La Quinta Inn and Suites by Wyndham Memphis Airport Graceland is a budget-friendly hotel on the south side of the city, in the area between Memphis International Airport and Graceland. Its position makes it a practical choice for two kinds of traveler: those who have an early or late flight and want to be near the airport, and Elvis fans who plan to spend much of their trip at Graceland and want to stay in the neighborhood rather than downtown. It is a straightforward brand hotel, and rates in this part of the city are generally lower than those near Beale Street and the riverfront. The trade-off is atmosphere. You will not find the neon, the live music or the historic lobbies of the downtown district on your doorstep, and the surrounding streets are mostly commercial. What you gain is easier driving, simple parking in most cases and a lower nightly rate, which can add up for families, groups and long stays. Many visitors use a hotel like this as a sleeping base and head downtown for dinner and music, using rideshare or a rental car.
From this part of the city, Graceland is a short drive. The mansion tours begin at the visitor complex across the road from the house, and it is wise to book timed tickets in advance, particularly in August during Elvis Week and on holiday weekends. Downtown is farther, usually a drive of around twenty to thirty minutes depending on traffic, and Sun Studio, the Stax Museum and the National Civil Rights Museum are all reachable by car or rideshare.
The hotel suits budget travelers, families, road-trippers, Elvis pilgrims and anyone with a tight connection at the airport. It is also useful for large groups, such as teams, family reunions and church or school trips, who want to keep costs down and have easy parking. Room types vary and typically include rooms with one or two beds and larger suites, so ask about the layout that suits your party when you book.
Breakfast, a pool, laundry and shuttle services are common at hotels of this type, but amenities and policies change, so confirm what is included in your rate and whether any shuttle runs to the airport or Graceland. Pet rules, parking and daily fees also vary. As with any value hotel, read recent guest comments on cleanliness and noise before you decide, and ask for a quiet room if you are a light sleeper.
If you want to be among the music and nightlife, look at the Hampton Inn and Suites Memphis-Beale Street or the Holiday Inn Memphis-Downtown. If you want to stay close to Graceland with a stronger Elvis theme, consider The Guest House at Graceland. If you want a famous downtown address, The Peabody Memphis is the classic. For the lowest cost and easy access to the airport and Graceland, this La Quinta is a sensible option.
Memphis summers are hot and humid, so plan outdoor activities for the morning and save museum visits and long lunches for the afternoon.
Why stay here
- ✓Near Memphis International Airport
- ✓Graceland area location
- ✓Value rates for the area
- ✓Breakfast, check when you book
- ✓Pool, check when you book
- ✓Easy driving and parking
- ✓Room types vary
- ✓Shuttle details, check when you book
Good questions
Is this La Quinta close to Graceland?+
It is in the airport and Graceland area on the south side, a short drive from the Graceland visitor complex.
Is it close to Beale Street?+
Downtown is a drive away, often twenty to thirty minutes depending on traffic. Plan on a car or rideshare.
Who is it best for?+
Budget travelers, Elvis fans, families and anyone with an early or late flight.
