Private tour in Memphis John M

Full-Day Driving Tour of Antebellum Homes and Plantations

5.0

(7) reviews

-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

John M.

5.0

Guide rating

106

Reviews

Tours delivered

3 hrs

Avg. response time

Being the newest member of the Memphis ToursByLocals team it is a pleasure to offer experiences that will introduce you to this fascinating area. By nature I am an historian so the tours I traditionally offer highlight the past of Memphis, its birth and cotton-fueled explosive growth, decimation by yellow fever and resulting resurgence. To quote Southern vernacular, you will be "properly Introduced" to my city, my area, its rich history and its colorful cast of characters. As fascinating as Memphis is, you may also want to experience the West Tennessee Old South homes and antebellum plantation estates of those who lived and built during the "Moonlight and Magnolias" era when cotton was king of the Southern and the American economy. The tours I have selected are designed to be personal and thought provoking. Being a fifth generation Mid-Southerner I have a passion to teach you about our local culture, the how and why we exist as a people, to introduce you to who we are by examining who we were and how we became the city you are visiting. Let me confirm a couple of stereotypes of Southern hospitality and story telling while together we discover the charms of my community. Wherever possible, my tours have some built in flexibility which allows customization around your specific interests. Message me with any questions and interests and I will recommend any changes and additions that will personalize your tour. BA, Rhodes College, Memphis, TN MBA, Thunderbird School of Global Management, Phoenix, AZ Fifth Generation Mid-Southerner Local Historian and published author My vehicle is not wheelchair accessible.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message John M.

Overview of your Memphis tour

Your guide has a personal and intimate connection to most of the homes you will see. As such, I will tell you fascinating stories of each home and some of the colorful characters that once inhabited them. And yes, several are haunted! This tour will take us to some of the most stunning examples of Federal and Greek Revival architecture that is synonymous with the Old South. We will travel through Shelby and Fayette Counties to have close up views of many grand estates that were built in the mid 1800's by families of means. Our trip will take us through several small towns in the immediate vicinity of Memphis and you will experience first hand that charm and beauty of the rural South. Do not be surprised if we are invited to have a glass of iced tea on the veranda!

Recent Reviews

Edna A.United States
October 2023

A wonderful day long introduction to Memphis adjacent countryside and antebellum history and architecture. John, having lived in the area all of his life, is able to speak authoritatively from his life experiences rather than providing a textbook narrative. Recommend!

Gene B.United States
December 2021

We couldn't have been more pleased with our tour. Charles was amazing. His in-depth knowledge of the history of the area was super. What a very pleasant experience.

Lewis S.United States
August 2021

This was a great tour , by our private guide , '' John M'' , we saw many interesting homes and , stopped at a Mennonite cafe , so so nice , we will definitely be using your tours again . tyvm

Kathleen J.United States
July 2021

Great full day of driving in small towns outside of Memphis. John even took us by his family home. We had lunch a delicious Mennonite Market. He was so accommodating. His personal stories made the trip much more interesting. He also said he was at our disposal if we needed anything while we are here. Thank you John.

Juliette L.France
January 2020

I have traveled and toured all over the world for many years and never have I had a more fascinating tour by such a competent and interesting guide. I highly recommend John's customized tours as my experience was expertly customized for my specific interests. John is very knowledgeable of the southern United States; however his own worldly travels and business relationships add much flavor and context to his tours, especially for the international traveler.

Drew M.United States
February 2019

We spent two days with John and had the best time. John is a seasoned, entertaining guide and even a better person. He kindly customized this tour for our special needs. We highly recommend the Antebellum tour - the homes are impressive and the stories are classic and fun. Consider John's Shiloh tour for even more insight into that era. For Memphis' hidden gems tour, make sure John shows you the Crystal Grotto and Ornamental Metal Museum. Thanks, John!

Your Memphis tour itinerary

Our itinerary will consist of a continuous driving tour of pre Civil War homes, churches and courthouses within a 50 mile radius from Memphis. We will be traveling down tree lined highways and through small towns that remained largely unchanged for many many years. We will stop for lunch at an old general store or maybe a Mennonite bakery. Be prepared for an afternoon of calm leisure and lowered blood pressure!

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation

You will be driven in a Mercedes sedan with a maximum of 3 passengers. If your group is larger that 3, please message me with details as that could impact the cost.

What's included
Other: I provide all my clients with complimentary water, soft drinks and light snacks. During warmer months I will also have cool towels for your comfort.
Private Guide
Private Transportation
What's not included
Other
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide:

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
History
Layover
Architecture
Day Trip
Tour reference number
541145
Languages
English
Activity level
Minimal
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Memphis best suited for?

This private tour in Memphis is perfect for those who are interested in history, architecture, and the charm of the Old South. It's ideal for travellers who want to explore antebellum homes and plantations with a personal touch, as John M. shares fascinating stories and insights about each location. The tour is also suitable for families, as it is kid-friendly.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Memphis be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 6 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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