Where to Stay in Memphis
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Quick Answer
Stay in Cordova
Offers more spacious and affordable accommodation, proximity to the large Shelby Farms Park, and a generally quieter, suburban environment.
See full Memphis neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Memphis
Family-friendly neighbourhoods that are safe and practical
Cordova
Suburban and family-friendly, offering a quieter pace with access to shopping and parks.
Our top picks in Cordova
Downtown Memphis
Historic heart with a lively blues and soul music scene, a mix of old and new architecture.
Our top picks in Downtown Memphis
Midtown Memphis
Eclectic and bohemian, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic homes, and diverse eateries.
Our top picks in Midtown Memphis
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Families
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1Cordova | Budget | Suburban and family-friendly, offering a quieter pace with access to shopping and parks. | familiesbudget | Generally safe with typical suburban cri... |
Downtown Memphis | Mid-range | Historic heart with a lively blues and soul music scene, a mix of old and new architecture. | first-timersculture | Generally safe with police presence, but... |
Midtown Memphis | Mid-range | Eclectic and bohemian, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic homes, and diverse eateries. | foodiesculture | Generally safe, but exercise caution whe... |
Find family-friendly hotels in Memphis
Hotels with family rooms and kid-friendly amenities
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Tips for Families in Memphis
Plan Around Nap Times
Schedule big attractions for the morning when energy is highest. Keep afternoons flexible for downtime or playground visits.
Pack Snacks
Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns. Local supermarkets are cheaper than tourist-area shops for stocking up.
Consider Apartments
An apartment with a kitchen and washing machine can be more practical than a hotel in Memphis, especially for stays over 3 nights.
Keep Distances Short
Young children tire quickly. Choose accommodation near your top 2 to 3 must-see attractions rather than in the geographical centre.
Book a family activity in Memphis
Kid-friendly tours and fun experiences
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Memphis
Cordova
BudgetSuburban and family-friendly, offering a quieter pace with access to shopping and parks.
- +More affordable accommodation options
- +Quieter environment
- +Proximity to large park and shopping
- -Further from major downtown attractions
- -Less walkable, requires a car
- -Limited nightlife and unique dining
🛡️ Generally safe with typical suburban crime rates; be aware of your surroundings, especially in parking lots.
Downtown Memphis
Mid-rangeHistoric heart with a lively blues and soul music scene, a mix of old and new architecture.
- +Abundant music venues and restaurants
- +Close to major attractions
- +Good public transport access
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Some areas can feel deserted during the day
🛡️ Generally safe with police presence, but be aware of surroundings, especially late at night.
Midtown Memphis
Mid-rangeEclectic and bohemian, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic homes, and diverse eateries.
- +Great restaurants and bars
- +Beautiful tree-lined streets
- +Access to green spaces and cultural institutions
- -Can be spread out, requiring some driving or longer walks
- -Parking can be challenging on weekends
🛡️ Generally safe, but exercise caution when walking alone at night, especially in less populated side streets.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 175/day
Hidden Gems in Memphis
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Stax Museum of American Soul Music
This museum celebrates the history of Stax Records and soul music, featuring exhibits on iconic artists and the Memphis sound. It's a must-visit for music lovers wanting to delve deeper than Beale Street.
Memphis Farmers Market
FREEOpen on Saturdays, this market buzzes with local farmers, artisans, and food vendors offering fresh produce and unique crafts. It's a great spot to experience local flavor and find handmade treasures.
Safety in Memphis
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas.
At Night
Downtown and Beale Street are generally active and have a police presence, but side streets can become quiet and less safe. Midtown's Cooper-Young district is popular but also requires awareness after dark.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced souvenirs or 'exclusive' tours on Beale Street.
- 2Distraction thefts in busy tourist areas.
- 3Fake parking attendants or ticket sellers near attractions.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Memphis
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Memphis Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Memphis on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Memphis Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Memphis with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Memphis: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Memphis's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Memphis: Scenic Excursion
Escape Memphis for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Memphis Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Memphis's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Memphis
Families in Memphis: FAQ
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