Last Updated on June 29, 2024 by Katrina

Photo credit: Hotel Napoleon Downtown Memphis

Set along the Mississippi River, the Tennessee city of Memphis embraces both its history and its soul. Enrich your own knowledge by walking along the Civil Rights Trail, enjoy the musical heritage on Beale Street and at Graceland, and tuck in to zesty barbecue found all over town. Downtown Memphis is also home to the FedEx Forum, home court for the NBA’s Grizzlies. For a front row seat on Beale Street and the rest of the city, here are the best hotels in downtown Memphis.

The Peabody Memphis (149 Union Ave.; 901-529-4000) Downtown

This 464-room grand dame is famous for its Peabody Duck Parade, starring a flock of ducks who take an elevator twice a day between the penthouse and the hotel’s lobby fountain. Southern Living magazine writes that “the Peabody has wowed visitors and locals since 1869, and continues to do so today. Look up and take in the lobby’s gorgeous ceiling with its stained glass and inlaid wood.” One Google reviewer notes that the parade can be “a circus for tourists who walk in from the street, which clogs up the lobby and inconveniences paying guests.” Another Google reviewer calls the Peabody a “beautiful hotel, amazing experience. I was able to walk all over downtown Memphis and there was so much to do.” >> Book this hotel for less

The Westin Memphis Beale Street (170 Lt. George W Lee Ave.; 901-334-5900) Downtown

This 200-room Westin offers walking distance convenience to Beale Street, the FedEx Forum, and the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. “Great location for Beale Street—literally around the corner,” writes a Tripadvisor user, who adds that the hotel “had more of a business vibe than a couples/family vibe, but the location made up for it.” A Google reviewer who came to town for a Grizzlies game also likes that the hotel “is directly across the street from the FedEx Forum. The room was clean and very spacious for a standard hotel room.” >> Book this hotel for less

Hotel Napoleon Downtown Memphis (179 Madison Ave.; 901-526-0002) Downtown

This 1902 hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, “blends historical charm with modern amenities,” writes US News & World Report, “but accommodations are contemporary in style” and it’s “within walking distance of several eateries, and the music-centric Beale Street is just four blocks south.” An added perk: the hotel participates in the popular Choice Privileges rewards program. A Tripadvisor user notes that “the rooms are extremely clean and it’s a great location if you want to catch a Grizzlies game. To reach other parts of Memphis, visitors can hop on the nearby trolley line.” >> Book this hotel for less

Arrive Memphis (477 S Main St.; 901-701-7575) Downtown

This 62-room boutique hotel has an onsite coffee bar, bakery, and even a shuffleboard-equipped bar. It is “one of the most comfy, welcoming hotel stays I’ve had in a long time,” writes a Google reviewer. “The rooms are gorgeous without being fussy. Love all the details here that make it feel special at the price point.” Many online reviewers comment on the pet-friendliness, with a dog park nearb. One adds, “the coffee at the cafe downstairs was excellent. Parking is a bit of an issue as you have to use valet or find street parking, although we had no problem finding parking.” >> Book this hotel for less

Hu. Hotel (79 Madison Ave.; 901-333-1200) Downtown

Condé Nast Traveler describes this 110-room boutique hotel in a restored Beaux Arts building as having “a “mid-century-modern-esque aesthetic” and adds that, “the real appeal is the view: either of the city or the Mississippi River—or, if you have a corner room, both.” One Google reviewer calls it a “nice place to stay with a nice view, but don’t expect upscale,” while another writes that “the hotel is in an excellent location. It’s close to many restaurants, bars, shops, etc. I felt safe walking to and from Beale Street late at night. The room was small but decent enough.” >> Book this hotel for less

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