How to Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music stands as one of the most culturally significant landmarks in American music history. Located in Memphis, Tennessee, it occupies the original site of Stax Records, the legendary studio where icons like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Sam & Dave, and Aretha Franklin forged the raw, emotional sound that defined soul music in the 1960s and 70s. More than a museum, it is a living archive of Black artistic expression, civil rights-era resilience, and the universal power of music to transcend boundaries. For music lovers, historians, and travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences, visiting the Stax Museum is not just an outing—it’s a pilgrimage. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to planning, navigating, and fully experiencing your visit to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation for the art, history, and legacy that still echo through its walls.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research and Plan Your Visit in Advance

Before setting foot on the grounds of the Stax Museum, begin with thoughtful research. The museum operates on a seasonal schedule, with extended hours during summer and holidays, and reduced hours in winter. Visit the official website—staxmuseum.com—to confirm current opening times, admission rates, and special events. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, making them ideal for a more immersive experience. If you're traveling from out of town, consider aligning your visit with local music festivals like the Memphis in May International Festival or the Beale Street Music Festival, which often feature Stax-inspired performances and collaborations.

Check for guided tour availability. While self-guided visits are permitted, the museum offers docent-led tours that provide context, rare anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes insights not found in exhibit labels. These tours typically last 60–90 minutes and are offered at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily. Reservations are not required for individuals, but groups of 10 or more should contact the museum ahead of time to schedule.

Step 2: Determine Your Transportation Options

The Stax Museum is located at 926 E. McLemore Avenue, Memphis, TN 38106, in the historic Soulsville USA neighborhood. If you’re driving, ample free parking is available directly adjacent to the museum in a dedicated lot. The entrance is clearly marked with large signage and a replica of the iconic Stax sign. For those relying on public transit, the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) bus route 17 stops within a five-minute walk of the museum. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Memphis and offer a convenient option for visitors without personal vehicles.

For travelers arriving via Memphis International Airport (MEM), the museum is approximately 10 miles southeast of the terminal. A taxi or ride-share ride takes about 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. If you're renting a car, use GPS coordinates or the museum’s full address—avoid relying solely on generic “Memphis” directions, as Soulsville is a distinct neighborhood with its own identity.

Step 3: Purchase Tickets and Understand Pricing

Admission to the Stax Museum is reasonably priced to ensure accessibility. As of the latest update, adult tickets are $18, seniors (62+) and students with valid ID pay $15, and children ages 6–17 are $12. Children under 5 enter free. Families can purchase a discounted family pass (up to two adults and three children) for $50. Members of the museum receive complimentary admission year-round, and reciprocal benefits are available through partnerships with other Smithsonian-affiliated institutions.

Tickets can be purchased online through the museum’s website, which allows you to skip the ticket line and guarantees entry during your chosen time slot. On-site ticketing is available at the box office, but during peak seasons or special events, lines may extend. Consider purchasing tickets in advance if you're visiting during holidays, school breaks, or major music events in Memphis.

Special discounts are available for educators, military personnel, and members of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Always ask about current promotions when purchasing—museums frequently offer seasonal deals or community partnerships.

Step 4: Arrive Early and Prepare for Your Visit

Plan to arrive at least 15–20 minutes before your scheduled entry time, especially if you’ve booked a guided tour. The museum’s lobby includes a gift shop, restrooms, and a small exhibit on the history of the building’s restoration. Use this time to familiarize yourself with the museum layout, which is designed as a chronological journey through American soul music.

Wear comfortable shoes—your visit will involve walking across multiple galleries, staircases, and interactive zones. The museum is fully ADA accessible, with elevators, ramps, and tactile exhibits for visually impaired guests. Service animals are welcome. Bring a light jacket; air conditioning is maintained at a cool temperature to preserve artifacts.

While photography is permitted for personal use throughout most of the museum, flash and tripods are prohibited to protect delicate audio-visual equipment and original recordings. Some interactive exhibits, such as the “Soul Train” dance floor or the recording booth, encourage participation and photo opportunities—feel free to capture those moments.

Step 5: Explore the Permanent Exhibits in Order

The museum is organized into nine thematic galleries, each designed to immerse visitors in a different facet of soul music’s evolution. Begin at the entrance and follow the path chronologically for the most coherent experience.

Gallery 1: Roots of Soul – This section traces the origins of soul music from gospel, blues, and R&B. Original church hymnals, vintage microphones, and recordings from artists like Mahalia Jackson and Ray Charles set the foundation. Don’t miss the “Call and Response” interactive wall, where you can sing into a mic and hear your voice layered with historic gospel harmonies.

Gallery 2: The Birth of Stax – Learn how Stax Records began in 1957 as Satellite Records, founded by Jim Stewart and his sister Estelle Axton. Original documents, handwritten contracts, and early studio equipment illustrate the humble beginnings. A recreated version of the original Stax office, complete with the iconic “Soulsville USA” sign, allows you to step into the space where hits were negotiated.

Gallery 3: The Stax Sound – Here, the legendary house band Booker T. & the M.G.’s and the Mar-Keys are celebrated. Original instruments used by Steve Cropper, Donald “Duck” Dunn, and Al Jackson Jr. are displayed alongside the studio’s original 8-track recorder. Audio stations let you isolate individual tracks from “Green Onions” and “Sittin’ On The Dock of the Bay” to hear how each musician contributed to the signature Stax groove.

Gallery 4: Otis Redding and the Voice of Soul – This is one of the most emotionally resonant galleries. Original stage costumes, handwritten lyrics to “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” and a full-scale replica of the plane that carried Otis Redding to his final performance are on display. A continuous loop of his live performance at the Monterey Pop Festival plays on a large screen, capturing the raw power of his voice.

Gallery 5: Isaac Hayes and the Rise of Funk – Transitioning from soul into funk, this section highlights Hayes’ groundbreaking album “Hot Buttered Soul” and his Oscar-winning score for “Shaft.” The original Moog synthesizer he used, his custom Cadillac, and the gold record for “Theme from Shaft” are key artifacts. An immersive audio experience lets you walk through the studio as Hayes layered orchestral strings over a funk beat.

Gallery 6: Women of Soul – Often overlooked in mainstream narratives, this gallery centers the contributions of female artists like Carla Thomas, Mavis Staples, and Shirley Brown. Original vinyl pressings, concert posters, and personal letters reveal how these women shaped the genre while navigating gender and racial barriers. A video montage of interviews with surviving artists adds depth and authenticity.

Gallery 7: The Stax Story and the Civil Rights Movement – This is where the museum transcends music and becomes a social history archive. Exhibits connect Stax’s integrated staff and racially diverse audience to the broader struggle for equality. Photographs of Martin Luther King Jr. speaking in Memphis, newspaper headlines from the 1968 sanitation workers’ strike, and quotes from Stax artists about their role in the movement provide essential context.

Gallery 8: Legacy and Influence – Trace the impact of Stax on modern genres: hip-hop, neo-soul, and indie rock. Artists like John Legend, Amy Winehouse, and Kendrick Lamar are shown citing Stax as inspiration. A digital timeline lets you click through decades of influence, from sampled beats in 1990s rap to contemporary covers of Stax classics.

Gallery 9: The Stax Recording Studio Re-Creation – The climax of the visit. Step into an exact replica of Studio A, complete with original furniture, microphones, and the same acoustics that shaped hits. An audio guide lets you “produce” a track by selecting instruments and adjusting levels, just as engineers did in the 1960s. This hands-on experience is unforgettable.

Step 6: Engage with Interactive and Multimedia Features

Stax Museum is renowned for its interactive elements. In addition to the recording studio, there’s a “Soul Train” dance floor where motion sensors trigger classic soul clips as you move. A karaoke station lets you sing along to “Hold On, I’m Comin’” or “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” with backup vocals. For younger visitors, a children’s corner offers rhythm games and coloring sheets featuring Stax artists.

Don’t overlook the “Soul Music Timeline” digital kiosk—a touchscreen interface that maps the evolution of soul across decades, linking artists, events, and social movements. It’s an excellent tool for deepening understanding beyond the physical exhibits.

Step 7: Visit the Gift Shop and Take Home a Piece of History

The museum’s gift shop is one of the most thoughtfully curated music memorabilia stores in the country. Beyond standard souvenirs, you’ll find limited-edition vinyl pressings of rare Stax singles, archival photo books, and custom-designed apparel featuring original album art. A standout item is the “Stax 50” box set, released in 2017 to commemorate the museum’s 50th anniversary, featuring 50 tracks curated by surviving Stax musicians.

Proceeds from the gift shop directly support the museum’s educational programs and preservation efforts. Purchasing here isn’t just shopping—it’s sustaining a legacy.

Step 8: Extend Your Experience with Nearby Attractions

After your visit, consider exploring other landmarks in the Soulsville USA corridor. Just across the street is the Stax Music Academy, where local youth are trained in music performance and production. Free public tours are available on select afternoons. A short drive away is the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, which provides broader context on the city’s musical heritage. Beale Street, the historic heart of blues, is a 15-minute drive and offers live music every night.

For food lovers, nearby restaurants like The Bar-B-Q Shop and Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken serve Memphis-style cuisine that complements the soulful atmosphere. Many locals say the best way to honor Stax is to enjoy a plate of ribs and a glass of sweet tea while listening to “When a Man Loves a Woman.”

Best Practices

Respect the Space and the Legacy

The Stax Museum is not merely a collection of artifacts—it is a sacred space where Black creativity, struggle, and triumph are preserved. Avoid loud conversations near sensitive exhibits, especially those related to Otis Redding’s death or the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike. Treat every item as if it were your ancestor’s memory.

Engage with the Staff and Volunteers

Many of the museum’s docents are former musicians, archivists, or relatives of Stax artists. They often share stories not found in brochures. Ask questions. Listen. Your curiosity honors their dedication.

Use the Audio Guide

The museum’s free audio guide, available in English, Spanish, and French, is narrated by musicians and historians with deep ties to the Stax legacy. It provides nuanced commentary on each exhibit and is especially helpful for international visitors or those unfamiliar with soul music’s cultural roots.

Plan for a Full Visit

While you can rush through the museum in 45 minutes, you’ll miss the emotional depth. Allocate at least two to three hours for a meaningful experience. If you’re a serious music enthusiast, consider returning on a different day to revisit favorite galleries or attend a live performance at the adjacent Stax Music Academy.

Support Educational Programming

The museum offers free school tours, after-school music programs, and summer camps. If you’re an educator, request curriculum materials. If you’re a parent, inquire about family workshops. These programs ensure that the next generation carries forward the spirit of Stax.

Share Your Experience Responsibly

When posting on social media, tag @StaxMuseum and use

StaxLegacy. Avoid reducing the museum’s message to aesthetic photos—context matters. Write a caption that acknowledges the artists, the community, and the historical weight of what you’ve witnessed.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: staxmuseum.com

The primary resource for up-to-date information on hours, tickets, events, and educational offerings. The site also features a digital archive of oral histories, rare photos, and a searchable database of Stax recordings.

Stax Museum Mobile App

Available for iOS and Android, the app offers an interactive map, audio tour access, and augmented reality features. Point your phone at a display to see original studio footage or hear an artist’s commentary.

Books for Deeper Study

• “Respect Yourself: Stax Records and the Soul Explosion” by Robert Gordon – A definitive history of the label and its cultural impact.
• “Soulsville, U.S.A.: The Story of Stax Records” by Rob Bowman – Comprehensive, with detailed discographies and interviews.
• “The Sound of Philadelphia” by Jeff Chang – For comparative context on soul’s regional variations.

Documentaries to Watch Before or After Your Visit

• “Stax: Soulsville U.S.A.” (2024, HBO Max) – A three-part documentary featuring never-before-seen footage and interviews with surviving artists and staff.
• “20 Feet from Stardom” (2013) – While focused on backup singers, it includes powerful segments on Stax’s female vocalists.
• “The Memphis Sound” (2019, PBS) – Explores the broader musical ecosystem that birthed Stax.

Music Playlists for Preparation

Build a playlist of essential Stax tracks before your visit. Include: “Try a Little Tenderness” (Otis Redding), “Hold On, I’m Comin’” (Sam & Dave), “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” (Otis Redding), “Theme from Shaft” (Isaac Hayes), “When Something Is Wrong with My Baby” (Sam & Dave), and “Soul Man” (Sam & Dave). Listening to these in order will prime your ears for the exhibits.

Local Partnerships and Cultural Passes

Memphis offers several cultural passes that bundle admission to the Stax Museum with other attractions. The Memphis CityPASS includes entry to the National Civil Rights Museum, the Memphis Zoo, and Stax. The Tennessee State Parks Pass also grants discounts at select cultural sites. Check with your hotel—many offer complimentary or discounted museum passes as part of their guest amenities.

Real Examples

Example 1: The College Music Major

Jamal, a 21-year-old music theory student from Atlanta, visited the Stax Museum during spring break. He spent three hours in the recording studio replica, isolating drum tracks from “Dock of the Bay” to analyze the syncopation. He later posted a TikTok video comparing Stax’s live recording techniques to modern digital production, which gained over 200,000 views. “I thought I understood soul music,” he wrote. “I didn’t. I thought I knew how to play rhythm. I didn’t. This place taught me that soul isn’t in the notes—it’s in the silence between them.”

Example 2: The Retired Teacher from Chicago

Marlene, 72, came to Memphis to honor her late husband, who grew up listening to Stax records in the 1960s. She brought his original copy of “Soulsville U.S.A.” and donated it to the museum’s archive. “He used to say, ‘That music didn’t just play—it talked,’” she told a docent. The museum invited her to speak at a community event, where she shared stories of how soul music helped her family survive the civil rights era. Her words were recorded and added to the museum’s oral history collection.

Example 3: The International Tourist

A group of university students from Japan visited the museum as part of a global music studies program. They were moved by the exhibit on racial integration at Stax, noting how rare it was for a Southern business to employ Black and white staff equally in the 1960s. One student, Hana, later wrote a thesis comparing Stax’s model to Japan’s own music industry’s lack of diversity. Her research was published in a Japanese academic journal and later translated for the museum’s multilingual website.

Example 4: The Local Teenage Musician

Da’Shawn, 16, from the nearby Binghampton neighborhood, participated in the Stax Music Academy’s summer program. He learned to play bass on a replica of Donald “Duck” Dunn’s instrument. A year later, he performed live at the museum’s annual “Soulsville Nights” concert, backed by alumni musicians. His performance was filmed and now plays on a loop in the “Legacy” gallery. “I didn’t know I could be part of this,” he said. “Now I know I am.”

FAQs

Is the Stax Museum suitable for children?

Yes. The museum offers interactive exhibits, a children’s discovery zone, and family-friendly audio guides. Many school groups visit annually. Children under 5 enter free, and strollers are permitted throughout.

Can I bring food or drinks inside?

No outside food or beverages are allowed in the exhibit halls. However, bottled water is permitted. A café is located near the gift shop, offering snacks, soft drinks, and Southern specialties like sweet tea and peach cobbler.

Are guided tours included in admission?

Yes. Guided tours are included with general admission and are offered daily at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. No reservation is needed for individuals. Groups of 10 or more should call ahead.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All galleries are accessible via elevators and ramps. Wheelchairs are available at the front desk on a first-come, first-served basis. Restrooms and water fountains are ADA-compliant.

How long does it take to see everything?

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours. Dedicated music historians may spend half a day. The audio guide runs approximately 90 minutes, but you can move at your own pace.

Can I record audio or video?

Personal audio and video recording is permitted for non-commercial use. Flash photography, tripods, and professional equipment are prohibited. Always ask staff before recording near interactive exhibits or live performances.

Is there parking?

Yes. Free parking is available in the museum’s dedicated lot directly across from the entrance. Additional street parking is available on McLemore Avenue.

Does the museum offer virtual tours?

Yes. The website features a 360-degree virtual tour of all galleries, accompanied by narrated commentary. It’s an excellent resource for classrooms or those unable to travel to Memphis.

Can I donate artifacts or recordings?

The museum accepts donations of historical materials related to soul music. Contact the curatorial department via the website to discuss potential donations. All items are reviewed by an archival committee.

Is the museum open on holidays?

The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. It typically opens with extended hours on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth. Always verify holiday hours on the website before visiting.

Conclusion

Visiting the Stax Museum of American Soul Music is not a passive experience—it is a transformation. You walk in as a tourist; you leave as a witness. The echoes of Otis Redding’s voice, the sweat-stained keys of Booker T. Jones’s Hammond organ, the handwritten lyrics of Isaac Hayes—all of it speaks to a truth that transcends genre: music born from pain, joy, resistance, and community can outlive empires. The Stax Museum preserves not just songs, but souls.

By following this guide, you ensure your visit is more than a checklist of exhibits. You honor the legacy of those who dared to create beauty in a world that often denied them dignity. Whether you’re a lifelong soul fan or a curious first-timer, this museum offers a rare gift: the chance to stand in the room where history was made, and to feel, if only for a moment, the pulse of a movement that changed music forever.

So plan your trip. Buy your ticket. Walk through the doors. And listen—because the music is still playing.