Top Cheap Hotels in Memphis: Traveler Reviews & Budget-Friendly Stays

Finding affordable accommodation in Memphis doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or location. Whether you’re visiting Beale Street for live music, exploring the civil rights history, or attending a business conference, budget-conscious travelers have excellent options throughout the city. Memphis offers a surprising range of economical hotels that deliver solid amenities, convenient locations, and genuine value for money.

This guide examines the best cheap hotels in Memphis based on verified traveler reviews, amenities, and value propositions. We’ll help you navigate the options, understand what each property offers, and make an informed decision about where to stay during your Memphis visit.

Budget Hotels in Downtown Memphis

Downtown Memphis remains the most vibrant area for visitors, offering proximity to major attractions like Graceland, the Memphis Rock and Soul Museum, and Beale Street’s legendary entertainment venues. Several budget-friendly chains operate in this district, providing travelers with affordable options without sacrificing convenience.

The Red Roof Inn Downtown Memphis consistently receives positive reviews from budget travelers. Located near the Mississippi River and within walking distance of Beale Street, this property offers basic but clean rooms at rates typically under $80 per night. Guests appreciate the straightforward approach—no unnecessary frills, just reliable accommodations. The location advantage alone makes this an excellent value proposition for visitors planning to explore downtown attractions on foot.

Motel 6 Memphis Downtown provides another economical choice with comparable pricing and a loyal following among repeat visitors. The property features exterior corridors, outdoor parking, and pet-friendly policies that appeal to families traveling with animals. Reviewers frequently mention the convenient location relative to downtown restaurants and entertainment venues, making it easy to experience Memphis’s nightlife without expensive cab rides.

The La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis Downtown offers slightly more upscale amenities while maintaining competitive pricing. This property includes a fitness center, free high-speed internet, and a complimentary breakfast—amenities that increase value significantly. Travelers consistently praise the clean rooms, helpful staff, and strategic location near both downtown attractions and highway access.

Super 8 by Wyndham Memphis represents another solid budget option with basic but comfortable accommodations. The chain’s consistency across properties means fewer surprises, and this Memphis location maintains good standards relative to the price point. Free breakfast and a business center appeal to both leisure and corporate travelers.

Affordable Midtown & Germantown Area Hotels

Midtown Memphis offers a more residential feel while maintaining proximity to cultural attractions, restaurants, and shopping. The neighborhood appeals to travelers seeking authentic local experiences away from downtown tourist zones. Budget hotels in this area often provide better value due to lower demand compared to downtown properties.

The Knights Inn Memphis Midtown delivers exceptional budget value with rates frequently under $60 per night. Located on Poplar Avenue near major shopping and dining, this property appeals to extended-stay guests and budget-conscious families. While amenities remain basic, the cleanliness and friendly staff receive consistent praise in traveler reviews. The location provides easy access to Germantown, Cooper-Young District restaurants, and cultural institutions.

Budget Inn Memphis offers rock-bottom pricing while maintaining acceptable standards. This no-frills option works best for travelers planning to spend minimal time in their rooms. The property’s location near major thoroughfares provides convenient access throughout the city, and parking remains free and abundant.

Days Inn by Wyndham Memphis Midtown strikes a balance between budget pricing and modest amenities. The property includes a free continental breakfast, outdoor pool (seasonal), and fitness facilities. Guests appreciate the quiet neighborhood setting combined with reasonable rates, making it suitable for families and business travelers alike.

For travelers seeking hotels with indoor pool amenities near me, several Midtown properties offer this feature, providing family-friendly recreation options during colder months.

Budget Hotels Near Memphis Airport

Visitors arriving via Memphis International Airport often prioritize proximity over downtown location. Several budget chains operate near the airport, offering convenience for early arrivals, late departures, or quick overnight stays.

Red Roof Inn Memphis Airport consistently offers competitive rates within minutes of the terminal. The property provides free airport shuttle service, eliminating additional transportation costs. Rooms maintain acceptable cleanliness standards, and the straightforward approach appeals to travelers prioritizing convenience over elaborate amenities. Rates typically range from $50-$75 per night depending on season.

Motel 6 Memphis Airport delivers similar value with comparable pricing and shuttle service. The property’s proximity to the airport combined with budget pricing makes it popular with connecting passengers and short-stay visitors. Free Wi-Fi and pet policies add practical value for various traveler types.

Super 8 by Wyndham Memphis Airport provides slightly enhanced amenities including a fitness center and free breakfast. The property remains competitively priced while offering more than basic competitors. Travelers appreciate the balance between cost and comfort, particularly for overnight stays before early morning flights.

La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis Airport offers another solid option with free breakfast and pet-friendly policies. The property’s inclusion of basic amenities at budget pricing appeals to families and business travelers seeking reliable accommodations near transportation hubs.

Finding the Right Amenities for Your Needs

Budget doesn’t mean settling for completely bare-bones accommodations. Many Memphis hotels offer specific amenities that enhance value for particular traveler types. Understanding which features matter for your trip helps identify the best cheap hotel option.

Breakfast service significantly increases value when included with room rates. Properties offering complimentary breakfast effectively reduce daily travel costs, particularly for families. Most budget chains in Memphis now include at least a continental breakfast, making this a standard rather than premium amenity.

Fitness facilities appeal to health-conscious travelers and business visitors maintaining exercise routines. Budget properties increasingly include basic workout rooms with treadmills and free weights, meeting fundamental fitness needs without premium pricing.

Swimming pools attract families with children, though many Memphis properties offer seasonal outdoor pools rather than year-round indoor facilities. For travelers seeking hotels with jacuzzi in room near me, most budget properties don’t offer in-room hot tubs, though some mid-range options do.

Pet policies matter significantly for travelers with animals. Most budget chains now offer pet-friendly rooms, though some charge additional fees. Confirming pet policies before booking prevents surprises and ensures appropriate accommodations for your travel companions.

Free Wi-Fi has become standard at virtually all Memphis hotels, from budget to luxury properties. Ensure your chosen hotel includes this amenity if internet access matters for your stay.

Smoking options remain available at select properties, though availability continues declining. Travelers requiring hotels with smoking rooms near me should confirm policies when booking, as many Memphis properties now operate entirely smoke-free.

Smart Booking Strategies for Maximum Savings

Beyond selecting budget-friendly properties, travelers can employ several strategies to reduce accommodation costs further.

Book Directly: Calling hotels directly often yields better rates than online platforms. Many properties offer loyalty discounts or corporate rates unavailable through third-party booking sites. Budget chains particularly benefit from direct bookings, as they minimize commission expenses and pass savings to customers.

Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: Memphis experiences peak tourism during summer months and around major events. Visiting during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or winter typically offers significantly lower rates. Even weekday stays cost less than weekends, particularly at budget properties.

Join Loyalty Programs: Most hotel chains offer free loyalty programs providing discounts, free nights, and exclusive perks. Even one or two stays annually can generate rewards offsetting future bookings.

Negotiate Extended Stays: Properties offering weekly or monthly rates provide substantial discounts compared to nightly pricing. If your Memphis visit extends beyond three nights, explicitly ask about extended-stay rates.

Use Comparison Tools: Platforms like Booking.com and Hotels.com allow side-by-side comparison of rates and reviews across multiple properties, helping identify genuine bargains.

Check Package Deals: Some budget hotels offer packages combining accommodation with attraction tickets or dining discounts. These bundles sometimes provide better overall value than booking components separately.

Choosing Your Memphis Neighborhood

Location significantly impacts your Memphis experience. Understanding neighborhood characteristics helps select hotels aligned with your travel priorities.

Downtown Memphis: The historic core offers maximum walkability to Beale Street, Mississippi River attractions, and major museums. Hotels here command premium pricing, but budget options exist. Downtown stays work best for visitors prioritizing nightlife and entertainment.

Midtown: This neighborhood provides more residential character, excellent restaurants, and cultural venues like the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Budget hotels here offer better value and quieter environments suitable for families and those avoiding tourist crowds.

Cooper-Young District: This eclectic neighborhood features vintage shops, local restaurants, and artistic venues. Hotels here remain budget-friendly while offering authentic Memphis culture. The area appeals to travelers seeking alternative experiences beyond mainstream tourism.

Germantown: Located south of Midtown, Germantown offers suburban convenience with budget hotel options near shopping centers and chain restaurants. This area works well for travelers planning shopping trips or preferring quieter settings.

Airport Area: While less interesting culturally, airport-adjacent hotels provide maximum convenience for quick stays or early arrivals. Budget options abound, and free shuttle service eliminates additional transportation costs.

For additional downtown accommodation information, explore our guide to downtown hotels for comparative analysis of different urban areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Average Cost of Budget Hotels in Memphis?

Budget hotels in Memphis typically range from $45-$85 per night depending on location, season, and amenities. Downtown properties command premium rates, while Midtown and suburban locations offer lower prices. Airport hotels fall in the middle range. Booking directly and traveling during off-peak seasons can reduce these averages by 20-30%.

Which Budget Hotel Chain Offers the Best Value in Memphis?

La Quinta by Wyndham consistently delivers excellent value across Memphis locations through included breakfast and fitness amenities. Super 8 by Wyndham provides reliable quality at competitive rates. For absolute lowest pricing, Red Roof Inn and Motel 6 offer no-frills accommodations that appeal to budget-conscious travelers prioritizing cost over amenities.

Are Memphis Budget Hotels Clean and Safe?

Most budget hotels in Memphis maintain acceptable cleanliness standards, particularly chain properties with corporate oversight. Reading recent traveler reviews provides insight into specific property conditions. Safety varies by neighborhood—downtown and airport locations generally feel safer than some Midtown areas. Choosing well-reviewed properties in established neighborhoods minimizes concerns.

Do Budget Memphis Hotels Include Breakfast?

Many budget chains now include complimentary breakfast, though quality varies. Continental breakfasts typically offer coffee, pastries, and cereal, while some properties provide hot items. Confirm breakfast inclusion when booking, as it significantly impacts overall value. Properties without breakfast may offer lower room rates that offset the meal cost.

What’s the Best Budget Hotel for Families?

La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis locations offer family-friendly features including pools, breakfast, and spacious rooms at reasonable rates. Days Inn properties provide similar amenities with good value. Look for properties with pool access and free breakfast to maximize family value and reduce daily expenses.

How Far Are Budget Hotels from Major Memphis Attractions?

Downtown budget hotels sit within walking distance of Beale Street and river attractions. Midtown properties require short drives (5-10 minutes) to downtown entertainment but provide closer access to cultural venues and local restaurants. Airport hotels are 10-15 minutes from downtown but ideal for quick stays. Select hotels based on your planned activities.

Can I Find Pet-Friendly Budget Hotels in Memphis?

Yes, most budget chains including Red Roof Inn, Motel 6, and La Quinta offer pet-friendly rooms, though some charge additional fees ($10-$25 per night). Confirm pet policies and fees when booking. Certain properties provide better pet accommodations than others, so inquire about amenities for traveling animals.

Are There Smoking Rooms at Memphis Budget Hotels?

Smoking availability has declined significantly, with most Memphis hotels operating smoke-free. Some budget properties maintain limited smoking rooms, though availability varies. Contact properties directly to confirm smoking options, as policies change frequently and online listings may not reflect current status.