Memphis Historic Walking Tour by Backbeat Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
about 1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with minimal inclines or strenuous activity.
Overview
Discover Memphis’s fascinating history on this engaging 90-minute walking tour with Backbeat Tours. Dive into legendary stories, Civil War landmarks, and local legends that bring the city’s vibrant past to life. Ready to walk through Memphis’s storied streets? Join Backbeat Tours for an afternoon filled with history, culture, and captivating tales that make this city unforgettable.
Historic Memphis Walking Tour: Memphis Beyond Beale
1.5 Hours • All Ages!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Discover the rich history of Memphis on this captivating 90-minute walking tour, led by the author of A Guide to Historic Downtown Memphis. Explore iconic sites, from the Peabody Duck March to Civil War landmarks, while uncovering tales of legendary figures and the city's vibrant past. Perfect for all ages!
Key points about this tour:
- From the author of A Guide to Historic Downtown Memphis comes this fascinating walking tour of the Bluff City.
- Appropriate for all ages
- We walk about 1.5 miles on this tour
- Join us today to learn about the fascinating story of this culturally and historically rich city.
Tour Times
- March - November
- 9:30am daily
- January - February, December
- 9:30am: Mon, Wed, Fri-Sat
Duration
- 90-minutes
- About 1.5 miles of walking
Meeting Place and Check In Time
- Peabody Hotel Lobby, near the Concierge Desk
- GPS Address 149 Union Ave., Memphis, TN
- Arrive 15 minutes prior to the tour
What is not included?
- Gratuity for your tour guide is not included but is greatly appreciated.
More Information
From the author of A Guide to Historic Downtown Memphis comes this fascinating walking tour of the Bluff City. Your guide will unfold the story of this rowdy river town and its people – tough frontiersmen like Davy Crockett and Sam Houston; dashing Confederate soldiers and Civil War spies; gamblers, speculators, and fancy ladies who arrived by steamboat and train; gangsters and machine bosses fueled by Prohibition-era greed. Along the way, you'll see:
- The Peabody Duck March
- Main Street
- Fourth Bluff Park (formerly Confederate Park), overlooking the Mississippi River
- Civil War sites (the Battle of Memphis and Forrest's Raid)
- Historic Court Square
This tour is appropriate for all ages. Join us today to learn about the fascinating story of this culturally and historically rich city.
New in 2025! Guided tour of the historic Orpheum Theater can be added on to the Historic Memphis Walking Tour (adds 1.5 hours to the total time); available Monday-Wednesday only.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour covers a fair amount of ground, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are recommended.
Bring water and weather protection
Stay hydrated and prepared for sun or rain, depending on the season, to enjoy the tour comfortably.
Arrive early for check-in
Arriving a few minutes early ensures a smooth start and allows you to settle before the tour begins.
Take notes for a richer experience
Bring a notebook or smartphone to jot down stories or sites of particular interest for later reflection.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons in downtown squares
- Birds along the Mississippi River
History
Memphis's downtown area played a pivotal role during the Civil War and later became a hub for blues and soul music, shaping American musical and cultural history.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on preserving historic architecture and maintaining clean, walkable city streets to enhance visitor experience and sustainability.
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Adventure Hotspots in Memphis
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Proper footwear is vital for a comfortable stroll through Memphis’s streets.
Hat and sunscreen
Protect yourself from the sun during sunny days in summer.
summer specific
Rain jacket or umbrella
Be prepared for unexpected showers regardless of season.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Notepad or smartphone for notes
Capture key stories or details for later reflection.