Self-Guided Walking Tour of Beale Street in Memphis
See more
Discover the lively history of Memphis with a self-guided walking tour of Beale Street, the birthplace of the blues. Stroll through this legendary street, where music, culture, and history blend under neon lights. Along the way, you'll see key landmarks like the Beale Street Baptist Church and the Withers Collection Museum & Gallery, which highlight Memphis's rich African American heritage and civil rights legacy.
Visit iconic spots such as A. Schwab, the oldest general store on Beale Street, and the W.C. Handy Home and Museum, honoring the 'Father of the Blues.' The tour wraps up at the Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, celebrating the musical roots that made Beale Street famous worldwide. This flexible tour lets you explore at your own pace, making it perfect for music lovers and history buffs alike.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the self-guided tour take?
The tour lasts about 1 hour, but you can take more time at your own pace to explore the sights.
What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in English and Spanish.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for adults from 0 to 99 years old. Infants and small children can ride in strollers, and it’s accessible for all fitness levels.
What’s included in the tour?
You get unlimited access with a digital route map and audio guide, plus the app download for easy navigation.
Do I need to bring my own smartphone?
Yes, you’ll need to bring your own smartphone to access the tour content.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour start time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1 hour
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English, Spanish
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Flexible usage with unlimited access
- Audio guide & digital route map
- App and tour download
Not included
- Smartphone (bring your own)
Itinerary
-
Stop 1
Home to the Memphis Grizzlies and major concerts, FedExForum energizes historic Beale Street with top-tier entertainment just steps from where Memphis's musical story began.
-
Stop 2
Created by the Smithsonian, this museum traces the roots of rock and soul from humble Delta origins to worldwide fame, showcasing authentic artifacts and stories that reveal Memphis's influence on 20th-century music.
-
Stop 3
Handy Park, named after W.C. Handy, the 'Father of the Blues,' fills the air with live music nearly every day. Relax on a bench and soak in the lively spirit of Beale Street.
-
Stop 4
Built in the 1860s by formerly enslaved people, Beale Street Baptist Church stands as a symbol of Black history and resilience. It has hosted civil rights leaders and remains a powerful community landmark.
-
Stop 5
Visit A. Schwab, the oldest store on Beale Street, a living museum of Memphis history. Since 1876, it has sold everything from voodoo charms to vintage souvenirs, capturing the city’s soulful mix of old and new.
-
Stop 6
The historic Daisy Theater, opened in 1917, was once a vaudeville hall showcasing Black performers. Its stage echoes with the entertainment that defined early Beale Street.
-
Stop 7
The New Daisy, since the 1930s, has hosted countless legendary acts across genres. It remains a vibrant part of Beale Street’s musical scene.
-
Stop 8
Explore the powerful civil rights photography of Dr. Ernest Withers, who captured Memphis life and activism with honesty and depth. His images offer a compelling look into the city’s soul.
-
Stop 9
This marker honors Ida B. Wells, who launched her anti-lynching campaign in Memphis. A quiet but impactful reminder of her courage.
-
Stop 10
Celebrate Memphis’s musical legends—from Elvis and B.B. King to Aretha Franklin and Isaac Hayes—through exhibits of rare memorabilia and recordings that tell their stories.
-
Stop 11
A bronze statue of Elvis Presley stands just steps from where his career began. Take a moment to picture the young artist soaking in the sounds that changed music forever.
-
Stop 12
This park honors Robert R. Church Sr., Memphis’s first Black millionaire and a symbol of empowerment. It’s a meaningful spot celebrating progress and community.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
The tour begins in front of FedExForum along South B.B. King Blvd, across from Starbucks.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour start time.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day before
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours of the tour
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $9.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
