The Peabody Memphis
Memphis, Tennessee
The Peabody Memphis
149 Union Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38103 Original Property Opened in 1869 Historic Hotels of America member since 1996- The 2025 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America® in Film and Television History List Is Announced
- The 2023 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America in Film and Television History
- 2022 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America for a Romantic Proposal List Is Announced
- The 2018 Historic Hotels Most Magnificent Ceilings and Domes List
Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, the original Peabody Hotel opened as a symbol of wealth and prestige in 1869. Named for philanthropist George Peabody, it quickly became the business and social hub of Memphis, and in 1925, was rebuilt on its present Union Avenue location. In 1933, General Manager Frank Schutt returned from a weekend hunting trip and mischievously placed live duck decoys in the hotel’s lobby fountain; it was a stunt that became the genesis of the hotel’s unique signature tradition, the "Peabody Duck March." As Memphis experienced economic decline in the mid-1970s, The Peabody closed its doors; however, the "South’s Grand Hotel" would not stay shuttered for long. It reopened in 1981 after an extensive restoration and breathed new life into downtown Memphis. A member of Historic Hotels of America since 1996, this spectacular holiday destination has since remained one of Tennessee's best vacation retreats.
Discover
- Watch the Peabody Ducks march twice daily, at 11am and 5pm, on a red carpet at the center of the hotel's lobby. The Ducks stomp along to the tune of John Philip Sousa's "King Cotton March."
- Discover the grand historical architecture of The Peabody Memphis. Renowned Chicago-based architect Walter W. Ahlschlager designed the current iteration of the hotel with Italian Renaissance Revival-style motifs.
- Admire the Peabody's Memorabilia Museum, located on the Mezzanine, which showcases many treasures from the hotel's storied history, including original china pieces and sterling silver, menus and room bills from the 1930s, and a solid brass cash register from 1907.
Explore
- Explore one of the most famous avenues in the country, Beale Street, just blocks from the hotel, and home of the blues. Today, Beale Street continues to entertain visitors and locals alike with blues, rock and jazz bands playing in its bars and clubs.
- Visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. This remarkable cultural institution is a reconstructed version of a the Stax Records recording studio. Stax Records played a central role in the creation of Southern soul music during the mid-20th century.
- Travel to Graceland. Located outside of South Memphis, this oustanding historic site was the former home of Rock 'N' Roll legend, Elvis Presley. Graceland is now a U.S. National Historic Landmark.
Experience
- Experience Mud Island River Park. Located in the heart of the Mississippi River, this stunning outdoor destination features a series of wonderful hiking trails to enjoy. It is also home to the interesting Mississippi River Museum.
- Tour the National Civil Rights Museum. Built around the site of the former Lorraine Motel, this fascinating cultural institution chronicles the history of the American Civil Rights Movement from the 17th century to the present.
- Attend a thrilling theatrical performance at the Orpheum Theatre. Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, this amazing venue has hosted an extensive variety of entertaining shows since 1928.
Taste
- Visit Peabody Deli & Desserts, one of the best spots in Memphis to indulge any sweet tooth. Stop by for a slice of New York-style cheese cake, the hotel's signature rich chocolate Equinox Cake, or a cone of house-made ice cream.
- Indulge at Chez Philippe, located just off The Peabody lobby. This amazing restaurant is the only Forbes 4-star and AAA 4-diamond dining establishment in the Mid-South. The cushy interior is also considered one of the most romantic dining rooms in Memphis.
- Sip the Peabody's signature drink, the Jack Daniel's Peach Sour, made with "Peabody Select" Jack Daniel's Single Barrel whiskey, peach schnapps, peach puree, and fresh lemon juice.
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