Dreaming of a memorable and insanely exciting urban adventure? Do yourself a favor and indulge in a fun-filled vacation in Memphis. Famous for its mouth-watering barbecue and connection to blues and rock legends, the city bursts with love for all things food and music.
What’s more, Memphis is home to an eclectic mix of attractions to satisfy travelers of all ages and tastes. Whether you’re an art connoisseur, a history buff, or a thrill-seeker, there’s something amazing for you in Memphis.
But finding a place to stay in Memphis can be a bit time-consuming and overwhelming with the numerous choices available. Luckily for you, we’re going to make trip planning a breeze by featuring a comprehensive “where to stay in Memphis” guide.
And the best part is, this guide has a variety of options to suit all kinds of travelers.
From upscale, contemporary hotels to artsy budget-friendly apartments, Memphis has a seemingly endless array of options for accommodations. And since the city has a prolific and tourist-friendly public transportation system, getting around surely won’t be a problem in Memphis.
So, if you don’t mind which neighborhood you’re staying in, stay at any of these recommended coves.
Good Vibrations | Charming Townhouse in Memphis
Good Vibrations encapsulates the youthful and artsy spirit of Memphis with its colorful furnishings and eye-catching decors.
Located in an artistic and vibrant neighborhood, this charming townhouse also promises a good night’s sleep, thanks to its cushy beds and easygoing ambiance. Amazingly, this townhouse is a pretty affordable option, too.
Best Western Plus Gen X Inn | Best Hotel in Midtown
Best Western Plus is, hands down, an excellent choice for travelers who are on a budget. Even with its affordable price, the hotel comes with a plethora of amenities to make your stay relaxing and cozy.
Of course, it will help reduce your transportation expenses since it’s situated near the top sights in Memphis. From the hotel, you’ll have easy and instant access to Sun Studio and Elmwood Cemetery.
Walk to Beale | Stunning Condo in Walk to Beale
Adorned with eye-popping Instagram-worthy artworks, this striking condo in Memphis dazzles with its colorful interiors and youthful atmosphere. Nestled right in the heart of the city, this condo also offers quick access to several Memphis attractions and landmarks.
To top it all off, it’s immaculately clean and has a multitude of space. Since it’s one of the best overall Airbnbs in Memphis, you’ll definitely be in for a treat when staying here.
Walk to Beale is one of our favourites in Memphis but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Downtown
Atmospheric, historically layered, and creative, Downtown overflows with excitement and mesmerizing sights. In fact, Downtown is where you’ll find the beating heart of the city – Beale Street Entertainment District.
Midtown
Looking for a more serene and affordable alternative to Downtown Memphis? Why not make the city’s Midtown district your base for your Memphis getaway? While it’s not as action-packed as Downtown, there’s a lot to explore in Midtown.
East Memphis
Traveling with a couple of kiddos? There’s no neighborhood in the city more suitable for families than East Memphis. Offering a more authentic side of the city, East Memphis has a family-friendly atmosphere and feels a world away from the city’s electric nightlife.
Cooper-Young
Searching for a hip and trendy neighborhood to stay in Memphis? With its vibrant and youthful culture, Cooper-Young is a haven of fun for hip travelers and backpackers.
Top 4 Neighborhoods To Stay In Memphis
Memphis is a lively, fabulous, and diverse city with a smorgasbord of entertaining and enjoyable experiences for everybody. It’s the perfect spot to add to your USA Road trip adventure. Whether you’re traveling alone or with your family, we have you covered in this detailed Memphis travel guide.
Keep reading below, and heed our tips on where to stay and what to do in Memphis.
Downtown Memphis is the epicenter of activity in the city. With a dynamic music scene and a fabulous collection of attractions, Downtown is the ultimate neighborhood for those who want to experience all the action in Memphis.
Add in a wide range of options for accommodations, and you’ve got the best area to stay for first-time visitors. If you’re looking for a safe bet, you can’t go wrong with Downtown Memphis.
Although not as dynamic as Downtown Memphis, Midtown can still enthrall you in many different ways. From museums and theaters to blues venues, Midtown is packed with cool spots and diversions.
With its admission-free attractions and incredible lodging deals, the neighborhood is also a terrific choice for those traveling to Memphis on a budget.
Want to escape the restless energy of Memphis for a while? Book a stay at any of the top hotels or apartments in East Memphis. With a more serene vibe, it’s also the best neighborhood for families who want a cozy and peaceful place to crash after a day of exploration in Memphis.
Prices for accommodations are pretty affordable, making it a great option for budget travelers.
Cooper-Young is a hip and trendy neighborhood known for its vintage stores, award-winning restaurants, and colorful boutiques. From artists to backpackers, flocks of travelers come to this neighborhood to experience its artistic, youthful culture.
There are quite a few excellent lodging options in this neighborhood, even though it’s not jam-packed with popular hotel chains.
#1 Downtown – Best Place to Stay in Memphis for your First Time
Atmospheric, historically layered, and creative, Downtown overflows with excitement and mesmerizing sights. In fact, Downtown is where you’ll find the beating heart of the city – Beale Street Entertainment District.
A paradise for music enthusiasts, this iconic street is lined with electrifying blues bars and concert venues. In the center of the street, you’ll find a statue of the iconic Elvis Presley.
Plus, Downtown is home to some of the most fascinating attractions in Memphis, such as the National Civil Rights Museum. Best of all, you can practically walk everywhere in Downtown, making it a wondrous place to stay in Memphis for first-time visitors.
Botanical Dreams | Best Apartment in Downtown
Traveling on a budget? At Botanical Dreams, you get all the perks of staying comfortably in a stylish downtown apartment without the hefty price tag. Not only is its location ideal, but it’s also pretty colorful, thanks to its bright furnishings and decors.
You can also watch the gorgeous trolleys on Main Street and the sunset over the Mississippi from the apartment.
SpringHill Suites | Best Hotel in Downtown
With a sun terrace and an outdoor swimming pool, SpringHill is perfect for a leisurely and relaxing stay in downtown Memphis. Furthermore, rooms are spacious and feature a refrigerator and a microwave to help you prepare basic meals.
The location is superb, too, offering instant access to the Memphis Music Hall of Fame and Fire Museum of Memphis.
Walk to Beale | Best Condo in Downtown
Filled with kaleidoscopic artworks and contemporary features, this condo exudes a youthful and relaxing ambiance. Even better, this trendy property is remarkably huge and spotlessly clean.
And guess what? It’s literally steps away from Beale Street and other Downtown Memphis attractions. Also, did we mention that it has its own balcony?
Walk to Beale is one of our favourites in Memphis but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Downtown Memphis
- Satisfy your taste buds with a smorgasbord of Southern-style food while listening to soulful blues music at B.B Kings Blues Club.
- Experience an educational, one-of-a-kind, and eye-opening tour at the National Civil Rights Museum.
- Score amazing bargains for fresh local produce at the Memphis City Farmers Market, run by local artisans and vendors.
- See the excellent exhibits and beguiling artifacts of the Belz Museum.
- Drop by Sun Studio to see where Elvis Presley and other music legends created magic decades ago.
- Escape the buzz for a while and experience an array of pursuits and recreational activities at Mud Island River Park.
- Experience the energy, glitz, and loud music of Beale Street.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Midtown – Where to Stay in Memphis on a Budget
Looking for a more serene and affordable alternative to Downtown Memphis? Why not make the city’s Midtown district your base for your Memphis getaway? While it’s not as action-packed as Downtown, there’s a lot to explore in Midtown.
Diverse, thriving, and vibrant, Midtown offers a real taste of Memphis. Truthfully, Midtown has all the best parts of Memphis. There are vibrant nightclubs with tantalizing blues music as well as restaurants serving the city’s finest sandwiches and barbecues.
Add restaurants, theaters, museums, parks, and other extraordinary attractions, and you have a can’t-miss neighborhood. On top of it all, Midtown has a plethora of snug and affordable lodging options for different types of travelers, from backpackers to families.
Meet Memphis | Best Bungalow in Midtown
They don’t call this bungalow one of the best property rentals in Memphis for nothing. With snug beds, a full kitchen, and a fold-out couch, this bungalow has everything you need for a comfy stay.
Additionally, the bungalow is situated near a bunch of beloved Memphis attractions, including the Memphis Zoo, Overton Square, and Brooks Museum.
Hip Town Haus | Best Townhouse in Midtown
Hip Town Haus is a B&B in Tennessee filled with gorgeous artworks from local artists, reflecting a hip Memphis vibe. With a guest bedroom and a large master suite, this townhouse can also comfortably accommodate up to six guests.
You’re going to enjoy the unit’s delectable breakfast featuring coffee, syrup, and waffle mix.
Best Western Plus Gen X Inn | Best Hotel in Midtown
Best Western Plus is, hands down, an excellent choice for travelers who are on a budget. Even with its affordable price, the hotel comes with a plethora of amenities to make your stay relaxing and cozy.
Of course, it will help reduce your transportation expenses since it’s situated near the top sights in Memphis. From the hotel, you’ll have easy and instant access to Sun Studio and Elmwood Cemetery.
Things to See and Do in Midtown Memphis
- Be enthralled by the tantalizing live music at Lafayette’s Music Room, which features a range of artists – from bluegrass groups to jazz soloists.
- Memphis Zoo is one of the four zoos in the US with pandas, making it an excellent stop for families and animal lovers.
- See stunning rare porcelain pieces and valuable American Impressionist paintings at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens.
- Are you an art connoisseur? The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art will appease your cravings with its elaborate statues, African art, ancient pieces, and paintings from the likes of Camille Pissarro and Winslow Homer.
- Elmwood Cemetery is not your typical burial ground. From civil rights leaders to blues singers, this cemetery honors the greatest heroes of the South. As a bonus, it boasts elaborate Victorian-era monuments.
#3 East Memphis – Best Neighborhood in Memphis for families
Traveling with a couple of kiddos? There’s no neighborhood in the city more suitable for families than East Memphis. Offering a more authentic side of the city, East Memphis has a family-friendly atmosphere and feels a world away from the city’s electric nightlife.
Even with its peaceful and residential feel, the neighborhood is still close to the action. From East Memphis, you’ll be literally a few minutes away from both Graceland and Downtown by car.
Not to mention, the neighborhood boasts a host of educational and remarkable kid-approved attractions. For one, the Children’s Museum of Memphis will wow your little ones with insightful and colorful exhibits that inspire creativity and discovery.
Lovely East Memphis Suite | Best Suite in East Memphis
Lovely East is, hands down, one of the best lodging options in Memphis for families. Surrounded by shady trees, lush landscapes, and unique homes, this suite is nestled in a family-friendly neighborhood.
With a large bedroom, a modest kitchenette, and a den with a sofa bed, it also has spacious accommodations to fit the whole gang.
Hampton Inn Memphis – Poplar | Best Inn in East Memphis
Hampton Inn is a cheery, budget-friendly option ideal for families and backpackers. While it’s inexpensive, it still features a bevy of niceties and perks, including an outdoor pool, PPV movies, and a fitness center.
As for the location, it’s surprisingly close to Downtown and is situated near Crystal Shrine Grotto and Memphis Botanic Garden.
DoubleTree by Hilton Memphis | Best Hotel in East Memphis
DoubleTree has all the hallmarks of a remarkable hotel in Memphis. With its outstanding service and snug rooms, the hotel guarantees guests a good night’s sleep. In addition, it’s within a quick drive of attractions, like the Memphis Zoo, Graceland and the National Civil Rights Museum.
When you’re not exploring the city, you can enjoy the hotel’s fabulous amenities, such as its bar and pool.
Things to See and Do in East Memphis
- Kids will have an absolute blast paddle boating and horseback riding at Shelby Farms Park. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park also offers plenty of opportunities for running and mountain biking.
- The University of Memphis Art Museum showcases dazzling permanent collections of contemporary art, tradition-based African art, and Egyptian antiquities.
- Unleash your kid’s creative side by allowing them to play and learn at the Children’s Museum of Memphis.
- Burn off a ton calories while exploring the great outdoors at Wolf River Greenway Trail.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Cooper-Young – Best Area in Memphis for Backpackers
Searching for a hip and trendy neighborhood to stay in Memphis? With its vibrant and youthful culture, Cooper-Young is a haven of fun for hip travelers and backpackers.
Known as one of the city’s most diverse neighborhoods, Cooper-Young is dotted with vintage stores, international diners, and coffee bars.
The flourishing food culture of Memphis also manifests in this neighborhood. From hidden gems to award-winning restaurants, Cooper-Young has a cornucopia of delectable options for food.
The neighborhood is home to several noteworthy attractions and picture-perfect spots as well. One of the must-see sites here is the historic marker highlighting the location of Johnny Cash’s first performance.
Good Vibrations | Best Townhouse in Cooper-Young
With its colorful exteriors and artsy interiors, this chic townhouse is truly the epitome of the neighborhood’s youthful culture. Like all top townhouses in the city, Good Vibrations is fitted with luxurious cozy beds and all the comforts and essential conveniences you need.
Surprisingly, it’s pretty affordable compared to the other property rentals and hotels in Memphis.
Safe Hideaway | Best Guesthouse in Cooper-Young
Safe Hideaway is truly a superb option for solo backpackers. Not only is it extremely safe, but it’s also cushy and quiet, with a private, hidden entrance. It’s a short walk to a heap of hot spots, including Overton Square and Railgarten.
With a comfy queen bed and a laid-back ambiance, it also ensures a relaxing break after a day of non-stop sightseeing in Memphis.
Captain Harris House | Best Apartment in Cooper-Young
There’s no apartment in Memphis quite like Captain Harris House. After all, it’s a stunning, historic Victorian home listed on the National Register of Historic Places. To make things even better, the apartment is within a block of more than ten bars and restaurants.
There’s also a full kitchen with all the utensils, cookware, and appliances you need for your vacation.
Captain Harris House is one of our favourites in Memphis but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Cooper-Young
- Grab the coolest vintage vinyls, band merch, and CDs at Goner Records or Xanau.
- Catch live music with the best local bands for a minimal cover charge at Bar DKDC.
- Burke’s Books is a historic, 100-year old institution that sells used and new books.
- Pay homage to the historic Spanish War Memorial.
- Sample of the city’s local breweries in one spot at Hammer & Ale. Besides their delightful beer varieties, visitors will adore their spicy potato chips and grilled cheese.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Memphis
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Memphis and where to stay.
What To Pack For Memphis
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Memphis
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Memphis
Memphis offers an irresistible recipe for urban adventure. From energetic music venues to cultural wonders like The Graceland Mansion (Elvis’ former residence), the city has no shortage of awesome activities for all types of travelers.
When it comes to the best neighborhood to stay in Memphis, we have to go with Downtown. Not only is it home to a cluster of blues bars and museums, but it also has tons of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Plus, it’s a walkable neighborhood, meaning it will reduce your transport expenses. Not bad, right?
So, do you think we missed anything? Is there something on your mind that you want to share with us? Please share your thoughts using the comment section below.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Memphis instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
