If you're passionate about musical instruments, especially guitars, you'll love the tour of the Gibson Guitar Factory in Memphis,Tennessee. The company was founded by Orville Gibson, who made mandolins, in 1902. The company became known for its electric guitars in the mid-'70s and today, Gibson guitars are used all over the world. Artists such as B.B. King and jazz great Howard Roberts helped make the guitars famous. Today, the company also makes pianos, drum kits and other acoustic instruments.
Plan your trip to Memphis if you are traveling from out of state. There are two Gibson Guitar factories in Tennessee, but only the Memphis factory offers a factory tour. Make it a Memphis music weekend. Aside from the Gibson factory, visit the Memphis Rock 'N Soul Museum, which is across the street from the factory, and enjoy dinner and blues at B.B. King Blue Club. No visit to Memphis would be complete without a trip to Graceland, home and resting place of the the legendary Elvis Presley.
Call ahead to reserve your tour. The Gibson factory recommends making a reservation because of the popularity of the tours. Tours are once an hour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.
Pay your admission fee and enjoy the tour. The fee for the tour is $10 per person. If you have a group of 15 or more people, the rate is reduced to $8 per person. The tour is about 45 minutes long, and a knowledgeable guitar lover will take you around the factory as the skilled workers cut, paint, bind and fine-tune the guitars. The tour guide also will provide the history of the company and tidbits on the famous musicians who have bought its guitars.
