Sun Studio
Step into the 'Birthplace of Rock and Roll' at Sun Studio, where legends like Elvis and Johnny Cash recorded their first hits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Sun Studio
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the 'Birthplace of Rock and Roll' at Sun Studio, where legends like Elvis and Johnny Cash recorded their first hits.
"It's surreal to stand where Elvis recorded music; a true slice of music history!"
🎤 Hold Elvis's Mic!
You can actually hold the microphone Elvis used! A truly unforgettable moment for any fan.
🌟 Ask for Hurley!
Many visitors rave about tour guide Hurley for his knowledge, humor, and storytelling.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Legendary Recording Studio
Main Studio Floor
Stand where music legends like Elvis and Johnny Cash recorded their first hits. Feel the magic of this iconic space.
Elvis Presley's Microphone
Main Studio Floor
Hold the very microphone Elvis Presley used to record his groundbreaking music. A truly surreal experience for fans.
The Million Dollar Quartet Jam Session
Exhibition Area
See memorabilia and learn about the legendary impromptu jam session featuring Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins.
Dewey Phillips' Radio Office
Second Floor
Explore the rescued office of DJ Dewey Phillips, who played a crucial role in bringing rock and roll to the masses.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎤 Hold Elvis's Mic!
You can actually hold the microphone Elvis used! A truly unforgettable moment for any fan. +1
🌟 Ask for Hurley!
Many visitors rave about tour guide Hurley for his knowledge, humor, and storytelling.
🎶 Feel the History
The studio is still active! You might even hear new music being recorded.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Plenty of spots to capture the magic, from the iconic sign to the studio itself.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎤 Hold Elvis's Mic!
You can actually hold the microphone Elvis used! A truly unforgettable moment for any fan. +1
🌟 Ask for Hurley!
Many visitors rave about tour guide Hurley for his knowledge, humor, and storytelling.
🎶 Feel the History
The studio is still active! You might even hear new music being recorded.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Plenty of spots to capture the magic, from the iconic sign to the studio itself.
🛍️ Souvenir Shop
Don't forget to check out the gift shop for unique Sun Studio merchandise.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sun Studio as a must-visit Memphis attraction, highlighting the immersive tours and the palpable sense of music history. Many rave about knowledgeable and entertaining guides who bring the stories of legends like Elvis and Johnny Cash to life. The opportunity to stand in the actual recording studio and hold iconic memorabilia makes for an unforgettable experience.
"Wonderful museum and tour! Hurley did an excellent job of making us feel the experience - like we were there when Elvis popped in to visit!!! Wonderful details, period relics, great pictures, details upon details!!! Loved the studio part ... info and more details made it so great!!! Definitely a must do in Memphis!!"
Tara Burns
"Sun Studio... the legendary Sun Studio! Coming from Montreal, it is a long way from home... but it has been on my bucket list for so many years! The feeling of opening that door... I felt I was walking in a history book....
We were lucky enough to have Hurley as a tour guide. Guys, this man knows how to keep a group happy! He was knowledgeable, soooo nice and funny too! He explained the whole story while we were visiting the second floor. Then, when we got into the studio itself, Hurley told us so many stories... There is so much history between those 4 walls.
Worth every penny! Hope for you you'll get Hurley too!!"
Nathalie
"I had so much fun being here!!!! I love all these sun studio artists and never thought I would ever get the chance to see sun studios since I live so far away but this past week I got the chance to see it, dreams fulfilled. Such a blessing🫶🫶
It made it even better from having taken a music history class previously and so I had all the more reason to have to see it."
Eliora T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to travel from Graceland to Sun Studio is by car or rideshare service, which takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Some visitors opt for a taxi. Public transportation is also an option, though it may take longer.
Yes, Sun Studio is accessible via Memphis public bus routes. Check the local transit authority's schedule for the most up-to-date information on routes and times.
Sun Studio is located at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee. It's a historic building that has been preserved as a museum and active recording studio.
There is typically street parking available near Sun Studio, but it can be limited, especially during busy periods. Rideshare services are a convenient alternative if parking is a concern.
Sun Studio is a walkable distance from Beale Street, approximately 1.5 to 2 miles. It's a pleasant walk, especially if you enjoy exploring the city on foot, but a taxi or rideshare might be preferred if time is limited.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Sun Studio tours can vary, but they are generally affordable and considered worth the experience by visitors. It's best to check the official Sun Studio website for the most current pricing and to book in advance.
Yes, booking Sun Studio tickets in advance is highly recommended, as tours often sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons. This ensures you get your preferred time slot.
Sun Studio is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's essential to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
Yes, combo tickets that include admission to both Sun Studio and Graceland are often available, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to experience two of Memphis's most iconic music landmarks.
A Sun Studio tour typically includes a guided walk through the historic recording studio, where you'll learn about its legendary artists and hear stories of its musical legacy. You'll also get to see memorabilia and stand in the actual recording space.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings, particularly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Early afternoon tours can also be less crowded than late afternoon.
A guided tour of Sun Studio usually lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, providing a comprehensive look at its history and significance.
Yes, Sun Studio is still an active recording studio and offers opportunities for artists to book studio time. It's a dream for many musicians to record in such a historic place.
You can see a wealth of memorabilia, including photographs, vintage equipment, and personal items belonging to the legendary artists who recorded there, such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis.
Sun Studio tours are generally suitable for children, especially those with an interest in music history. The engaging stories and iconic figures can capture their attention. However, the historical context might be more appreciated by older children and adults.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Sun Studio during the tour, allowing you to capture the historic atmosphere and memorabilia. However, always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific instructions from your tour guide.
Iconic spots for photos include the exterior sign, the recording booth, the microphone Elvis used, and displays featuring the 'Million Dollar Quartet.' The entire studio is a photographer's dream.
Yes, you can take photos while holding the microphone Elvis Presley used, which is a highlight for many visitors. +1
The area in front of the iconic Sun Studio sign is a perfect spot for a group photo, capturing your visit to this legendary music landmark.
The lighting inside Sun Studio can be atmospheric, with some areas being dimmer to preserve the historic feel. Be prepared for potentially lower light conditions and consider using your phone's camera features or a camera with good low-light performance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tours during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to ensure a more relaxed experience for your family. The guided tours are generally well-paced and informative, making it accessible for various age groups. The gift shop also offers souvenirs that kids might enjoy.
🎸 Music Enthusiasts & Musicians
Many visitors are thrilled by the chance to learn about Sam Phillips's innovative recording techniques and the studio's role in shaping genres like rock and roll and rockabilly. The fact that the studio is still active means you might even witness or hear current artists recording, offering a unique perspective on its enduring legacy.
📸 Photography Buffs
Key photo spots include the main recording booth, the microphone used by Elvis, and displays of legendary artists. Be prepared for atmospheric lighting, which can add to the mood of your shots. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the historical significance of the space while capturing your memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Birthplace of Rock and Roll
It was here that artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Roy Orbison laid down their foundational tracks. The studio's intimate setting and Phillips's innovative recording techniques captured the raw energy and emotion of these pioneering musicians. The simple act of recording a song at Sun Studio became a rite of passage for many aspiring artists, cementing its legacy as the 'Birthplace of Rock and Roll.'
Even today, Sun Studio remains an active recording facility, continuing its tradition of fostering musical creativity. Visitors can experience this living history through guided tours, offering a glimpse into the past while appreciating its ongoing contribution to the music industry.
Iconic Artists and Their Sun Studio Moments
Johnny Cash, the 'Man in Black,' also found his voice at Sun Studio, recording early hits like 'I Walk the Line.' His distinctive baritone and storytelling resonated with audiences worldwide, and Sun was where it all began. The studio also witnessed the legendary 'Million Dollar Quartet' jam session on December 4, 1956, where Elvis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis spontaneously performed together.
+1Other giants of music who recorded at Sun Studio include Jerry Lee Lewis, known for his wild piano playing on 'Great Balls of Fire,' and Carl Perkins, whose 'Blue Suede Shoes' became an instant classic. The studio's influence extends to blues artists like B.B. King and rockabilly pioneers like Roy Orbison, all of whom contributed to its rich musical tapestry.
The Sun Studio Tour Experience
The tour typically begins on the second floor, where you can explore exhibits showcasing memorabilia, photographs, and the preserved office of DJ Dewey Phillips. You'll learn about the studio's origins and its impact on popular music. The highlight for many is descending to the main studio floor, where the magic happened.
On the studio floor, you can stand in the exact spot where legends recorded, see the original equipment, and even hold the microphone Elvis Presley used. Some tours may even offer the chance to hear new music being recorded in the active studio, providing a unique blend of past and present.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit