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National Civil Rights Museum

Tourist attraction Museum Historical landmark History museum Heritage museum Historical place museum Historical society National museum

One of the Best Places To Visits in Memphis


Address

450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103

Website

www.civilrightsmuseum.org

Contact

(901) 521-9699

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (12.5K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Monday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (94) history (53) time (45) experience (38) visit (35) great (28) hours (26) King (25) Memphis (20) rights (18)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Tiffany G. 2 years ago on Google
    This is the absolute best historic museum I’ve ever been to. I recommend every single American visit this museum. It is a world class experience with interactive exhibits, fascinating artifacts from history, sound clips, videos and movies, as well as historical recreations or civil rights movement pieces from the real stories that have been preserved. You will never experience the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the loves he touched like you will here. It’s incredible. It is a beautiful testimony to the amazing life he lived and to many of the women, teens, and other men and allies of the history of the United States who have fought for our civil rights and freedoms. I left sad for the loss of life that brought the US to this day, but deeply inspired by the many freedom fighters who have been seeking liberty and justice for ALL with their flesh and blood. Please plan 2-3 hours to really read and absorb this experience. You won’t regret it it’s a national landmark and an incredible museum run by an incredible team of caring guides and staff. Would definitely return.
    30 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Burcu 2 years ago on Google
    This was my first and only emotionally intense yet educational museum experience. I left this place with a very heavy heart. A must see for everyone to learn the REAL civil rights movement in a time frame back from the slavery to 1960s. They don't and most probably won't teach you this stuff in the school... We spent an hour because the museum was going to close but I'd definitely spend more time here next time, a lot to digest.
    21 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Raul C. 1 month ago on Google • 289 reviews New
    Powerful museum depicting the struggle for civil rights of African Americans. Located at the site of Dr Martin Luther King Js assassination it an immensely educational site that inspires

  • 5/5 Fuat B. 2 years ago on Google
    This museum is a must see, and beautifully designed! Employees are very pleasant, clearly love their jobs and are extremely professional. So grateful I was able to experience this. The National Civil rights museum is something that you need a lot of time and patience to go to. This place is awesome I highly recommend it, but go early so you can take your time and read through the history. If you are ever in Memphis this is a must on your tourist list it's only $18 for adults.
    14 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rhashaunda J. 1 year ago on Google
    This experience was one in a lifetime. It's great to learn and read about our history in the textbook, but this museum brought the textbook to life! It was so emotional yet such an amazing experience. I would recommend for family trips, school field trip; any kind of trip. One must visit this museum at least once in their lifetime. It was well put together! Job well done. It was everything in one (educational, emotional, inspirational)!
    14 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 E B. 1 month ago on Google • 239 reviews New
    Fantastic museum. I visited at 9 am on a Saturday during Black History Month. Recommend buying a timed ticket ahead of time, even at 9 am, the museum was packed.

  • 5/5 Tom C. 3 years ago on Google
    This place does a flawless job of converting the location of one of America's most tragic civil rights events into a deep and meaningful presentation of what it was all about from a holistic perspective. The museum doesn't pull any punches and the exhibits showcase an emotional narrative of what Black Americans have endured (are enduring) in the United States. Across the street from the Lorraine Motel the museum continues into the building where Martin Luther King Jr.'s shooter was located. Similar to the JFK museum in Dallas, the exhibit offers alternative theories to the mainstream shooter narrative (in this case, James Earl Ray) and asks those reviewing the information to draw their own conclusions. Somber, insightful and a must see when you're in Memphis.
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Erica D. 3 months ago on Google • 139 reviews New
    This was an absolutely wonderful museum. Very informative and entertaining. The visual aids that are displayed to help with the understanding of the history was amazing. The art work had intricate detail. My family and I enjoyed the museum greatly!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 DBradshaw25 4 months ago on Google • 173 reviews
    Very informative and interesting history museum. Personally, I think some of the exhibits could be designed a little better as I felt like some aspects/events were repetitive. I do prefer timeline exhibits as I feel that captures history in the best way, and portions of this museum tour seemed out of place due to a significant historic moment they wanted to focus on. Still recommended when visiting Memphis!

  • 5/5 B C. 1 year ago on Google
    Possibly one of the most educational, emotional and informative museums I have ever been to. I am speechless really, to literally stand where a great idol once stood. Very powerful and touching. I wasn’t the only one without a dry eye. We went towards closing, but I would recommend more than 2 hours to fully read, interpret and understand this history
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J L. 2 months ago on Google • 69 reviews New
    You absolutely can't miss out on this fantastic museum! My family and I had an excellent experience there, and even my 10-year-old daughter 100% engaged the whole time. Trust me, you won't regret visiting this wonderfully curated place. The employees were so friendly and knowledgeable.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michelle G. 1 year ago on Google
    This is such a beautiful commemorative and remembrance of our nation’s black history AND black EXCELLENCE. My husband and I spent 3 hours in the museum and could’ve honestly spent the whole day. There is so much info, displays, statues, photos, videos, historical artifacts, etc. We enjoyed every moment of our time spent in the museum. The staff were all friendly and helpful in guiding us through the experience and any questions we had. I would highly recommend this museum for kids and adults, it teaches MORE than what our public education offers to us in the one page of a textbook and the one month a year black history gets. I couldn’t help but continually get emotional throughout the museum as I can’t even imagine what it was like for the thousands of people who suffered and worked for the progress we’ve made, but also the hope and inspiration to continue doing the work needed to really fight to equality and justice. It’s sad that there is a lady protesting the museum across the street for the money spent on the museum, as it further suppresses the history of our country and minimizes the importance of what MLK and all important people have given their lives for. The gift shop in the museum has a wonderful selection of T-shirt’s, books, prints, souvenirs, etc so make sure you stop there before you leave. Thank you for the amazing educational experience!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Courtney A. 1 month ago on Google • 58 reviews New
    I went to the museum on a Thursday at 11:45am during Black History Month. I purchased my tickets in advance online. There was no wait to get in. There were 5 busloads of kids that arrived when I did. Thankfully, the worker at the museum sent us to the next exhibit ahead of the kids so that we could enjoy the museum without trying to dodge the kids. This museum is moving. It is large. It is informative. You have to visit more than once. The gift shop is a little pricey but I was okay with it. I spent $60 on a shirt, a hat, two shot glasses and a calendar. There is plenty of free parking. I will definitely return.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 F B. 2 months ago on Google • 13 reviews New
    Very nice museum. Site recommended 1.5 to 2 hours, we took nearly 3 to read everything and catch every video. Museum does much more than focus on Dr. King. Expect a more full overview civil rights broadly. Clean and well taken care off place. Some renovations ongoing (Same as Lorraine Motel review since it's the same place)
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ebony N. 3 years ago on Google
    First, I didn't like the lack of directions. They need arrows to show the next steps of the museum in the beginning. Now, the great things about the museum. FREE PARKING was great. There are little boxes that show different clips of black history leading up to the entrance. You can see the outside where Martin Luther King was shot. There was attractions from slavery to the bus boycotts to Bloody Sunday. Be prepared to walk! Bring comfortable shoes! After the museum, you can go across the street to another part of the attraction so there is plenty of walking. It was a great experience!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 JaVanda S. 2 years ago on Google
    I cannot begin to praise The Smithsonian and the staff of the National Civil Rights Museum! The whole experience is a must for everyone no matter what race, beliefs or age. From start to finish I was amazed. Stepping back in time seeing history most pivotal moments was breathtaking, emotional, and humbling. I was thrown A curve ball at the end of the tour when we went across the street to the boarding house . If you are thinking about it let me help you YES go YES bring the kids YES bring some tissue and YES get ready for an unforgettable experience.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lacy P. 1 year ago on Google
    I am amazed at how informative this museum is. You are guaranteed to learn something new. Provided history on Blacks during Jim Crow times. History on Martin Luther King but also the investigation time line of when he was killed. The staff was very organized and professional. The museum did a great job at making visitors feel the moment of those times. For example, the bus with Rosa Parks. You can visit this museum more than once and learn something new each time. Museum is great for family and friends of all ages. I had the luxury of hearing Ruby Bridges speak across the street during my visit.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eating to H. 1 year ago on Google
    If you are a tourist, it is a must see if you are in Tennessee & worth the price of admission. If you are a Tennessee resident with state-issued ID you should definitely visit the museum for free on Mondays from 3 p.m. until closing. It is a transforming experience. It makes you realize how far we have come, but also how far we still need to go. It shows how children were separated because of the color of their skin. Even though the children are no longer separated because of the color of their skin I reflected on how they are still separated. As a former teacher, I saw how the income level of the community reflected the population of the schools in the community. Therefore separation by social status and income is still very apparent in the school system today. This museum does an awesome job at honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., his legacy, and bringing awareness to his purpose. It is sad that he died that way, but his memory & purpose can live on through the future generations. Praying 🙏 for our world 🌎 and people live together peacefully regardless of their skin color as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr was peacefully protesting for. 💚🌎✌️
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brad H. 2 months ago on Google • 80 reviews New
    An immersive and moving experience through an important piece of our nation’s history. Very well done through use of audio/video/images and lifesized exhibits like the Rosa Parks bus. Prepare to be moved to tears by the end, if not before.

  • 5/5 Jesse D. 1 month ago on Google • 50 reviews New
    Quite interesting museum. They converted the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King was assassinated into a civil rights museum. It not only has the room he stayed in preserved but other civil rights violations and tragedies during the time. Very informative and powerful
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Britton S. 3 years ago on Google
    Very inspiring museum. It shows the full history of African Americans, as well as the very place Martin Luther King Jr was shot and where he was shot from. This is a must see if you are in the area. Took us about 3 hours to go through, but it was packed with so much history.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kevin M. 2 years ago on Google
    Very well done museum! A ton of extremely important historical items to see and very educational. A lot to read in every room. The layout and content of the museum is one of the best I've visited and it does a very good job of portraying what people of color have gone through and how far things have come since early slavery. Absolute must do in town and worth traveling to Memphis to see!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gonsalves “Shake'N Bake” G. 2 years ago on Google
    Must see. They did a wonderful job with all exhibits. It really humbles u to see where we came from how far we have gone and where we still need to go. Our ancestors are amazing
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Evana F. 1 year ago on Google
    Today was my 2nd time visiting & it was better than the first!! It's amazing to say that you've experienced a part of history that's very monumental in our lives!! It's an honor to get to find out how civil rights history came about. The staff were friendly & very prompt as well as direct with instructions. There wasn't a big crowd where the tour would be rushed. The murals & artifacts... Simply amazing!!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Autumn J. 3 years ago on Google
    Highly recommend! This was an amazing educational experience and I am so glad we took the time to see this piece of history. All of the staff was was so friendly and personable. The wait wasn't bad. Even with Covid restrictions, it was still easy to get through. If you don't make a reservation through the website online, it is easy to purchase tickets at the gate and still get in right away. It says 1.5 hours on the website, but plan for much longer if you like to read and want to watch the various videos in each exhibit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tricia M. 3 years ago on Google
    Also consider visiting Jacqueline Smith , who has held a non violent protest across from the museum for over 32 years. Her perspective as the last tenant of the Lorraine Motel (forcibly removed in 1988, to allow for the museum to be built) & views on gentrification are incredibly important to consider. “The great glory of American Democracy is the right to protest for right”
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anu C. 3 years ago on Google
    I liked that this museum exhibits slavery from the point it started in America. Due to time constraints, i was able to spend only about an hour and 45 minutes. There is a lot to read. One could take up to 4 hours to read everything. The security guards were courteous.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 chase c. 3 years ago on Google
    This place was kinda hard to visit knowing the history. But I felt like I had to go. Visiting the location where such a great person was killed isn't something I would say I'm into but it helped me feel more connected to the history of the world. I didn't get a chance to go inside but I felt the energy of the moment just being there. It was peaceful and felt like something I needed to do.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brett S. 2 years ago on Google
    The Civil Rights Museum is a deeply moving experience that chronicles the struggles of African Americans on the road to equality, as well as the crucial roll that MLK played in the fight. The museum is very well laid out. Through storytelling it really captures the ongoing struggle towards equality among all Americans. Don't miss it if you are in town!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Valerie D. 1 year ago on Google
    This was wonderful. All the staff so pleasant. We really need to keep these museums alive. We didn’t realize it but we ended up showing up on MLK’s anniversary. They really done a great job preserving the spot. We were there for four hours and probably could’ve stayed a bit longer
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vernon P. 2 years ago on Google
    I enjoyed this experience so much. I was surprised by how large the museum was. There so much information and the staff were awesome. We had a very engaging speaker. I would definitely go again. There’s so much information to fit in one visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jerry M. 2 years ago on Google
    The museum itself has great information but doesn't hold very many artifacts. It's self-paced but guided in a strange way. That's to say you can't simply get lost in the information inside of the museum, the halls guide you. What makes the place so special is it's historical significance. If you road tripping through America it should be a place that you stop.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 jg 9 months ago on Google
    A very powerful and moving museum that I think everyone should visit in their lifetime. The museum, which is housed inside the Lorraine Hotel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was shot and killed, covers much more than this assassination, from slavery to civil rights. The final exhibit takes you right by the hotel room where King actually stayed, and gives you a clear view of the balcony. I really can’t think of any drawbacks to this experience. The staff are professional and helpful and the museum is clean/well designed. Know that some areas and exhibits do not permit photography of any kind. Definitely go if you get the chance!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amber Q. 5 months ago on Google
    This is an amazing wealth of information and interactive elements. You could easily spend a whole day here. But beware, this is an emotional journey and should not be taken lightly or done in big groups. Go there with friends or people who will share your pace and your emotional journey. Soak in the information and the moment.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andri'a S. 7 months ago on Google
    I really enjoyed my first visit. My husband and daughter who's 10 joined me. There were a few emotional moments but overall it was informative, well put together, there was a lot of information. It was not crowded because of the time stamped tickets purchased online. We were expecting a 1 and half hour visit but we were there for about 2 hours and 45mins. This was a great experience and I'm glad I came. There's also a gift shop with lots of great keepsakes and fairly priced. I took lots of photos but I won't post many of them because I don't want to ruin your experience.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Debisree R. 1 year ago on Google
    This is one of the few places in the USA, where the history of black people have been told with dignity and preserved their stuff. This place not only show the extent of the racial war and the struggle of the African American community, but also glorifies the fight for human rights. Even if you are not a history buff, you must visit the place to awaken your soul. This is the motel, turned into a museum, where originally Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. He was a face of the civil right movements in the USA. The good thing is, they are open even in the weekends. If you want to pay attention, it will take a quite long hour to fully explore the place. They have their own parking space, so you can park there. Highly recommended, a must go place if you are in Memphis, TN.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chante B. 1 year ago on Google
    You have to see this whole tour. It may take time ( we spent 2 hours) to see and appreciate the history but it's definitely worth the time spent. I will definitely be visiting again. There is major importance of our history inside this building.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 M M. 1 year ago on Google
    This museum rivals the new African American museum in DC. We loved how it was all in chronological order up to Dr. King's assassination. I wish that it was clearer which room he actually slept in. We loved how they left the cars that were parked in front of the room there. We loved how they preserved even the sight where the killer stood to shoot him. We loved how they took us through the search for the killer, the case and conspiracies. Great job!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mj M. 9 months ago on Google
    This was the second time I have visited this museum. I have spent over three hours there and could easily spend more. Such a well done museum. Dr. King’s hotel room brought so many emotions. Also seeing all of the history that we were not taught was amazing and eye opening. A must see in Memphis!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michelle E. 10 months ago on Google
    I really loved the museum. There was so much information to take in and photos to view. There were several short films to watch. I became a bit emotional during some of the interactive exhibits. I will definitely return. There were certain areas in the museum where photos/video recording were not allowed. I feel like I rushed some parts of the tour. I was on a time schedule and could only devote about 2hrs to the museum. There is a gift shop onsite. It was definitely an experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Barbara C. 8 months ago on Google
    My family and I went on Juneteeth and the line was long but very organized. My husband and I were both in wheelchairs, so the staff took our entire family to the front of the line because it was 92 degrees and the sun was beaming down. We were accommodated and on our way in half the time. I had never been to the museum and come to Memphis on a regular basis. It was crowded but I enjoyed the experience very much. I will return again when it's less crowded so I can take in everything at my leisure. I had 6 of my grandkids ages 1-20, and they were very impressed. Well worth the visit. The burned Greyhound bus really interested my husband because he was a Greyhound driver for 15 years before he retired. Had to have a picture of that!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mr. B. 11 months ago on Google
    I recommend this history tour to anyone who comes to Memphis. This is a must see attraction. So much history, that it is mind-boggling. A great place to bring kids as well, walk from exhibit to exhibit and the exhibit across the street from the museum. After your tour, you can walk right across the street to satisfy your BBQ craving at Central BBQ.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Karen G. 10 months ago on Google
    The Civil Rights Museum is a must-see, not only for visitors to Memphis but for everyone. The historical facts, the timeline, the presentations, tributes, and memorabilia, are outstanding. The astonishing behavior, which I am happy I learned during my school days, is at the forefront. Go to this museum, absorb the information, and try to be a better person. Well done and very kind staff.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 jeyaraj j. 6 months ago on Google
    It was honor to be in that spot. They have operating hours and I was late so I couldn’t get in. But I was able to stand and go through the motel from fence area. The marble explaining the story was really impressive and you can also see the mansion opposite to the hotel from here Sir MLK was shot. Pretty dark history but they have maintained the place well. It’s moving and must visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neil N. 3 years ago on Google
    Especially given what's going on in the U.S. in 2020, this is a museum that should be required visiting for all citizens of the country. The $17 admission felt a little steep, but the exhibitions are very well-presented and informative. You can't enter the room Dr. King stayed in the evening before he was assassinated, but you can see it, maintained to its 1968 appearance.

  • 4/5 Amber A. 3 years ago on Google
    Lots of content. They had films and interactive exhibits. So much information. It was a little difficult with a potty training toddler. Only one restroom in the lobby and and one at the end of the main museum. Would have liked to see something for younger children. They did have several books in the gift shop for all ages. Overall a well curated experience.

  • 5/5 Anshuman B. 3 years ago on Google
    Jaw dropping. Make sure you mark off at least two hours to truly take it all in. We went early to miss the rush and it was worth it. Really well done retelling of the horrible times that we were and are still going through.

  • 3/5 Robbin H. 3 years ago on Google
    While visiting friends they asked if we would like to visit the museum and of course we were excited to do so. The museum itself was a wonderful experience but from the time we entered your staff was very rude. So much so that it embarrassed the friends we were visiting whom might I add is a cop in that city. The first rude person was the lady who checked to see if you had anything on you. My daughter took what she thought was everything out of her coat but didn't realize she had left her case for her glasses in there. The lady said "when they ask you to take everything out of your pockets that means everything" not only was she rude but she also embarrassed my daughter. Moving on to the counter to pay, the first lady there after we paid and she was giving directions was saying it rude because we started to go the wrong way I assume. It was 8 of us total at 17 dollars per person. As we were waiting for the little movie that they show, our friend asked the guide that came out how long until the next show, she said very rude, it's on the sign and pointed up. The reason he didn't see it is because he was standing under it at the time. At that point I can honestly say, I had had enough and wanted my money back to leave but decided to not allow ignorant people to ruin my son and 2 daughter's opportunity to see in person what they have only heard about. As the film ended and you start to exit with the march the guide said y'all come on around. Keep around that wall that for the life of me I don't know why they put it there and some more things that I forgot that she said. We just looked at each other and our friends said I don't know what's going on today. While the museum itself is great it would have been the best experience had there been polite staff.

  • 5/5 Angus B. 3 years ago on Google
    I really enjoyed the physical exhibits like the Rosa Parks Bus, I Am a Man Protestors, and Rm 306. They helped bring the words of the museum to life. It’s a great museum, if you can only do one thing in Memphis, you should do this. I would plan on 2-3 hours.

  • 5/5 Jacque 3. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice exhibits. Very informative. Friendly staff. Excellent discounts for active duty, Veterans and seniors. Well worth the money.

  • 5/5 Marilyn C Hernandez Chingona Chicana 4. 3 years ago on Google
    A must see place to for all to know what African American people have endured and still endure.. the fight continues stay strong!!

  • 5/5 Benita P. 3 years ago on Google
    Very educational and informative on the civil rights movements.

  • 5/5 Jerry W. 3 years ago on Google
    Definitely recommend everyone to stop by this spot. EYE OPENER. SO WE NEVER FORGET THE STRUGGLES OUR PEOPLE WENT THRU FOR OUR FREEDOM. 🥰💛👊👍

  • 5/5 Sue D. 3 years ago on Google
    2.5 hours wasn't long enough. Interesting and well done.

  • 5/5 Kendrick H. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved it!

  • 5/5 Mikkos M. 3 years ago on Google
    This is a great place to go to learn about black history, it's very touchin! I was shocked to see other races their and was taking it all in. Going to MLK room was awesome and sad at the same time. I think everyone need to and check this place out, it's a goldmine of information.

  • 5/5 Jasmine W. 3 years ago on Google
    Thoroughly enjoyed everything about the museum! The attention to detail is great! So glad we took time out to go while we were in town!

  • 5/5 Roderick D. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful learning opportunity! Very insightful!

  • 5/5 Jaden P. 3 years ago on Google
    It was a serious time.You can feel the energy .You should visit for yourself.

  • 4/5 Dee H. 3 years ago on Google
    I am not able to give it 5 stars because when we visited, it was closed.

  • 5/5 Michelle D. 3 years ago on Google
    This was a great place to visit. Very informative and educational, everyone should learn this part of our country's history.

  • 5/5 Jeremy B. 3 years ago on Google
    Very information, I thought I was going to just visit the place where Dr. King was assassinated, but it turned out to be a black history experience and education like non other. I HIGHLY recommend visiting the National Civil Rights Museum. Definitely bring the kids to learn about the civil rights movement.

  • 5/5 Vonnie W. 3 years ago on Google
    This was a great opportunity to learn about our history! Very interactive and an awesome learning experience for civil rights and Dr. King. Well worth the trip and to be that close to history was amazing. Every child and family should bear witness to this museum and see what you read about in history books. Very important trip for my family.

  • 5/5 Amber W. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to stop by if you are in town. Very educational and informative. Plus the gift shop has a lot of great items as well!

  • 5/5 Michael R. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved the exhibits, super informative. Very strong message. So much history in this building. Believe I learned more in this trip than I did in World History. Everything is super descriptive and well displayed. Great way to burn a few hours.

  • 5/5 Emmanuel L. 3 years ago on Google
    It was important that I visit the location that MLK was assassinated and feel the impact of history and its cultural importance. Now more than ever, Dr. King’s legacy is a testimony to generations of Americans fight for freedom, and standing among history I was moved by what came before my generation. A must visit for any history buff or simply to glimpse a small windows of time.

  • 5/5 Leah M. M. 3 years ago on Google
    Between the two Kings in Memphis, this one is a MUST SEE! This museum clearly depicts the struggles and accomplishments of underrepresented individuals in the country. Correction: the SMALL accomplishments of underrepresented individuals in the country. We still have a long way to go, but this Museum highlights the civil rights movement and how it gave way to future revolutions for equality and social justice! + Watch the video / documentary first before walking into the small exhibit room to the left; keep tissue at hand + Very nice theater / viewing area + The bus was a nice addition, make sure to step inside + Picture/placards accompanied with descriptive information were impressive, but.... - Make sure you bring reading glasses, if needed, as some texts were hard to read + Ghandi section at the end was a nice addition, could expand on this - Some exhibits could be more interactive, rather than having everything in texts and pictures + Viewing the room were Dr. King spent his last hours was extemely touching and moving! I literally got chills and goosebumps while in this part of the musuem / balcony! + Be prepared to spend AT LEAST half a day to soak everything in, but... + When we visited, we were told we can return the next day for free! Unfortunately, our itinerary did not permit us in doing this :-( Otherwise, we would have. - Wear walking shoes, 4-inch heels not recommended :-/ With only had a few hours to spare in Memphis and this place was the first in our agenda. I am soooo glad we visited this place, although we were quite rushed as we got there during closing time. Having studied social and cultural aspects in education during graduate school, this museum was right up my alley. And boy was I in for much more than what I expected. Be mentally and emotionally prepared as this museum will leave you more liberated and moved than ever!

  • 5/5 Hailey E. 3 years ago on Google
    i hate this place it me make think about Martin Luther King Jr....i just cry about Martin Luther King Jr... And I'm 7 who cares him.... I love him so much i can't thinking about Martin Luther King Jr.... And I'm crying over him.... But it's never going to be open hopefully....

  • 5/5 I SLAY ALL DAY TRAVEL The Solo T. 3 years ago on Google
    Covid hit and the museum was closed. This did not stop my show.

  • 5/5 Taboo D. 3 years ago on Google
    A beautiful yet sad place to witness the tragedy that occurred. I tend to visit often.

  • 2/5 Lora K. 3 years ago on Google
    Staff not as friendly, set up is nice and fun, way to many ppl at one time. They don't give you time to stop and look

  • 3/5 Milton T. 3 years ago on Google
    Very inspiring museum. It shows the full history of African Americans

  • 5/5 Ana Teresa P. 3 years ago on Google
    The best museum I've ever been to. I still think about this place sometimes. I learnt a lot here.

  • 5/5 Josephine C. 3 years ago on Google
    My second time going very emotional for me.

  • 3/5 Ari L. 3 years ago on Google
    I heard the shots of Martin dying My dad did,

  • 5/5 Anna G. 3 years ago on Google
    I went sort of late in the day, which didn't give all the time I needed to see and read everything. Moving, heartfelt and neverending.

  • 5/5 D. P. 3 years ago on Google
    This was an excellent experience. I will definitely encourage others to visit.

  • 5/5 Anna H. 3 years ago on Google
    Poignant. The museum was not open when we stopped, but the outer exterior is well kept and an easy stop for travelers.

  • 5/5 Nicholas C. 3 years ago on Google
    I had visited the museum when in Memphis in 2012, as I was back in town before Christmas (2020), I decided to revisit the museum. Very informative and interesting place to visit. Staff were friendly and you get a sense of perspective of the sheer magnitude of the Civil Rights movement when waling around the museum. Strongly recommend a visit and a moment of reflection when on site.

  • 5/5 Bradley C. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing museum.

  • 5/5 Jeannie 3 years ago on Google
    Love the fact that things were kept as original as possible to preserve a great, but sad moment in history.

  • 5/5 Juan M. 3 years ago on Google
    Clean alot of history

  • 5/5 Fanisha J. 3 years ago on Google
    Was there in August of 2018. My daughter and I were just there last week. It is closed due to the virus

  • 5/5 Corey J. 3 years ago on Google
    As a learned American of African descent, I am aware of the sacrifice that Dr. King and multitudes made for future generations. On this stay in Memphis, I prioritized a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum. Utilizing Google maps for current information and directions, I knew the Museum was temporarily closed due to covid 19. However, this did not deter me. I resided at the Crowne Plaza Hotel downtown which is 1.5 miles or 2.414 kilometers from the National Civil Rights Museum. The weather was breezy, dry, partly cloudy, 39°fahrenheit or 3.889celsius. With ample time for my day, I decided to walk. Google maps is amazing, precisely guiding me to where I needed to go. Once I walked up to the location, I stopped and said "this is where Dr. King was assasinated". Only having knowledge of him from listening to his recordings on Youtube, I was transported back in time as if I were there. The hotel has been amazingly preserved in time. There are remote audible kiosk on the outside that you can listen to that educate you about the history. When you visit Memphis, prioritize the National Civil Rights Museum.

  • 5/5 Felecia W. 3 years ago on Google
    It was a great experience

  • 3/5 Shawn S. 3 years ago on Google
    Was closed when we visited due to COVID-19. Looks to be amazing.

  • 5/5 Darius D. 3 years ago on Google
    It wasnt open during my visit Check in advance for hours

  • 5/5 Kim B. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing museum! Wish we had more time, we didn't get to see it all. Definitely will be going back next time I'm in Memphis

  • 5/5 Yolanda P. 3 years ago on Google
    The feeling was unreal!

  • 5/5 Chris P. 3 years ago on Google
    You can learn alot here

  • 5/5 RB S. 3 years ago on Google
    Very eye opening and realistic. Everyone should come here to learn and about our nation's short commings. And how to love more than before.

  • 5/5 Emily Faith C. 3 years ago on Google
    Very sobering.

  • 5/5 Chuck M. 3 years ago on Google
    Everyone should go to this, it should be a requirement. Extremely well done, thank you.

  • 4/5 Tuan N. 3 years ago on Google
    Lots of history there

  • 1/5 Chu B. 3 years ago on Google
    Dirty

  • 5/5 Nina D. 3 years ago on Google
    So amazing and an honor to visit Black History!

  • 5/5 Martin C. 3 years ago on Google
    Dr. Martin Luther Kimg Jr.'s room is preserved, with a small memorial where he was killed. Two classic cars, replicas of the ones in the famous photo, are kept in front of the building. You aren't allowed to go up there, but I snuck up anyway. Very surreal.

  • 5/5 Fay D. 3 years ago on Google
    If want history this is truly the place to visit. Has you in tears. Great learning experience

  • 5/5 Cameron B. 3 years ago on Google
    Such an amazing place to learn about the flight for equal rights. A great museum.

  • 5/5 Wes K. 3 years ago on Google
    Every American should see this sacred site. One of the finest museums in the country and a deeply moving experience that brought me to tears. I will never forget it.

  • 4/5 Marsha H. 3 years ago on Google
    Very, very informative and interesting tour about Dr. Martin Luther King. It had me and my family reminiscening about that era. I've been several times, even volunteered a couple of times as an usher. Each time I go, I still enjoy the tour.

  • 5/5 C M. 3 years ago on Google
    You must go! It’s one of the best museums I have ever experienced. It took us 2-3 hrs for the whole experience. So much to learn & so much history in one place.

  • 5/5 Peter H. 3 years ago on Google
    Learnt lots of history. It maintains well.

  • 5/5 Jay t. 2 years ago on Google
    This was an amazing experience. The tour of the National Civil Rights Museum was fun, educating, and very humbling. My family and I definitely enjoyed ourselves. The exhibits were placed in good order and was made simple for even the kids would be interested. The staff/ tour guide that spoke before the video was very nice and answered any questions the group had. The gift shop staff were all friendly as well. Will definitely come back to enjoy with other friends and family.

  • 5/5 Ashley J. 2 years ago on Google
    I came alone and spent 2hours in the museum. Tickets are timed and guests are required to wear a mask. They have a nice size gift shop too.

  • 5/5 DeJournea B. 2 years ago on Google
    Powerful. I got Chills walking up to the Museum. The amount of detail and information that you receive here is enough to last a Lifetime. One of the BEST Museums I've Ever Visited.

  • 5/5 Nickia G. 2 years ago on Google
    A sad piece of history but the museum did a great job in retelling a story. You could definitely spend your entire day in here reading and reading away. Thank you for sharing a piece of history that still needs improvement.

  • 5/5 Cynthia B. 2 years ago on Google
    Omg this place is awesome I highly recommend it, but go early so you can take your time and read through the history. If you are ever in Memphis this is a must on your tourist list it's only $18.

  • 5/5 Victoria E. 2 years ago on Google
    Go. It is worth your time and beyond. Get ready to get emotional, and to learn a lot. I took AP American History and passed the AP exam with flying colors, as well as being a Heather Cox Richardson participant - I still didn’t *know so much of this so important, relevant information. Schedule at least 2 hours. A good companion is the Little Rock 9 site in LR, Arkansas. It has a National Park site with it, along with the NPS app.

  • 5/5 Danielle P. 1 year ago on Google
    It is a deep journey into the Civil Rights Movement. I’m not American, so it was almost everything new for me. My kids were fascinated and for them it was so more fascinating, because everything they were learning at school was there. We spent 2 hours there, but we could spend more if we had more time. It’s a must see, for sure.

  • 5/5 G W. 1 year ago on Google
    If we don't learn about our history we are condemned to repeat it. We really enjoyed the NCRM. We spent nearly 4 hours going through the various exhibits and movies. Very educational for us as well as our kids. Highly recommend checking in on this.

  • 5/5 Andy C. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is an education. Not being American meant I learnt lots about American history in a few hours but it was so relevant to life in the UK too. There was more information than we could take in, in one visit so I would definitely come back to continue learning. We can do better is still!

  • 5/5 Jean V. 11 months ago on Google
    You cannot visit Memphis and not visit this museum. The storytellers are incredible. You will be transported into the lives of each era and the story they tell. Your heart will be moved, outraged, challenged, filled with courage, respect, admiration, and awe as the stories of the civil rights icons are told in ways you most likely have never heard before. Give yourself hours to spend in this place. There are two parts,so if you are able to plan to visit one part, grab some food and visit the other. Make sure to linger out front to read the historical markers that do an incredible job of setting the stage for the journey you will embark on as you travel through time in this place...if you have the privilege of visiting with a group it enhances your experience as you have a great conversation over your meal as you debrief your unforgettable encounter at the National Rights Museum.

  • 5/5 Michelle F. 9 months ago on Google
    The most moving museum I've ever been to. It was inspirational and hard to see. I left feeling emotionally drained. I recommend that everyone visit.

  • 5/5 Shavon L. 8 months ago on Google
    I'm not gonna lie, but visiting this place was very eerie, emotional, gave me goosebumps. It felt like I was there when it happened. I love there educational videos that you can watch to get the full story.

  • 5/5 Ebony B. 7 months ago on Google
    This place I’ve been too before, but the renovation and the exhibit was amazing. My family and I had gone to a family reunion in Ohio and on the way back home we stopped here. My children and I have always loved going to museums, but this one was special for me and very informative for my children. As teenagers they aren’t always into it all, but they asked questions and really enjoyed the displays and we were able to talk about race issues and racism. I’m so happy that they were inquisitive because I always say, if you don’t remember the past then you may be doomed to repeat it (even though that would not be an easy fete). In talking to my kids, we were able to talk to other guest at times and had great conversations about life. The gift shop had a lot of great things, and the prices were really good so that I was able to purchase a few things and the other items that I want I was able to order online. You can never learn everything and the next time I get to go through Memphis I will stopping by again

  • 5/5 Andreia S. 6 months ago on Google • 6 reviews
    I was so honored and blessed to have this experience! The Exhibits were amazing and I experienced some emotional tearful moments. I look forward to visiting again with my son and other family members as I did this as solo activity for my layover from work. I’m so glad I chose this as my day time activity !

  • 4/5 Jen G. 6 months ago on Google
    To take in the full experience you need to alot a few hours. This was a really well done museum with many exhibits but it is not self guided- it is a tour and takes time to get through. Absolutely worth a stop.

  • 5/5 Lulu L. 3 months ago on Google New
    Wow. Such a moving experience. The museum is engaging and informative. Definitely worth visiting as these are important stories for all Americans to know about the people who built America. We are not very far removed from the brutality of slavery in America. I’m grateful for the people who worked so hard to make this important contribution to the cultural offerings in Memphis.


Call (901) 521-9699 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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