The Peabody Memphis hotel is such an integral part of Memphis’ history and culture that it’s nearly impossible to think of the city without conjuring images of the downtown institution – and the famous ducks that march through its grand lobby at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. every day.
Since 1869, The Peabody has been a Memphis icon: a steadfast symbol of the city’s grandeur, not to mention its character and quirks. This year, to mark its 150th anniversary, the historic hotel is celebrating with a major renovation set to usher in a new era – while honoring its illustrious past.
The Peabody has undergone a number of makeovers and improvements over its 150-year history, but the multimillion-dollar renovation completed this year is truly cause for celebration.
Each and every one of the hotel’s 464 guest rooms and suites have been updated and remodeled, combining traditional elements with modern upgrades. All rooms have been decorated with custom paint colors and commissioned art that reflects some of the city’s beloved hallmarks, including the blues, sunsets over the Mississippi River and – of course! – those Peabody ducks.
The brand new bathrooms are bright and modern, complete with Carrara marble tile floors and Quartz countertops. Looking for a new item for your luxury travel bucket list? How about, “Take a bubble bath at The Peabody”?
The historic hotel has always been a place that seamlessly blends luxury and history, and this year’s renovation perfectly reflects that balance. Guest rooms have been modernized, but a visit to The Peabody still feels like stepping back in time in all the best ways.
From the marble fountain in the elegant lobby to the mementos of the rock ‘n’ roll stars who have stayed there over the years to the ornately dressed Duckmaster who rolls out the red carpet for the five mallards to take their daily strolls, The Peabody truly brings history to life.
In addition to the makeover, the hotel received an early birthday gift when USA Today readers voted The Peabody The Best Historic Hotel in a national survey in August 2018. Historic properties around the country were nominated by a panel of hotel experts and then voted on by readers. The goal of the ranking? To celebrate history in a travel landscape that is increasingly crowded “with sparkling new resorts and ultra-modern skyscraper hotels.”
The Peabody took the top spot, deemed “the grande dame of Southern hotels” and “a treat for the senses.” Readers gave the hotel high marks for opulence, food and being the only hotel on the list with a quacking roster of in-house entertainment.
Photo by Trey Clark
With so many events on the calendar this year, the only challenge is narrowing down the best time to come. Ready for a visit? Book your trip today.
