions.

Are guides friendly and knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides for their enthusiasm, humor, and deep knowledge of Memphis.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Pack snacks if you plan to do the longer tour or include additional activities.

How is the weather impact?
Since the tour is outdoors and includes bus travel, poor weather could lead to cancellations or schedule changes. You’ll be offered options if that occurs.

Wrapping Up

This guided Memphis city tour offers a well-rounded, engaging introduction to America’s “Home of the Blues.” It’s a solid choice for those wanting to see the city’s highlights without the stress of planning, especially if you’re short on time or visiting for the first time. With its friendly guides, flexible options, and convenient logistics, it can help you feel connected to Memphis’s music, history, and culture — even if only for a few hours.

Whether you’re a music lover eager to see Sun Studios, a history buff wanting to reflect at the Lorraine Motel, or just someone looking to get your bearings in Memphis, this tour provides a practical, enjoyable way to start your adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: