Famed as the home of the blues, riverside Memphis fuses historic charm with a vibrant forward-thinking vibe, making for a wonderfully exciting city break destination. Whether you’re travelling as a couple or with family and friends, this striking Tennessee city promises an intriguing cultural history, a legendary music scene and some terrific Southern barbecue. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with everything from intimate historic inns to sleek city hotels with all the mod-cons. Our pick of the best places to stay in Memphis offers brilliant bases in and around the downtown area, within easy reach of top museums, buzzing eateries and funky live music venues.

Perched on the banks of the Mississippi River, much of Memphis has undergone a significant regeneration in recent years, but many of the city’s oldest buildings still ooze a sense of faded grandeur. The best way to delve into the soul of the city is through a guided walking tour, where you can discover the secrets of everything from the enormous former Sears Crosstown building to little lanes lined with old record stores.

There are heaps of excellent museums, too. Highlights include Sun Studio, the Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, as well as the W.C. Handy Museum. Fans of Elvis Presley should make a beeline for Graceland, whilst Beale Street is the place to go for the blues. For a reckoning with Tennessee’s past, the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum comes highly recommended, as does the National Civil Rights Museum in the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968.

Escape to Mud Island River Park for outdoorsy adventures, hike or cycle along riverside trails and feast on delectable barbecue dishes in the evenings before seeking out the hottest live music spots. Whether you’re in town for the food, the tunes or the turbulent history, the best places to stay in Memphis offer a characterful base from which to explore.

The Best Places to Stay in Memphis

For Music Lovers

• Central Station Hotel occupies a unique location in a restored train station on South Main Street. Come for the quirky 20th-century interiors, and stay to hear the property's impressive 500-record vinyl collection through Eggleston Works speakers whilst sipping cocktails in the one-of-a-kind bar. Look out for live music events and curated in-room playlists. There's excellent Southern fare, too.

For Couples

• The James Lee House is an intimate B&B in a beautiful 19th-century residence. With just five sumptuous suites, this is a wonderfully tranquil, elegant choice for a couples' trip. An adults-only Memphis gem.
• River Inn of Harbor Town offers an indulgent boutique experience, a few minutes from downtown Memphis. Expect classic old-school style — including antiques and four-posters — as well as lovely eateries with Mississippi River views. There's cycling and hiking nearby. A romantic pick for active couples.
• Hu. Hotel Memphis has been transformed from a 1905 bank to a swish, 110-room hotel with chic furnishings, big spa baths, an outdoor pool and striking Mississippi River views. A sleek and central city choice for couples or business travellers. The glamorous bar is a highlight.

For Families or Groups

• Arrive Memphis is a friendly neighbourhood hotel in the centre of the city. Pick this place for its funky retro design, great coffee and lively youthful feel. An excellent value choice for a sociable stay.
• Hotel Indigo Memphis Downtown is a relaxed urban oasis complete with an outdoor pool, delicious American cuisine and heaps of fun, open-air games. Think retro style and lots of space for families or bigger groups.
• Moxy Memphis Downtown promises a hip, playful vibe for travellers looking to kick back with a beer or enjoy flavoursome dishes in the casual eatery. Spacious rooms offer flexible options for families or groups. The games room will be a sure-fire hit with guests of all ages!

For Historic Grandeur

• The Peabody Hotel is a Memphis icon, featuring opulent decor in superb rooms and suites, as well as an acclaimed French restaurant, an indoor swimming pool and small, soothing spa. The hotel's famed 'duck walks' have been a daily highlight since the 1930s. A grand hotel for a luxurious stay.

FOR AN APARTMENT

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Memphis International Airport, 7 miles south-east of the city, and travel downtown by bus or taxi.
• Tennessee is great for a road trip! If you would like to hire a car, we suggest that you contact our online partner Rentalcars.
• Come during the summer months (June - August) for the warmest weather, when temperatures reach up to 29°C. Winters are cold, but spring (April - May) and autumn (September - October) are ideal for exploring in slightly cooler climes. You can also expect some good hotel deals and fewer crowds.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to explore all the best places to stay in Nashville.
• Alternatively, see our pick of the best places to stay in Tennessee.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Memphis