A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis

4.5 (6 reviews) 2 hours – 2 h 30 min Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

6 reviews

4.5

A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Are you looking for a way to see Memphis without joining a tour group? On this self-guided tour, you'll discover where to find the best beats, BBQ and brews in town.

Many visitors to Bluff City think of its historic woes in the 1970s and 1980s, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, when the inner city was rife with riots and looting. But Memphis is on the rebound, and on this walking tour, I’ll share how the city is reclaiming its spot as the cultural hub of the Delta blues, brews, and BBQ.

You'll walk from Central Station Memphis, through the downtown area and the historical Beale Street Entertainment District, home of the Blues.

Along the way, Phil, a tour producer and working actor, will show you opulent theatres, skyscrapers, churches, and monuments, including Orpheum Theatre, The Peabody Memphis Hotel, Tennessee Club and the National Civil Rights Museum.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Walking Tours City Tours Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate New Product

At a glance

Duration: 2 hours – 2 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Operated by: VoiceMap Audio Tours

Ages: Adults (6–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it
Included: Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Included: Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Not included

Not included: Smartphone and headphones
Not included: Food and drink

Itinerary

Memphis Central Station

Passing by

Begin your tour outside Central Station Memphis, a vintage trolley station in the historical South Main Arts District, known for its impressive transformation from a train station to a hotel.
Earnestine & Hazel's

Passing by

Pass by Earnestine & Hazel's, a renowned establishment with a colorful history, serving as a church, dry goods store, pharmacy, and even a notorious brothel before becoming a reputable club.
Stop 3

Passing by

Stroll past The Arcade Restaurant, a historic diner known for its retro charm and delicious fare, offering a glimpse into Memphis' culinary heritage.
Stop 4

Passing by

As you explore the downtown area, catch a glimpse of the 1866 Memphis Historic Marker, commemorating significant events in the city's past.
Stop 5

Passing by

Pass by the Lorraine Motel, a landmark with profound historical significance as the site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, now preserved as the National Civil Rights Museum.
National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel

Passing by

Pass by the National Civil Rights Museum, housed in the former Lorraine Motel. This museum offers powerful exhibits and insights into the Civil Rights Movement.
Blues Hall of Fame Museum

Passing by

Catch a glimpse of the Blues Hall of Fame Museum, showcasing exhibits highlighting the rich history and cultural significance of blues music in Memphis.
Stop 8

Passing by

Take in the impressive "I am a Man" mural, reflecting the city's history and the struggles faced by African Americans, as you explore the vibrant streets of Memphis.
Stop 9

Passing by

Pass by Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken, a beloved institution known for its mouthwatering fried chicken, adds to the tour's culinary delights.
Stop 10

Passing by

Catch a glimpse of the African Americans from Memphis mural, celebrating the contributions and achievements of African Americans in the city's history.
The Orpheum Theatre

Passing by

Pass by the iconic Orpheum Theatre, a historic venue known for its grand architecture and cultural significance in the performing arts scene of Memphis.
Stop 12

Passing by

Explore the vibrant Beale Street Entertainment District, known as the home of the blues, lined with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Stop 13

Passing by

Pass by Silky O'Sullivan's, a popular establishment known for its lively atmosphere and unique attractions, including the "beware Irish diving goats."
Stop 14

Passing by

See The Peabody Memphis, a luxurious hotel steeped in history and elegance, as you soak in the sights of downtown Memphis.
Stop 15

Passing by

Walk through General Washburn's Escape Alley, one of the many hidden alleys in Memphis with intriguing names and stories waiting to be discovered.
Stop 16

Passing by

Pass by Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous, a renowned restaurant known for its mouthwatering barbecue and inviting ambiance, adding to the culinary delights of the tour.
Stop 17

Passing by

Pass by the Sterick Building, an architectural gem that once dominated the Memphis skyline, offering insights into the city's historic architecture.
Stop 18

Passing by

Catch a glimpse of Court Square Park, a serene oasis in the heart of downtown Memphis, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the urban hustle and bustle.
Stop 19

Passing by

Pass by Memphis City Hall, a historic landmark with distinctive architecture, serving as the seat of government for the city of Memphis.
Tennessee Welcome Center

Passing by

Pass by the Tennessee Welcome Center, a hub for visitors to gather information and resources about exploring the state's attractions and destinations.
Stop 21

Passing by

End your tour near The Pyramid, an iconic landmark overlooking the Mississippi River that symbolizes Memphis' rich cultural heritage and vibrant spirit.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

The tour begins at Memphis Central Station, which is accessible via trolley or walking at the corner of South Main Street and St. Paul Avenue.

You can always put this address into your GPS as well: 545 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103, which will lead you to the first stop.

End point

The tour ends at the Great American Pyramid

Using your ticket

VOICEMAP CODE

───

Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

───

1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

3. Create an account

4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

───

You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

───

For technical support and other queries, please email [email protected]