The Memphis: Rock N Soul Museum offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s rich musical heritage. Developed by the renowned Smithsonian Institution, this comprehensive cultural institution features seven galleries that explore the struggles and triumphs of musical pioneers. Guests can embark on a self-guided audio tour, accessing over 300 minutes of informative commentary and live performances. With an impressive collection of instruments and costumes, the museum provides a unique opportunity to discover the legendary sounds that have shaped the city’s musical legacy. But the true allure of this experience lies in the stories waiting to be uncovered within the museum’s walls.
Key Points
- The Rock N Soul Museum in Memphis is a comprehensive cultural institution showcasing the rich musical heritage of the city.
- The museum offers a self-guided audio tour with over 300 minutes of informative commentary and musical performances.
- Visitors can explore an impressive collection of over 30 instruments and 40 costumes worn by legendary musicians.
- Admission starts at $8.59 per person, and there’s an option to reserve a spot and pay later.
- The museum features seven interactive galleries chronicling the unparalleled musical legacy of Memphis.
Museum Overview
The Memphis Rock n Soul Museum is a comprehensive cultural institution that showcases the rich musical heritage of the city, highlighting the stories and contributions of its pioneering artists.
Developed by the Smithsonian Institution, the museum features seven captivating galleries that explore the struggles and triumphs of the musical pioneers who overcame social barriers to create the distinctive sound of Memphis.
Visitors can embark on a self-guided audio tour, seeing over 300 minutes of informative commentary and musical performances.
The museum’s impressive collection includes more than 30 instruments and 40 costumes, allowing guests to gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that defined the city’s musical legacy.
Cost and Reservations
Visitors can explore the museum’s offerings at a cost starting from $8.59 per person, with the option to reserve their spot and pay later.
The audio-guided tour allows guests to discover the story of musical pioneers who overcame barriers to create timeless music. The tour features:
- 300+ minutes of information and music in the audio guide
- 3 audiovisual programs
- Over 30 instruments and 40 costumes on display
- Informational booklets available in multiple languages
The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 7 PM, with the last tour starting at 6:15 PM, allowing visitors ample time to explore the rich musical heritage of Memphis at their own pace.
Audio-Guided Tour
Through the audio-guided tour, guests embark on an immersive journey, uncovering the remarkable stories of the musical pioneers who overcame barriers to create Memphis’ enduring sound. The tour features over 300 minutes of captivating information and musical excerpts, guiding visitors through the museum’s seven galleries developed by the Smithsonian Institute. Enhancing the experience, the tour includes three audiovisual programs and provides access to a wealth of artifacts, such as over 30 instruments and 40 costumes from famous Memphis musicians.
| Audiovisual Programs | Artifacts on Display | Audio Guide Length |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 30+ instruments, 40+ costumes | 300+ minutes |
The audio guide and headsets, available in multiple languages, immerse guests in the rich musical heritage of Memphis, inspiring a deep appreciation for the city’s pivotal role in shaping American music.
Galleries and Exhibits
Guests embarking on the audio-guided tour are treated to a captivating exploration of the museum’s seven galleries, each meticulously developed by the Smithsonian Institute to chronicle the unparalleled musical legacy of Memphis.
The galleries feature:
- Informative exhibits detailing the origins and evolution of Memphis’ iconic sound, from the early days of blues and gospel to the rise of rock ‘n’ roll.
- Displays showcasing over 30 instruments and 40 costumes worn by legendary Memphis musicians, offering a tangible connection to the city’s musical heritage.
- Engaging audiovisual programs that immerse visitors in the sights and sounds that defined the Memphis music scene.
- Multilingual informational booklets to enhance the educational experience.
Audio Guide Details
The audio guide takes guests on an immersive journey through the museum’s captivating musical narrative, providing over 300 minutes of in-depth information and authentic audio clips. Visitors can explore seven interactive galleries, each showcasing the remarkable stories and contributions of the musical pioneers who overcame barriers to create the iconic Memphis sound. The audio guide features three engaging audiovisual programs, allowing guests to delve deeper into the rich history and cultural significance of the city’s musical heritage. With over 30 instruments and 40 costumes on display, the museum offers a truly immersive experience for music enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Audio Guide Length | Over 300 minutes of information and music |
| Audiovisual Programs | 3 engaging programs provide deeper insights |
| Instrument and Costume Display | Over 30 instruments and 40 costumes on exhibit |
| Language Options | Informational booklets available in multiple languages |
| Included Amenities | MP3 audio guides, headsets, and water (available for purchase) |
Inclusions and Amenities
Visitors to the Memphis Rock n Soul Museum can expect to receive MP3 audio guides and headsets as part of their admission, allowing them to fully enjoy the museum’s captivating musical narrative.
Along With the audio guides, the museum offers several other amenities to enhance the visitor experience:
- Access to a well-stocked musical gift shop, where guests can browse a selection of souvenirs and commemorative items.
- The availability of water for purchase, ensuring visitors stay hydrated during their exploration of the museum’s exhibits.
- Informational booklets available in multiple languages, catering to the diverse array of guests who visit the museum.
A variety of nearby dining and parking options make the visit convenient and accessible.
Meeting Point and Directions
The Memphis Rock n Soul Museum is conveniently located at 200 South B.B. King Boulevard in Memphis, Tennessee 38103, USA.
Visitors can easily find the museum as it’s situated in the heart of downtown Memphis, just steps away from other famous attractions like Beale Street.
The museum’s central location makes it easily accessible by car, with several nearby parking options available.
Guests can also take advantage of public transportation, as the museum is near bus stops and the Memphis Area Transit Authority’s main transfer station.
With its prime location, the Rock n Soul Museum provides a seamless and enjoyable experience for anyone exploring Memphis’s rich musical heritage.
Museum Hours and Nearby Options
The Memphis Rock n Soul Museum operates daily from 9:30 AM to 7 PM, with the last audio tour beginning at 6:15 PM.
Conveniently, multiple dining and parking options are available in the immediate vicinity of the museum, allowing visitors to seamlessly incorporate the museum into their overall Memphis experience.
Nearby dining options include:
BB King’s Blues Club, serving up Southern classics and live music.
Loflin Yard, an indoor-outdoor restaurant and bar in a restored industrial space.
Beale Street, the iconic entertainment district with a wide variety of restaurants and bars.
Peabody Place, a shopping and dining complex just a short walk from the museum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Audio Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?
The audio tour at the Memphis Rock n Soul Museum offers informational booklets in multiple languages in addition to the English-language audio guide, allowing visitors from diverse backgrounds to fully experience the museum’s exhibits and storytelling.
Can I Take Photographs or Videos Inside the Museum?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs and videos inside the museum, as long as they do not use flash or tripods. However, some exhibits or areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with staff upon arrival.
Are There Guided Tours Available in Addition to the Audio Tour?
Yes, the museum offers guided tours in addition to the self-guided audio tour. Visitors can join a docent-led tour to learn more about the museum’s exhibits and the history of Memphis’ influential music scene.
What Is the Policy for Children and Seniors Visiting the Museum?
The museum offers discounted admission for children under 12 and seniors over 62, though specific pricing details are not provided. Visitors in these age groups can enjoy the full audio tour and museum exhibits.
Is There a Cloakroom or Storage Facility Available for Personal Belongings?
The museum does not have a designated cloakroom or storage facility for personal belongings. Visitors are advised to keep their items with them during the tour. There are no storage options provided by the museum.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
Recap
The Memphis: Rock N Soul Museum offers a captivating journey into the city’s rich musical heritage.
With its comprehensive galleries, self-guided audio tour, and impressive collection of artifacts, the museum provides an immersive and educational experience for visitors.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast or simply curious about Memphis’ cultural legacy, this museum is a must-visit destination that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.