Sun Studio Tour

Sun Studio , known as “The Birthplace of Rock and Roll,” is one of Memphis’ most iconic landmarks. This legendary recording studio played host to early sessions by Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and many more. Visitors can tour the original studio space and step into the very room where rock history was made.

Recommended For

Music lovers
Tour the studio where rock and roll began and legendary artists launched their careers.

History buffs
Learn about the roots of American music, civil rights, and 20th-century culture.

Elvis fans
Pair your studio visit with a trip to Graceland to experience his legacy firsthand.

Tourists in Memphis
Explore one of the city’s most famous attractions and nearby cultural gems.

History

Founded by Sam Phillips in 1950 as the Memphis Recording Service, Sun Studio began as a space for blues, gospel, and R&B artists. Its breakout moment came in 1951 with the release of “Rocket 88” by Jackie Brenston and the Delta Cats (featuring Ike Turner), widely considered the first rock-and-roll record.

The studio launched the careers of legends including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, B.B. King, and Howlin’ Wolf. After moving operations in 1959, the original studio was revived in 1987 as both a museum and a working recording studio. Modern artists such as U2, Bonnie Raitt, Def Leppard, and Ringo Starr have since recorded here.

Tour Experience

Guided Tours: Tours last approximately 90 minutes and include stories of iconic recordings and artists, original studio equipment, and access to the famous studio floor.
Million Dollar Quartet: Learn about the impromptu jam session with Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.
Interactive Exhibits: View vintage photos, original vinyl, microphones, and more in the onsite exhibit area.

Nearby Attractions

Graceland

Visit Elvis Presley’s famous mansion and explore the life, career, and enduring legacy of the King of Rock and Roll.

The Ultimate VIP Tour: Guided mansion tour, Elvis’ planes, meal voucher, private lounge access, and more.
VIP Tour: Audio-guided mansion tour with front-of-line access and full entry to the Elvis Presley Memphis Entertainment Complex.
Elvis Experience Tour: Explore Elvis’ home, automobiles, wardrobe, and career exhibits. Optional add-on for Elvis’ planes.
Mansion Only Tour: Self-guided tour through Graceland Mansion. Add-on options available.

Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

Learn about the birth of rock and soul music, the artists who shaped the genre, and the social movements that accompanied it. Exhibit galleries include:

Rural Culture: The early lives of musical pioneers
Rural Music: The deep roots of Southern music
Coming to Memphis: Urban migration and the blending of musical traditions
Sun Records & Youth Culture: How youth movements defined the sound and style of the 1950s
Soul Music: The cultural power of African-American musical expression
Bravo Gallery: Music’s role in the Civil Rights Movement and its global influence

Shopping

The onsite Rock Shop features Sun Studio-branded merchandise including vinyl records, apparel, mugs, books, posters, and collector items. It's a must-stop for souvenirs and gifts.

Visitor Tips

Age Guidelines: Due to mature themes and music history content, tours are recommended for ages 5 and up.
Photography: Allowed in most areas, but flash is prohibited
Parking: Limited free parking available adjacent to the studio
Accessibility: The building is accessible to guests with mobility needs

Location

Sun Studio
706 Union Ave, Downtown Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: 800-441-6249
Website: sunstudio.com