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The 10 best hotels in Memphis

Take a deep dive into rock ‘n’ roll history and the unique vibe of the Deep South with the best hotels in Memphis

Alex Floyd-Douglass
Written by
Jane Long
Contributor
Alex Floyd-Douglass
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The birthplace of rock 'n' roll, Memphis is celebrated as the musical capital of the USA. Cough, cough, Elvis Presley, anyone? From the iconic Beale Street to Graceland, you’ll hear the constant hum of the King of Rock and Roll (and blues and soul) at every turn. Such vibes. The city is also the birthplace of the modern franchise motel – the first Holiday Inn was conceived here in 1952. That particular establishment is long gone, but big American hotel chains still tend to dominate. However, there are plenty more unique (and cooler) options to be found – take your pick from quirky-themed lodgings, historical delights, and a handful of high-end boutique hotels that have popped up this millennium. 

Looking for more inspiration?

📸 Discover the best things to do in Memphis
🍽️ Eat your way around the city at top Memphis restaurants
🎸 Embrace the music with a trip to Nashville

Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Best Memphis hotels

The Peabody
Photograph: Courtesy Booking.com

1. The Peabody

This famous Memphis hotel is probably best known for its resident ducks. The twack (yes, that’s the collective noun) of mallards make a twice-daily appearance to splash around in the lobby’s fountain, so make sure to catch them during your stay. The Peabody has a deserved reputation for elegance and has nearly 150 years of business under its belt. Sip on a mint julep in the Lobby Bar – dubbed ‘the living room of Memphis’ – and settle in for the ultimate people-watching experience. You could even follow in the footsteps of guests Oprah Winfrey and Stephen Fry, and act as Duckmaster for the day.

Big Cypress Lodge
Photograph: Booking.com

2. Big Cypress Lodge

The most surreal addition to the Memphis hotel landscape is this five-star great outdoors-themed resort set in a towering, shiny pyramid. It even has its very own swamp, complete with live alligators. Suites are quirky recreations of fishing cabins and treehouses, with luxurious touches like handcrafted furniture, roaring fireplaces, and lofty ceilings. The Big Cypress Lodge feels like a transplant from Orlando or the Vegas Strip, but the whole experience manages to stay just the right side of cheesy, thanks to a combination of excellent service and incredible attention to detail.

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The Guest House at Graceland
Photograph: Courtesy Booking.com

3. The Guest House at Graceland

The closest you’ll get to a sleepover in Elvis’ house without breaking any laws, the Guest House at Graceland has been taking care of business since 2016. Situated a few steps across Elvis Presley Boulevard from rock ’n’ roll’s own White House, the hotel’s design reflects The King’s unique personal style, and it’s nowhere near as gaudy an aesthetic as you might imagine – rooms are spacious and modern, with gleaming coffee machines and rain-head showers. Got plenty of Money Honey? Go for one of the 20 lavishly themed suites designed by Mrs. Priscilla Presley herself.

River Inn of Harbor Town
Photograph: Courtesy Booking.com

4. River Inn of Harbor Town

About as charming as lodging can get, this waterfront boutique hotel lies away from the hubbub of downtown in the upscale neighborhood of Mud Island. Rooms offer soothing, unobstructed views of the Mississippi and service is outstanding, from complimentary champagne at check-in to port and chocolate truffles at turndown. The four-poster beds are so comfortable there’s a danger you’ll sleep in, but don’t miss the gourmet breakfast at the in-house restaurant – the pancakes will set you up for the day.

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Hotel Indigo
Courtesy: Booking.com

5. Hotel Indigo

Situated in the heart and soul of Memphis, Hotel Indigo is the perfect place to rest your noggin and experience the city like a local. The hotel brings the city's heritage to life and the historic building uses local art, color, and memorabilia from rock, soul, and blues legends to make Memphis the center of the vibes. There are 118 rooms, all featuring spa-inspired showers and luxury amenities. 

Hu Hotel Memphis
Photograph: Courtesy Booking.com

6. Hu Hotel Memphis

Smack bang in the center of downtown, the Hu Hotel Memphis is the most rock ’n’ roll boutique option in Memphis. Sleek, contemporary decor nods to the city’s musical heritage – there are even guitars and a baby grand in the lobby, just in case you fancy a spontaneous jam session. Head up to the rooftop bar and ease into the evening with a sundowner – you’re as likely to be surrounded by uber-trendy locals as fellow travelers in one of the swingingest spots in town.

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Hampton Inn & Suites at Beale Street
Photograph: Courtesy Booking.com

7. Hampton Inn & Suites at Beale Street

Clean, well-maintained, and with cheerily efficient service, this lodging mostly bags a spot on our list for its unbeatable location in the beating heart of musical Memphis. Pick a room with a balcony and gaze on the spectacle of refreshed revelers weaving in and out of Beale Street’s countless neon-lit juke joints. Traveling with kids? You’ll find the complimentary cribs, highchairs and indoor pool come in pretty handy. Hot breakfast is included but you won’t have to travel far for other sustenance – you’ve got the cream of Memphis’ culinary scene on your doorstep.

Hotel Napoleon
Photograph: Courtesy Booking.com

8. Hotel Napoleon

The Hotel Napoleon is one of the latest in a wave of chic boutique hotels to open in Blues City. In fact, it’s found within the repurposed Winchester office building and the former home of the Evening Scimitar newspaper, so it’s packed with character. The 1902 stone-veneer facade is breathtaking, but this historic exterior is deceptive. Step inside and you’ll find techno on the lobby speakers, ultra-modern industrial interiors, and rooms stuffed full of tech, from 50in-flatscreens to Bluetooth stereos. It’s all very millennial. So go ahead, settle down with a craft beer in the farm-to-table restaurant and soak it up.

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9. James Lee House

James Lee House is a gorgeous turreted B&B that may well be the most romantic in Memphis, thanks to its polished hardwood floors, marble mantlepieces, glistening chandeliers, and tinkling pianos. First built in the mid-19th century, the hotel has had stints both as a majestic family home and as the original site of the Memphis College of Art. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better location, as the National Historic Landmark is in the heart of the city’s Victorian Village, home to some of Memphis’ most stunning architecture. Be sure to book early – there are just five exquisite, uniquely decorated suites.

10. Hostel Memphis

A clean, safe option for the budget-conscious, you’ll find Memphis’ sole hostel perfectly positioned in the middle of the city’s hippest neighborhood – buzzy Cooper-Young is packed with pop-up galleries, craft breweries, and record shops – rent a recycled bike and take the chance to explore the area on two wheels. Whether you choose a shared bunk (starting at $25) or a private room, you’ll find everything you need – free wi-fi, lockers, and a serve-yourself breakfast. The hostel is part of the First Congregational Church, but don’t worry if you’re not a believer – no recruitment attempts will be made.

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