Most Memphis music tours stop at 1960. This one picks up the story where they leave off and follows the sound of the city’s rap and hip hop scene, from the dark, hypnotic style that came out of Memphis to the stars who carry it today. It is a private tour, so only your group is on board, and it travels by air-conditioned vehicle between places that matter to the artists and their fans. The stops include passing views of the Orpheum Theatre and Melrose High School, a visit to Makeda’s Homemade Cookies at Airways, the street renamed for Adolph Young Dolph Thornton Jr., and Growlers. Reviewers also mention neighborhoods such as Orange Mound, Castalia and Vollentine, and talk about artists including Yo Gotti, GloRilla and Young Dolph, so expect the guide to connect streets, schools and shops with the music. The tour has strong reviews, and its personal format means the guide can tailor the conversation to what your group wants to hear. It suits music fans, locals-minded travelers and anyone who wants a view of Memphis beyond Elvis and the blues. A few of the places are part of everyday neighborhoods, so the tone is respectful and observational, with more driving than walking. If you want a tour that stops at museums, this is not it.
How to visit
The tour meets at South B.B. King Boulevard and Beale Street, on the southeast side of the block outside Patio Bar, and ends at the same place. It lasts about two and a half hours. You choose a start time when you book, subject to availability, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.
What to expect
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Because it is private, the minimum group size matters, so confirm with the operator when booking and check you will be told in advance if a departure is affected. Dress casually and bring water. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which makes it comfortable in summer.
Making the most of it
Pair this tour with the Memphis Mojo bus tour or Sun Studio for a fuller picture of Memphis music across the decades. Ask your guide about the early producers and regional sound that made Memphis rap distinctive, and be ready to add songs to your playlist. Book a week or so ahead, as private departures fill up.
What to expect
The experience
A private guided drive through places tied to Memphis rap and hip hop, with a stop for local cookies.
Best time
Any day, ideally booked a week ahead for your preferred time.
How long
About two and a half hours.
Tips
Confirm the minimum group size when booking, meet at the Beale Street corner and bring water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Music fans curious about Memphis beyond Elvis and the blues.
- Families
- Suits teens who follow hip hop, with plenty of driving and a cookie stop.
- Couples
- A different, personal way to see the city and its newer music history.
- Pair with
- Sun Studio or the Rock n Soul Museum for the earlier chapters.
- Time needed
- About two and a half hours.
Good questions
Where does the rap and hip hop tour start?+
It meets at South B.B. King Boulevard and Beale Street, on the southeast side of the block outside Patio Bar, and ends there.
Is it a private tour?+
Yes, only your group takes part, in an air-conditioned vehicle. You choose a start time when you book.
What stops does it include?+
Stops include the Orpheum Theatre and Melrose High School as drive-bys, Makeda’s Homemade Cookies, Young Dolph Avenue and Growlers.
Is the tour accessible?+
It is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
Can I cancel?+
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, in local time.
