FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in New South Memphis

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

⚠️ Caution💰 Budget: USD 80/day🚇 Good Transit

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Downtown Memphis

Has a hostel option and is walkable to many free or low-cost attractions, with affordable food available if you look beyond the main strips.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting New South Memphis

1

East Memphis

Budget

A sprawling suburban area offering a mix of shopping centers, residential neighborhoods, and family-friendly attractions.

familiesbudgetdigital nomads
  • +More affordable accommodation options.
  • +Access to large parks and family activities.
  • +Quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
  • -Requires a car for most activities and dining.
  • -Lacks the historic charm and nightlife of other areas.
🏨 Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis🏨 Sheraton Memphis Downtown Hotel🏨 Home2 Suites by Hilton Memphis-Southaven, MS
2

Downtown Memphis

Mid-range

The historic heart of the city, buzzing with live music, Beale Street nightlife, and significant cultural landmarks.

first-timersnightlifeculturefoodies
  • +Abundant live music venues and restaurants.
  • +Central location with easy access to attractions.
  • +Strong tourist infrastructure.
  • -Can be very crowded and noisy, especially on weekends.
  • -Can feel less authentic outside of immediate tourist zones.
🏨 The Peabody Memphis🏨 Big Sleep Hotel Memphis Medical Center🏨 Arrive Memphis
3

Midtown Memphis

Mid-range

Eclectic and vibrant, known for its historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and a thriving arts and dining scene.

couplesfoodiesculturesolo travelers
  • +Excellent restaurant and bar scene.
  • +Charming, walkable streets with unique shops.
  • +More local feel than Downtown.
  • -Can be spread out, requiring some driving between specific points of interest.
  • -Some areas can be quiet and less populated at night.
🏨 The Guesthouse at Graceland🏨 Hu. Hotel Memphis🏨 River Inn of Harbor Town

Daily Budget (Budget)

USD 80/day

Hostel dorm bed at Arrive MemphisUSD 35
Pulled pork sandwich at Central BBQUSD 15
Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) day passUSD 4
Visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine MotelUSD 18
Walk along Beale Street and enjoy street performersUSD 8
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in New South Memphis

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🍜

Soul Fish Cafe

A beloved local spot serving up delicious Southern comfort food with a focus on fresh seafood. Their catfish is legendary, and the cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect neighborhood eatery.

foodLaurelwood
🛍️

Crosstown Concourse

FREE

A stunningly revitalized historic Sears building, now a vibrant vertical urban village. It houses shops, restaurants, art galleries, and community spaces, offering a unique glimpse into Memphis's innovative spirit.

marketMidtown
🚶

Beale Street Historic District

FREE

While not entirely unknown, many tourists miss the authentic, local vibe of Beale Street outside of the main tourist blocks. Explore the side streets for smaller, historic clubs where blues musicians still play.

streetDowntown
⚠️

2 areas to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for New South Memphis

More New South Memphis Guides

Full New South Memphis guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers