The Peabody Hotel has long been a Memphis icon: it's the most elegant hotel in town and it's just up the way from Beale Street. In late 2023 it was named No. 2 on the list of Best Historic Hotels in the country by “USA Today” readers. In its present location since the 1920s (the original site at Main and Monroe dates back to the 1880s), the Peabody appeals to well-heeled travelers who want modern accommodations with an old-world feel. (The Peabody celebrated 150 years in 2019.) A recent room renovation ensures that all are now spacious, elegant, and modern, and the bathrooms also got a major upgrade with marble shower and floors and vintage-style pedestal sinks. The lobby, as always, feels positively palatial with marble columns, hand-carved woodwork, and ornate gilded plasterwork on the ceiling. All of that cultured ambience revolves around the hotel’s Romanesque marble fountain, where the hotel’s famous ducks splash away the day, drawing throngs of tourists as they parade in and out. If you have furry friends of your own, they are welcome, too. While the hotel charges $100 for pets under 75 pounds, your pets will be treated like kings with special treats, luxury place mats, and more. If you stay here April through October, check out Thursday night rooftop parties, to which guests are admitted free. Tip: Surf to peabodymemphis.com/offers before you book. The Peabody’s rates have increased faster than any other hotel in Memphis, and while not all the specials will save you money, some will shave the cost (like fourth night free deals).