Top reasons to visit Memphis
- Vibrant Live Music Scene: Memphis is famous for its live music, offering an unforgettable experience in blues and rock 'n' roll.
- Cultural Richness: The city boasts top-notch museums and historic sites, including the iconic Memphis Pyramid and Central Station.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy diverse family activities, from the Memphis Zoo to riverboat excursions on the Mississippi.
- Diverse Neighbourhoods: Explore unique areas like East Memphis, showcasing local life and rich history.
- Varied Accommodation Options: Memphis offers charming hotels and motels, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travellers.
Find great hotels in Memphis
Discover a range of lodging options in Memphis, from charming hotels to convenient motels, catering to both business travellers and leisure guests. Experience pet-friendly accommodations and LGBTQIA welcoming environments, ensuring a memorable stay. Whether you’re searching for the best hotels in Memphis or a central downtown location, you’ll find the perfect place to unwind and explore the vibrant culture of this iconic city.
- The Guest House at Graceland: A charming 4-star hotel, The Guest House at Graceland is ideal for families and pet-friendly travellers seeking a unique experience. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, this property is inspired by Elvis Presley’s legacy, offering a nostalgic atmosphere throughout. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including complimentary cribs and safety features. Additionally, pets are welcomed, with specific policies catering to dogs, making this a versatile choice for those travelling with furry companions. The hotel also boasts a range of dining options and entertainment, ensuring a memorable stay in Memphis.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Airport Graceland: This budget-friendly hotel is a practical option for business travellers and pet owners alike. Conveniently located near the airport, La Quinta Inn & Suites provides essential amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. The hotel accommodates pets with specific guidelines, offering a comfortable place for you and your furry friend. Guests have noted the helpful staff and the convenience of on-site facilities, including complimentary breakfast options and a fitness centre, making it an excellent base for exploring Memphis.
- Travelodge by Wyndham Memphis Airport/Graceland: Situated in the heart of Memphis, Travelodge by Wyndham offers a budget-friendly experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture. This hotel is well-suited for business travellers, providing essential amenities to enhance productivity. Guests can enjoy a straightforward stay with easy access to local attractions and dining options nearby. Its central location makes it a convenient choice for exploring the rich musical heritage and history of Memphis.
Where to stay in Memphis
Memphis is a vibrant metropolis perfect for family-friendly getaways and cultural explorations. Discover the unbeatable charm of downtown, where convenient access to top museums awaits. Venture into East Memphis for a taste of local life, characterised by friendly people and rich history. Each neighbourhood offers its unique atmosphere, making it easy to immerse yourself in the city's diverse experiences, from leisurely excursions to engaging historical sites.
- Southaven: Situated just south of Memphis, Southaven is a vibrant city that appeals to families and entertainment enthusiasts alike. With a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, it experiences peak travel times from March to April and July. Southaven boasts an array of activities, including an impressive arena entertainment facility, lush recreation parks, and bustling shopping centres. Visitors can explore local landmarks such as historic sites and a music museum, making it an excellent spot for those interested in culture and history.
- Downtown Memphis: Rich in urban charm, Downtown Memphis is the heartbeat of the city, drawing visitors year-round with its dynamic atmosphere. Peak visitation occurs in March to April and September, as families and outdoor enthusiasts flock to experience its lively streets. The area is renowned for its arena entertainment venues and extensive shopping options, including a prominent shopping mall centre. Noteworthy attractions nearby include a bustling tourist precinct and various historic sites, ensuring that one can easily immerse themselves in the city’s rich heritage while enjoying the vibrant local culture.
- West Memphis: Located directly across the Mississippi River from Memphis, West Memphis offers a delightful blend of city life and romantic undertones. The city attracts tourists consistently, with peak periods in March, May, and July. Visitors are drawn to its arena entertainment facilities and popular shopping centres. West Memphis is also home to notable landmarks, including a lively tourist precinct and a racetrack, providing unique experiences for both families and couples looking to explore the area together.
Things to do in Memphis
Shopping
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, where you'll find unique gifts and outdoor gear. For a more traditional shopping experience, visit the Memphis Farmers Market, offering local crafts and artisanal products that reflect the region's culture.
Recreation
Experience a day at the Wellness Spa at the Peabody Hotel, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and soothing massages. Take a stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront for a blend of relaxation and scenic views, perfect for unwinding after your spa visit.
Adventure
Memphis International Raceway offers thrilling motor racing experiences, where adrenaline seekers can enjoy high-speed events and competitive racing atmospheres. Visitors can immerse themselves in the excitement of the track, surrounded by the sounds of powerful engines and the energy of fellow motorsport enthusiasts.
Nightlife
In Memphis, the nightlife buzzes with energy. Enjoy live music at Beale Street, where blues and rock fill the air. For a lively bar scene, check out the Peabody Rooftop, offering stunning views and cocktails. If you're in the mood for dancing, head to The Groove for an exciting vibe.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Memphis
To save money on your trip to Memphis, consider visiting between December and February, when accommodation prices are lower. Use public transport options like buses and trolleys for cost-effective travel. Enjoy free attractions such as Beale Street and local colleges. For the best hotel deals, utilise Expedia's search tool to filter by price and eco-friendly options, and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities. Remember, staying on a Monday is cheaper than on a Saturday, helping you maximise your budget while enjoying the city.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Memphis are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and July, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Memphis is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Memphis is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to easily find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation in Memphis with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Memphis
Memphis offers a delightful blend of family-friendly, culture-rich experiences, making it ideal for various vacation themes. Visitors can explore urban parks, historic houses, and history museums, alongside attractions such as the Memphis Zoo, Memphis Riverboats, and the iconic Memphis Pyramid. Central Station Memphis and Memphis Rock also provide unique insights into the city's vibrant culture, ensuring an enriching holiday for all travellers.
- Graceland: Experience the former home of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. This iconic mansion offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of a music legend, with guided tours showcasing his personal artefacts and stunning collection of cars.
- Beale Street: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic street, renowned for its live music, bustling nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Beale Street is a hub for blues and jazz, featuring various bars and restaurants that reflect the city's musical roots.
- Memphis Botanic Garden: Enjoy a serene escape in this beautiful botanical garden, featuring diverse plant collections and tranquil walking paths. Ideal for families, couples, or anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor experience amidst nature’s beauty.
Best time to go to Memphis
The best time to visit Memphis can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Memphis falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Memphis falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Memphis
Flying into MEMphis is convenient with the primary airport being Memphis International Airport (MEM), located 13km from the city centre. Excellent accommodation options nearby include Big Cypress Lodge, a 5-star hotel 14km away, and The Peabody Memphis, a 4.5-star hotel 13km from the airport, offering shuttle services on request. For a closer stay, The Guest House at Graceland is a 4-star hotel just 5km from MEM. Additionally, Jackson, TN (MKL) is 114km away and has hotels such as DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jackson and Residence Inn Jackson. Jonesboro, AR (JBR) is also an option, with hotels like Embassy Suites by Hilton Jonesboro nearby.