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Where to stay in Memphis
Memphis sprawls along the Mississippi River, anchored by a downtown core that gives way to distinct, neighborhood-centric pockets. Choosing where to stay depends on whether you prioritize proximity to iconic music venues and tourist corridors or prefer the quieter, tree-lined residential character of midtown. Because the city lacks a robust subway system, your chosen base dictates your reliance on rideshares; staying downtown keeps most primary attractions within reach on foot.
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Compare car rentals in MemphisDowntown
Downtown is the energetic heartbeat of the city. You can walk from the trolley line on Main Street to the neon-lit clubs of Beale Street in minutes. The riverside parks provide a calm contrast to the noise. It is compact and efficient, making it the most practical spot if your itinerary focuses exclusively on the main tourist landmarks.
Midtown
This area feels lived-in and authentic, centering around Cooper-Young and Overton Square. These spots are highly walkable, filled with bungalows and eclectic cafes rather than high-rises. You are steps away from the Memphis Zoo and the vast Overton Park. It offers a much slower pace than downtown while staying connected to the cultural core via short drives.
South Main Arts District
Located at the southern edge of downtown, this area is a collection of renovated warehouses and galleries. It is entirely walkable, hosting the Orpheum Theatre and the National Civil Rights Museum. The vibe is more polished and residential compared to the frenzy of Beale Street, making it ideal for travelers who want to be central but sleep peacefully.
East Memphis
East Memphis is defined by corporate offices and expansive shopping centers. It is not a place for strolling; you will need a car to reach any destination. However, it offers superior hotel amenities and proximity to high-end dining hubs like Laurelwood. It is best suited for visitors avoiding the downtown density during peak convention seasons or major events.
One thing to think about
Avoid booking accommodation solely based on proximity to Graceland. It sits in a disconnected industrial zone far from the city's nightlife, restaurants, and downtown attractions. You will spend significant time and money on transit if you base yourself there, as there is very little to walk to.
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Memphis are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Top tours & activities
Common questions
Do I need to rent a car in Memphis?
If you stay downtown, you can get away with rideshares and the vintage trolley for most tourist spots. However, Memphis is a car-centric city. To reach neighborhoods like Cooper-Young or to visit Graceland and outlying barbecue joints efficiently, having your own vehicle provides the necessary freedom to move between districts without relying on wait times.
When is the best time of year to visit?
Aim for spring, specifically April, or October. The summers are intensely humid and hot, which makes walking between venues exhausting. April coincides with the Memphis in May festival, which brings incredible music and food events to the riverfront, though you should expect higher prices and larger crowds during this peak period.
Is the public transportation reliable?
The MATA bus system exists but is not designed for tourists. It suffers from infrequent service and long travel times that can disrupt a tight sightseeing schedule. Most visitors find the system frustratingly slow and prefer utilizing rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft to traverse the gaps between the distinct, spread-out neighborhoods.
Hotel links go to Booking.com.