Memphis Backstage History Experience Museum Tour

The Overton Park Shell is an historic bandshell and museum in the Midtown Memphis oasis known as Overton Park. Lovingly called “The Shell” by Elvis Presley and most others, the storied amphitheater is where Elvis Presley played his first professional gig in 1954 at just nineteen-years-old, bringing live Rock & Roll to the world’s stage in an explosive way during a country music show headlined by yodeler Slim Whitman. The Shell remained important to Elvis and his family, as they continued to regularly visit and perform there over the years. Surviving many ups and downs since opening during The Depression of the 1930s, The Shell is still a cutting-edge regional performing arts pavilion today, offering 50 free concerts yearly accommodating up to 3,000 music lovers in its gorgeous park setting. The Shell’s fascinating story is now told through its new immersive Backstage History Experience guided tour that ties together almost a century of colorful Memphis and Midtown music histories.

Meeting Point

Overton Park Shell

1928 Poplar Ave, , Memphis, 38104, Tennessee

What's included:

• This fun indoor guided museum tour is casual, interactive, and includes ADA-friendly restrooms.

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour

Overton Park Shell

1928 Poplar Ave, , Memphis, 38104, Tennessee

The Shell's rich history includes many important “firsts” (it’s also the home of Johnny Cash’s first pro gig, for instance) and the artists who have graced its stage range from “A-Z,” or “Al Kapone to ZZ Top.”
Elvis Presley fans from around the world have visited The Shell's exterior for many years, but now they can actually see its indoor Green Rooms where Elvis (and his family) have spent quality time in its more private spaces. The Shell's guided "Backstage History Experience" museum tour is now listed as one of Memphis Travel's "Best Museums in Memphis."
Proudly, it's still a cutting-edge performing arts pavilion today, offering 50 multi-genre (free!) concerts, with sweet acoustics and cool lights, for up to 3,000 music lovers.

Its adjacent Park neighbors include the Memphis Zoo, The Brooks Museum of Art, the National Ornamental Iron Museum, the Overton Park Golf Course, miles of beautiful walking trails, open space, a family playground, and a dog park - something for everyone!

Admission Ticket Included