I recently returned from a two-week deep dive into the Home of the Blues, meticulously mapping out where to stay in Memphis, Tennessee for every type of traveler. Whether you are wondering where to stay for live music or seeking one of the safest areas in the city for a family trip, finding the right neighbourhood is crucial for your itinerary. This guide breaks down the most vibrant and secure places to stay, ensuring your trip to Memphis is memorable and entirely stress-free.
Best Hotels in Memphis🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Guest House at Graceland
- ✨ 5-Star: Big Cypress Lodge
- 🏨 4-Star: The Moose #9 Brand New Luxe Modern loft
- 🛏️ 3-Star: La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis Downtown
- 💸 Cheap: Super 7 Inn
- 🏢 Apartment: Downtown Memphis Luxury Condo
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: EV Family Friendly, Close to Downtown
- 🏩 For Couples: ARRIVE Memphis
Quick Guide to the Best Areas
- 🏛️ Historic Culture — Downtown Memphis
- 🎨 Artsy & Local — South Main
- 🎶 Nightlife Buzz — Midtown
- 🌳 Quiet Retreat — East Memphis
- 🎸 Music History — Graceland & Whitehaven
- 🌊 Riverside Views — Mud Island
1. Downtown Memphis: The Best Place to Stay for First-Time Visitors
If you plan to visit memphis for the first time, this historic hub places your chosen boutique hotel right at the center of the action. It is undeniably the most convenient base for your Memphis travel itinerary, featuring premier hotels in Memphis that keep you close to major attractions and the iconic daily duck march at the Peabody.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Walk past the glowing neon of Beale Street and explore the Memphis Music Hall of Fame before catching a breeze at Tom Lee Park. Do not miss stopping by A. Schwab, a quirky local favorite dry goods store with an authentic old-fashioned soda fountain still in operation. The area is highly walkable and well-lit at night, though you should ride the vintage Main Street Trolley to easily navigate between landmarks when your feet get tired.
- Pro: Immediate walking distance to world-famous live music venues and top-rated historic sites.
- Con: Can get noisy on weekends; request a room facing away from the main entertainment strips for better sleep.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for first-time visitors, nightlife lovers, and those wanting a traditional hotel experience. Skip if you prefer quiet, leafy residential streets.
Best Hotels in Downtown Memphis
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street — Offers an exceptional location just half a block from Beale Street, featuring free hot breakfast, comfortable rooms, and an indoor pool.
- Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis — Boasts the only rooftop bar directly on Beale Street, featuring contemporary design, panoramic Mississippi River views, and a lively pool terrace.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis Downtown — Features practical, central accommodations with a heated indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to local downtown museums.
- Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown — A stylish downtown boutique option offering chic, modern design, comfortable bedding, and a popular rooftop lounge with sweeping river views.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hu Hotel Memphis — Blends sophisticated luxury and music-themed decor, featuring a well-equipped fitness center, upscale on-site dining, and close proximity to the historic trolley lines.
2. South Main: Boutique Amenities and Artsy Vibes
Just south of the downtown core, the South Main Arts District offers a more relaxed, creative atmosphere and is considered a part of Memphis that is safe. It blends historic architecture with independent galleries, making it an ideal destination for those who want to stay in a Memphis hotel while enjoying culture and a slightly slower pace in Memphis safe surroundings.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Spend your morning reflecting at the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, then browse the exhibits at the Blues Hall of Fame and catch a marquee show at the Orpheum Theatre. Locals love grabbing a quiet espresso at Bluff City Coffee to people-watch along the historic brick-paved sidewalks of the district. Plan your museum visits for early Thursday mornings to avoid large school groups, and utilize the nearby Central Station transit hub for easy access to other neighborhoods.
- Pro: Boasts some of the best restaurants in Memphis alongside charming, highly walkable streets.
- Con: Fewer major lodging options are available here; book early if you want to secure a spacious suite.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for culture enthusiasts, foodie couples, and boutique lifestyle fans. Skip if you want to be right in the middle of late-night clubbing.
Best Hotels in South Main
💎 Luxury hotels
- The Central Station Memphis — Housed in a beautifully converted historic train station, offering a dynamic vinyl-listening lounge, stylish rooms, and exceptionally easy transit access.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- ARRIVE Memphis — A design-forward boutique property in South Main featuring stunning industrial-chic rooms, an on-site artisanal bakery, and a highly popular neighborhood bar.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Memphis Downtown — Offers modern, spacious extended-stay suites with fully equipped kitchenettes, complimentary breakfast, and a highly convenient downtown location.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Memphis Vitality Hotel — A highly rated and comfortable residential-style stay offering modern amenities, a relaxing atmosphere, and convenient access to the city’s main attractions.
3. Midtown: Live Music and Midtown’s Overton Square
Midtown Memphis is the bohemian and vibrant heart of the city, packed with local character, Memphis rock heritage, and historic charm. From indie music venues in well-lit areas to sprawling green spaces, it is perfect for families and travelers visiting for the first time who want an authentic neighborhood vibe in a part of Memphis is safe.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Catch an independent film at Studio on the Square, wander the shaded paths of Overton Park, and spend an afternoon visiting the Memphis Zoo. Vinyl collectors swear by Goner Records, a legendary independent music shop that serves as a cornerstone of the local punk and garage rock scene. Parking can be incredibly tight around the popular entertainment blocks, so rely on rideshares if you plan to visit the area on a bustling Friday night.
- Pro: Incredible culinary scene and dynamic local nightlife that feels much less touristy.
- Con: You will likely need a car or rideshare to efficiently reach attractions east of downtown Memphis.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for younger travelers, foodies, and artsy couples seeking comfortable rooms near great venues. Skip if you want to step out of your door directly onto the Mississippi River.
Best Hotels in Midtown
💎 Luxury hotels
- Southern Elegance in Heart of Memphis — A spacious and beautifully decorated holiday home offering traditional Southern design, a fully equipped kitchen, and a quiet residential retreat in Midtown.
- The Memphian, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel — Perfectly positioned in Overton Square, this vibrant boutique hotel showcases eclectic local art, unique themed rooms, and an excellent rooftop dining venue.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hip and Spacious Midtown Cottage — A charming and stylish residential cottage featuring spacious living areas, unique vintage details, and a private outdoor space close to local music spots.
- The Moose #9 Brand New Luxe Modern loft — Features sleek contemporary interiors, complimentary on-site parking, and high-speed Wi-Fi, offering a highly practical base near the local entertainment districts.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Urban Zen Great Location — A peaceful, thoughtfully styled apartment that provides a serene atmosphere, modern amenities, and a highly convenient location for exploring the city.
4. East Memphis: Upscale Amenities and Safe for Tourists
Known as one of the safest areas in the city, East Memphis offers a polished, upscale residential experience. With luxury shopping, wide avenues, and upscale dining, this neighbourhood is highly recommended for those wondering where to stay, including ideal for first-time visitors seeking a peaceful retreat, while iconic spots like the Peabody Hotel and landmarks tied to Martin Luther King Jr remain within easy reach and each hotel offers a comfortable, refined base.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Admire the stunning floral displays at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, explore the Memphis Botanic Garden, and hike or bike the expansive trails at Shelby Farms Park. Locals flock to Gibson’s Donuts well past midnight, an absolute institution where you can grab warm, freshly glazed pastries 24 hours a day. Renting a car is practically mandatory here, as the area is quite spread out and public transit connections are somewhat limited.
- Pro: Exceptionally safe environment with plenty of free parking, upscale amenities, and family-friendly spaces.
- Con: Completely lacks the historic, gritty charm and urban walkability of the central districts.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for families, mature couples, and travelers prioritizing a pet-friendly stay with a rental car. Skip if you prefer urban walkability and historic sightseeing strictly on foot.
Best Hotels in East Memphis
💎 Luxury hotels
-
Hilton Memphis — A towering landmark in East Memphis offering panoramic views, a large outdoor pool, and upscale on-site dining.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Memphis — Features spacious two-room suites, a beautiful interior garden atrium, complimentary evening receptions, and a free made-to-order breakfast daily.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Home Inn and Suites Memphis — Provides clean, dependable, and budget-friendly accommodations with a seasonal outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to local corporate offices.
5. Graceland & Whitehaven: Memphis Music and Airport Access
Located in the southern part of the city, Whitehaven is globally recognized as the home of Elvis Presley. This area is heavily tailored to tourists on a musical pilgrimage close to Beale Street connections and those needing a hotel is pet-friendly option near Memphis International Airport, making it especially convenient for travelers in transit.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Dedicate a full afternoon to touring the Graceland Mansion, explore the sprawling Elvis Presley’s Memphis entertainment complex, and inspect the customized jets at the aviation exhibit. Away from the main tourist complex, locals love getting authentic Southern barbecue at Marlowe’s Ribs, known for its fun pink limousine shuttle service that picks you up. Book your mansion tour tickets online well in advance, especially during the busy summer months and the crowded August tribute weeks.
- Pro: Unbeatable convenience for early flights and absolute immersion into Memphis music history.
- Con: The immediate surroundings are mostly commercial and lack the diverse charm of older, central neighborhoods.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for devoted music fans and transit-focused travelers requiring easy access to their flights. Skip if you plan to spend most of your trip exploring the downtown core.
Best Hotels in Graceland & Whitehaven
💎 Luxury hotels
- The Guest House at Graceland — An elegant, Elvis-inspired resort located steps away from the mansion, featuring a large outdoor pool, evening entertainment, and classic Southern hospitality.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Memphis Vacation Rental Walk to Graceland — A spacious holiday home located within walking distance of the Graceland gates, offering a cozy living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and complimentary parking.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis — Offers convenient, value-driven accommodations close to the terminal, featuring a complimentary airport shuttle, a seasonal outdoor pool, and hot breakfast daily.
6. Mud Island: Quiet Stays Along the Mississippi River
Just a short hop across the harbor, Mud Island provides a tranquil, residential escape with sweeping waterfront views. It gives travelers who want to be close to the action the distinct feeling of being in a small town while remaining remarkably close to the bustling city center, reinforcing why Memphis is the best choice for a balanced stay between relaxation and urban energy.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Stroll the scenic Riverwalk at Mississippi River Park, snap skyline photos at the Memphis sign, and walk across the pedestrian bridge to easily reach the city side. A hidden gem here is Miss Cordelia’s Grocery, a beloved neighborhood market where residents grab superb deli sandwiches to eat right by the water. The best time to explore the riverfront trails is at sunset, though you should always check the monorail operating hours if you want to avoid the long walk back.
- Pro: Incredibly peaceful environment, offering beautiful sunset views and a relaxing village atmosphere.
- Con: Dining and nightlife options are very limited directly on the island itself.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for couples seeking romance and travelers who want a quiet retreat near the water. Skip if you want robust nightlife immediately outside your door.
Best Hotels in Mud Island
💎 Luxury hotels
- Big Cypress Lodge — Set inside the colossal Memphis Pyramid, this rustic wilderness-themed luxury hotel features private cabin-style balconies, cozy in-room fireplaces, and panoramic interior views.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Peabody Memphis — Globally famous for its daily lobby duck march, this historic landmark offers opulent Southern charm, exceptional fine dining, and full-service spa facilities.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- The Moose at Memphis Downtown — Provides sleek, modern apartment units with contemporary decor, fully equipped kitchens, and highly convenient access to downtown landmarks.
FAQ
Where to stay in Memphis USA for first-time visitors?
Downtown and South Main are ideal for a first trip to Memphis, offering excellent walkability to major museums, historic sites, and legendary entertainment streets.
What is the safest neighbourhood in Memphis for a family trip?
East Memphis is widely considered one of the safest areas, featuring well-lit streets, spacious accommodations, and easy access to large, family-friendly parks.
How many days do you need in Memphis to see the highlights?
Three full days in Memphis is usually enough time to cover the major music museums, explore the historic districts, and enjoy the local culinary scene without rushing.
Where should you stay in Memphis to explore the local music history?
Staying near Midtown or the downtown area gives you the best access to Sun Studio, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and the bustling live music venues.
What is the best way to get around Memphis?
While the vintage trolleys are great for exploring the downtown Memphis area, renting a car or utilizing rideshares is highly recommended for reaching outer districts and expansive parks.
