Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour

Memphis, the birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll, is a city steeped in rich history and cultural significance. The City Discovery Bus Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the heart of this vibrant metropolis, exploring its renowned landmarks and uncovering the stories that have shaped its identity. From the world-famous Beale Street to the Lorraine Motel, where the legacy of the civil rights movement lives on, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the soul of Memphis. With options to visit museums, indulge in mouthwatering barbecue, and even take a cruise along the mighty Mississippi River, the tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the city’s diverse offerings.

Key Points

Comprehensive 2-6 hour Memphis city tour showcasing renowned landmarks and cultural attractions, including Beale Street and the Lorraine Motel.
Offers options to visit museums like the Rock n Soul Museum and Edge Motor Museum, as well as take a Mississippi River cruise.
Highlights the city’s rich musical heritage as the ‘birthplace of rock and roll’ and features a stop at the I Am A Man Plaza.
Includes a visit to the historic Victorian Village and an opportunity to sample renowned Memphis-style barbecue at Central BBQ.
Conveniently located with a meeting point on Beale Street and flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

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Overview of the Tour

The City Discovery Bus Tour offers visitors a rundown of Memphis, allowing them to experience the city’s renowned landmarks and cultural attractions during a 2-6 hour excursion.

Priced from $38.41 per person, the tour takes guests on a journey through the heart of Memphis, showcasing highlights such as the world-famous Beale Street, the historic Victorian Village, and more.

Along the way, travelers have the option to explore additional attractions, including the Rock n Soul Museum, the Edge Motor Museum, and even take a Mississippi River cruise.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a convenient meeting point, the City Discovery Bus Tour provides a convenient and immersive way to discover the best of Memphis.

Highlights of the Tour

A comprehensive tour, the City Discovery Bus Tour allows visitors to experience Memphis’ renowned landmarks and cultural attractions.

From the world-famous Beale Street to the historic Victorian Village, the tour showcases the city’s vibrant spirit and rich history.

Key highlights include a stop at the Lorraine Motel, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, and the I Am A Man Plaza, which commemorates the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike.

Passengers can also explore the iconic Orpheum Theater, stroll through Cotton Row, and admire the mighty Mississippi River.

Along the way, guests have the option to visit the Rock n Soul Museum, the Edge Motor Museum, or take a sightseeing cruise on the river.

Key Sights to Explore

Beneath the iconic neon signs of Beale Street, visitors enjoy the birthplace of blues and the heartbeat of Memphis’ musical legacy.

Nearby, the Lorraine Motel stands as a solemn reminder of the civil rights movement, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. Across the street, the I Am A Man Plaza commemorates the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike, a pivotal moment in the struggle for racial equality.

Further along the tour, the historic Orpheum Theater and Cotton Row showcase the city’s rich commercial heritage, while the Hotel Chisca offers a glimpse into Memphis’ Victorian past.

The Mississippi River, ever-present, serves as a serene backdrop to these important landmarks.

Food and Drink Offerings

Visitors can sample the city’s renowned barbecue offerings at Central BBQ, a local institution known for its tender meats and tangy sauces.

This iconic Memphis-style barbecue joint has been serving up mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork, and brisket for over 20 years.

Theres some good classic barbecue plates or sandwiches, accompanied by signature sides like creamy coleslaw and zesty baked beans.

The restaurant’s relaxed, casual atmosphere and friendly service add to the authentic Memphis experience.

Whether you’re a barbecue connoisseur or a first-time visitor, a stop at Central BBQ is a must for anyone looking to savor the flavors that have made Memphis a culinary destination.

Museums and Attractions

The tour also offers opportunities to explore several renowned museums and attractions in Memphis. The Rock n Soul Museum provides an immersive look into the city’s critical role in music history, showcasing the influential pioneers who helped shape genres like blues, soul, and rock n’ roll. Guests can explore the rich narratives behind iconic artists and uncover the evolution of Memphis’ vibrant music scene.

The Edge Motor Museum houses a captivating collection of American muscle cars, offering visitors a chance to glimpse the powerful engineering and design that defined an automotive era.

The tour may also include:

A serene cruise along the mighty Mississippi River
Visits to iconic landmarks like the Lorraine Motel and Beale Street
Exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage
Opportunities to sample mouthwatering Memphis barbecue
Insights into the city’s reputation as the ‘birthplace of rock and roll’

Tour Logistics and Booking

Booking the City Discovery Bus Tour is easy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour’s meeting point is at the Backbeat podium, located on the downstairs patio of Alfred’s on Beale Street, providing a convenient starting location for visitors to begin their Memphis exploration.

From there, the comprehensive 2-6 hour tour takes guests to see the city’s top sights, including the Lorraine Motel, Beale Street, and the Mississippi River.

With a range of optional activities like museum visits and river cruises, travelers can customize their experience to match their interests and schedule.

Whether booking in advance or on the day, the City Discovery Bus Tour offers a hassle-free way to discover the best of Memphis.

Lorraine Motel and Civil Rights

Situated at the heart of the civil rights movement, the Lorraine Motel stands as a poignant reminder of the tragic events that unfolded on April 4, 1968, when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on its balcony.

This historic site now houses the National Civil Rights Museum, which offers a powerful and immersive exploration of the struggle for equality and justice.

Visitors can:

Stand in the exact spot where Dr. King took his final breath
Trace the steps of the sanitation workers’ march that preceded his death
Reflect on the ongoing fight for racial equity and human rights
Gain a deeper understanding of the pivotal role Memphis played in the civil rights movement
Honor the memory and legacy of this legendary leader.

Beale Street and the Blues

Beale Street proudly stands as the heart and soul of Memphis, a vibrant epicenter where the rich legacy of the blues comes to life. Visitors can enjoy the sights, sounds, and electrifying atmosphere that have made this iconic street a mecca for music lovers from around the world. Along Beale Street, one can find a diverse array of blues clubs, live music venues, and eateries that celebrate the city’s musical heritage. From the legendary B.B. King’s Blues Club to the iconic Withers Collection Museum & Gallery, this historic district offers a captivating glimpse into Memphis’ storied past and its enduring influence on American music.

Beale Street Highlights
B.B. King’s Blues Club	Withers Collection Museum & Gallery	Beale Street Music Hall	Silky O’Sullivan’s	Rum Boogie Cafe
Iconic Clubs	Renowned Museums	Live Music Venues	Irish Pubs	Southern Cuisine

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on guided tours, unless otherwise specified by the tour operator. It’s best to check the tour details or contact the company beforehand to confirm the policy.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Bus?

The tour bus does not provide Wi-Fi access for passengers. Guests are advised to plan accordingly and use their mobile data or seek out free public Wi-Fi in the city during stops on the tour.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

While the tour itinerary is pre-set, guests can often customize their experience by selecting optional activities like visiting the Rock n Soul Museum or taking a Mississippi River cruise. The tour allows flexibility to focus on the traveler’s specific interests.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

Yes, the Memphis City Discovery Bus Tour offers discounts for seniors and students. Seniors 65+ and students with valid ID can receive up to 10% off the regular tour price. Discounts are automatically applied during the booking process.

How Often Do the Buses Run During the Day?

The buses for the Memphis City Discovery Tour operate on a regular schedule, typically running every 30-60 minutes throughout the day, providing visitors with the flexibility to explore the city’s top attractions at their own pace.

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Recap

The Memphis: City Discovery Bus Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

From the iconic Beale Street to the poignant Lorraine Motel, the tour immerses visitors in Memphis’ legacy as the birthplace of blues and rock and roll.

With options to explore acclaimed museums, sample local barbecue, and cruise the Mississippi River, this excursion provides an engaging and insightful way to discover the heart of the Bluff City.