Memphis: African American History Tour with Civil Rights Sites

Summary

Stories of courage echo along Beale Street and the Lorraine Motel

You’ll travel through Memphis with a local guide who knows every corner—from the Lorraine Motel balcony where Dr. King spent his last day to Beale Street’s music-soaked sidewalks and secret stops like the Burkle Estate. Expect stories that linger after you leave and small moments—like laughter or silence—that stick with you long after the tour ends.

What’s the experience like?

"That’s the balcony," our guide said quietly, pointing out the window as we rolled past the Lorraine Motel. For a second, everyone just went silent. You could almost feel April clinging to the air, even though it was sticky-hot outside—hard to explain. I’d seen photos of Dr. King’s room before, but seeing that spot from our seat in Memphis made it real in a way I didn’t expect. Our guide—Ms. Jackson—didn’t rush us. She let us just sit with it for a minute before moving on.

We drove through neighborhoods I probably wouldn’t have found on my own, honestly. The Burkle Estate came up next—a plain-looking house if you didn’t know better, but then Ms. Jackson started telling us about Jacob Burkle and how he helped people escape slavery right there. She joked about how quiet he must’ve been to keep such a secret (I tried to imagine myself keeping that cool). The sun was high by then, and I remember the sweet smell of cut grass drifting in through the open van window.

Beale Street was louder than I thought it’d be at noon—music leaking out even in daylight, folks waving as we passed by. Ms. Jackson called it “Negro Mainstreet USA” and shared stories about musicians and marches that happened right where we were driving. There was this moment where she laughed at her own memory of sneaking into clubs as a teen; you could tell she loved this city deep down.

The churches surprised me most—I mean, I knew about Dr. King’s last speech at Mason Temple but didn’t realize how much organizing happened in these old brick buildings all over Memphis. We didn’t get out at each stop (it’s more of a narrated drive), but honestly, I liked hearing everything while watching the city roll by outside my window—sometimes it’s easier to take things in that way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Memphis African American history sites

• View Lorraine Motel balcony
• See National Civil Rights Museum
• Pass Jacob Burkle Underground Railroad home
• Learn about Beale Street history
• Visit Church of God in Christ headquarters
• See church where sanitation strike planned

Top questions

How long is the Essence of Memphis African American History Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Does this Memphis African American history tour include museum entry?

No, this tour is a narrated drive-by experience; museum visits can be done on your own later.

Is hotel pickup included for this Memphis history tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; transportation is provided during the tour itself.

Are children or infants allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Is this African American history tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

What are some main sites visited during this Memphis tour?

You’ll see the Lorraine Motel/National Civil Rights Museum, Beale Street, Burkle Estate, Mason Temple, and historic churches involved in civil rights history.

Will there be stops to get out at each site?

No, guests remain in the vehicle while guides narrate; you can visit museums later on your own.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes transportation around Memphis with full narration from a local guide who shares stories at every site—plus all taxes and fees are covered so you can just listen and look out your window without worrying about logistics or extra charges along the way.