Memphis hotels

Big Cypress Lodge is easily one of the best hotels in Memphis for its truly one-of-a-kind vibes. Located inside the city’s famous 32-storey Pyramid in the centre, it comes complete with a swamp filled with live alligators (yes, really).

Take the USA’s tallest freestanding lift to the rooftop, where the views of the city are breathtaking. The rooms and suites at Big Cypress feature rustic-chic décor, electric fireplaces and private balconies looking out over Bass Pro Shops, one of the world’s largest retail locations. Don’t miss stopping by Dee-Licious Fudge & General Store for some truly tasty homemade fudge.

There are also tonnes of on-site dining options, ranging from The Lookout on the top floor of the Pyramid to Wahlburgers Wild, which serves ‘wild’ menu items like bison burgers and venison chili. Of all the best hotels to stay in Memphis, Big Cypress Lodge has to be seen to be believed.

At SpringHill Suites by Marriott Memphis Downtown, the beds are plush, the service goes above and beyond and the location is fantastic, overlooking Court Square Park and near several great restaurants and shops. The spacious, stylish suites here are the perfect place to crash after a busy day of exploring.

One of the things I appreciate most about this hotel is that the staff are always willing to provide local recommendations, which is especially helpful if it’s your first time in town. The amenities are great, too, with a pool, spa and fitness centre, as well as a complimentary hot breakfast featuring dishes like eggs with salsa and Greek yogurt and oatmeal.

A great option if you’re travelling for business, this sleek hotel boasts easy access to many of the major corporate offices in town.

Business travellers, take note: there are two event rooms with top-of-the-line AV equipment, as well as ergonomic workspaces in the well-appointed suites. I appreciate that there’s plenty for leisure travellers to love, too, including a fully-equipped fitness centre and outdoor pool. At the on-site eatery, the Bistro, I love getting one of the Social Snacks, like the hummus plate or French fries with garlic aioli.

Head for a workout or swim a few laps to get your morning started right, then end your day with dinner and drinks before settling in for a good night’s sleep in your cosy bed. Whether you’re in the city for business or pleasure, this is hands down one of your top choices in Memphis.

Located just steps from historic Beale Street, the Westin Memphis Beale Street is dripping in Southern charm and equipped with all the amenities you need to make your stay truly memorable.

Relax in your room or suite, which features all the creature comforts of home, like flat-screen TVs, premium bath toiletries and custom bedding. For special occasions or bigger groups, the one-bedroom Executive Suite comes with a whirlpool and a spacious separate living area.

One of the best boutique hotels in Memphis, the Westin Memphis Beale Street is also home to the Courtside Grill, a must-visit for dinner – there’s nothing like a juicy, local steak served with Southern sides to end your day on a high. When I’ve stayed at this hotel in the past, I love having a nightcap on Beale Street, where the vibe is always lively and music spills out of nearly every bar.

Another terrific hotel in a prime location, the Moxy Memphis Downtown is a great choice if you want to be in the heart of the action. The amenities here are inspired – I particularly loved playing bocce or ping-pong in the outdoor ‘porch’ space (with a local craft brew in hand).

There’s also a gym with cutting-edge equipment, a bar that serves hand-crafted cocktails and small plates and an on-site eatery offering a delicious, healthy menu. Rooms are clean and modern, decorated in chic shades of grey and white with pops of colour in the form of vibrant artwork.

Be sure to book a suite if you need extra space or want a fridge and microwave in your room. All in all, it’s the Moxy’s stylish Southern-inspired design and unique amenities that set it apart from the other best hotels in Memphis.

Home2 Suites by Hilton Memphis Wolfchase Galleria is popular among budget-conscious travellers for its on-site amenities and reliably immaculate rooms. I always opt to stay here when I want to save some money without sacrificing comfort. The pool is a particularly inviting spot on a hot Memphis day, while the complimentary breakfast buffet is better than many others I’ve tried.

There’s also free Wi-Fi, an on-site fitness centre and a business centre with multiple meeting rooms, in addition to a variety of solid dining options in the area – plus, of course, the Wolfchase Galleria, which is the city’s largest indoor shopping centre.

Choose from a variety of room and suite options, each thoughtfully appointed with modern amenities and decorated with brightly coloured artwork and accents. With the rates here on the more affordable side, this is one of the best choices for those on a budget.

Set in the middle of Beale Street, the Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis is widely beloved for its picture-perfect location on the banks of the Mississippi River.

Located just a short walk from the city’s entertainment district, the hotel boasts a range of outstanding amenities, including a resort-style pool with cabanas, a sizeable fitness centre and delectable on-site dining at CIMAS, where the menu of Latin fusion dishes pairs well with the view of the Hernando de Soto Bridge.

One of my favourite things to do here is enjoy the sunset from the rooftop lounge, where you can relax on comfy couches around a fire pit. There’s also a cool whiskey bar, and the views of the city skyline and Mississippi River are truly Instagram-worthy.

The Caption by Hyatt Beale Street Memphis fits right in amidst Beale Street’s urban charm. From the moment I walked through the doors, I knew I was somewhere special. Maybe it’s the friendly staff, who are quick to welcome you and provide hand-picked recommendations.

Or maybe it’s the lobby’s striking colour scheme, with its exposed brick finishes and sapphire velvet chairs. It could also be the lush beer garden, a truly inviting communal space with big-screen TVs. Whatever it is, it’s working!

Foodies will appreciate the menu at the Talk Shop (an ‘all-day hangout and coffee shop’), with an emphasis on local ingredients. Rooms and suites are boldly decorated with repurposed materials and outfitted with all the essentials, like 55-inch (140 cm) flat-screen TVs, KenetMD bath toiletries and minifridges. It’s little wonder this is one of the top-rated hotels in Memphis.

Memphis’s hip factor reaches new heights at the Canopy by Hilton Memphis Downtown. Located in the city centre, this hotel boasts a gleaming, eye-catching exterior and sleekly modern interiors.

Guestrooms are the epitome of chic – linens are thick and sumptuous, while beds are crafted with gel memory foam, and the in-room Nespresso machines will keep you caffeinated all morning long. I particularly love the local artworks and design flourishes here, which have nods to local musicians and other notable figures.

Some of the city’s top restaurants and attractions are within walking distance of the hotel, which is always a major bonus. That said, you don’t have to leave the hotel to find great food, as the on-site restaurant serves a flavour-packed menu of American, Spanish and Italian dishes.

Widely regarded as one of the best hotels in Memphis, the Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Memphis revolves around Southern hospitality and first-class amenities. Start your morning with breakfast at The Bistro, where a variety of healthy dishes are paired with strong Starbucks coffee (or end your day here; the dinner, beer and wine options are just as good).

Then, make the most of your proximity to Court Square Park, the Main Street Trolley and other local attractions by heading out for a day of exploring. The hotel’s great on-site amenities include a bubbling hot tub, a fitness centre, meeting spaces, laundry services and free Wi-Fi.

Guestrooms are light-filled and refreshingly pared-back, with minimalist furnishings and stark white bedding. I also love the fact this hotel always feels quiet and secluded, despite its central location.