Memphis: Guided Walking Tour, Peabody Ducks & Orpheum Theater

Summary

Stories from Cotton Row to the Peabody ducks and old theaters

You’ll wander Memphis on foot with a local guide, tracing stories from Cotton Row’s brick alleys to Court Square’s leafy quiet. Watch the famous Peabody duck march (it’s oddly charming), then maybe slip into velvet seats at the historic Orpheum Theater if you choose that option. Expect laughter, unexpected details, and moments that linger after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell—freshly cut grass mixing with something sweet from a nearby food cart, right as we stepped onto Court Square. Our guide, Marcus, had this way of pausing in the middle of a story, letting us fill in the silence with our own guesses before he’d laugh and finish it for us. He pointed out the old fountain where kids used to cool off during Memphis summers (it’s quieter now but you can still hear pigeons flapping around). There was this moment when he talked about yellow fever sweeping through here—honestly, I felt a chill despite the sun.

Walking down Cotton Row, I ran my fingers along one of those brick walls—rough and warm—and tried to picture what it must’ve been like when cotton traders crowded these streets. Marcus waved at an older man selling newspapers who nodded back without missing a beat. We stopped at Fourth Bluff Park; you could see the Mississippi River stretching out wide and brown, and he told us about the Battle of Memphis right there. The river breeze carried that damp earthy smell—I didn’t expect it to feel so close. Someone asked about WDIA radio and Marcus lit up, talking about how it changed music forever in this city.

I’ll admit, I was mostly curious about the Peabody ducks. When we got inside, there was this hush—everyone waiting for them to waddle across that red carpet. It’s silly but also kind of perfect? The hotel lobby smelled faintly of lilies and old wood polish. If you pick Monday to Wednesday, you can add on a guided tour of the Orpheum Theater (we did). The velvet seats creaked under us while our theater guide told stories about ghosts backstage; Li laughed when I tried to say “Orpheum” in my best Memphis accent—probably butchered it.

I keep thinking about that view over the river and how people here just seem to know each other—like they’re all part of some long conversation you get invited into for a couple hours. The day trip through Memphis history wasn’t what I expected; it felt warmer somehow, more lived-in. Still not sure if I liked the ducks or the theater stories better—but both stick with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Historic Memphis walking tour highlights

• Learn about yellow fever history
• Discover WDIA "Goodwill Station" history
• Explore Memphis' oldest beautiful park
• Visit Fourth Bluff Park battle site
• Hear about Mississippi River importance
• See Cotton Exchange and Cotton Row
• View oldest buildings in Downtown Memphis
• Experience Peabody Hotel duck march
• Optional: Tour Orpheum Theater (Mon-Wed)

Top questions

How long is the Memphis guided walking tour?

The walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet at a central location downtown.

When can I join the Orpheum Theater guided tour?

The Orpheum Theater tour is available Monday to Wednesday only if selected as an add-on.

Are children or strollers allowed on this Memphis tour?

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

Is this walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the route is wheelchair accessible throughout downtown Memphis.

Do I need tickets for the Peabody duck march?

No extra ticket is needed; watching the duck march is included in your guided tour experience.

Where does this Memphis walking tour start?

The starting point is within downtown Memphis near Court Square; detailed directions are provided after booking.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided walk led by a professional local guide through historic downtown Memphis neighborhoods like Cotton Row and Court Square, local taxes covered, plus entry and guided access to the Orpheum Theater if you select that option (available Monday–Wednesday only).