Where To Stay in Memphis [5 BEST Neighborhoods!]

Elvis and blues music – Memphis really needs no introduction. Located on the Mississippi River in Tennessee’s southwest, this city has become known for its most famous resident and other musical heavyweights – like B.B. King and Johnny Cash – who called this city home. But there’s more to this city than music. It’s also historically significant, with links to the Civil Rights Movement, and has a hefty dose of that famous southern charm that brings so many tourists to this part of the US.

Although Memphis is fairly small, its neighborhoods are incredibly varied. It would be easy for you to choose the wrong area for your preferences and tastes. That’s why we’ve created this easy Memphis neighborhood guide.

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Memphis

Where to Stay in Memphis

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Memphis.

Best Airbnb in Memphis – Private Historic Studio

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Memphis close to everything, this studio apartment is a good choice. It’s located right in the center of Midtown, a short ride from Downtown. The apartment has room for up to two guests and is bright and clean with a small kitchen, private bathroom, and all the usual amenities. The building was constructed in the 1900s and retains a lot of that historic charm while having all the modern conveniences.

 

Best High-End Airbnb in Memphis – Downtown Condo

This apartment is located in the best neighborhood in Memphis for your first time. Suitable for two guests, it’s within walking distance of Beale Street and other attractions and offers free gated parking and a full kitchen and bathroom. There are a washer and dryer in the apartment, and you’ll have the entire quirky, comfortable space all to yourself during your stay.

 

Best Hotel in Memphis – Peabody Memphis

Located right in the center of the city, this hotel is a good choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Memphis close to everything. It offers charming decorations and facilities with a historical touch, as well as all the modern amenities you could want or need. Famous for its Mallard Ducks, which march through the lobby every day, the hotel also has a fitness center, massage, laundry services, business center, and much more.

 

Memphis Neighborhood Guide

The neighborhoods in Memphis each have their own flavor, amenities, and atmosphere. Make sure you do a little research first to ensure you spend most of your time in the neighborhood that suits your travel style!

The first area to consider is Downtown. This is the best neighborhood in Memphis for your first time, as it’s close to everything and always interesting!

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Memphis on a budget, take a look at East Memphis. It’s more local, which means better prices on food and accommodation, but still close enough to the center to be convenient.

Then you have Midtown, which boasts many attractions and sites to keep every member of your family happy, no matter how small or restless they are.

Cooper-Young is filled with college students and young professionals, so it’s the best neighborhood in Memphis for nightlife. You’ll find a wide array of restaurants and bars in this area, so be prepared for some quality nights out.

The final area, and possibly the most famous, is Graceland. After all, if you’re in Memphis, you’re probably a fan of the King, or at least want to see the most famous relics of his life. So, make sure you’re close to his home.

Memphis’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in:

Whether you’re looking for the best neighborhood in Memphis that’s close to everything or want to be close to one particular site, here’s some specific advice for your trip.

Neighborhood#1 – Downtown

(Where to stay in Memphis first time)

COOLEST thing to do in Downtown – Learn about the city’s past and its importance at the National Civil Rights Museum.

BEST place to visit in Downtown – The Beale Street Entertainment District for the heart and soul of Memphis.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Memphis close to everything, you can’t go past the Downtown area. This is the heart of Memphis. It’s where all the best shops, music venues, and restaurants are. If you’re looking for an active trip that’s full of everything this city has to offer, it’s unbeatable as a base.

The Beale Street Entertainment District is the most famous street in Memphis. It’s lined with blues bars and other music clubs and runs from East Street to the Mississippi River. While you’re in the city, you’ll probably spend a lot of time exploring this street and will find some gems you never expected!

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Memphis’s Downtown:

• Wander down Beale Street and duck into any club that looks interesting.
• Take a photo with the statue of Elvis Presley in the middle of Beale Street.
• See a darker side of the city at the National Civil Rights Museum, the site of Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination.
• Check out an expected part of the city’s history at the Robert R. Church Park.
• Look at photos and other mementos of the city’s history at the Withers Collection Museum & Gallery.
• See a show at the historic Orpheum Theater.
• Grab a meal at Little Italy Downtown, Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, or Alcenia’s.
• Grab a drink at Rum Boogie Café, The Brass Door, or Silly Goose.

Where to Stay in Downtown

Best Airbnb in Downtown – Pet Friendly 1 Bedroom Apartment

Located in the Downtown area – the best neighborhood in Memphis close to everything – this apartment is in the historic Cotton Exchange Building, built in 1910, and put on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. It has lots of historic features and modern amenities, like a kitchen, your own private entrance, and enough space for four guests.

 

Best High-End Airbnb in Downtown – Modern Brick Condo

Suitable for up to four guests, this one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment is within walking distance of some great shops and restaurants and offers modern comforts. The apartment has its own gated parking area and all the comforts of home – including a Netflix subscription.

 

Best Budget hotel in Downtown – La Quinta Inn & Suites

Newly built, this hotel is close to the city center and offers clean, modern spaces and lots of amenities, including a heated swimming pool and a fitness center. Located within walking distance of Beale Street, there’s also a complimentary breakfast during your stay, as well as a coffee maker, microwave, and fridge in your room.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Downtown – Moxy Memphis Downtown

Located right in the Downtown Center of Memphis and within walking distance of the city’s best attractions, restaurants, and shops, this hotel is a great base for your trip to the city. It’s the best choice when deciding where to stay in Memphis close to everything. The hotel is appealingly quirky and decorated with a nod to the musical history of the city. It has a fitness center, a laundry service, and a game room.

 

Neighborhood#2 – East Memphis

(Where to stay in Memphis on a budget)

COOLEST thing to do in East Memphis – Head over to Graceland and see the home of the King.

BEST place to visit in East Memphis – Take the kids to the Children’s Museum of Memphis for an interactive adventure.

East Memphis is a more local, authentic side of Memphis, without all the touristy glitz and glamor you’ll find in other areas. That’s why it’s the best neighborhood to stay in Memphis if you’re on a budget. In this part of the city, you’ll find diners, accommodation, and shops aimed at locals, which means they’ll be gentler on your wallet!

But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do in this neighborhood. Not only does it provide easy access to the Downtown and Graceland areas, but it also offers a range of activities to suit every member of the family. That’s also why it’s a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Memphis for families.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in East Memphis:

• Spend a day exploring the interactive exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Memphis.
• Wander around the Memphis Botanic Garden with its beautiful Asian-inspired gardens.
• Learn about history, science, and technology at the Pink Palace Museum.
• Commune with nature on the Wolf River Refuge Trailhead.
• Get active and go kayaking, cycling, hiking, or mountain biking at Shelby Farm Park.
• Grab a meal at Queen of Sheba, Strano, or the Napa Café.

Where to Stay in East Memphis

Best Airbnb in East Memphis – Modern Guesthouse

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Memphis on a budget, this guesthouse is a convenient and comfortable choice. With enough space for up to six guests, It’s set in a 1.5 acre gated Asian garden. There’s a pool on-site that you can use, and the guesthouse is located in the mid-century pool house, which has two bathrooms and a kitchenette. The facility is located close to East Memphis and all of its charms.

 

Best High-End Airbnb in East Memphis – Beautiful Backhouse Studio

Located right in the center of East Memphis, this beautiful pool house is in a separate building on a property and has a kitchenette, full bathroom, and all the comforts of home – as well as complete privacy. The space is suitable for up to three guests and includes a flatscreen TV and a Blue-Ray DVD player. You’ll have a private parking space during your stay, as well as your own key for easy access.

 

Best Budget Hotel in East Memphis – Wingate by Wyndham

This hotel is located in the best neighborhood in Memphis if you’re on a budget. It’s located just off the main road, making getting to other areas in the city easy. You’ll find spacious rooms, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast. It’s also close to a local market if you want to grab a quick bite.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in East Memphis – Hampton Inn & Suites

Located close to local malls, restaurants, and shopping centers, this hotel is also near the airport and offers a comfortable setting at a lower price than you’ll find in the heart of the city. There’s a restaurant on-site as well as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and business center.

 

Neighborhood#3 – Midtown

(Best neighborhood in Memphis for families)

COOLEST thing to do in Midtown – Explore the European and American Art at the Brooks Museum.

BEST place to visit in Midtown – Take the kids to Overton Park for golf or a walk through the forest.

If you want to be close to the Downtown but slightly away from its hustle and bustle, try Midtown. Set slightly back from the river, Midtown covers the tail end of Beale Street; it’s a large neighborhood with a quieter atmosphere and a lot to explore. (https://hydrogen.aero/) This combination of a peaceful atmosphere and easy access to everything is why it’s one of the best neighborhoods in Memphis for families.

No matter what you enjoy, you’ll find something to do in Midtown. It offers museums, the best parks in the city, the zoo, lots of great restaurants, and even breweries for travelers over 21. Best of all, the quieter atmosphere will allow you to get a taste of the real Memphis, beyond the tourist glitz.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Midtown:

• Explore the art at the Brooks Museum.
• Spend an afternoon relaxing in Overton Park and take the kids to the adventure playgrounds.
• Play a round of golf at Overton Park Golf Course.
• Have a meal at Huey’s Midtown Hamburger Restaurant, Iris, or the Bar-B-Q Shop.
• Raise a glass at Bari Ristorante, Dodici, or P & H Café.

Where to Stay in Midtown

Best Airbnb in Midtown – Midtown Charm

If you’re wondering where to stay in Memphis for families, check out this historic house. You’ll have the entire house to yourself; it’s suitable for up to four guests and close to local attractions like Overton Park. There are also lots of restaurants close by, so you’ll never go hungry!

 

Best High-End Airbnb in Midtown – Midtown Pool House

This pool house has fantastic outdoor spaces, perfect for sultry Memphis nights. It’s located in one of the best “Old House Neighborhoods” and close to local shops and attractions. Suitable for up to four guests, it boasts one bedroom and one and a half bathrooms, as well as a separate entrance, access to the pool, and a secure parking spot.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Midtown – Econo Lodge

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Memphis on a budget, try the Econo Lodge. Located in quieter East Memphis, it’s nonetheless close to all the charms of Downtown. The hotel has a pool and offers complimentary breakfast, and the rooms are comfortable and contain all the usual amenities.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Midtown – Holiday Inn Express

Close to Beale Street and the center of Downtown, this simple but comfortable hotel offers a fitness center, outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, free parking, and laundry facilities. The rooms are large, modern, and comfortable and come in a range of sizes to suit every travel group.

 

Neighborhood#4 – Cooper-Young

(Best area to stay in Memphis for nightlife)

COOLEST thing to do in Cooper-Young – Try a meal at the famous Imagine Vegan Café.

BEST place to visit in Cooper-Young – Head down to Young Avenue for some great photo spots.

New, modern, and trendy, Cooper-Young is an unashamedly hip place to spend some time while you’re in Memphis. It’s a diverse neighborhood where you’ll find a vast range of cultures and international diners, with the most amazing food you’ll eat in the city. Many of the restaurants in this area are award-winning, so make sure your stomach is empty and your mind is open.

Cooper-Young is the best neighborhood in Memphis for nightlife because of its restaurant and coffee bar culture. There are also some great tourist spots around the neighborhood: some of them may be unexpected, but make great additions to your travel itinerary.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Cooper-Young:

• Go shopping at iconic spots like Flashback for vintage clothes and goods, Phillip Ashley Chocolates for delectable treats, or Otherlands Coffee Bar and Exotic Gifts.
• Pull up a chair and relax with a coffee at Otherlands, Java Cabana, or Bluff City Coffee.
• Grab a meal at Soul Fish Café, Imagine Vegan Café, or Stone Soup Café and Market.
• Head over to Young Avenue for photos of the unusual and colorful wooden houses.
• Take a photo next to the historical marker that records the first-ever Johnny Cash performance.
• Pay your respects at the Spanish War Memorial.
• Have a drink at Bar DKDC, Knifebird, or Alchemy.

Where to Stay in Cooper-Young

Best Airbnb in Cooper-Young – Captain Harris House

If you’re into the fun, quirky, and historic, you can’t go past this house. Built in 1898, you can have your own one-bedroom apartment with a full kitchen and private bathroom in this beautiful house with its historical feel and decorations. You also have access to the veranda, where you can sit and get to know your fellow travelers. It’s within walking distance of the best shops and restaurants in Cooper-Young.

 

Best High-End Airbnb in Cooper-Young – Entire Bungalow

If you want to be right in the middle of the best neighborhood in Memphis for nightlife, this bungalow fits the bill. It’s within walking distance of local attractions and shops and offers clean, modern facilities with a touch of historic charm. The newly renovated bathroom, varied art, and interesting decorative features make for an elegant but comfortable feel, and there’s enough room in the bungalow for four guests.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Cooper-Young – Best Western Plus Gen X Inn

Located close to the Cooper-Young neighborhood, this hotel is in the best neighborhood in Memphis for nightlife. Close to local landmarks and to transport links to other parts of the city, the hotel offers a complimentary hot breakfast every morning and spacious, comfortable rooms with all the amenities.

 

Neighborhood#5 – Graceland

(The coolest place to stay in Memphis)

COOLEST thing to do in Graceland – Take a tour of the Graceland estate and get up close and personal with the memory of Elvis.

BEST place to visit in Graceland – Try some Southern-style fried chicken at Dodge’s Memphis diner.

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Memphis close to everything, you can’t go past Graceland. After all, if you’re in Memphis, it’s a total waste if you don’t check out some of the history and memory of Elvis Presley, so you might as well be close to his house! The house itself is located on Elvis Presley Boulevard, and you can tour it as part of your trip.

As part of your Elvis Presley mansion tour, you can see his car museum, private jets, and even his grave. But there’s more to this neighborhood then this famous estate. It draws in tourists in huge crowds, so over the years, it has filled up with lots of diners featuring the famous singer and offering amazing Southern-style food.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Graceland:

• Spend time exploring the legacy of wealth that Elvis left behind.
• Grab some Southern comfort food at diners like the Rock N Roll Café, Best Wings of Memphis, or EP’s Bar and Grill.
• Pay your respects at Elvis’ grave.
• Have a drink at popular spots like The Jungle Room Bar, Cheyenne Country, All in One Bar and Grill, or  The World Famous Hernando’s Hide-A-Way Memphis.

Where to Stay in Graceland

Best Airbnb in Graceland – A Big Hunk O’ Graceland

If you’re traveling with a big family or group, this home can accommodate you all as it’s suitable for up to 12 guests. Newly renovated in 2019, it’s within walking distance of Graceland and a short drive from the airport and the center of the city. The house has four bedrooms and two bathrooms and a great deck where you can sit out and have a good time on warm nights.

 

Best High-End Airbnb in Graceland – The Ranch House near Graceland

If you want to be close to Graceland and have a little luxury and style, make a booking at this ranch house. Large enough for eight guests, it’s a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Memphis for families or with friends. Newly renovated, it’s within walking distance of Graceland and offers a full kitchen, four bedrooms, and 2.5 bathrooms.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Graceland – Days Inn by Wyndham

Comfortable and convenient, this hotel is a great choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Memphis on a budget. It’s just a block from Graceland and offers a warm, family atmosphere, with Elvis inspired decorations and entertainment. There’s a swimming pool on-site and complimentary delicious breakfast provided each morning.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Graceland – The Guest House at Graceland

One minute from Graceland, this hotel offers lots of luxuries for your stay in Memphis. It has a pool, fitness center, complimentary shuttle, business center, and evening entertainment in the hotel. The rooms are large and elegantly decorated and contain everything you’ll need for a short or long stay.

 

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Memphis

Memphis is unique. It has a style and atmosphere infused with music and the city’s often-tumultuous history. It’s a must-visit for any traveler. While you’re there, make sure you stay in the neighborhood that best suits your tastes and preferences; that will help you have the trip of a lifetime.

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