Stax Museum of American Soul Music image

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Tourist attraction Museum Local history museum

One of the Best Places To Visits in Memphis


Address

926 E McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38126

Website

www.staxmuseum.com

Contact

(901) 261-6338

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (2.7K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: music (47) history (31) Stax (31) museum (27) Memphis (20) soul (16) visit (14) great (13) time (11) amazing (11)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 JAMES 2 years ago on Google
    A very emotional tour. The history in this place flows through every turn. As you sit behind the mixing board looking into the studio, you can begin to hear the music and see the greats recording hits through imagination. Perfect tribute to all of the musicians and the Stax studio itself. Must see!!
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Keara A. 3 months ago on Google • 32 reviews New
    I truly loved my experience touring Stax Museum while visiting Memphis. The museum is so interesting and I really enjoyed getting to know its story. Definitely a must visit while in Memphis!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Felicia B. 1 year ago on Google
    Suchhh a great experience! Very interesting and Informing. I would definitely suggest taking a trip. Make sure when you go that you actually read the information and not just pass through quickly. You may miss some interesting facts.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kim 6 months ago on Google • 22 reviews
    I loved Stax! Nicely curated and preserved memorabilia. I learned a lot. This is a special place where some of my favorite music was created. Very organized and friendly staff. I went nuts in the gift shop, great selection! I highly recommend!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mary Anne B. 1 year ago on Google
    Loved it! Don't skip the intro movie - it's fascinating and gives you insight to the exhibits. The museum is arranged to follow the development of the music. I couldn't stop moving while reading the displays, because of all the music that envelops you. Only negative was when a group of school kids came in. They ran around and would bump into you. Also, even though the signage indicated masks were required, none of the kids and some adults weren't wearing them.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Julian A. W. 1 year ago on Google
    Wonderful. Cannot recommend enough if you are into American history, music in general, fashion and/or popular and advertising art. Incredibly worth it, and we left with swag that was high quality and had good prices. The staff was also excellent, kind, informative and easy to work with. Good masks!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Queen L. 2 years ago on Google
    I enjoyed this museum very much! I loved the little film they have you watch on some our own history icons before you enter into the presentations of the museum. It was peaceful and quiet and it was also self guided. I enjoyed the overall experience. And the gift shop was nice too! 10/10 recommend.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Glenda 4 months ago on Google • 433 reviews
    When visiting Memphis, this museum is a must see! If you love music and especially are into music history, this is the place to just get all of the juice so to speak. Music would not be what it is today without Stax records. The number of artists that were born and developed through this company is astounding. I was born in 1968 so I can appreciate each and every song ever made because of the composers, musicians, singers and engineers that came from here. This museum is full of nostalgia. There are actual costumes, instruments, awards etc located here. This place is a gem. The movie in the beginning sets the tone for what is to come in the rest of this museum. It really was a good time. I loved it.

  • 5/5 Alex D. 2 years ago on Google
    Really enjoyed our visit here. You really need to visit both Stax and Sun to get the whole scope of Memphis’ musical heritage. This place does a magnificent job of setting the stage of soul and covering Stax’s history and role. Only negative might be that there was too much information and I felt a little overwhelmed with information by the end.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mimi F. 1 year ago on Google
    It’s a museum that tries to give the feeling of the old Stax studios were soul music started. It shows how especially African American music started from gospel and through the years evolved into soul rock and disco. Very interesting displays. They did a good job creating the museum from the old studio.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sean T. 2 years ago on Google
    History! The staff was incredibly nice, knowledgeable, and superb! Definitely a must see for all musically inclined individuals. At a great admission price, there's no reason to not go.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ms. D. 1 year ago on Google
    Have a relaxing day of old-time music. Memories come back strong while you are there. Have your eyeglasses...plenty of reading! It was a beautiful day to learn some history in a fun dancing way.🤗
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hungry S. 2 years ago on Google
    If you're into blues soul or even just musical history in general this is a great stop. They start off with a small little movie about 15 minutes or so. you tsee the roots of soul music and hear some music. After there's a self guided tour. You can go at your own pace read the exhibits and also hear some background stories. They also have the car from shaft on rotation and the small gift store at the end. It's a nice tour if you're into music.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 T H. 2 years ago on Google
    Had a great time visiting the museum! It was very informative. I was hoping to get a tour like they do at Hitsville, but it is all self guided. There was so much information to take in. If I ever go back to Memphis I will visit again.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 andi d. 1 year ago on Google
    What an awesome journey back in time. The stars that came out of Stax… WOW. How the Memphis sound came together. So happy that this museum here for all. Hope people come and bring their family. Keep supporting this space. Just watching the film on the history of Stax, one could see how they all were like family. Just vibing and creating. Another great treat there is the classic Gold Plated Custom Cadillac, that once belong to Issac Hayes. The superb details of this automobile is unbelievable. A must visit if in Memphis, TN.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 peisli 3 years ago on Google
    I visited on 5/9/2020. Beautiful museum. Pretty big FREE parking lot. Pictures from inside don't do it justice. Justin Timberlake was here last month. Elvis Presley recorded his first song here. Masks are still required.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 M C. 1 year ago on Google
    We really enjoyed the museum. The movie does a good job of covering the story. I also enjoyed reading how soul music started. This museum has inspired me to start listening to some classical soul.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 G. Alexander P. 3 years ago on Google
    I'm glad I went to the Stax Museum! I went there with my girlfriend and her friend from out of town and we all had a great time learning, listening to good music, and taking pictures! As a musician myself, I really loved this experince and I've gained lots of knowledge and walked out with a greater appreciation of Southern music and a better understanding of African-American history as well. The woman who answered the phone when I called the museum could have been more personable and warm and the gentleman at the front desk could have been more prepared but overall the employees there were professional and were kind to us. Thank you Stax Museum! You are important to the people of Memphis, the people of the United States and the people of the world.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brandi H. 9 months ago on Google
    I loved this museum. The host was knowledgeable and very friendly. It started with a short film. Followed by a self guided tour through time. I had no idea how much of their music that I knew. It was very enlightening. I would highly recommend
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 P G. 9 months ago on Google
    We went on family day, free admission. Some very cool memorabilia, including vintage instruments and recording equipment. There was a band playing classic mowtown hits originally recorded at Stax which made for a memorable visit. Highly recommend.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Logan S. 2 months ago on Google • 73 reviews New
    Stax is a must-go if you’re a lover of soul music and the amazing artists that came from the label. I appreciated the immersive experience and specifically, Studio A and the LP walls. Also: kudos to Stax for having a really strong gift shop with cool items. It didn’t feel as “touristy” as some of the gift shops can. I appreciated the authenticity of the experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Thats S. 2 years ago on Google
    It was amazing. You do have to sit through a 18 minute video before you can actually go through the tour. It was night
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 beatz f. 3 years ago on Google
    It was a great experience the only thing is I couldn't buy souvenirs because they only accept credit cards and I had a debit card
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kevin B. 3 years ago on Google
    A must see for music lovers!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neil N. 3 years ago on Google
    For me, this was worth the $13 just to see Isaac Hayes' special edition Cadillac El Dorado. Seriously...that's all it took. As a bonus, you get to walk through the studio where the likes of Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Booker T. & the MGs, Sam and Dave,, and others recorded. It's enough to make your hair stand on end if you love soul music at all.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Msskyline2b G. 3 years ago on Google
    You start out watching a film and then exit out behind the walls of all the amazing walls of the beginning of music life back then. I love the soul train floor part because growing up sitting on the floor glued to the tv bring back memories. Great place to visit in Memphis
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Edward C. 3 years ago on Google
    A museum to visit to learn about one of America's top music genres. You'll learn about the history of soul in Memphis and it's impact on the nation.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 janice j. 7 months ago on Google
    Great experience. This was my first visit. It was amazing to see and hear some of the artists of my era. Listening and viewing singers that I loved in the 70's 80's and 90's when music was enjoyable, respectful, and pleasing to your ear. It was if I was walking down memory lane. The ladies group I was with, also enjoyed themselves by singing, dancing, laughing and reminiscing about the good old days when we were young and popping to the music. Some remembered seeing Issac Hayes ride around Memphis in his Cadillac trimmed in gold. It is on display there. There are many exciting things to see so I say, if you have not been there, go. You are welcomed by a nice group of people who work there and they invite you to watch a documentary about Stax in early years. You can take pictures as you please in the museum. Enjoyment for a retiree like myself...........65 Jjones🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Orion P. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome to see all of the history and learn more about the music and the people who made it happen!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Christopher F. 8 months ago on Google
    Stax museum is very much a traditional "lots of boards to read with some exhibits" type. As such, it's quite dry even if interesting with an important story to tell. It's more akin to an extended, slightly disjointed, Wikipedia article with exhibits. It might be better served with a clear timeline followed as you walk through. It really is worth a visit, however, and we also were treated to a free performance by a funk and soul brass band, Lucky 7, which was amazing!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Maurice C. 3 years ago on Google
    Unforgettable music experience. Should have come here years ago.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sheri C. 3 years ago on Google
    I would say this was one of my top 5 places to stop and visit on my trip through memphis - if you have the time and are looking for something to do and learn some history pop in here, you'll be glad you did!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 C.J. S. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing museum! A definite must see locale for music lovers!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Steven H. 3 years ago on Google
    If you want to walk through these hallowed halls of Booker T. and the MGs, Isaac Hayes, Rufus Thomas, and Sam and Dave, etc...you will not be disappointed. It is a replica...but you get the idea. It was a theater and magic was made there. Cool.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mikkos M. 3 years ago on Google
    This is a great place to go and learn about the history of soul music and black history at the same time. I think everyone need to check this place out.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Renee S. 3 years ago on Google
    I really enjoyed the Stax Museum!! The film you watch at the beginning is informative and the music in it makes you want to sing along and "get your groove on". The part you walk through after the film is so cool. You have to check out the Cadillac! I hope you guys go and check out the museum. My nephew and I thoroughly enjoyed it and I think you will, too.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lisa R. 1 month ago on Google • 68 reviews New
    It was incredible so much history. I loved the Isaac Hayes car. And the Ike and Tina Turner memorabilia. Definitely worth checking out.

  • 5/5 Jerry R. 2 months ago on Google • 40 reviews New
    Awesome Place! History! Legends! Loved this whole experience. I'm a big Old School R&B and Soul Music fan. So this place was perfect. Very educational too! Got some great souvenirs.

  • 5/5 Daytra R. 1 month ago on Google • 10 reviews New
    Family friendly place to go learn about the culture of Stax Records, their contributions to music, Memphis and to take a stroll through history. Always a great time, especially when the live band is there.

  • 5/5 AJ R. 5 months ago on Google
    What can I say?! The Stax Museum is a must-see to understand the history and progression of soul music. Museum boasts many original artifacts from the Stax recording Era and includes numerous personal effects of the artists who were catapulted to stardom from this location. The gift shop has great souvenirs as well.

  • 5/5 Mykl A. 9 months ago on Google
    Lot's of history. I wish I would have researched the background of artists who recorded there so I could be more aquatinted with artists/music. Living history.

  • 4/5 Brenda E. 9 months ago on Google
    Take credit or debit card. NO cash accepted. A MUST visit, if you are a fan of legendary singers Issac Hayes, Rufus Thomas, Bar~Kay's, Johnnie Taylor, Odis Redding, The Staple Singers, etc.

  • 5/5 Joel H. 10 months ago on Google
    No trip to Memphis is complete without visiting the Stax museum. Stax is such a strong influence on American music and culture. So many incredible artists were recorded there. It's amazing that a relatively small company made such an huge impact. The Isaac Hayes Cadillac has to be seen to be believed!

  • 3/5 Christy Flynn (Christy R. 1 year ago on Google
    Pretty cool museum... however, it would have been nice if Elvis Presley had been mentioned at some point. He did record there as well... if I'm not mistaken the year before they closed. The fact that he wasn't mentioned at all was pretty disappointing. 3 stars because of that.

  • 5/5 Kevin S. 1 year ago on Google
    If you're in Memphis, you gotta visit Stax. This place is a tribute to some of the best music that's ever been recorded. Plan on spending a couple of hours because there's so much interesting history to read, artifacts to check out up close, and - of course - music to listen to.

  • 5/5 Dawn N. 5 months ago on Google • 7 reviews
    Absolutely loved the Stax Museum! Couldn’t recommend it enough. Everything about it sang to my soul. Tons of exhibits, very educational. They even have an exhibit of the Soul Train TV show along with a dance floor! Brought back childhood memories of dancing in the living room on Saturday mornings while listening to the fabulous music.

  • 5/5 Celina O. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolutely amazing!

  • 5/5 dpb 3 years ago on Google
    I grew up with soul music on TV and radio. The music, the singing and lyrics never cease to move me.

  • 5/5 Tobias F. 3 years ago on Google
    This is a must see in Memphis

  • 5/5 Kimberly J. 9 months ago on Google
    I’m a music lover so my trip to Stax was amazing. The history of Stax is fascinating and music lovers will thoroughly enjoy visiting the museum.

  • 5/5 J S. 3 years ago on Google
    Memphis' richest history.

  • 5/5 Nina D. 3 years ago on Google
    Learned some educational things abt alot of different artists!

  • 5/5 ct z. 3 years ago on Google
    amazing!!!

  • 5/5 Booker C. 3 years ago on Google
    I hated I miss the show, right around the block an didn't hear a sound

  • 5/5 Jeff L. 3 years ago on Google
    Good history

  • 5/5 Joey B. 3 years ago on Google
    The story of collaboration and feeling of family and the GREAT music made in that studio is 2nd to none. They are still passing on that sense of family to the students involved in their musical programs. My favorite attraction in Memphis. Also the staff went above and beyond for us. We'll done Stax.

  • 5/5 Memphis D. 3 years ago on Google
    This place is so dope!!!! OMG I LOVE THIS PLACE. So much information. If you love music, this is a place you NEED to visit

  • 5/5 An l. 3 years ago on Google
    Wow. Overwhelming well done museum. We spent several hours absorbing all the displays. It helped that we watched the Stax documentary (Take Me to the River) prior to going. Employees were friendly and helpful. Information presented in a positive fashion.

  • 5/5 Joe H. 3 years ago on Google
    Some much history!!

  • 5/5 Corey H. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved it great history

  • 5/5 James T. 3 years ago on Google
    So much history!!! Wish it was a guided tour!

  • 5/5 Xavier L. 3 years ago on Google
    I went to Stax store. GREAT service.

  • 5/5 Rachel R. 3 years ago on Google
    This place is amazing. If you like music at all, you will enjoy this place. So much history! It’s really impressive.

  • 1/5 Umalena M. 3 years ago on Google
    The staff’s attitude was very funky! My first time going there and they changed my excitement into “another time maybe “......

  • 5/5 Rod J. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice museum

  • 5/5 Tony W. 3 years ago on Google
    Complete history of Stax Records..pic is of Aretha Franklin childhood home

  • 5/5 John F. 3 years ago on Google
    A must see when in Memphis.

  • 5/5 Ike M. 2 years ago on Google
    So much history. If you love America and our history, you don't get the full picture without witnessing our music from Detroit to Memphis. Its the story of civil rights, gospel, blues, jazz, and hope.

  • 5/5 Robert R. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved it!

  • 5/5 Ray H. 3 years ago on Google
    More fun in Memphis

  • 5/5 Rickey L. 3 years ago on Google
    Just a phenomenal experience for any American music buff like me. A+

  • 5/5 Stacy N. 3 years ago on Google
    Learned so much Music History

  • 5/5 Jon N. 3 years ago on Google
    As a music lover and musician I can say this is one of the coolest places I've ever been.

  • 5/5 Chris B. 3 years ago on Google
    Really cool museum, lots of memorabilia

  • 4/5 OlaNike A. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice well put together

  • 5/5 Christopher V P. 11 months ago on Google
    On a sightseeing trip in Memphis, one of our stops was at Stax Museum. I was like walking back in time and seeing some of the greatest soulful singers that ever lived. You can buy music on CDs and records. They have good deals on their souvenirs.

  • 5/5 Y O. 9 months ago on Google
    Absolutely amazing place!! We had our family reunion dinner here. It was a private affair. Beautifully restored pictures and paintings of artists with their biographies hanging on the walls. These musicians changed history by using their platforms to help shape social justice. Artists such as Sam Cooke, Issac Hayes, Tina Turner and Ben E King just to name a few. Great place to host private events. There are security guards outside and inside were kind and polite. Bathrooms are clean and well kept. The parking lot is in the back of the building.


Call (901) 261-6338 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


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

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