Lorraine Motel

I absolutely enjoyed this experience I’m so happy I went. To see it in person and being able to interact with history is a very humbling experience. Being able to sit on the actual bus Rosa Parks sat on is breathtaking experience and hear how they treated our brothers and sisters then is absolutely heartbreaking. I don’t feel as though the schools I went to taught the truth and that’s wrong on so many levels. Please go and be apart of history hopefully when you walk out of there you take a lot with you. I also learned that the 1960 or 1966 Lincoln Continental that is sitting out front of the Lorraine Motel that Dr Martin Luther King Jr was killed at it belongs to my second cousin on my Grandmother’s side her and Martin where great friends and she let him use it for the day to go have a speech when Martin was to leave the Motel.

A Somber and Essential Pilgrimage: Reflecting at the Lorraine Motel Visiting the Lorraine Motel, now the hallowed grounds of the National Civil Rights Museum, is an experience that resonates deeply, even for those of us born long after the tragic events that transpired here. Standing in the courtyard, looking up at Room 306, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was so cruelly taken from us, evokes a profound sense of loss and a powerful connection to a pivotal moment in American history. The preservation of this site is truly commendable. It allows visitors to step back in time, to visualize the scene as it was on that fateful day in April 1968. The tangible presence of the motel, the vintage cars parked below, and the poignant wreath adorning the balcony serve as stark reminders of the human cost of the struggle for civil rights. While I was not alive during that era, the historical significance of the Lorraine Motel is undeniable. It stands as a powerful testament to the sacrifices made by Dr. King and countless others in the fight for equality and justice. Walking these grounds, reading the historical markers, and absorbing the atmosphere compels a deep reflection on the progress we have made and the work that still remains. It is vital that we continue to visit and remember sites like the Lorraine Motel. As the saying goes, those who forget history are doomed to repeat it. This museum serves as a crucial educational space, reminding us of the injustices of the past and inspiring us to build a more just and equitable future. Paying respects here is not just about acknowledging a historical tragedy; it's about reaffirming our commitment to the ideals for which Dr. King so bravely fought and ultimately gave his life. The Lorraine Motel is more than just a museum; it is a sacred space for reflection, remembrance, and a renewed dedication to the ongoing pursuit of civil rights for all. It is a place every American should visit to truly grasp the weight of our history and the enduring importance of the fight for equality.

What a great experience this museum was! Sad and sobering, but a good experience nonetheless. It does a great job of highlighting the expanse of civil rights through the years. I wish everyone could experience this museum to gain a better understanding what black people have endured simply because of the color of their skin.

One of the most moving experiences and museum I’ve ever witnessed. History moves you forward. It’s not just about the civil rights movement that we know of. It’s around human rights. The museum is very well done and definitely worth going to see.

Google Review – Lorraine Motel (National Civil Rights Museum) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rolled up to the Lorraine on a Tuesday—doors locked, windows shut like a ghost still lived there. The museum was closed, sure, but the spirit? Wide awake and howling. I parked across the street and stood there, squinting up at Room 306, the balcony frozen in time like a Polaroid from the American nightmare. This isn’t just a motel. It’s a tombstone with a pulse. The pastel walls are too quiet, too clean—like the building knows what it saw and doesn’t want to speak of it. I wandered the sidewalk, reading the plaques like scripture, each one a punch to the ribs. You can feel it—history radiating from the concrete like heat off a desert road. No ticket needed to feel the weight. I stood in that spot—the one burned into every grainy broadcast and worn history textbook. The place where Dr. King’s voice was silenced, but somehow echoes louder now than ever. A place where the air itself hums with revolution and regret. Even shuttered, the Lorraine doesn’t whisper. It roars. Go. Stand still. Listen. Even on a Tuesday.

A vital and intricate part of American history that EVERYBODY should experience at least once in their lifetime . Definitely plan on going back again !!!

Lots of history in this building. From the civil rights museum to the actual room Dr. King stayed in. So much info to take in..kinda draining looking at, listening to and reading all the exhibits. Well with the trip. Please check them out.

We went to the civil rights museum. It was great. The layout was so amazingly planned out. All the sections were interactive, informative. Everything was perfect.

The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis was a deeply moving, unforgettable experience - my first time visiting a civil rights museum. I drove down from Nashville, TN by myself, initially planning to split my day between the museum and exploring Beale Street. Those plans quickly changed as I found myself completely absorbed in the museum for five hours, carefully taking in every exhibit. The experience took me through a range of emotions - from laughter to tears, and feeling immense pride in individuals who fought tirelessly for justice. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and interactive, tracing the journey from slavery to present-day challenges. The powerful displays include a recreation of the Rosa Parks bus where visitors can sit and reflect on the stress and pain endured during segregation. I found myself sitting there, deeply contemplating the courage it took to stand up against such injustice. I was particularly impressed learning about the many college students from Nashville, especially those from Tennessee State University and Fisk University, who served as Freedom Riders. What's beautiful is seeing how both black and white students came together in the fight for justice - a powerful reminder of unity in the struggle for civil rights. The Green Book exhibit was particularly enlightening. While I'd heard of it before, I hadn't fully understood its vital importance to Black travelers during segregation. This detailed exhibition helped me grasp just how crucial this publication was for safe travel. When I returned home, I was inspired to research online and found several copies of the Green Book, which deeply impressed me. The museum seamlessly connects to the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, now preserved as a powerful memorial. Every exhibit is touching and powerful, serving as an excellent teaching tool for all ages. The museum's gift shop is exceptional, featuring an impressive collection of books, handmade jewelry, and magnets (which I collect), all reflecting the significance of this historical journey. This phenomenal museum was a fantastic experience that I didn't realize I needed in my life. If you have the chance to visit, please take advantage - you won't regret it one bit. Parking is a breeze and free, with many downtown restaurants within walking distance (which you'll appreciate after your visit). Pro tip: Buy your tickets online and review the website before your visit - knowledge is power in all aspects. If you believe in inclusiveness, fairness, and equality for all humans, then this place is a wonderful reminder that we need to keep pushing and never give up! Peace and blessings to us all!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Everyone in America needs to go to this museum!! There's free parking and multiple MATA buses/trolley are real close to it. I'd recommend allotting 3-ish hours for this.

The National Civil Rights Museum is a must see if you are visiting Memphis, TN. I was actually heading towards St. Louis but made a detour to Memphis just to see this museum. I'm a fan of museums in general, but none has really touched me like this one. It is located in the former Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was actually assassinated in 1968. Not only does it provide an inside look into his life and death, but it also sheds light into the Civil Rights Movement. You learn things in school, but there was so much more that I learned about here. They touched on slavery, student sit ins, Rosa Parks, Freedom Rides, and the Black Power movement. There are some recreations, but there are alot of actual items from that time period as well. One of the most sombering parts of the visit was when as you are finishing the tour, you walk through Dr. King's final hours leading up to his assassination. It ends as you walk through the actual hotel room and balcony he was on when he was gunned down. You can see the building where the shots were fired and go there too to see the different vantage points. I would definitely recommend visiting the National Civil Rights Museum if you are in the area. I plan on coming again if in the area because there is so much I did not have time to see and there are always rotating special exhibits from time to time.

Today was Martin Luther King Jr Day and I wanted to go celebrate and honor him. On this holiday the museum is free although they do ask that you bring can goods as a donation. Today was also one of the coldest days we've had in a long time so needless to say I was bundled and layered up because the line to enter is usually pretty long. This museum is wonderful, the staff are pleasant and knowledgeable and I encourage everyone, when in Memphis to visit, you won't be disappointed. If you don't like crowds then I would advise you not to go on MLK Day. This day is full of people from all over to celebrate his life and accomplishments as well as speakers and performers there to honor him. It's a very moving experience to see through the pictures and interviews the effort, blood, sweat and tears that so many put into trying to make things better for all of us. It makes you wonder, Am I Doing Enough? If we could just be kind to each other then that's something. I've been here a few times but I'm not sure of the regular admission cost. Whatever it is, it's worth every penny.

Happy Birthday to one of the best to ever do it!!! quietly singing..."we shall overcome..." While in Memphis recently, I visited this historical site. I felt overwhelmed with emotion as I walked through a time capsule of all the great accomplishments made by just 39 years young. I became even more proud through each exhibit - proud of the movement that has pushed a nation to continue dreaming! The hotel (you are not able to enter, as it is now part of the museum and encased) is just as it was on that day (cars in the parking lot included). The museum, although not free, is well worth every penny. Touch, feel, sit in the same spaces... "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This resonated with me as I remembered how casting my vote (as a black woman) is still a debate today. This resonated with me as DEI is a topic of discussion today. This resonated with me as I pondered a question Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once posed, "What are you doing for others?" As we celebrate your life and selfless service that leads so many to this place to peer at the ledge (almost feeling time warped back to April 4, 1968) - we are reminded that there is still work to do (for ourselves and others). I continue to dream because you had a dream

It was a bit overwhelming to see so much history housed here. It very much needs to be seen and we will never forget.

Quality/Quantity - So much to see and learn that we came here for two days! What a great education. See all my pictures. I can not do a review justice. So see their website. Atmosphere - Open 6 days a week from 9am to 5pm, closed Tuesdays. Service - Strict but good. There are areas that you are NOT allowed to take pictures, and areas that you are allowed to with no flash. Price - $20 per adult. Owner Comment - Congrats on your success since 1991 and thank you to the 3 prominent Memphians who helped create this great venue.

While visiting Memphis over the holidays, we came to the National Civil Rights Museum. This was hands down one of the most powerful and moving exhibits I have ever seen. I was in awe of the depth of information presented but thoroughly impressed by how accessible it was. There really are no words when you stand right where MLK Jr. took his final breaths. It feels foolish to even try and explain it. I think every single American should be required to come experience this museum and learn the impactful history it presents.

Visiting the museum was overwhelming powerful. The curators succeeded in providing a historical narrative of how, why, and when the birth of civil rights began. I appreciated the revisionists perspective, adding names of so many people who have been omitted from history books. Viewing the recreation of the hotel rooms was so emotional. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the ticket price is a good deal for the experience. I'd highly recommend everybody to visit the museum.

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. This museum was QUIET!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 You first view the Lorraine Motel, where the great leader Martin Luther King once stood. To be literal feet from where he once stood to give his "I have a dream" speech is surreal. Throughout the museum, there are different civil rights "movements" that are displayed including the "I am a man" which displayed the unequal and unjust sanitation worker incident in 1968, to Rosa Parks sitting on the bus. Definitely make time to go across the street to the other part of the museum where the legal and forensic portion of the investigation takes place. You can stand in the spot where they believed the assassination took place, and view all of the evidence that was collected during the investigation.

The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee is a true resource for not only the history of the African-American people, but also of the entire United States. The museum traces the history of black people from the time enslavement originated in the 17th century, through the Civil War, reconstruction, Jim Crow, the civil rights movement add up to the current time. Upon arrival of the Lorraine Hotel, you can look up from the street and see the actual place where the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was standing at the time he was gunned down. Upon entering, it is possible to go to the second level of the museum so you can see the location with Dr. King spent his last few hours alive. As you go through the rest of the museum and trace the entire timeline, it is impossible not to be impressed with the faith and resilience of the African-American people. The visitor can see how slavery developed and how its presence affected the entire shape of agriculture in the United States, and, through that, how America actually functioned as a country. Eli Whitney's cotton gin made each slave massively more productive. Instead of using slave labor to pull the seeds out of the cotton, the cotton gin could do the job faster while still being efficient. The size of the nd of the Covil War crop grew exponentially from the end of the 18th century up until the Civil E Are the Civil War ended slavery, it was depressing to see how, after the assassination of President Lincoln, how white Southerners used both legal and illegal means to suppress the newly freed black population. While Andrew Johnson was clearly commiticeted to the preserva tion of the Union, his heart was clearly not in the fight to establish justice for Black people. Although the reconstruction amendments were passed within a few years after the end of the Civil War, organizations such as the Ku Klux Klan antd other similar efforts suppressed the black population. Even the efforts of President Grant and his newly created Department of Justice-created specifically to enforce the Ku Klux KlanActs-destroyed the original Klan organization, but not the other legal structures thatgrew up to support the suppression of Black people. The museum dealt with the successful efforts of Black people to create a vital economic life for their people. It also dealt with the all too frequent riots which led to the destruction of successful black business districts, such as existed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by white race riots after World War I. You can learn how any Black people went north during World War II to take part in defense plans and also serve in the military. Blacks continuing to live in the South, continue to have restricted opportunities and were heavily employed in the agricultural sector. They They The museum shows how electrification improved the lives of all Southerners. Unfortunately, modernization also brought about unwanted consequences. Getting gasoline powered tractors made the work of the individual farmer far easier-and far more productive-then it had been using mules driven by sharecroppers. This drastically reduced the need for workers on the farm. Within the space of a few years, this massively increased the flow of African-Americans northward. For someone, such as myself who had never lived in a primarily agricultural community, this came as a revelation to me. The museum detailed the legal and legal political struggle for civil rights. It also dealt with the cultural effect of black music in the growth of gospel, music, country music, and, of course, rock and roll. The museum describes the struggle of Black people to be recognized in all areas of the economy, and acknowledged their advances in areas of entertainment and in sport. It also describes the initial political advances of Black people. While I only spent a few hours at the museum, one could easily spend a month there and spend it profitably. The world of exhibits and of the information presented in them cannot be summarized in a brief review. The museum shop contains an invaluable collection of books for a person's education about the struggles of the African-American community. A visit there is well worth your time.

History is truly important and I always tell people that if they are planning to visit Memphis, this is a must first stop. We must come to reflect, remember and respect what this site and it's contents means in our society. It definitely leaves you with an immense sorrow in your heart but the take away is that we cannot go back to the way things were - never. Much respect for the people that work here and dedicate their lives to continuing to educate people and encourage people to fight for what we believe in. Standing together in unity for good things will never be a downfall for mankind.

On each and everyone of my trips I take I try to take in a museum that is in the area. I was lucky enough to see the National Civil Rights Museum on my stop in Memphis. I had totally forgot this was here upon my arrival, but I made sure to make this the museum I saw even if it was the only thing I did while in Memphis. Directions to here were fairly easy to follow, ample parking in the lot and on street parking available as well. They are currently doing road construction right in front of the museum, so trust the GPS. Once here at the Lorraine Motel you are greeted by history even before stepping inside the actual doors. The motel itself was almost a lost landmark at one point, they were able to save it and start the National Civil Rights Museum. You don't understand the impact of the outside until you have toured the inside. There are vehicles outside that were used on the day that MLK lost his life, and there are plaques outside to give you some context. Once inside, you go through the admission process and are told how the museum flows and works. You are given a rundown of how your experience will start. You move into the first exhibit focusing on slavery and the impact it had. You get to see where people were brought from and where they ended up. While you are looking this over people will continually join you until the next show begins in the theater. Take the time to not only watch the video, but listen and understand the video. When the video finishes you are ushered out into the museum where you set the pace of seeing everything there is to be offered here. Like other reviewers have said, this is a very impactful museum. One that can be emotionally draining, but one that should be done. You go through everything here, slavery to segregation, Montgomery Bus Boycott, Jim Crowe Laws, Freedom Riders, Selma march. Meeting notable people on the way, and learning more than you have probably been taught. It all comes to a culmination when you enter the Lorraine Motel properly. You are transported back to 1968 as the rooms are presented as if they are frozen in time. The rooms are set up to look as if they haven't been touched and are as if MLK himself had just checked into the motel. As you take that in, you make it to the window that overlooks the balcony area and finally realize that you are standing on hallowed ground. It took me a moment to wrap my head around it all. Definitely an experience you should take in if you visit Memphis. Take in the history of the place and the history of the Civil Rights Movement. There is so much to this museum that I am sure I left something out, so please, go experience it yourself.

I would like to share my review of the Martin Luther King Lorraine Motel Museum experience. It is profoundly heartbreaking and heart-wrenching to witness the struggles of people fighting for equality, voting rights, education, employment, and basic human dignity. The museum poignantly captures the anguish of living in fear of persecution, violence, and bombings, simply for advocating freedom and equality in a land founded on these principles. Visiting the museum is a powerful experience, and I recommend all races take the tour and carefully read each artifact and word posted on the walls. Though some aspects have evolved, racism persists in different forms today. Inexpensive history lessons.

How can we not visit this place? An ode to Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement! A true orator who left us such eloquent truths. America's greatest sons! A leader of the Civil Rights Movement.

What a high quality museum and at such a great price! This museum has a wonderful mix of visual, written, audio and additional interactive displays that gave a great immersive experience. Highly recommend! Staff was was helpful and nice. This could be a quick walkthrough but I would suggest spending a min of 1hr if not at least 2hrs.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the National Civil Rights Museum, and I must say, it was an extraordinary experience from start to finish. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was immersed in the rich history of the civil rights movement in a way that I had never before encountered.One of the first things that struck me was the sheer size of the museum. I had anticipated a relatively small space, but I was pleasantly surprised to find myself exploring vast galleries and exhibits that seemed to stretch on endlessly. The depth and breadth of the museum's collection are truly impressive, and it quickly became apparent that a single visit would not suffice to take it all in. I spent 3 hours captivated by this beautifully curated Museum. I highly recommend this Memphis site as your first stop in Memphis. And take your time learning about this important history in our country!

I read, I cried, and I was so inspired by this museum. There could be no more important time than the one we are in to learn lessons from the past, gather our courage for the days we are in, and plan with a vision of love and hope for the future. I highly recommend that you experience this museum.

A fantastic look at Martin Luther King's history and legacy. Sobering and a life changing reflection on the "rare" ones who make a difference while on planet earth!

It is a heavy experience one you will leave feeling thankful for the struggles and sacrifices those before us endured. To stand in the place of one of the largest moments in the civil rights movement and say thank you to a great man will change you by the time you leave. It is not an easy experience or even a fun experience but a truly important experience.

When in Memphis, visiting the National Civil Rights Museum should be required. If you came as a child it's a must you come back as an adult because a lot has changed apparently. It's now more than just viewing the outside of the hotel. This was my first time and the museum itself is much larger than I anticipated from the outside. The tickets are timed to allow for the proper flow of visitors. We purchased tickets online which made for a quicker entry process. When you first enter, the initial room has facts about the Atlantic slave trade but it's really a holding room before you watch a video in another room. After you watch the video about the museum etc your free to roam the museum at your own pace! There really is so much to learn from the lunch counter sit ins to the Memphis sanitation strike. Be sure to come here and get educated!

Someone greeted us as soon as we entered. It was a self guided tour, really quiet and gives you time to reflect on everything. I loved the history lesson and will be back.

The site of the MLK assassination. Turned into a museum for Civil Rights. This was a very well done and great tribute to Civil Rights. Lots of exhibits, pictures, and stories. If you get to Memphis go see this.

As others have said, this was one of the most impactful museums I've been to. The museum covers the history of slavery in the first room and you then move into a 12 minute video. The video takes you from the early years of the US up until the 1960's. From there, you move into the museum and the history of Civil Rights within the US. The museum ends with the preserved rooms of Dr. Martin Luther King from his stay prior to his assassination and then moves into the gift shop. It's a lot to absorb and you can easily spend several hours. The 2nd building wasn't open when I went but the admission of $20 was well worth the visit. I love to immerse myself in museums so I did struggle with the amount of other guests that were in the museum at the same time. There was a lot of yelling and rough-housing within the groups, which disrupted the experience of others. When in a place of such tragedy, I found it a bit disrespectful. I would absolutely visit again at an earlier time of day so I could have more time within the museum.

Hands down the most impactful museum I've visited in the us. Very dense with information. Expect to spend 3+ hours reading and reflecting on everything in this deceptively large space. Well worth the time/money and a must see.

I've never been the type to frequent museums or go to many historic sites like this. But this by far is one of the best museum experiences I've been to. Everything is so well put together and so much information is explained, it's easily one of the top stops you must attend when in Memphis. We truly enjoyed our time here. We've already decided that we will be back again when we visit in the future. The tour lasts about an hour I believe.

This phenomenal museum should attract national attention. Of course, it's in a historic location and it's meaningful and moving to see the very room where MLK stayed before his assassination. The entire museum is amazing, though, as it goes through the civil rights movement starting from the origins of the slave trade in Africa and moving through current events. The number of artifacts and large items, including a bus from Montgomery, Alabama, enhance the experience. The museum is well worth your time and should be your priority when visiting Memphis.

Wonderful museum with lots of great information. Definitely plan to spend at least 3-4 hours if you like to read all of the displays/exhibits. Exhibit moves in a one way fashion with no backtracking to certain areas of the museum. There are several video areas located throughout displaying historical moments. Exit at the end is into the gift shop. Lots of books, trinkets, cups, and apparel.

This museum is a must! So much information, so much history. I spent about 2 hours here and they had a great gift shop as well. I bought a couple of gifts. I highly recommend!

This Museum really helps you put things into perspective. Whether it's reflecting on Dr. Martin Luther King's legacy, when city schools integrated, the middle passage, sit-ins to protest unfair second-class citizenship, The Rock Hill Nine, the 16th street bombing, etc etc I learned a lot walking through here and you definitely spend a lot of time in here (about 1.5 hours). It was amazing to see the Lorraine Hotel where MLK had his last precious moments...just so much history here! There is a lot of parking and it's close by to Beale Street.

Wow - I spent three hours in this museum but I could have stayed all day. I also cried multiple times. It's such a moving exhibit that I can't even begin to put into words how important it is for everyone to visit. Every exhibit and video is so well done. This is a can't miss place in Memphis.

It has been recently updated and you get a semi guided tour. There is soooo much to learn this museum is large. Get ready for a long, thought provoking and emotional experience. The museum is beautiful and full of history. I highly recommend.

Yesterday we visited theNational Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel for the first time. What a thorough and respectful museum that covers a great amount of the civil rights movement. The exhibit features pictures, written words, video, electronic interactive activities, clothing, statues, buses that really bring the many stories to life. The Lorraine Motel is where Dr Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated and there is a wreath hanging in the balcony where this happened. The museum recreated the look of the room where he stayed that can be viewed on the self guided tour. The gift shop at the end is quite large and features quite a few items to choose from. We have toured theCivil Rights Museum in Birmingham on a previous trip and this one is really really a good experience.

With the rich history here in Memphis, this place carries a lot of emotional weight. If you plan to go, I recommend setting aside a few hours. I would even recommend going twice so you have ample time to process all of the information. This is such a meaningful and important place to visit.

Being able to see and stand near where a historical event takes place will always be awe inspiring and make me contemplate life. Visiting the National civil rights museum has been on my bucket list for some time and we made it happen in September 2023. Me and the hubby booked tickets about 2 months in advance since we aren't from Tennessee and tickets were $20ish a person. We went around 12:30pm ( times entry tickets) on a Sunday in September and it was hot and humid outside lol. After going through security we headed into the first section of the museum. I appreciated how each section is placed in chronological order. Learning in even greater depth about slavery, segregation and desegregation times, the civil rights movement , the different boycotts and even the music that was inspired by these times was incredible! The most sobering for me was hearing Dr. Martin Luther King's voice and seeing where he stood his last moments before he passed away. It's been so well preserved it almost feels like you've stepped back in time. It was nice seeing all the different ages and races that were visiting the museum. There's a GIFT shop at the end that had cute trinkets and beautiful artwork and crafts. Parking is free from what I remember. And there were a lot of photo ops.

The National Civil Rights Museum (NCRM) presents an important part of our nation's history in a powerful and effective way -- and doubly so because it is built on, and incorporates the site of the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. into the total experience. It is a "must do" experience when visiting Memphis -- especially in today's political climate with white supremacy, systemic racism, voter suppression and Jim Crow politics on the rise in mainstream culture. (Unfortunately, I think the ones who need to learn and understand this history the most, are the ones most unlikely to visit.) When you plan to visit you are advised to purchase your time sensitive admission ticket on line, in advance. (However, if the museum is not busy you may be able to purchase tickets at the door, but don't come late in the day or your visit will be truncated.) There is a controlled flow of visitors through the museum. After viewing a photo gallery and an extensive display depicting the early slave trade, everyone is ushered into a theater for a short video, then the doors to the main part of the museum open and you can view all the exhibits at your leisure. (Make sure everyone in your party enters the theater together or the laggards will be 15 minutes behind.) There is a lot to take in here. It would take several visits to thoroughly immerse yourself into all the exhibits, let alone to read and digest all the information provided along the way. I spent most of my time focusing on the people and events of the late 1950s and all of the 1960's -- things I remember -- but never properly understood during my late childhood and teenage years growing up in racist small towns of Wisconsin. A visit to the NCRM concludes with a view of the rooms where Dr. King and his associates stayed on his fateful visit to Memphis in 1968, as well as the balcony where he stood during his final moments -- a somber and moving finale at an outstanding museum. After visiting the NCRM proper, be sure to see the supplemental exhibits across the street where the forensic aspects of the assassination itself are addressed in a respectful and factual manner.

One of the most impactful and greatest museums I've ever visited. It's an absolute must if you go to Memphis. There is a lot of rich history in this museum and it does well to honor those who fought and continue to fight for equality in America. Be prepared though, it's a very emotional experience, but does a great job of educating on the importance of civil rights and the struggles of growing up in the segregated south. However, the final exhibit immaculately preserves the room Dr. Martin Luther King stayed in, and though it was a difficult exhibit that relives one of America's greatest tragedies, it's absolutely important regardless of who you are. Not to mention that the tickets are very reasonably priced, and it's pretty easy to spend several hours here. While I came in knowing it was going to be a difficult and impactful museum, the state has done a wonderful job preserving the motel and has curated perhaps one of the finest museums in the world. An absolute must if you are in Memphis.

The National Civil Rights Museum was established in 1991 and is located at the former Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968. This is located across the street from Central BBQ and offers us a way to remember a man who dreamed of a better life and worked peacefully to make this world a better place. If you find yourself in Memphis, Tennessee, I would definitely recommend a visit here.

Learned so much from this experience. It's a must do if you're in Memphis. Eye opening experience.

Sacred. All history should be taught like this. So powerful, so emotional, so very important. I wish all Americans could visit.

Amazing to be here where this tragedy happened. What an experience. The museum had a lot to see. There is a lot of reading and information. You can get a good education about history and events that had happened. You are able to see through a window where Martin Luther King Jr was shot and go across the street to see where the shooter was.

what an incredibly educational, emotional and overall, great musuem. first off, i prebooked my entry time of 515, but showed up at 4:30 and i am glad i did. i spent 1.5 hours here, and still feel i could have spent another hour because theres so much to see and read. its designed very well and has multiple rooms throughout, that basically ends with MLK's room 206 in which he was assinated outside of. this was pretty chilling to see, especially since it gave a clear view of the boarding house in which the shooter was hiding out in. you can look into his room and 207 next to his where his staff was staying. I feel the majority of the museum is about black culture, african culture, the riots, black american policitians etc. It was incredibly educational and outlined the fight and struggle that black americans then and now are still fighting for in this country. key players in the civil rights movements are shown throughout too. the staff were friendly and knowledgeable in many aspects of the pieces too. its a place i think everyone should visit.

A premier heritage and cultural experience. This is an amazing, educational piece of history. Inspirational parts of of a tragic part of American culture. From the Lorraine Hotel preservation to the FBI listening post and then the window & bullet trail that took the life of MLK, Jr. Much care went in to the quality of displays, information and stories of the hopes and dreams of an oppressed race. Make sure to book your time and get your tickets in advance. Very fair prices for all you can see and do!

Great exhibition and the staff are wonderful. I am so glad that I got the opportunity to visit this amazing place in American history. There is a lot to see and read in this extensive museum. Give yourself plenty of time. Worth the time for everyone.

What a beautiful tour. If you are a history geek for the civil rights 1950s 60s era this is a must!!!!!

Gripping dose of reality on my vacation to Memphis. This homage to civil rights and the movement. Such an educational experience. It's beyond the scope of thought why people were oppressed, but it did happen. Is it embarrassing? Yes, but it should give everyone a quick lesson in dealing with other humans. I was in awe of where I was and this past year has been one of reflection in my time here in earth. Worth every penny and second while here at this shrine to the civil rights movement. You must go.

Had an exceptional time visiting this museum. My kids and I were in town visiting family and I wanted them to see the place where Dr. King was memorialized at. The ages in my group were from 6 to 17 and every one enjoyed this museum. There are interactive stations and so much informative information to take in. The information can seem overwhelming but it's so very important to learn history. I would definitely return as this was my second time visiting and I learned something new each time.

Fabulous museum. The self guided tour is super informative. Be prepared to spend a few hours here. We spent 3 hours and I think we barely scratched the surface of everything they offer.

This was an amazing museum. Great set up. Twenty-three exhibits. I'd recommend this to anyone who would like to get summary understanding of the historical challenges of Blacks in the United States.