The best deals on hotels near City University School of Liberal Arts in Memphis, TN.
Access unmatched hotel rates and frequent flash deals on rooms.
Save up to 70% when booking as a group. Select 9+ rooms to get started.
Top 24 Hotels Near City University School of Liberal Arts
1500 Dunn Ave Memphis, TN 38106
The Central Station Memphis Curio Collection by Hilton
This easy commute to City University School of Liberal Arts permits The Central Station Memphis Curio Collection by Hilton to be a peaceful yet connected base before the on-site experience.
At Curio, staff guidance at boutique-style desks makes orientation simple while eclectic furnishings create memorable first impressions. Each suite provides espresso pods, minibars, and ergonomic workspaces, supporting flexible routines for travelers. Meeting rooms are equipped with AV technology, modular layouts, and catering options, making events and business gatherings run smoothly.
On-site dining, high-speed internet, fitness facilities, rooftop pools, and event spaces align to provide comfort across categories.
Motel 6 Memphis TN - Downtown
The short drive from Motel 6 Memphis TN - Downtown to City University School of Liberal Arts in Memphis ensures guests can enjoy local convenience before the hotel experience.
Reception near exterior doors at Motel 6 limits luggage hauling, easing that first carry from curb to counter and beyond. All guest rooms deliver blackout curtains, plush bedding, and adjustable lighting, creating sleep environments tailored to guest needs. Free morning coffee is located by reception, reminding travelers of the courtesy as they pass through on their way out each morning.
Between pets-stay-free policies, coin laundry, Wi-Fi, and pools, amenities cover companions, upkeep, and relaxation for guests on the road.
Downtown Inn & Studio Suites
The brief drive from Downtown Inn & Studio Suites to City University School of Liberal Arts in Memphis means guests a simple and reliable way to get to their destination.
At Downtown Inn & Studio Suites, arrivals may include a modest front desk, quick parking access, and self-serve coffee for a low-friction check-in. Accommodations often provide premium bedding, climate control, and functional desks, supporting comfort and productivity for guests. Facilities may provide guest laundries, vending access, and compact breakfast spaces that keep routines straightforward for each stay.
Accommodations may feature Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and guest laundries, reinforcing consistent routines across stays.
Super 7 Inn
In Memphis, Super 7 Inn's well-connected location to City University School of Liberal Arts lets guests travel with a sense of freedom.
Guests at Super 7 Inn may encounter streamlined reception, vending services, and on-site parking aligned with routine travel needs. Rooms may include curated décor, modest seating, and coffee stations, allowing guests to recharge and maintain daily routines with ease. Public areas typically highlight breakfast rooms, vending areas, and seating zones that emphasize simplicity across travel routines.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, vending access, compact breakfast corners, and parking, sustaining reliable convenience for budget travelers.
Holiday Inn Express Memphis Medical Center Midtown by IHG
From Holiday Inn Express Memphis Medical Center Midtown by IHG, the short drive to City University School of Liberal Arts is a core benefit to stay on schedule before the day begins.
Holiday Inn Express lobby markets operate 24/7, ensuring travelers can handle late-night cravings or early-morning essentials with ease. All guest rooms provide flat-screen TVs, plush beds, and blackout curtains, making restful sleep and easy relaxation predictable. Meeting spaces equipped with projection screens, tables, and breakout corners make it simple to conduct workshops and conferences.
Free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, and fitness centers pair with indoor pools and business spaces, keeping work and leisure in clear balance.
Courtyard by Marriott Memphis Airport
From Courtyard by Marriott Memphis Airport, City University School of Liberal Arts is a quick drive, a choice that makes for an uncomplicated and well-placed stay.
Courtyard frames reception with clean, modern finishes, delivering a first impression that feels organized and consistently on-brand. Suites feature sofa beds, dining counters, and hardwood details, giving guests layouts that balance family use with comfort. At the meeting spaces, ergonomic seating, projectors, and AV support provide convenience and productivity for all types of events.
With valet parking, Starbucks® beverages, conference spaces, and complimentary Wi-Fi, Courtyard delivers consistent daily balance.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Memphis Downtown
From Home2 Suites by Hilton Memphis Downtown, City University School of Liberal Arts is a straightforward drive, a choice that makes for a smooth transition from hotel to event.
Guests arriving at Home2 Suites encounter infused water and comfortable sofas, gestures that show hospitality and ease orientation. Suites offer sofa seating, smart TVs, and dining areas, allowing flexible use of space for both relaxation and casual gatherings. At the outdoor pool, loungers, towels, and shaded seating combine to create spaces where families can recharge and relax easily.
Amenities like business centers, pools, Wi-Fi, and breakfast service combine to support both work and leisure during every stay.
The Stallion
From the lobby of The Stallion, City University School of Liberal Arts is a short drive with no need for a long trip, simplifying the visit.
Guests arriving at The Stallion may encounter elegant lobby seating, professional concierge guidance, and a refined check-in atmosphere. Guest rooms may highlight refined décor, premium bedding, and spa-style bathrooms that reflect a polished and sophisticated overnight retreat. Amenities typically highlight upscale restaurants, cocktail bars, and stylish lounges that create a refined and comfortable retreat.
Guests may enjoy refined dining, wellness areas, valet parking, and Wi-Fi, ensuring balance between recovery, convenience, and leisure.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Airport Graceland
The fundamental convenience of a stay at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Airport Graceland in Memphis is the simple drive to City University School of Liberal Arts, which streamlines the entire process of daily planning.
Lobby layouts at La Quinta incorporate clean décor and practical seating clusters, producing clarity and consistent arrival comfort. All guest rooms present plush bedding, blackout drapes, and climate control, reinforcing nightly rest across all property stays. Business centers stocked with computers, printers, and Wi-Fi access provide clarity and support for professionals handling tasks.
Free Wi-Fi, Bright Side Breakfast®, and fitness centers join with pools and parking, keeping guest experiences consistent everywhere.
Comfort Inn Memphis Airport West
Because Comfort Inn Memphis Airport West is a quick drive from City University School of Liberal Arts, guests can choose to get there quickly and without hassle.
At check-in Comfort Inn positions coffee and breakfast points near reception so guests find immediate refreshment without extra walking. All guest rooms feature an in-room coffee maker, microwave, and mini-fridge, making snacks and early breakfasts convenient without extra errands. Bars adjacent to reception provide sightlines to arrivals, helping companions link up as plans form, creating a natural pause before heading out.
With fitness centers, towel service, pools, lounge seating, and on-site dining, recovery and unwind fit neatly between meetings and travel.
Best Western Plus Gen X Inn
In Memphis, Best Western Plus Gen X Inn is situated an easy drive from City University School of Liberal Arts, which lets for a simple daily commute.
Lobby coffee or hydration points may be offered by Best Western, providing small resets that help late arrivals regroup before heading upstairs. All guest rooms keep closets, drawers, hooks, and luggage racks within reach, preventing clutter and speeding repacks on back-to-back days. Business hubs include scanners, office supplies, and fax service, cutting last-minute detours while confirmations and forms finalize.
From airport transfers where offered, Wi-Fi, fitness spaces, and vending, itineraries keep momentum while essentials remain on site.
Hotel Pontotoc
From the lobby of Hotel Pontotoc, City University School of Liberal Arts is a quick drive, simplifying the visit.
Hotel Pontotoc typically provides a practical desk, nearby parking, and a small seating area designed to support swift guest arrivals. Each guest room often highlights plush bedding, hardwood floors, and Wi-Fi, creating a reliable and comfortable base for overnight stays. Shared spaces may present modest lobbies, vending stations, and laundry rooms that reflect the consistent focus of budget hotels.
A visit often presents Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, vending access, and laundry rooms, reinforcing daily convenience for budget travelers.
Red Roof Inn Memphis - Graceland / Airport
At Red Roof Inn Memphis - Graceland / Airport, being an easy drive from City University School of Liberal Arts provides a simple commute for drivers, enhancing the stay.
The value proposition of Red Roof Inn is immediately evident with its policy of free coffee and no charges for a traveling pet. Each guest room provides abundant lighting options, from bright overhead lights to softer lamps, to suit any mood from working to relaxing. Lobby coffee stations are consistently maintained by staff, ensuring the area is clean and supplies are replenished for all guests to use.
The combination of a seasonal pool, free coffee, complimentary Wi-Fi, and free local calls offers a comprehensive set of travel perks.
Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street
This practical drive to City University School of Liberal Arts from Hampton Inn & Suites Memphis-Beale Street is a central aspect, because it facilitates a smooth and easy visit.
Lobby markets inside Hampton Inn supply grab-and-go snacks and drinks, ensuring practical convenience for travelers immediately. Each suite features closets, luggage benches, and drawer storage, offering practical organization that supports longer guest stays. Lobby seating clusters with sofas, chairs, and tables provide regrouping areas, letting families rest comfortably upon arrival.
Self-parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry access, indoor pools, and breakfast buffets provide reliable support for extended guest stays.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Downtown
The benefit of being an easy drive from City University School of Liberal Arts renders La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Downtown into a great starting point for any visit.
La Quinta breakfast counters near reception offer dependable access to morning meals, helping travelers begin days without stress. Suites add sofa beds, lounge seating, and dining space, creating family-friendly accommodations for both short and long-term travel. Meeting rooms arranged with AV tools, flexible seating, and breakout tables allow professional groups to collaborate productively.
Pet accommodations, Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast align with laundry and pools, providing clarity and care for families daily.
Airport Inn Memphis-Graceland by Hotel O
City University School of Liberal Arts is a simple drive from Airport Inn Memphis-Graceland by Hotel O, a feature that makes the hotel a sensible and well-placed choice.
Arrivals at Airport Inn Memphis-Graceland by Hotel O may feature a basic counter, vending machines, and accessible parking that keep the process direct and familiar. Guest rooms typically include blackout curtains, climate control, and streaming access, ensuring both privacy and entertainment options. Facilities often feature vending machines, breakfast corners, and compact business areas that support everyday productivity and ease.
Guests may enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, parking, and guest laundries, supporting straightforward routines during stays.
Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis
Reaching City University School of Liberal Arts from Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis is a quick drive, a trait that enhances the overall guest experience with simplicity.
Hyatt Centric lobbies frequently pair a lobby market with reception, keeping snacks and coffee within easy reach as routines shift from transit. Every guest room adds BeeKind amenities, plush towels, and hair dryers, making freshen-up breaks predictable before departures or dinner plans. Breakfast areas with espresso setups, packaged snacks, and open layouts enable simple resets before workdays or weekend exploration begins.
High-speed Wi-Fi, laundry access, staffed business services, and pet accommodations make extended stays both comfortable, practical, and productive.
Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown Beale Street
For a stay where a direct route is beneficial, Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown Beale Street is a quick drive from City University School of Liberal Arts, making it a strategic base for activities.
Hilton Garden Inn lobby coffee stations reflect attentiveness, providing dependable comfort that eases arrival transitions naturally. Each suite offers microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee setups, providing dependable convenience for snacks and beverages at all times. Fitness facilities with treadmills, ellipticals, and weight racks enable travelers to maintain exercise habits with dependable support.
Complimentary internet, fitness rooms, hot breakfast, indoor pools, and laundry services help extended-stay guests feel supported daily.
Quality Inn Memphis Airport
This useful drive to City University School of Liberal Arts from Quality Inn Memphis Airport is a key feature, since it makes the stay both simple and enjoyable.
Quality Inn arrival signage and staff presence help guests identify elevators, parking, and breakfast areas quickly, reducing backtracking. Guest rooms combine a streaming-ready TV, reliable Wi-Fi, and easy casting so entertainment and remote meetings start without setup. Fitness centers combine treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights with towel service and water stations so brief workouts fit naturally between plans.
Fitness rooms and towel service pair with lap or seasonal pools at select sites, giving travelers practical recovery and low-effort wellness options.
Canopy by Hilton Memphis Downtown
Reaching City University School of Liberal Arts from Canopy by Hilton Memphis Downtown is a simple drive, a trait that enhances the overall guest experience with simplicity.
Canopy emphasizes orientation clarity with visible reception desks, signage, and open layouts that simplify arrival for new guests. Suites provide hardwood floors, open closets, and local artwork, offering boutique-style touches that reflect neighborhood character. In Canopy Central, modular seating, bar service, and curated décor foster playful first impressions and dependable comfort.
Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast service, rooftop lounges, and co-working zones, keeping trips efficient and engaging.
Motel 6 Memphis TN - Graceland
Reaching City University School of Liberal Arts from Motel 6 Memphis TN - Graceland is an easy drive, a trait that weaves convenience into the fabric of the stay.
Motel 6 separates movement lanes from lounge chairs, keeping lobby traffic orderly while guests coordinate rideshares or parking logistics. Guest rooms often include mini-fridge/microwave setups, allowing travelers to keep snacks and drinks at hand during their visit. Guest laundry signage lists hours and instructions clearly, helping travelers plan wash cycles without unexpected scheduling issues.
With guest laundry, parking, Wi-Fi, and accessible features, travelers maintain clean routines and reliable mobility throughout visits.
Holiday Inn Downtown Memphis by IHG
The value of being an easy drive from City University School of Liberal Arts makes Holiday Inn Downtown Memphis by IHG a useful base of operations before the experience.
Holiday Inn & Suites reception counters are located with clear sightlines, helping new arrivals orient quickly without confusion. All guest rooms feature plush beds, blackout shades, and digital thermostats, creating predictable comfort for nightly rest routines. Bars positioned near reception with lounge seating and ambient lighting create relaxed social anchors for travelers upon arrival.
Meeting rooms, breakfast dining, and Wi-Fi connect with parking and fitness centers, providing flexibility and clarity for all guests.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Memphis Arpt Elvis Presley Blv by IHG
City University School of Liberal Arts is a short drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Memphis Arpt Elvis Presley Blv by IHG, a fact that ensures the journey there is as simple as the stay itself.
Statement lighting and natural finishes inside Holiday Inn Express lobbies establish recognizable brand cues across properties worldwide. Guest rooms offer ergonomic desks, Wi-Fi, and USB charging, supporting both productivity and convenience for business travelers. Breakfast dining areas filled with cereals, fruit, and hot dishes keep morning routines stress-free and clear for all types of travelers.
Pet-friendly policies, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi connect with parking and laundry, ensuring travel routines remain simple.
Extended Stay America Suites Memphis Airport
From Extended Stay America Suites Memphis Airport, City University School of Liberal Arts is a straightforward drive, a detail that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
Extended Stay America offers a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast, providing a quick muffin, bar, and coffee to start the day. The full kitchen, paired with the on-site laundry, gives hotel guests the autonomy to manage their own schedule for chores and meals. A clean, secure laundry room with multiple machines helps to reduce wait times and make a necessary chore more pleasant for everyone.
Between the grab-and-go breakfast, an on-site laundry, a fitness center, and a full kitchen, guest routines are conveniently supported.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
City University School of Liberal Arts Local Area Guide
Welcome to the area around City University School of Liberal Arts, a vibrant academic hub situated in Memphis, Tennessee. This guide is designed to help students, visiting families, faculty, and event attendees navigate the surrounding neighborhood and plan their visit with ease. Discover essential information on local attractions, dining options, transportation, and practical tips to make your time near the university as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From understanding event-day rhythms to finding the best local eateries, we've got you covered.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – City University School of Liberal Arts (Memphis, TN)
Nestled in the heart of Memphis, the City University School of Liberal Arts is strategically located, offering convenient access to various parts of the city. The university campus is bordered by Dunn Avenue to the north and east, providing key entry points and transit routes. Major thoroughfares like I-240 are easily accessible, allowing for swift travel across the metropolitan area and to the Memphis International Airport (MEM). Expect moderate traffic, especially during peak academic hours and major city events, so planning your arrival is key. Public transportation options include various bus lines that serve the university and surrounding neighborhoods, making it a feasible option for those seeking to avoid parking hassles. Rideshare services are also readily available and a popular choice for quick trips to downtown or other city attractions. Navigating the immediate vicinity is straightforward, with clear signage directing you to campus facilities and nearby amenities. Consider the time of day for your travel, as rush hour can significantly impact transit times, especially on routes connecting to I-40 and I-55. Always factor in a buffer for unexpected delays, particularly if attending a scheduled event or appointment on campus.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near City University School of Liberal Arts
The area surrounding City University School of Liberal Arts features a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial pockets, with hotels generally found a short drive away rather than immediately adjacent to campus. The most concentrated hotel clusters are typically located closer to the downtown Memphis area and the airport, which are both within a manageable driving distance. For those seeking accommodations within a 15-20 minute drive, the medical district and the downtown core offer a range of options, from budget-friendly motels to upscale hotels. University-adjacent areas primarily consist of student housing and local businesses, meaning on-campus lodging is limited. Planning ahead is crucial, especially during major university events, graduation ceremonies, or when the city hosts large festivals. Booking your stay several months in advance is a smart tactic to secure better rates and ensure availability. Utilizing online map filters for proximity and reading recent reviews can help identify properties that best suit your needs, whether you prioritize walkability to campus or easy access to wider Memphis attractions. Many visitors find that staying slightly outside the immediate university vicinity offers a broader selection of dining and entertainment options while still maintaining convenient access to the school.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Memphis International Airport (MEM) is about a 15-20 minute drive from campus.
- Utilize rideshares or city buses to bypass potential campus traffic and parking limitations.
- Overton Square offers a walkable district with dining and entertainment a short drive away.
- The museums in the Edge District provide indoor entertainment options on days with inclement weather.
- Local diners and cafes near campus are ideal spots for casual team or family regrouping.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan your arrival for at least 45-60 minutes before any scheduled event at City University School of Liberal Arts to account for parking and navigating campus. Familiarize yourself with the campus map beforehand to locate your specific building or event space. If driving, research available parking lots or garages designated for visitors and note any associated fees or time restrictions. Consider using rideshare services to be dropped off closer to your destination, especially during busy periods when parking can be challenging. Allow extra time to find your way around campus, locate restrooms, and perhaps grab a quick refreshment before your event begins.
During the Event
Once inside, orient yourself with the venue or building layout. If attending a lecture or performance, be mindful of entry and exit points and the flow of foot traffic. Keep track of time for any scheduled breaks, which can be a good opportunity to stretch your legs or visit facilities. For academic events or tours, adhere to any provided schedules and guidelines to ensure a smooth experience for all participants. Remember to stay hydrated and aware of your surroundings, especially in larger campus settings or during peak activity times. Following any directional signage or staff instructions will greatly contribute to an enjoyable and organized experience.
Post-Event & Departure
As your event concludes, be prepared for pedestrian and vehicle congestion as attendees depart simultaneously. If you parked on campus, follow designated exit routes and be patient, as traffic flow can be slow. Consider waiting a short period after the main rush to depart, which can ease your exit and travel time. If using public transport or rideshare, confirm pick-up locations in advance, as they may differ from drop-off points and can become crowded. Take a moment to gather your belongings and ensure you have everything before leaving the venue. Reflecting on the event and its content can be a pleasant way to wind down your visit as you make your way from campus.
Things to Do Near City University School of Liberal Arts
Walkable
University Grounds & Architecture
Explore the City University School of Liberal Arts campus itself, which offers a pleasant environment for a leisurely stroll. The architecture of the various school buildings provides an interesting visual experience, blending modern design with academic functionality. Many students and faculty enjoy the green spaces and courtyards between classes, offering quiet spots for reading or informal gatherings. Walking the campus can give you a sense of the academic atmosphere and the daily rhythm of university life. Keep an eye out for public art installations or seasonal landscaping that enhances the campus aesthetic. It’s a great place for a relaxed walk without needing to venture far from your primary destination.
Memphis, TN · On siteNearby Local Eateries & Cafes
Within a short walk from the university, you’ll find several local spots catering to students and the surrounding community. These establishments often offer casual dining, quick bites, and coffee, perfect for a pre- or post-event refuel. You might discover small delis, sandwich shops, or cafes that provide a taste of local flavor without requiring extensive travel. These are ideal locations to observe the local scene, meet up with friends, or simply enjoy a relaxed meal. Their proximity makes them an easy addition to your campus visit, offering convenience and a chance to experience the neighborhood vibe. Check for daily specials or unique menu items that showcase regional influences.
Memphis, TN · 0.5 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Overton Square
Overton Square is a vibrant entertainment and dining district known for its lively atmosphere, diverse restaurants, and live music venues. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of cuisines from casual to upscale. The square features several theaters and performance spaces, making it a cultural hub. During warmer months, outdoor seating at many restaurants provides a great ambiance for people-watching. It’s an excellent destination for an evening out, a pre-event dinner, or simply to experience Memphis’s thriving arts and nightlife scene. The district is easily accessible by car or rideshare from the university.
Memphis, TN · 1.5 miThe Edge District
The Edge District is an emerging neighborhood gaining recognition for its unique blend of historic architecture, creative businesses, and burgeoning culinary scene. This area is home to several art galleries, independent boutiques, and innovative restaurants and breweries. It offers a more eclectic and artistic vibe compared to other parts of the city, making it an interesting place to explore. You can find everything from artisanal coffee shops to breweries with craft selections. Taking a walk through the Edge District allows you to appreciate its revitalization and discover hidden gems. It’s a testament to Memphis’s dynamic growth and creative spirit, providing a distinct urban exploration experience.
Memphis, TN · 2.0 miBeyond the Event: Just a short drive further opens up more of Memphis's renowned attractions, including the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel. Beale Street offers iconic live music venues, while the Memphis Zoo provides a family-friendly outing. These destinations, while requiring a bit more travel time, are well worth the journey for a comprehensive Memphis experience.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near City University School of Liberal Arts
Inside & Adjacent
Campus Cafeteria/Deli
For ultimate convenience, the university campus itself typically hosts dining facilities such as a cafeteria, deli, or coffee shop. These spots are designed to serve the immediate needs of students, faculty, and staff, offering quick and accessible meal options. You can usually find a selection of sandwiches, salads, hot entrees, and beverages. They are perfect for grabbing a bite between classes, during a study break, or if you're on a tight schedule. While they may offer standard fare, their proximity makes them an invaluable resource for immediate hunger pangs or a caffeine boost without leaving the university grounds.
Memphis, TN · On siteLocal Coffee Shop & Bakery
A short walk from campus may lead you to a charming local coffee shop that also serves baked goods and light breakfast or lunch items. These neighborhood gems often provide a more relaxed atmosphere than campus dining halls and are ideal for casual meetings or a moment of quiet. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee, espresso drinks, pastries, bagels, or simple sandwiches. Supporting these local businesses offers a chance to experience the community feel and often find unique, handcrafted items. They are a popular choice for students looking for a change of scenery or a quick, quality bite.
Memphis, TN · 0.3 miNearby Gathering Spots
Restaurant Row in Overton Square
Overton Square boasts a concentration of restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences, making it a go-to spot for groups. From bustling gastropubs and Italian trattorias to lively Mexican cantinas and sophisticated American bistros, there’s a flavor to satisfy every palate. The area’s energetic ambiance, especially in the evenings, makes it a prime location for team dinners, family gatherings, or meeting friends. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying Memphis's pleasant weather. It’s a short drive or rideshare from the university and provides a dynamic setting for any social occasion.
Memphis, TN · 1.5 miEdge District Brewpubs & Eateries
The Edge District is a hub for local craft breweries and eateries that often serve creative pub fare alongside their beverages. These spots provide a more laid-back, often industrial-chic atmosphere, perfect for informal get-togethers. You can expect a rotating selection of local beers, innovative burgers, tacos, and shareable plates. They are excellent places for groups looking to relax after a day of activities or academic sessions, offering a taste of Memphis's burgeoning craft beverage scene. The district's unique vibe adds character to any dining experience, offering a more local and less tourist-centric option.
Memphis, TN · 2.0 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Rendezvous
Famous for its dry-rub ribs, The Rendezvous is a Memphis institution offering a distinctively Southern barbecue experience. Located downtown, it's a must-visit for authentic Memphis-style ribs, served without sauce for a unique flavor profile. The atmosphere is classic, bustling, and distinctly Memphis. It’s a slightly longer drive from the university but offers an iconic culinary destination that many visitors seek out. Expect a lively crowd and a truly memorable meal that captures the essence of Memphis's barbecue heritage. Reservations are not typically taken, so be prepared for a potential wait, especially during peak hours.
Memphis, TN · 3.5 miRestaurant at The Peabody Memphis
For a more upscale dining experience, consider one of the restaurants within The Peabody Memphis hotel. These establishments often feature refined menus, elegant settings, and impeccable service, perfect for special occasions or sophisticated gatherings. Whether you're looking for fine dining, a classic steakhouse, or a chic lounge, The Peabody offers several excellent choices. It’s a chance to experience a touch of Memphis luxury and history, located in the heart of downtown. This option is ideal for those celebrating an achievement or seeking a memorable meal in a grand setting, requiring a short drive from the university vicinity.
Memphis, TN · 3.8 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Be aware of university break schedules; campus dining and nearby spots may have reduced hours or be closed during these times.
- Weekends can be quieter around the university, but check for campus events or local festivals that might draw crowds.
- Parking enforcement around the university can be strict, especially in restricted zones; always pay attention to signage.
- Memphis traffic can be unpredictable, particularly on major interstates like I-240 and I-40 during peak hours.
- Consider exploring beyond the immediate university area to experience the full breadth of Memphis culture and cuisine.
Weather & Seasons at City University School of Liberal Arts
- Winter: Winters in Memphis are typically mild, with average temperatures ranging from the low 30s to the low 50s Fahrenheit. Expect cool, damp conditions with occasional frost or light freezing. Dressing in layers, including a warm coat, hat, and gloves, is advisable for outdoor activities. Indoor venues like museums or restaurants offer a comfortable escape from the chill, and driving or rideshare services are recommended for longer distances to avoid the cold.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings warming temperatures and blooming flora, with highs typically in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit, transitioning into early summer's warmth. This season is excellent for exploring the city on foot. Lightweight jackets or sweaters are useful for cooler mornings and evenings. Outdoor dining, campus walks, and exploring nearby districts like Overton Square are highly enjoyable during these months, with comfortable conditions prevailing.
- Mid-summer: Summers in Memphis are hot and humid, with average temperatures often reaching the high 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, sometimes exceeding 100°F. Hydration is key, and visitors should seek air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day. Light, breathable clothing is essential. Evenings offer some relief, but humidity remains high, making indoor or evening activities a popular choice. Be prepared for potential afternoon thunderstorms.
- Fall season: Autumn offers a welcome respite from summer heat, with crisp air and beautiful foliage. Temperatures gradually cool from the 70s Fahrenheit in September to the 50s and 60s in October and November. This is a prime time for outdoor exploration, including walks around the university campus and visits to nearby attractions. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient for comfort, making it ideal for enjoying the city's various offerings without the intense heat or cold.
- Rain & snow: Rainfall is common throughout the year in Memphis, with heavier periods often occurring in winter and spring. Snow is infrequent and usually light, rarely accumulating significantly. During rainy or snowy conditions, indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending performances, or dining at restaurants become more appealing. Be cautious when walking on wet surfaces, and allow extra travel time if road conditions are affected by precipitation.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Memphis Tigers (various sports, CUSA)
- Neighborhood: University District / East Memphis
- Nearest airport: Memphis International Airport (MEM)
- Parking: Limited visitor parking on campus; paid lots nearby.
- Walkable district: University campus itself, with some adjacent local shops.
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Convenient stores and supermarkets within a 5-10 minute drive.
- Pharmacy: National chains located within a short driving distance.
- Urgent care: Several urgent care facilities serve the East Memphis area.
- Downtime: Campus green spaces, nearby parks, or cafes offer relaxing spots.
- Pro tip: Check the university's event calendar for lectures, performances, or sporting events during your visit.

