Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour: Memphis Beyond Beale

Memphis, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (437 reviews)
Self-guided - entry to attractions not included

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Professional guide
  • inclusion
    Other
    Local taxes

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities
    Gratuities
  • exclusion
    Other
    Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • exclusion
    Other
    Food and drinks

Meeting Point

Please meet your guide inside the Peabody Hotel Lobby, near the Concierge Desk.

Meeting point

149 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103 , United States

End point

End Point

Please meet your guide inside the Peabody Hotel Lobby, near the Concierge Desk.

Meeting point

149 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Barboro Alley

History of yellow fever in Memphis

Duration 10 minutes
2

WDIA-WHRK Radio Building

History of WDIA, the "Goodwill Station"

Duration 10 minutes
3

Court Square

History of one of Memphis' oldest and most beautiful parks

Duration 20 minutes
4

Confederate Park

Renamed Fourth Bluff Park in 2016, site of the Battle of Memphis in June 1862

Duration 15 minutes
5

Mississippi River

History and importance of the Mississippi River

Duration 15 minutes
6
The Cotton Museum at the Memphis Cotton Exchange

History of the Cotton Exchange and historic Cotton Row

Duration 10 minutes
7

Memphis Tourism

Once known as Howard's Row, see the oldest collection of original buildings in Downtown Memphis

Duration 10 minutes
8

The Peabody Ducks

History of the South's Grand Hotel and the Peabody duck march

Duration 20 minutes
9
The Orpheum Theatre

Visit the Orpheum Theater, the premier entertainment venue in Memphis since 1928. If the add -on option is selected, guests will be allowed to participate in a guided tour of the building (available Monday-Wednesday only and subject to change based on availability).

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Within a few blocks there are four different parking garages, and several open-air parking lots. The closest garage to our location (just two blocks away) is at 149 Peabody Place between Second Street and BB King Blvd., next to the Hampton Inn. You can try your luck with on-street metered parking, too, on Second Street just south of Beale; on Beale between Front and Second; or along Peabody Place from Front to Fourth Street.
Provided by Backbeat Tours

What our experts say

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    Try lunch at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken nearby.
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    Visit the National Civil Rights Museum after the tour.
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    Don't miss the Peabody Ducks at 11 AM or 5 PM.
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    Check out Beale Street for live music afterward.
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    Bring comfortable shoes for walking.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Step back in time and uncover the rich history of Memphis on the Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour. This immersive two-hour experience will take you on a journey through the city's captivating past, all while strolling at a leisurely pace. Discover hidden gems and hear fascinating tales of rebels during the Civil War and Prohibition Era bootleggers. Get ready to explore historic Cotton Row and Court Square, the heart of 19th century Memphis, and marvel at sweeping views of the mighty Mississippi River. And of course, no visit to Memphis is complete without witnessing the famous March of the Ducks at The Peabody Hotel. This tour is the perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment, suitable for the whole family.

What to expect?

On the Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour, you can anticipate a total duration of 120 minutes filled with intriguing insights and picturesque sights. The tour begins at the renowned Beale Street, known as the Home of the Blues, where you'll gather at Alfred's on Beale. From there, you'll delve into the history of Memphis' oldest and most beautiful parks, and immerse yourself in tales of the 1862 Civil War Battle. Prepare to be amused and awed by the legendary Peabody Ducks as they march through the grand hotel. Learn about the significance of the mighty Mississippi River and uncover the city's fascinating Civil War history. The tour also includes enlightening stories about WDIA, the "Goodwill Station," as well as the yellow fever outbreak in Memphis. Lastly, explore the historic Cotton Exchange and Cotton Row as you stroll through the city's vibrant streets.

Who is this for?

The Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour is designed for everyone who has an interest in history, culture, and Memphis' captivating past. Whether you're a local looking to uncover hidden stories of your city or a tourist seeking an immersive experience, this tour is perfect for you. Families, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers will all find something to enjoy on this journey through Memphis' illustrious past. The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as the leisurely pace ensures everyone can participate comfortably. Embark on this adventure and discover the secrets that make Memphis a truly unique destination.

Why book this?

The Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour offers a distinctive and immersive experience that combines entertainment with education. Led by knowledgeable guides, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Memphis' history and culture, woven together with captivating stories of rebels, bootleggers, and the iconic Peabody Ducks. As you explore historic sites such as Cotton Row and Court Square, you'll witness stunning views of the Mississippi River that will leave you in awe. This tour provides the perfect balance between sightseeing and storytelling, ensuring you leave with a newfound appreciation for the city and its remarkable past.

Good to know

During the Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour, it is advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. The leisurely pace of the tour allows for a relaxed and enjoyable experience. The tour includes various stops where you'll have the opportunity to take photos and soak in the atmosphere of each site. It is recommended to arrive a few minutes early at the meeting point on Beale Street to ensure a prompt start. Prepare to immerse yourself in Memphis' history, as the guides provide engaging storytelling and fascinating knowledge about each location. Come prepared to be captivated by the hidden stories and unexpected tales that make this tour a must-do in Memphis.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on the Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour rave about the experience. They praise the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides who bring the city's history to life with their captivating storytelling. Many are pleasantly surprised by the wide range of historical topics covered, from the Civil War to bootlegging and yellow fever. Visitors especially love the opportunity to witness the iconic March of the Ducks at The Peabody Hotel, which adds a unique and memorable touch to the tour. The comfortable walking pace and family-friendly nature of the tour make it accessible to all, with guests of all ages thoroughly enjoying the experience. Be prepared to step back in time and uncover the fascinating tales that make Memphis truly unforgettable.

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