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.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
about 1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with minimal inclines or strenuous activity.
Wildlife
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.
Backbeat Tours
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.
Backbeat Tours is a Memphis-based tour company offering a range of guided experiences that showcase the city’s history, music, food, and folklore. Operating from Memphis, Tennessee, Backbeat Tours presents walking tours, bus-based Mojo Tours, extended discovery excursions, and specialty themed experiences.
Highlights include the Historic Memphis Walking Tour: Memphis Beyond Beale, a 90-minute walk led by the author of A Guide to Historic Downtown Memphis; the Memphis Mojo Tour with Sun Studio admission led by professional musicians; and the Memphis Discovery Tours that combine sightseeing with local BBQ and museum visits. Tours range from one-hour Beale Street walks and 90-minute specialty walks — such as the True Crime Tour and the Walking Ghost Tour — to three-hour Discovery and Mojo Tours that include museum admission or a Mississippi River paddlewheel cruise.
Many tours emphasize music history, with stops like Sun Studio and the Stax Museum included on select itineraries. The True Crime Tour offers a signature cocktail stop at the Moxy Hotel as part of its route. Backbeat Tours focuses on local storytelling and guided commentary that ties landmarks, anecdotes, and cultural context together for guests of all ages. Admission inclusions and professional guide partnerships appear on specific itineraries, providing clear expectations at booking. Visitors can choose from themed options — history, music, crime, food, and haunted walks — tailored to different interests and timeframes. By centering local expertise and varied formats, Backbeat Tours delivers accessible, topic-focused experiences across Memphis. Booking information, schedules, and specific admission details are available on the tour listings online.
Base Location
Memphis, TN
Historic downtown hub
Tour Durations
1–3 hours
Short, guided experiences
Tours Offered
9
Variety of themes and lengths
Special Access
Sun Studio & Stax
Includes museum admissions
Reserve a spot on a Beale Street walk, Mojo Tour, riverboat cruise, or specialty themed tour and discover Memphis on a guided, expertly narrated outing.
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.
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
Rain jacket or umbrella
Be prepared for unexpected showers regardless of season.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Notepad or smartphone for notes
Capture key stories or details for later reflection.