Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum
Explore the roots and global impact of Memphis's rock & soul music through interactive exhibits and a unique audio tour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the roots and global impact of Memphis's rock & soul music through interactive exhibits and a unique audio tour.
"This is probably the best music museum I have ever visited. The audio guided tour is brilliant."
🎧 Audio Guide is Key
The self-guided audio tour is brilliant and adds so much to the experience. Don't skip it!
💰 Budget-Friendly Gem
This museum is inexpensive and offers great value for its content.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Birthplace of Rock & Soul
Discover how Memphis shaped global music with interactive exhibits and compelling stories.
Audio-Guided Journey
Experience a unique, choose-your-own-adventure audio tour that brings music history to life.
Memphis's Musical Influence
Learn why Memphis is called the 'Home of the Blues' and the 'Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Immerse Yourself in Sound
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Audio Guide is Key
The self-guided audio tour is brilliant and adds so much to the experience. Don't skip it!
💰 Budget-Friendly Gem
This museum is inexpensive and offers great value for its content.
🎶 Music in Your Bones
Feel the legacy of blues, soul, and rock music that changed the world.
📍 Prime Location
Conveniently located near Beale Street and FedExForum, perfect for a pop-in visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Audio Guide is Key
The self-guided audio tour is brilliant and adds so much to the experience. Don't skip it!
💰 Budget-Friendly Gem
This museum is inexpensive and offers great value for its content.
🎶 Music in Your Bones
Feel the legacy of blues, soul, and rock music that changed the world.
📍 Prime Location
Conveniently located near Beale Street and FedExForum, perfect for a pop-in visit.
🎵 Interactive Media
Engage with the story of Memphis music through dynamic and interactive displays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum for its insightful and engaging self-guided audio tour, which offers a unique, personalized experience. Its affordable admission and prime location near Beale Street make it a highly recommended, content-rich stop for understanding Memphis's pivotal role in music history. While some exhibits might feel a bit repetitive to those who've visited other music museums, the overall narrative and immersive audio make it a standout attraction.
"A Must-Visit Historic and Musical Heritage Site – Memphis Rock and Soul Museum
My recent visit to the Memphis Rock and Soul Museum was an enriching and insightful experience that I highly recommend to anyone interested in the rich musical history of Memphis. After enjoying a delightful brunch, we arrived at the museum in the middle of the day, eager to delve into its offerings.
The museum features a self-guided tour system, beginning with an engaging introductory film that provides a comprehensive overview of the museum’s focus on the roots and evolution of rock and soul music. This visual introduction set the perfect tone for the exploration that followed.
As we proceeded through the exhibits, it became evident just how significant Memphis has been in shaping American musical history. The museum offers detailed information about pivotal moments, such as the emergence of the first Black radio station, and how genres like gospel and country influenced the renaissance of blues music. Each exhibit was thoughtfully curated, offering a deep dive into the stories behind iconic figures and legendary venues.
The tour effectively contextualizes Memphis’s pivotal role in music history, shedding light on cultural and historical factors that give the city its unique musical identity. It also provides insight into famous sites like Beale Street, and celebrates the legendary careers of musicians such as B.B. King and Elvis Presley.
In summary, the Memphis Rock and Soul Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the roots of Memphis’s vibrant musical landscape. Visiting here before exploring other attractions offers valuable background that enriches the experience of the city’s famous landmarks and musical legends."
Bert Fears
"This is probably the best music museum I have ever visited. From the name, you know what to expect but it is so well done and the audio guided tour is brilliant. We spent 2 hours here but could have stayed much longer.
Highly recommended"
Denise Breen
"Absolutely my favorite museum experience in Memphis so far. I was not sure how I would like the whole headset business but it added so much to the experience. By the end of the tour I found myself asking for more. This story is so beautiful, I do not and do not want it to end. Memphis! Please bring us more music!"
John Wildrick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located downtown at 126 Beale Street, Memphis, TN 38103, making it easily accessible. It's close to major attractions like Beale Street and the FedExForum. Parking is available nearby, though it can be metered or in paid garages.
Yes, Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) buses serve the downtown area, with stops often within walking distance of the museum. Check the MATA website for current routes and schedules.
Absolutely! If you're exploring Beale Street or the FedExForum, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum is just a short walk away. It's a great addition to a downtown Memphis itinerary.
Driving downtown is straightforward. Look for parking garages or street parking near Beale Street and the FedExForum. Be aware of event parking rates if there's a game or concert.
The museum is designed to be accessible. The exhibits and audio guides are generally easy to navigate for most visitors. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. Check their official website for the most current admission fees and any potential discounts.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons.
The museum typically operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
No, there is no specific dress code. Casual, comfortable attire is perfectly fine for exploring the museum.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, military personnel, or groups. It's worth checking their website or contacting them directly for any applicable offers.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
The museum offers a self-guided audio tour that's highly praised for its engaging content and choose-your-own-adventure format. It covers the roots and influence of Memphis music.
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum, but you could easily spend longer if you delve deep into the audio tour.
Yes, it can be engaging for older children and teenagers interested in music history. The audio tour's interactive nature can hold their attention.
Expect exhibits detailing the evolution of rock and soul music, highlighting pivotal moments, influential artists, and the cultural factors that shaped Memphis's sound.
Generally, personal photography without flash is permitted for non-commercial use. However, it's always best to check for any specific signage or ask staff for clarification.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, it's located right on Beale Street, which is packed with numerous dining options from casual to upscale.
You'll find a wide variety of Southern cuisine, BBQ, soul food, and classic American fare on Beale Street and in the surrounding downtown area.
It's generally not permitted to bring outside food or drinks into the museum exhibits. There are usually water fountains available.
Yes, Beale Street and downtown Memphis offer a range of options, including casual eateries and cafes that cater to various budgets.
Popular spots on or near Beale Street include B.B. King's Blues Club, Rendezvous (for BBQ), and various other blues clubs and eateries offering live music and food.
📸 📸 Photography
While the exhibits themselves are the focus, the exterior of the museum and the vibrant Beale Street surroundings offer great photo opportunities.
Personal photography without flash is usually allowed. Capturing the essence of the exhibits can be done, but always be mindful of other visitors and any posted restrictions.
Absolutely! Beale Street itself is iconic, and you can find statues, murals, and historic markers related to music legends throughout downtown Memphis.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm or a prime lens (like a 35mm or 50mm) is great for capturing exhibits. If you plan on shooting the exterior or Beale Street, a wider lens can be useful.
Many visitors find the displays showcasing iconic memorabilia and the visual storytelling elements of the exhibits to be very photogenic. The introductory film area can also be visually striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow kids to explore at their own pace. The museum's location on Beale Street also means you can easily combine it with other family-friendly activities or dining options in the area. It's a solid choice for a dose of music history that feels more like an adventure than a lecture.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pairing this museum with other affordable music attractions like Sun Studio or the Stax Museum can create a comprehensive and cost-effective music tour of Memphis. The self-guided audio tour means you can spend as much or as little time as you like, maximizing your experience without extra costs.
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
This museum serves as a perfect primer before exploring other iconic Memphis music sites. It lays the groundwork for understanding the interconnectedness of artists, studios, and cultural movements that make Memphis a legendary music city. Prepare to be immersed in the sounds and stories that defined an era.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of the Audio Tour
Many reviewers mention that the audio guide significantly enhances their understanding and appreciation of the exhibits. It provides context, shares anecdotes, and connects the dots between different musical eras and genres that emerged from Memphis. This immersive approach ensures that visitors leave with a comprehensive grasp of why Memphis is so crucial to American music.
Memphis: A Musical Epicenter
Visitors gain insight into the significance of legendary venues like Beale Street and the impact of iconic artists such as B.B. King and Elvis Presley. The exhibits effectively contextualize Memphis's unique musical identity, demonstrating its profound and lasting influence on global music. For anyone looking to understand the roots of American popular music, this museum provides an essential and enriching foundation.
Budget-Friendly Memphis Music Exploration
This museum is often mentioned alongside other budget-friendly music attractions in Memphis, such as the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Sun Studio, and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Visiting the Rock 'n' Soul Museum first can provide a fantastic overview and context for these other sites, making your overall music exploration more cohesive and impactful.
Social
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