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Step into Memphis’s shadowy past with Backbeat Tours’ gripping 90-minute True Crime Tour. Discover infamous crime scenes, hear stories of legendary figures, and unwind with a signature cocktail at a chic hotel—a memorable way to see Memphis’s darker side.
Step into Memphis’s shadowy past with Backbeat Tours’ gripping 90-minute True Crime Tour. Discover infamous crime scenes, hear stories of legendary figures, and unwind with a signature cocktail at a chic hotel—a memorable way to see Memphis’s darker side.
Book with Backbeat Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Backbeat Tours · Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis, Tennessee, is renowned for its vibrant music scene and rich history, but beneath its lively surface lies a shadowy past filled with crime, mystery, and legendary figures. Backbeat Tours offers a gripping 90-minute journey into this darker side of the city, designed for those fascinated by true crime, history, and the stories that define Memphis’s underground. Led by expert guides, this tour takes participants through infamous crime scenes, sharing tales of serial killers, mobsters, and unresolved mysteries that have left a permanent mark on Memphis’s fabric. After delving into the city’s more clandestine moments, guests are rewarded with a visit to the trendy Moxy Hotel, where a signature cocktail awaits—a perfect way to unwind and discuss the stories uncovered. This activity stands out because it combines storytelling with an immersive experience, allowing visitors to walk the streets where these events took place and imagine the suspense firsthand. It’s a distinctive addition to Memphis’s array of outdoor adventures and cultural explorations, appealing to those who seek to see the city through a different lens. Whether you’re a true crime aficionado or simply curious about Memphis’s hidden history, this tour provides a compelling mix of entertainment and education, making it a memorable highlight of any visit. With its blend of storytelling, historic sites, and a touch of local nightlife, Backbeat Tours creates a genuinely engaging way to discover a side of Memphis few get to see. Perfect for night owls and history buffs alike, it showcases the city’s complex character beyond the musical legends, giving visitors a fuller picture of Memphis’s story.
The activity fosters an appreciation for the city’s layered past, while offering a fun, engaging experience that’s both insightful and unexpectedly thrilling. It’s an adventure that combines elements of the city’s crime history with the modernity of Memphis’s vibrant nightlife scene—all wrapped into a uniquely Memphis experience.
easy.
90 minutes.
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking required
Yes, children over 12 typically enjoy the storytelling; younger kids should be prepared for urban walking.
A signature cocktail is included at the end of the tour at the Moxy Hotel.
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Accessibility depends on the specific route; please inquire in advance.
Absolutely—single tickets are welcome, and you'll be with a small group.
Booking a few days ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Memphis’s reputation as a crime hub developed during Prohibition and the mob era, shaping many stories still told today.
This tour emphasizes city preservation and respectful storytelling to honor local history without glamorizing crime.
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.
Book with Backbeat Tours