2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
On this 2.5 hour African American History tour, we will be your "conductor" and take you on a journey through Memphis that will be sure to open your eyes to some of the most historical sites connected to slavery through to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. There is so much more to Memphis than Downtown to experience, so we will also explore some of our interesting neighborhoods.
This tour is for residents, families, and visitors who are looking for the activities to do that are safe, fun and insightful.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress code is smart casual
This tour does not stop for guests to visit museums. Visits can be made at your leisure on your own. We will drive by sites with narration.
A minimum of 4 travelers are required to operate this tour. (This can be achieved with more than one party making a reservation)
What To Expect
National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel
From our vehicle you will see the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, room 306 where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968. This is also the location of the National Civil Rights Museum.
Slave Haven / Burkle Estate Museum
This was once the home of Jacob Burkle, a German immigrant who chose to participate in the Underground Railroad. This home was a stop on the Underground Railroad and is now a museum.
Options
Guided Tour
What‘s Included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
187 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Meeting a True Queen. Our History, Our Mission
antoiner225,May 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My wife surprised me the day before tour. For someone who grew up in Southern Louisiana, stories of who we are was through oral history. Queen was an inspiration that touched me spiritually. My wife and I talked about our experience that day as soon as we got in our vehicle. We are still talking about it. She filled out gaps that I did not realize was missing. An example was why my mother never trusted banks. She explained that it was not avaliable for women to have alone until 1974. Epiphany. Thank you Queen!
Learned alot of history...
Jennifer F,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Learned alot of history that was good and helped to complete the vacation.. This allows us to shatter with our loved ones
Queen was awesome and...
Jamie L,Mar 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Queen was awesome and amazing. So much history and knowledge packed into our tour. I highly recommend this tour.
Gives a tour of Memphis...
Timeka B,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Gives a tour of Memphis from the African American perspective. Tour guide was friendly and informative.
The driver was very...
Marlon B,Nov 23, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The driver was very informative and courteous. He was a pleasure to speak with. He(Devin) was a graduate of Morehouse in African American studies! He enjoyed what he was doing!
Outstanding knowledge,...
Susan H,Nov 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Outstanding knowledge, highly interesting and important places, historical context and details were fantastic, personalized service, warm and attentive
Hidden Teeasure
Jeff R,Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Devon was very informative and passionate about this adventure. Found many hidden gems that I was unaware of.
Entertaining and Soul Enriching
Cruiser701836,Oct 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour is an OUTSTANDING experience! I've been on many tours in different cities and can attest that this one competes for top spot easily. The 'Queen' was our guide and she totally made this Memphis trip a memorable one. Even though I've been to Memphis a few times, I've never had someone provide depth to the city's history and culture that is out in the open but not really seen. Queen doesn't just spit knowledge-- she keeps everyone engaged throughout the tour. She also is a master at linking the past with the present, with an added emphasis on prompting action to shape future history. You have my word--take this tour at first opportunity and you won't be disappointed. It'll also be valuable for learning good food and tourist spots for after the tour. Hint: smoked turkey ribs...
Great tour you must take!
dartmouthmom2017,Oct 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Guide was very knowledgeable. We learned alot and overall enjoyed the tour very much. Just be aware that you are sitting n a Van the majority of the time.
Must do tour in Memphis
Dijah 14,Aug 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Must do while in Memphis! My tour was with Ms. Jackie and she was amazing! From telling our history and stories, to the music played on the journey, to her personality/voice work from start to finish this was amazing. Highly recommend when visiting Memphis/even if you are a local this tour is one you can enjoy. You don’t just visit/see the touristy things but you get a true sense of the city from our perspective.
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Operated by A Tour of Possibilities, LLC