The Memphis stage has welcomed sharecroppers and riverboat captains, civil rights leaders and crooked politicians, Hollywood actors and Southern writers, gourmet chefs and legendary pitmasters. Now it’s your turn to discover what Memphis has to offer.
Where to Stay in Memphis – 4 Hotels Offering a Unique Experience
The Peabody Memphis
The Peabody is famous for its daily duck march: four hens and a drake parade through the Grand Lobby to John Philip Sousa’s “King Cotton March.” This charming tradition began in 1933 when the general manager returned from a duck hunt and left live English Call Duck decoys in the fountain. Guests loved it, and the ducks have been part of the Peabody ever since. Beyond the ducks, the Peabody is a Forbes Four-Star, AAA Four-Diamond historic downtown hotel that offers attentive reception, room and concierge service and refined accommodations for travelers who want both character and first-class service.
Madison Hotel
The Madison Hotel offers a modern contrast to the Peabody’s historic charm. A Four-Diamond property, the Madison features contemporary furnishings, vibrant design, and thoughtful amenities. Onsite dining includes eighty3 food and drink, developed by Chef Rodelio Aglibot. The Twilight Sky Terrace—seventeen stories up—provides rooftop fire pits, comfortable seating, and sweeping views of the Mississippi at sunset. With boutique luxury and a location just a few blocks from Beale Street, the Madison suits travelers seeking a sleek, urban stay.
James Lee House
Named for the riverboat captain who purchased it in 1890, the James Lee House is a Victorian Italianate mansion originally built in 1848 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Carefully restored and reopened as a luxury bed and breakfast in 2014, the renovation preserves original craftsmanship while adding modern conveniences. Breakfast choices include French press coffee, croissants, gouda grits, Belgian waffles, handmade granola with Greek yogurt, or house marmalade, with eggs cooked to order. The property offers complimentary Wi-Fi and gated parking, and is located in the Victorian Village District about five minutes by car from downtown Memphis.
Talbot Heirs Guesthouse
Talbot Heirs Guesthouse is a highly rated bed and breakfast within walking distance of Beale Street. Its clean, quiet, apartment-style rooms with private patios provide a peaceful retreat in the heart of downtown. Shuttle service is available for popular attractions such as Graceland, Sun Studio, Stax Records, and the Rock n’ Soul Museum. Rooms are equipped with queen beds, cable TV with movie channels, CD players, and full kitchens with coffee makers, toasters, cookware and dinnerware. Guests can provide a grocery list ahead of arrival and have their room stocked on check-in for added convenience.
Things to Do in Memphis
Sun Studio
For rock ‘n’ roll fans, Sam Phillips’ Sun Studio is a must-see. The unassuming space is part of the legend: stand where Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, and Carl Perkins once recorded. If you’re exploring Memphis for its musical heritage, also consider visiting Stax Records, the Rock n’ Soul Museum, and Graceland to round out the experience.
Soulfish Cafe
Memphis is famous for BBQ, but its riverfront location also means excellent fresh fish—usually fried and served Southern-style. Soulfish Cafe offers fried catfish in multiple preparations, po’ boys, tacos, hush puppies, and classic Southern sides. Popular with both locals and visitors, the restaurant is a great spot to relax with a craft beer or a glass of wine and enjoy hearty, home-style fried fish.
Burke’s Book Store
Burke’s Book Store, in operation since 1875, is one of the South’s oldest independent bookstores. Specializing in Southern literature and Memphis history, Burke’s carries new and used books and has hosted many notable authors. Located in the artsy Cooper-Young neighborhood, it’s an inviting stop for readers and history enthusiasts.
These highlights only scratch the surface of what Memphis offers. Enjoy its rich culture, vibrant music scene, and inviting hotels, and be sure to make time for a messy, delicious barbecue meal—complete with sticky sauce and plenty of napkins. Sometimes it’s worth getting your hands dirty to experience the city’s true flavor.