Sun Studio Tours

Sun Studio
Sun Studio featuring signage
Sun Studio
Sun Studio which includes signage
Sun Studio


Known as The Birthplace of Rock and Roll, this recording studio presents a trip down memory lane with music icons such as Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

Step past the unassuming shopfront of Sun Studios to discover one of the world’s most emblematic destinations for American music history. This legendary recording studio invites music fans to experience the careers of some of the nation’s most-loved rock and roll artists. Join enthusiastic guides on a tour of Sun Studios to hear untold stories, browse original memorabilia and listen to recording sessions.

Record producer Sam Phillips opened the studio in 1950. It earned the moniker The Birthplace of Rock and Roll after Jackie Brenston and His Delta Cats recorded the single Rocket 88 here in 1951. The studio went on to become a revered venue for blues, country, gospel, rock ’n’ roll, and rockabilly. B.B. King, Elvis Presley, Howlin’ Wolf and Jerry Lee Lewis are some of the many artists to have recorded here.

Tours take you to rooms and studios packed with instruments, recording equipment, photos, concert posters and vinyl records. Pose for a photo with the microphone that Elvis sang into and listen to outtakes from recording and jam sessions. Guides will share inside information about the celebrated musicians. Hear the story about the Million Dollar Quartet, an impromptu performance that featured Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins.

Finish your visit in the shop, where you can purchase Sun Studio branded T-shirts, magnets, keychains and guitar pics, among other souvenirs. Pick up a pair of Elvis-style sunglasses and a CD of the Million Dollar Quarter jam. There’s also a 1950s-style café that serves light snacks, sodas, milkshakes and floats.

Located in the Medical District, the attraction is a 20-minute walk from Downtown Memphis. A free shuttle bus connects the studio with the Rock n’ Soul Museum, on Beale Street. Free parking is available at the rear of the building.

Sun Studio is open daily, except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, and there’s an admission fee. A 45-minute guided tour is included with the admission ticket.

Plan a trip to see Sun Studio

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Sheraton Memphis Downtown Hotel
 The Oliver Hotel, Oxford
Hampton Inn Collierville

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Reviews of Sun Studio

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
296
5 - Excellent 60%
4 - Good
151
4 - Good 31%
3 - Okay
40
3 - Okay 8%
2 - Disappointing
2
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
3
1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

We recorded there while in town. Cool tour, every hour.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Didn’t go to

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

A BUCKET LIST ITEM AND LOVED IT, SMALL SEATING SPACE SO TIME YOUR TOUR AHEAD, BUT THEY FILL UP FAST, ON THE HOUR..Even tho we waited 30 minutes lots to see and people friendly and chatty, and lots to BUY...;-)

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Busy and lack of convenient parking.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

A little expensive for a two room tour.

5/5 - Excellent

Susan

Don't miss it. Full of fascinating history. Tour guide, Graham, was phenomenal, very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. It is a very up close and real tour.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Sun Studio

Hu. Hotel

Hu. Hotel

3.5 out of 5
79 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN
Hu. Hotel
DoubleTree by Hilton Memphis Downtown

DoubleTree by Hilton Memphis Downtown

4 out of 5
185 Union Ave, Memphis, TN
DoubleTree by Hilton Memphis Downtown
Sheraton Memphis Downtown Hotel

Sheraton Memphis Downtown Hotel

4 out of 5
250 N Main St, Memphis, TN
Sheraton Memphis Downtown Hotel
Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown

Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown

2.5 out of 5
100 N Front St, Memphis, TN
Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown
Big Cypress Lodge

Big Cypress Lodge

5 out of 5
1 Bass Pro Drive, Memphis, TN
Big Cypress Lodge
Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis

Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis

4 out of 5
33 BEALE STREET, Memphis, TN
Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis
Hotel Indigo Memphis Downtown by IHG

Hotel Indigo Memphis Downtown by IHG

3.5 out of 5
22 N B.B. King Blvd, Memphis, TN
Hotel Indigo Memphis Downtown by IHG
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Downtown

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Downtown

3 out of 5
310 Union Ave, Memphis, TN
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Downtown
Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street

Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street

2.5 out of 5
175 Peabody Pl, Memphis, TN
Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Sun Studio

At Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, immerse yourself in the rich musical history with engaging studio tours that showcase the birthplace of rock 'n' roll. Enjoy live music performances and explore nearby theaters for a vibrant entertainment scene. Don't miss the opportunity to capture memorable moments with photo tours, making your visit an unforgettable experience filled with local culture and creativity.

Shopping

A. Schwab Dry Goods Store is a charming spot just 0.8 miles from Sun Studio, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Hickory Ridge Mall, 12 miles away, for a wider selection with entertainment and family-friendly vibes.

Recreation

At AutoZone Park, enjoy the excitement of live sports just 0.8 miles from Sun Studio, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For outdoor relaxation, Galloway Golf Course, located 6 miles away, offers a serene golfing experience. Levitt Shell, 2 miles away, provides a vibrant atmosphere with live music events.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Memphis International Raceway, located 11 miles from Sun Studio. For an adrenaline rush, enjoy laser tag and paintball at Battlefront Lasertag and Paintball, also 11 miles away. Alternatively, play a match at Bellevue Tennis Center, just 2 miles from Sun Studio.

Nightlife

In Memphis, the Orpheum Theatre offers captivating performances just 1 mile from Sun Studio, while the Cannon Center for Performing Arts presents a vibrant cultural experience. The Halloran Centre for Performing Arts & Education, also 1 mile away, adds to the enchanting nightlife atmosphere with its engaging shows.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Sun Studio

When visiting Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, explore the surrounding attractions that highlight the area's rich musical and historical culture. Don't miss the legendary Sun Studio itself, where music history comes alive. For a well-rounded experience, check out local music and history museums, or enjoy family-friendly outdoor activities nearby, making your trip both educational and entertaining.

  • Beale Street: A vibrant thoroughfare known for its rich musical history, Beale Street is a must-visit for live music lovers. Enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with bars, restaurants, and shops, all contributing to the street's unique urban charm.
  • FedExForum: This multi-purpose arena is a hub for family-friendly entertainment. Whether catching a Memphis Grizzlies basketball game or attending a concert, the FedExForum offers a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages.
  • National Civil Rights Museum: Located at the former Lorraine Motel, this museum provides a profound insight into the American civil rights movement. The exhibitions and historical artifacts create a powerful narrative that inspires reflection and understanding of the struggle for equality.

Best time to go to Sun Studio

The best time to visit Sun Studio is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August80.1°F (26.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December45.5°F (7.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sun Studio

To save on your trip to Sun Studio in Memphis, plan your visit between December and February for lower accommodation rates. Mondays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and consider booking a package that includes flights and activities to maximize your savings. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Explore free attractions in the area and utilize affordable public transport to keep costs down during your visit.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Sun Studio are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Sun Studio is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Sun Studio is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, make sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at Sun Studio with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia