One of the top things to do in Memphis, Tennessee is to visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. You’ll take a musical history tour of rock and soul from the rural sharecroppers of the 1930s through the funky 1970s.
This is just one of the best music museums I visited in Memphis. You may also be interested in:
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Top things to do in Memphis, Tennessee: Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
If you’re a history or music lover, then you will appreciate the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – one of the top things to do in Memphis. While the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and Memphis Travel provided me a complimentary ticket in exchange for a review, opinions are always my own. And my opinion is that you should add the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum to your itinerary.
A Smithsonian Institution Affiliations Program developed by the National Museum of American History, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is one of the best music history museums. I loved the self-paced tour to learn all about the origins and evolution of American rock and roll and soul music.
During your self-guided audio tour (they provide headsets), you can access more than 300 minutes of music history as well as a library of more than 100 songs. You’ll begin your rock and soul journey watching a documentary film before making your way around the seven galleries of rock and soul exhibits and stories.
Take a virtual tour of Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
Until you get an opportunity to visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in person, here are the seven galleries featuring rock and soul exhibits.
Rural Culture
In the Rural Culture exhibit, you’ll witness what life was like back in the Mississippi Delta in the 1930s. And how music played a huge role in the sharecropper lifestyle.
Rural Music
Blues, country, and gospel – a winning combination that would become rock and soul music.
Coming to Memphis
As modern agriculture took away the livelihoods of Mississippi Delta sharecroppers, they moved to places like Memphis. And Beale Street is where they could find services that were not segregated – and also create and listen to music.
Sun Records and Youth Culture
This exhibit showcases the birthplace of rock and roll from the 1950s – Sun Records. See my related post: Guide to Sun Studio – one of the other best museums in Memphis.
Soul Music
Learn more about the evolution of Soul Music in this gallery. Here you’ll learn more about several Memphis record studios, including Stax Music. See my related post: Guide to Stax Museum of American Soul Music.
Social Changes
Memphis was at the heart of the civil rights movement in the 1960s especially – here you’ll learn more about how the Memphis Sound found its way in social change.
Bravo Gallery
The Bravo Gallery at Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum pays tribute to the many legendary influencers of the Memphis Sound.
Frequently Asked Questions about Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
Here are a few frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
Where is the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum located?
You’ll find the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum on the corner of the historic Beale Street and B.B. King Avenue, tucked away next to the FedExForum where the Memphis Grizzlies play. The address for Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is 191 Beale Street, Memphis, Tenn.
Fun fact: B.B. King Avenue is an extension of Highway 61, which is also known as The Blues Highway.
Is there parking at Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum?
You can find several parking lots near Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum as well as the FedExForum Parking Garage.
Where can I purchase tickets for the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum?
You can purchase tickets to the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in person (touch-free) – located at 191 Beale Street in Memphis, Tenn. Check their website for the latest ticket prices. Discounts offered to members of AARP, AAA, Smithsonian, and the military.
Additionally, you can purchase combo tickets – admission to Memphis ‘n’ Soul Music Museum and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame Museum.
If you’re planning to visit other museums in Memphis, consider purchasing a Backstage Pass – also available at the front desk of the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. This pass provides adult admission to the best music museums in Memphis, including:
Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum
Sun Studio
Stax Museum of American Soul Museum
Elvis Experience Tour at Graceland
What are the hours for the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum?
The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is open every Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please note that the last museum admission is 4:15 p.m. to allow you enough time to tour.
What are the social-distancing guidelines at Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum?
How long does it take to tour the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in Memphis, Tenn.?
I would recommend allowing yourself at least an hour to 90 minutes to tour the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in Memphis, Tenn. Their last admission is at 4:15 p.m. each day and the museum closes at 5 p.m. You could complete the self-guided tour within 45 minutes; however, it may seem a little rushed.
Can you take photos in the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum?
Yes, you can take photos (without a flash) at the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
Does Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum have a restaurant?
No, Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum does not have a restaurant. However, it is right off Beale Street and other nearby neighborhoods where you can find lots of restaurant options.
Does Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum have restrooms?
Yes, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum has restrooms.
Does Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum have a gift shop?
Yes, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum has a gift shop as well as an online store.
Add the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum to your top things to do in Memphis itinerary
I highly recommend a visit to tour the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in Memphis, Tenn. It’s one of the top things to do in Memphis.
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Twin Cities-based blogger sharing memorable emptynester, solo, family and girlfriend-getaway adventures, as well as my day hiking adventures (including all 66 Minnesota state parks), latest book reviews, and updates on my quest for the best adult mac and cheese.
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62 comments
Great recommendation! This was one of my favorites in Memphis! I spent hours listening to music at all the stations. Love it!
I’ve never been to Memphis, but I will be adding the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum to my list for when I go! I love learning about history and audio tours are growing on me, so I think I would really enjoy it :). Thanks for sharing! Xx Sara
I’m actually in the middle of planning a trip to Memphis so this is great timing to come across this post. This looks like a fun museum, and a really great place to visit in Memphis. I love anything to do with music and this places seems to have so much history
Perfect timing! If you love music and history, then you will love the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – one of the best things to do in Memphis, Tennessee.
I toured Graceland also and loved it! Memphis is a great destination with lots of music history and fascinating museums like the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
You always seem to come across the most unique museums to visit! I didn’t know about this one but it’s definitely going on the list now when we head down to Memphis for a trip.
I would love to visit Memphis and visit the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. I’ve been to Nashville several times, but I need to make it out to Memphis! Thanks for sharing this spot 🙂
It’s much smaller than the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, and had a different vibe. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul was more intimate and I felt like I learned more about the birth of rock and soul music and its evolution through the 1970s. It is a Smithsonian Institute Affiliates Program so definitely had an educational element in a cool way.
You keep finding such good musical museums and studios Karen! The Memphis Rock and Soul museum is no exception – this all looks like great fun to explore.
p.s. I am starting to think you need a playlist for each of these music-related posts. 😀
If he loves history or music or both, I’m sure he would love the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Music. It was one of the best things to do in Memphis during my visit.
Awesome! How perfect is that – the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum on the Blues Highway. I really enjoyed my tour – one of the highlights and top things to do in Memphis.
Here’s for 2022 opening up for everyone to travel freely again. A girl can dream and hope! And highly recommend the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – one of the top things to do in Memphis.
What a fun museum! It looks like there are so many fascinating music museums in Memphis! Your guides are really making me want to visit! I’ll definitely be adding a visit to Memphis to my US bucket list! Thanks for the great guide!
Awesome! Thank and my pleasure! I loved visiting Memphis and sharing all the fun things to do. The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is definitely one of my favorites!
I’ve never been to Memphis, but when I do visit I definitely want to check out the Rock n Soul Museum! It sounds so interesting to tour around. What a unique and fun thing to do!
I think you would love Memphis! I had such a fun time and really loved my tour of the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It’s one of the best things to do in Memphis.
This is a thorough review of the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, can’t think of any questions you didn’t answer. The photos are helpful too, makes me want to include this in my next road trip back east.
I wasn’t aware of this museum, but this is the kind of music I love most, so definitely a must-see when I get to Memphis. Thanks for bringing it to my awareness
Thank you and my pleasure! I hadn’t heard of this museum either, but so happy I toured the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It was one of my top things to do in Memphis.
The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum looks like a fascinating museum to visit in Tennessee. I like how the self-paced tour takes you through the history with each exhibit.
Thank you! I really enjoyed the self-paced tour of the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It was pretty fascinating and one of my favorite things to do in Memphis.
This museum is definitely on my list for my next visit to Memphis. I love Memphis, but I haven’t experienced this yet. We’ve often stopped here for a night on our way to Florida. I’m hoping to see this on our next stop!
Awesome! I hope you get to tour the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum the next time you’re in town. It is one of the top things to do in Memphis…I loved it!
I had very low expectations of Memphis because someone told me she would never go back. And I loved Memphis! I would definitely return – hopefully, you can convince your husband to return and visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It was pretty cool with lots of fun facts.
What a fantastic guide to the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. My type of music so it will definitely be on my must-see list when I visit Memphis.
Even though I’m not a huge fan of this style of museum, I’d love to visit and learn the history of it all! Great guide and lots of good info for visiting. I’m going back there next spring so I’ll add to my list!
I would love to step back into Mississippi’s rural past to experience its music connection. You keep reminding us in your articles that we still need to visit Beale Street. Hopefully soon!
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Great recommendation! This was one of my favorites in Memphis! I spent hours listening to music at all the stations. Love it!
Thank you so much! Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum was one of my favorite things to do also! You could spend hours here!
I’ve never been to Memphis, but I will be adding the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum to my list for when I go! I love learning about history and audio tours are growing on me, so I think I would really enjoy it :). Thanks for sharing! Xx Sara
You’re welcome and my pleasure! I know you would love the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum.
I’m actually in the middle of planning a trip to Memphis so this is great timing to come across this post. This looks like a fun museum, and a really great place to visit in Memphis. I love anything to do with music and this places seems to have so much history
Perfect timing! If you love music and history, then you will love the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – one of the best things to do in Memphis, Tennessee.
I was there for 1 day years ago, and just had to do a drive by Graceland. I was so surprised by how musical this city was. Great vibes.
I toured Graceland also and loved it! Memphis is a great destination with lots of music history and fascinating museums like the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
I think my whole family would enjoy this place!
Yes! The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is one of the best things to do in Memphis and it’s perfect for the entire family.
This museum looks great! I really need to plan a trip to Memphis, so much history there.
You would love the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – one of the best things to do in Memphis. So much history!
You always seem to come across the most unique museums to visit! I didn’t know about this one but it’s definitely going on the list now when we head down to Memphis for a trip.
Awesome! Love finding unique and historic museums!
I would love to visit Memphis and visit the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. I’ve been to Nashville several times, but I need to make it out to Memphis! Thanks for sharing this spot 🙂
I hope you get the opportunity! I loved the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum.
We loved visiting the Rock N Soul Musuem in Memphis! I loved listening to the music and the audio tour.
I loved the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum. I learned so many cool things.
I love rock and roll so this sounds so fun!! Is it much different to the Cleveland hall of fame?
It’s much smaller than the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, and had a different vibe. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul was more intimate and I felt like I learned more about the birth of rock and soul music and its evolution through the 1970s. It is a Smithsonian Institute Affiliates Program so definitely had an educational element in a cool way.
You keep finding such good musical museums and studios Karen! The Memphis Rock and Soul museum is no exception – this all looks like great fun to explore.
p.s. I am starting to think you need a playlist for each of these music-related posts. 😀
Thank you! And that’s a great idea to include a playlist! I will do that! I really loved touring the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
Wish I had known about this museum the last time we were in Memphis! Hubby would have loved it! Will have to add it for the next visit!
If he loves history or music or both, I’m sure he would love the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Music. It was one of the best things to do in Memphis during my visit.
A Rock and Soul Museum on the Blues Highway. This is my jam!
Awesome! How perfect is that – the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum on the Blues Highway. I really enjoyed my tour – one of the highlights and top things to do in Memphis.
The Memphis rock and roll museum looks like so much fun, I would love to visit. Hopefully 2022 is the year that I can travel again…
Here’s for 2022 opening up for everyone to travel freely again. A girl can dream and hope! And highly recommend the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – one of the top things to do in Memphis.
Oh amazing! I would LOVE to visit the Memphis Rock n’Soul Museum! It looks absolutely brilliant!
Thanks! I think you would love the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. I learned so much during my tour.
What a fun museum! It looks like there are so many fascinating music museums in Memphis! Your guides are really making me want to visit! I’ll definitely be adding a visit to Memphis to my US bucket list! Thanks for the great guide!
Awesome! Thank and my pleasure! I loved visiting Memphis and sharing all the fun things to do. The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is definitely one of my favorites!
I’ve never been to Memphis, but when I do visit I definitely want to check out the Rock n Soul Museum! It sounds so interesting to tour around. What a unique and fun thing to do!
I think you would love Memphis! I had such a fun time and really loved my tour of the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It’s one of the best things to do in Memphis.
The Rock and Soul museum sounds like so much fun! Definitely for my next trip to TN!
The Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum was a lot of fun and fascinating. One of the highlights of my tour of Memphis last summer.
This is a thorough review of the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, can’t think of any questions you didn’t answer. The photos are helpful too, makes me want to include this in my next road trip back east.
Thank you so kindly! I hope you get the opportunity to tour the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It is one of the best things to do in Memphis.
I wasn’t aware of this museum, but this is the kind of music I love most, so definitely a must-see when I get to Memphis. Thanks for bringing it to my awareness
Thank you and my pleasure! I hadn’t heard of this museum either, but so happy I toured the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It was one of my top things to do in Memphis.
The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum looks like a fascinating museum to visit in Tennessee. I like how the self-paced tour takes you through the history with each exhibit.
Thank you! I really enjoyed the self-paced tour of the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It was pretty fascinating and one of my favorite things to do in Memphis.
This museum is definitely on my list for my next visit to Memphis. I love Memphis, but I haven’t experienced this yet. We’ve often stopped here for a night on our way to Florida. I’m hoping to see this on our next stop!
Awesome! I hope you get to tour the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum the next time you’re in town. It is one of the top things to do in Memphis…I loved it!
My hubby says he doesn’t care to go back to Memphis, but I’ve never been. I think he’s really love the Memphis Rock n Soul Museum!
I had very low expectations of Memphis because someone told me she would never go back. And I loved Memphis! I would definitely return – hopefully, you can convince your husband to return and visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It was pretty cool with lots of fun facts.
The Memphis Rock N Soul Museum was so cool. I loved exploring and listening to the audio tour.
It was such a cool place to visit, I loved the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
What a fantastic guide to the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. My type of music so it will definitely be on my must-see list when I visit Memphis.
Thank you! I think you’d love touring the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. It’s one of the best things to do.
Memphis looks like so much fun! It’s really one of the most important birthplaces of music. It’s a yes from me for the rock n soul museum!
Memphis is a lot of fun. And I loved the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – one of the top things to do!
Love Rock’n Roll! Definitely going!
Awesome! The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum is perfect for fans like you!
Memphis is on my travel list! I’d definitely check out this museum.
I loved the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Learned so much! Hope you get the opportunity to visit.
I’ve never been to Tennessee, but it’s on my list! I like checking out museums so I’ll have to add this to my list!
I really enjoyed my historic studio and music tours in Tennessee. Highly recommend the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
Even though I’m not a huge fan of this style of museum, I’d love to visit and learn the history of it all! Great guide and lots of good info for visiting. I’m going back there next spring so I’ll add to my list!
Thank you! I learned so much music history at the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
I would love to step back into Mississippi’s rural past to experience its music connection. You keep reminding us in your articles that we still need to visit Beale Street. Hopefully soon!
So much to do and explore on and near Beale Street in Memphis. The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum was one of my top things to do.