149 Union Ave, Memphis, Tennessee, United States | (501) 232-4463
Historic and elegant property in the middle of downtown Memphis
Suites and club-level rooms offer free drinks and snacks
Romantic Chez Philippe restaurant
Capriccio Grill and Peabody Deli & Desserts
Luxurious T-shaped indoor pool and adjacent hot tub
Large fitness center
Feathers Spa and Salon for spa and beauty treatments
Event and meeting spaces available
Hosts a twice-daily duck parade: a quirky, decades-old tradition
Site of Lansky Brothers clothing
Charges for Wi-Fi, breakfast, and on-site parking
Small bathrooms
Prices are higher than competitors
The Peabody is not quite as buttoned-up as one would expect from such a grand, historic, luxury property -- the place where Elvis Presley also had his senior prom. The hotel is probably most famous for its twice-daily duck parade, a quirky tradition that dates back to the 1930s in which a group of trained ducks are paraded through the lobby to the large marble fountain. There they swim all day before being ceremoniously walked back up to their home on the roof. There are plenty of more sophisticated features, including Chez Philippe, rated one of the most romantic restaurants in the country. The 464 rooms include 15 suites as well as an exclusive club level with concierge service and free drinks and snacks. Staying here is not easy on the wallet, but some may consider the price worth the charm.
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Scene
Full of classic, old-fashioned luxury
The imposing, multistory brick structure oozes old-style luxury. The lobby, with its flower-topped indoor fountain, is filled with dark marble, stone, and wood paneling. Chandeliers hang from the soaring ceilings with wood molding. Couches upholstered in floral fabrics fill the space. The grandeur might feel a little over the top, but it speaks to the history of this Memphis landmark. The Capriccio Grill, one of the hotel’s fine-dining establishments, is a bit more sedate and sophisticated, with hardwood floors, light-colored upholstery, and recessed lighting. The T-shaped indoor pool is surrounded by columns and plants. Kids are allowed here but guests are mostly business travelers and couples.
Location
Close to downtown attractions, including Beale Street and AutoZone Park
The Peabody sits in the heart of downtown Memphis, across the street from AutoZone Park, the minor league baseball field. There are plenty of shops and restaurants close by, with Beale Street and the FedExForum arena just a couple of short blocks away. The property is also one block from the trolley cars and less than four blocks to the Riverwalk. Graceland is the only big attraction that needs to be reached by car; along with Memphis International Airport, getting there requires a 15-minute drive south. There's a charge for on-site parking.
Rooms
Simply and elegantly decorated with small bathrooms
The older rooms are tastefully decorated in a much simpler style than the rest of the hotel, with gray and black floral carpeting and pastel-colored walls. The hotel has 15 suites, including Romeo and Juliet Suites, which have loft bedrooms and spiral staircases leading to parlors with a fireplace or wet bar. Rooms in the Peabody Club, a private-access concierge level, include a welcome cocktail, free drinks and snacks throughout the day, and an honor bar. The one overall drawback is the bathrooms, with round vanities and curtained shower/tub combos that are a tight fit. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, safes, bathrobes, and hairdryers. The hotel accepts pets, including dogs up to 75 pounds, with an extra cleaning fee. Expect to pay for Wi-Fi.
Features
Duck parade, gourmet restaurants, and indoor pool
The duck parade is definitely the Peabody’s biggest draw, and the hotel offers an Honorary Duckmaster Package that allows guests to help train and lead the ducks around. The romantic Chez Philippe restaurant is popular with couples and serves afternoon tea, while Capriccio Grill serves steaks and pastas as well as Sunday brunch. Peabody Deli & Desserts offers a continental breakfast, sandwiches, and desserts. The hotel has two bars, including one in the lobby, and room service is available.The property also has a luxurious T-shaped indoor pool and a hot tub, and the fitness center has a spacious locker room. Several large, ballroom-style event spaces are on hand as well. The Peabody is the new home of the Lansky Brothers clothing store, better known as Lansky’s, famous for serving such famous musicians as Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, and Isaac Hayes.