Guided Memphis City Tour that includes Riverboat Cruise

Planning a trip to Memphis? If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to the city’s highlights, this guided Memphis city tour combined with a riverboat cruise might be just what you need. It promises a mix of historic sights, musical landmarks, and scenic views—all wrapped into a manageable half-day outing.

What really appeals to us about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring Memphis’s stories to life, and second, the chance to enjoy a laid-back cruise on the Mississippi River with impressive views and engaging commentary.

However, one thing to consider is that the river cruise can be weather-dependent, so if gusty winds are blowing, the boat ride might get canceled—something to keep in mind when planning. This tour is best suited for travelers looking for an overview of Memphis’s top sights, especially those interested in music history and river scenery, and who don’t mind a packed schedule.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines city sightseeing with a river cruise for a well-rounded view of Memphis.
• Expert guides: Known for their humor, knowledge, and storytelling skills, guides significantly enhance the tour.
• Historic landmarks: Includes Beale Street, Lorraine Motel, Victorian Village, and the Peabody Ducks, giving you a taste of Memphis’s cultural roots.
• Scenic river cruise: Offers relaxing views of the Mississippi and commentary on local landmarks like Tom Lee Park.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included (for select Memphis hotels), making the day easier.
• Good value: At $85 per person, it balances cost with a rich mix of sights and experiences.

A Closer Look at What the Tour Offers

Introduction and Pickup

The experience kicks off in downtown Memphis around 9:00 am with hotel pickup, if you’re staying centrally. This saves you the hassle of navigating around or finding a meeting point. The guide, described as professional, humorous, and knowledgeable, immediately sets a friendly tone that continues throughout.

Downtown Memphis and Landmark Highlights

Our first stop is a guided tour of downtown Memphis, where you’ll see some of the city’s most iconic sights. The guides excel at sharing stories that bring these landmarks to life, making history more accessible and engaging. Expect to pass by Beale Street, which is famous for its blues clubs, and see the statues of Elvis Presley and B.B. King—two titans of Memphis’s musical legacy.

Many reviewers, like Marie_N, highlight how informative and entertaining guides like Sam make the experience memorable. Sam, in particular, is praised for his humor and depth of knowledge, with one reviewer calling him “the best tour leader I have met in many years.”

Victorian Village and Historic Homes

Next, you’ll gaze at the Victorian Village, with its well-preserved 19th-century homes that echo Memphis’s past affluence. This part of the tour adds a dash of elegance and architectural history to the mix, giving you a visual sense of the city’s development.

Civil Rights Landmarks

A significant and moving stop is at the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. The guide offers context about this tragic event that still resonates today. It’s a reminder that Memphis is not just about music or architecture but also pivotal moments in American history.

The Peabody Ducks and Famous Hotels

A fun, lighter moment comes with a visit to the Peabody Hotel to watch the famous Duck March. Many visitors find this surprisingly entertaining, with some reviews describing it as “hilarious” and “very entertaining.” It’s a quirky tradition that adds a bit of whimsy to the tour.

Historic and Cultural Stops

Other notable sights include the A. Schwab general store, over 120 years old, and the site of the Lorraine Motel. These stops enrich your understanding of Memphis’s diverse stories—from commerce to civil rights.

Scenic Mississippi River Cruise

After the city tour, you’ll board the Island Queen, a three-deck paddlewheel boat that offers excellent views of the Mississippi. This is a highlight for many, providing a relaxing way to see the riverbanks and hear commentary from the captain about the significance of the river to Memphis’s economy and history.

Some reviews, like Diane_H’s, note that the boat’s windy day made the experience less perfect, but most found it peaceful and engaging. Pass by Tom Lee Park and learn about the man who heroically saved 32 passengers in 1925—these stories add depth to the cruise.

Duration and Flow

The entire experience lasts about 6.5 hours, which is a solid half-day. It’s a busy schedule but designed to give a comprehensive snapshot of Memphis, from historical sites to musical landmarks, topped off with scenic river views.

Cost and Value

At $85 per person, the tour strikes a good balance. It includes hotel pickup (for select hotels), all entrance fees for the cruise, and guiding services. Many reviews emphasize how much value they received, especially considering the knowledgeable guides and variety of sights.

Practical Considerations

There’s no included lunch, so plan accordingly—either bring snacks or plan a quick meal during the designated free time. Also, the boat cruise is weather-dependent; strong winds or storms can cause cancellations, but the tour company offers full refunds or alternative dates if this happens.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect. Many travelers rave about guides like Sam and Daryl, citing their humor and depth of knowledge as highlights. One reviewer said, “The tour was very interesting, made more enjoyable because our guide was very knowledgeable along with a humorous delivery.” Others appreciated the balance of history and entertainment, with some saying it’s a great way to get an overview if you only have a day in Memphis.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One person pointed out that the riverboat cruise was canceled due to high winds, but they appreciated the transparency and offered alternatives. Another mentioned that the walk down to the riverboat on cobblestones might be challenging for those with mobility issues, and a golf cart ride could be helpful but isn’t included.

Highlights from Real Reviews

• “Our guide, Darrell, was very friendly and gave us great details about Memphis’s history.”
• “The paddleboat was nice, and the commentary added a nice touch.”
• “The Duck March was hilarious, and the tour guide was super knowledgeable and funny.”
• “Most travelers find the city tour very informative and well-paced.”
• “The boat cruise is relaxing, but weather can impact the experience.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Memphis without the hassle of planning multiple activities. If you’re interested in Memphis’s musical roots, civil rights history, and river scenery, it hits all those marks. It’s also suited for travelers who enjoy guided storytelling and prefer organized, convenient experiences.

If you’re traveling with mobility concerns, be aware that walking on cobblestones might be tricky, and the boat cruise can be canceled due to weather. For those with limited time in Memphis, this tour packs a lot into one day and offers a good introduction to what makes Memphis special.

The Sum Up

This guided Memphis city tour with a riverboat cruise offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to see a wide array of Memphis’s most notable sights. Thanks to engaging guides and scenic views, it balances history, culture, and relaxation, making it a popular choice among visitors.

While weather can occasionally interfere with the river cruise, the overall experience remains highly regarded, especially for those wanting a full snapshot of Memphis’s musical, civil rights, and riverfront heritage. It’s particularly well-suited for first-timers, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates a mix of storytelling and scenic beauty.

If you’re after a manageable, insightful, and fun way to explore Memphis in one go, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to check the weather forecast and plan your meals accordingly—it’s a full day, but one packed with memorable moments.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, for select Memphis hotels, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes the day a lot easier.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes about 6.5 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is subject to favorable weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Can I buy drinks or snacks on the boat? Yes, there are drinks and snacks available for purchase on the paddlewheel boat.

Is this tour suitable for families? While not explicitly family-focused, the tour is generally appropriate for most travelers interested in Memphis’s sights and history. Check for mobility considerations if needed.

How much does the tour cost? It’s $85 per person, which includes all activities, the river cruise, and hotel pickup.

What are some highlights I should look out for? Beale Street, Lorraine Motel, Victorian Village, Peabody Ducks, and the Mississippi River views.

Are guides knowledgeable? Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Sam and Darrell for their humor, friendliness, and depth of knowledge.

Is the river cruise scenic? Absolutely. You’ll enjoy relaxing views of the Mississippi and learn about its importance to Memphis.

Can I customize or extend this tour? No, this is a fixed schedule experience, but you can add other Memphis activities separately if you have more time.

This Memphis combo tour offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and scenery—perfect for those wanting to get a solid feel for the city without overcommitting. Just pack comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a day full of stories and sights.