Memphis Hop Tour with Blues City Tours: History & Culture

City Tour · Memphis

Memphis Hop

See Memphis like never before with Blues City Tours’ Memphis Hop—a 90-minute guided journey hitting landmarks from Graceland to the National Civil Rights Museum. Hop on or off to tailor your adventure through the city’s vibrant history and music scene.

View experience
Duration1.5 hours
LocationMemphis, Tennessee
OperatorBlues City Tours

Adventure brief

Memphis Hop

See Memphis like never before with Blues City Tours’ Memphis Hop—a 90-minute guided journey hitting landmarks from Graceland to the National Civil Rights Museum. Hop on or off to tailor your adventure through the city’s vibrant history and music scene.

Memphis, Tennessee, pulses with a unique blend of music, history, and vibrant street life amid the banks of the Mississippi River. Blues City Tours captures this spirit in their Memphis Hop experience—a dynamic 90-minute journey weaving through the city’s most iconic landmarks. This isn’t your typical sightseeing ride; it’s a lively crash course in Memphis culture guided by a professional with a quick wit and local insight.

The Memphis Hop lets you travel the city’s key sites at your own pace. From the majesty of Graceland, Elvis Presley’s legendary home, to the solemn grounds of the National Civil Rights Museum, each stop offers a distinct chapter in America’s story. The tour also rolls past the Stax Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame, and Beale Street—the beating heart of Memphis blues—plus the colorful murals of Paint Memphis and the towering Bass Pro Pyramid.

Renting your seat on this Hop allows for flexible adventure: stay aboard for the full loop or hop off to soak in specific attractions. The guides’ humor and rich storytelling illuminate often overlooked cultural connections, adding depth to the landmarks. It’s a perfect blend of entertainment and education.

Unlike many urban tours, the Memphis Hop embraces an energetic, outdoorsy vibe that invites travelers to connect directly with the city’s rhythm on and off the bus. Offering an accessible way to experience the city’s outdoors and cultural fabric, Blues City Tours anchors visitors in Memphis’ authentic atmosphere. Whether you’re a history buff, music lover, or simply intrigued by the soul of the South, the Memphis Hop provides a memorable, well-rounded glimpse into this legendary city’s character—making it an essential part of any Memphis adventure.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Bring Comfortable Walking Shoes

    You’ll want sturdy, comfortable shoes for hopping off at key stops and exploring on foot.

    essential
  2. 02
    Check Tour Schedule Before You Go

    Tours may operate on a fixed schedule; plan your day around hop-off times for your must-see spots.

    info
  3. 03
    Stay Hydrated

    Memphis summers can be hot—carry water if you plan to spend time outdoors between stops.

    warning
  4. 04
    Bring a Portable Charger

    You’ll likely take photos and use maps while hopping on and off; keep your phone charged.

    info
DifficultyEasy
Duration1.5 hours
FitnessSuitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated with optional walking at stops
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Necessary for walking comfortably during hop-off stops.

Essential
02

Sun Protection

Sunscreen and a hat protect you from Memphis’ strong sun on outdoor stretches.

summer|spring|fallEssential
03

Water Bottle

Stay hydrated during warm weather and outdoor exploration.

summer|spring|fallEssential
04

Portable Phone Charger

Keeps your devices powered for photos and navigation.

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

The Memphis Murals along various city blocks off the main tourist routes, Hidden blues music venues in Midtown offering live performances after hours

Wildlife

Local fauna

Urban songbirds like northern cardinals and mockingbirds, River fish visible along the Mississippi waterfront during certain times

History

Historic heritage

Memphis played a pivotal role in American music history and the civil rights movement, anchored by landmarks such as Beale Street and the National Civil Rights Museum.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

Blues City Tours supports sustainable tourism by encouraging walking between stops and respectful engagement with historic sites.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
The front lawn area of Graceland for classic Elvis shots, Beale Street neon signs and nightlife, Sun Studio exterior for historic music vibes
Subjects
Historic architecture, Street art murals, Live musicians and performers
Best times
Golden hour, Late afternoon, Morning light

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Can I hop off at any stop and catch a later bus?

Yes, you can hop off at designated stops and rejoin the tour at a later time; buses run on a loop with a regular schedule.

How long does the full loop take if I stay on the bus?

The full ride lasts approximately 90 minutes without any hop-offs.

Are tickets available for children and seniors?

Yes, discounted rates apply for children aged 4 to 12 and seniors aged 60 and older.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Please contact Blues City Tours directly to confirm accessibility as accommodations may vary.

Are food and drinks allowed on the bus?

Food and drinks are typically permitted, but check with the guide before consuming onboard.

Can I book private or group tours?

Blues City Tours offers group and private bookings; reach out to them for custom arrangements.

Blues City Tours

Memphis Hop Tour with Blues City Tours: History & Culture