What it is

The 1869 pride of Memphis, with 7 exquisite restaurants, an award-winning spa, and, yes, ducks that waddle through the lobby daily.

What it isn't

Stuffy. Guests can head up to the roof on weekend nights for DJ sets, bountiful cocktails and dancing overlooking the Mississippi River.

What we think

When historic hideaways are renovated, we hold our breaths a bit—because it’s as easy to muss up an icon as it is to save her. Blessedly, the recent revamp of The Peabody’s 464 guest rooms and suites made them more luxe and jaw-dropping than ever. Take the spa-like bathrooms, adorned in carrara marble tiles with Quartz vanities. Or the gray and turquoise rooms themselves, sumptuously stocked with Egyptian cotton linens, Bluetooth clocks, and down pillows. Book one of the aptly-named Romeo and Juliet suites for a truly romantic stay, including lofted bedrooms, spiral staircases, fireplaces, and glitzy chandeliers. Note: concierge-level suites have access to The Peabody Club, where sundry snacks aplenty and bar service await, all day long.

You're here because

Service is the definition of “Southern charm,” with 24-hour in-room dining, same-day laundry and dry cleaning and shoeshines, and valet, natch. Bonus: the hotel is exceedingly pet friendly (no surprise, given that they allow waterfowl to traipse through their lobby every day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.).

The Moment

It’s been ages since your last proper English afternoon tea, so you book a table at Chez Philippe—and hold your pinkies out. Sipping your piping hot peach blossom white tea, you peruse your three-tiered tray and reach for a perfect scone, still warm from the oven. Divine, by design.

Restaurants & Bars

Chez Philippe- Classic French fine dining in an opulent dining room and also offering traditional English afternoon tea

Capriccio Grill- All day dining with steaks, seafood, and Southern comfort fare

Peabody Deli and Dessert- Pastry shop for coffee and quick bites

The Corner Bar- Causal and cozy space for cocktails and bar bites with weekly specials

Peabody's Grand Lobby- People watching spot specializing in martinis, wines and other spirits

Location

Just a four block walk from the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis. You’re also within a 10 block trek to the must-see National Civil Rights Museum, housed in the motel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated.