Memphis City Tour + Elvis Experience with entry to Graceland

If you’re dreaming of soaking up Memphis’s vibrant energy and iconic music scene, this tour offers a solid way to do it. It combines a comprehensive city sightseeing experience with a dedicated visit to Graceland, the legendary home of Elvis Presley. Considering its 4.7-star rating based on 115 reviews, it’s clear a lot of travelers find this day both enjoyable and worthwhile.

What we really like about this tour is how it’s designed for convenience—hotel pickup and drop-off mean you don’t have to stress about logistics. Plus, the combination of city highlights and Elvis’s mansion packs a lot into one day, making it a good value for the price. That said, the 7-hour duration might feel a bit long if you’re pressed for time or prefer more relaxed sightseeing.

This experience tends to appeal most to music fans, history buffs, and those eager to see Memphis’s most famous sites without the hassle of planning. If you’re traveling with family or aren’t a huge Elvis fan, it’s worth considering how much time you’ll want to spend at each stop.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines Memphis city sights with a detailed Elvis tour.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for knowledgeable, friendly guides who make the trip engaging.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off add ease, especially if you’re staying downtown.
• Rich in Highlights: From Beale Street to the Civil Rights Museum, you’ll see the city’s diverse history.
• Entrance to Graceland: Includes access to the mansion, car museum, airplanes, and exhibits.
• Value for Money: For $195, the tour offers a lot—especially for music and history lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Memphis City Tour + Elvis Experience

This tour kicks off with a downtown hotel pickup, which is super handy if you’re staying within the central area. For those outside the hotel zone, there’s an alternative meeting point at 119 N Riverside Drive, with free parking available. Starting around 9:15 AM, the schedule ensures you’re back in time to relax after a full day.

Exploring Memphis: The City Highlights

Once on the bus, your guide takes you through some of Memphis’s most iconic spots. The journey is more than just a drive; it’s packed with insights and stories that you might not get just wandering around on your own.

You’ll see statues honoring B.B. King and Elvis Presley, which instantly set the tone for a city deeply rooted in music. Passing by the Lorraine Motel, now the National Civil Rights Museum, offers a chance to reflect on a pivotal part of American history. This site’s significance is not lost on visitors, and the tour’s commentary often emphasizes the importance of Memphis in civil rights.

The tour also takes you to the A. Schwab shop, a beloved local spot where you can browse Memphis-themed souvenirs, crafts, candies, and more—perfect for picking up a unique keepsake.

Driving past the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital gives you a glimpse of Memphis’s contributions to health and research. The Memphis Pyramid is another highlight—its transformation from an athletic arena to a Bass Pro Shops megastore offers a surprising contrast, and you’ll get a quick view of its impressive scale.

While the Peabody Ducks might be the highlight for many, the sight of the ducks marching on the red carpet at the Peabody Hotel is just a fun, quirky moment that adds some charm to the city tour. Beale Street, famous for its blues clubs and lively vibe, is also a key stop where you can get a sense of Memphis’s musical soul.

The drive through Victorian Village, with its historic 19th-century homes, adds a touch of elegance and history, showcasing Memphis’s architectural beauty and cotton legacy.

The Elvis Experience at Graceland

After a few hours exploring Memphis, the tour transitions to the highlight for many: the Elvis Presley estate—Graceland. Your ticket includes an audio-guided mansion tour, giving you access to Elvis’s home where he lived, loved, and created music. Most reviews mention being overwhelmed by how iconic it feels—walking through the rooms where Elvis spent so much of his life.

The Car Museum showcases Elvis’s collection of Cadillacs and Harley-Davidson motorcycles, giving a glimpse into his personal style and love for unique vehicles. The airplanes and private jets are equally fascinating, illustrating how Elvis’s fame took him around the world in style.

The Elvis Discovery Exhibits and Career Showcase are packed with memorabilia and exhibits that tell the story of his rise to stardom, from his Sun Studio recordings to legendary Vegas performances. Many visitors note that the exhibits are well-curated, making it easier to appreciate Elvis’s impact on music and pop culture.

You’ll also find the Elvis Entertainment Complex, which includes gift shops and eateries, making it convenient to pick up souvenirs and grab a bite. One visitor noted that the tour was well-organized and reasonably priced, especially considering the depth of the experience.

How It Feels to Experience It All

Most reviews highlight guides like Darryl, Sam, and Michelle, as being knowledgeable, witty, and helpful. Their stories add depth and personality to the experience, making what might otherwise be just a sightseeing day into something memorable.

While the overall experience is highly praised, a few reviews suggest that the duration at Graceland could be longer, as some visitors wish they had more time to see everything without feeling rushed. Also, one reviewer was disappointed that they didn’t get to go inside the Civil Rights Museum, although the tour does include a drive-by.

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Practical Details & Comfort

The buses are described as clean and comfortable, which matters when you’ll be on the road for a significant part of the day. The cost of $195 per person is generally considered fair for the amount of sightseeing and access provided, especially with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

The tour runs in good weather, but if conditions are poor, it might be canceled or rescheduled, so packing accordingly is wise. Booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds flexibility, which is always a plus.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you love music history, especially Elvis Presley, and want a well-rounded overview of Memphis’s highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided commentary and prefer to see multiple sites without the hassle of planning individual visits.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who share an interest in Elvis or Memphis’s cultural scene, this tour can be a fantastic way to bond over shared experiences. However, if you’re not particularly interested in Elvis, you might find the visit to Graceland somewhat focused, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced, engaging way to explore Memphis’s key attractions, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer guided visits. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge really shine through, making the experience more personal and memorable. The combination of city sights and Elvis’s estate makes it a comprehensive introduction to Memphis’s music and cultural heritage.

At $195, you get quite a lot—city highlights, a deep dive into Elvis’s life, and the convenience of an organized tour. For those who want a rich, hassle-free experience that covers the essentials, this tour hits the mark. Just remember, if you’re a huge Elvis fan, you might wish for more time at Graceland; if history and city life intrigue you, there’s plenty to keep you captivated.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off for downtown Memphis hotels. If you’re outside the area, you can meet at 119 N Riverside Drive at 9:15 AM.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including sightseeing, travel, and the visit to Graceland.

What sites are included in the city tour?
You’ll see key Memphis landmarks like the Peabody Hotel and ducks, Lorraine Motel (Civil Rights Museum), Beale Street, Memphis Pyramid, Victorian Village, and more.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance to Graceland?
No, the ticket includes entry to Graceland Mansion, Airplanes, Elvis Discovery Exhibits, Car Museum, Career Showcase, and Entertainment Complex.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically designed for children, many reviews mention that it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in Elvis and Memphis history.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be touring Graceland and walking around the estate.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
This tour is offered in English only, so plan accordingly if language is a concern.

In the end, whether you’re a die-hard Elvis fan or just want to see Memphis’s highlights comfortably, this tour offers a solid, well-reviewed way to spend your day. It balances sightseeing, history, and music in a way that most travelers find satisfying—and that’s quite a feat for a 7-hour trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: