Did You Know You Could Spend the Night in the Memphis Pyramid?
You don't have to leave Memphis to feel like you're on vacay. We spent the night at Big Cypress Lodge for an exclusive hospitality showcase featuring new menu items, live music, stunning views — and a few very special guests! Here's what made this staycation one to remember! Image: Rachel Mullen
Sometimes a getaway doesn’t require a road trip. For Memphians, a change of scenery can be found inside one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Tucked away inside The Memphis Pyramid, Big Cypress Lodge offers a one-of-a-kind staycation experience that combines a rustic setting with fine dining, entertainment, and beautiful views of the mighty Mississippi River.
We had the opportunity to experience all that this downtown venue has to offer during a recent hospitality showcase. Here is a closer look at the highlights from our unforgettable stay.
Sips, Samples & Sunsets
Our adventure began with a Culinary Showcase featuring the new menus and hospitality experiences available throughout Big Cypress Lodge. The event included a special ribbon-cutting ceremony for Wahlburgers Wild, the newest restaurant addition to The Pyramid. Co-founder Mark Wahlberg joined Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris for the celebration, as we enjoyed small bites from the Wahlburgers menu.
From there it was on to the Observation Deck at Big Cypress Lodge, where passed appetizers and inspired cocktails from The Pyramid’s fine-dining restaurant, The Lookout, were on the menu. Against the backdrop of a stunning sunset, we sipped and sampled while listening to live music by local artist Marcella Simien. Notable bites included the flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp and lamb lollipops that were so tender they nearly melted in our mouths.
An Elevated Dining Experience
After sampling the offerings from The Lookout during happy hour, we couldn’t wait for the sit-down dinner — and it did not disappoint! Putting a whole new spin on the term “elevated dining,” The Lookout restaurant is located at the top of The Pyramid, and getting there is half the fun.
We stepped into an all-glass elevator (the tallest freestanding elevator in the United States ) to make the dramatic transition from the Bass Pro Shops floor to the elegant restaurant above.
When the doors opened, we were greeted by an incredible setting, complete with a live aquarium and breathtaking river views. We settled in for a delicious braised beef over creamy mashed potatoes — traditional Southern comfort food effortlessly enhanced by the restaurant atmosphere and incredible service.
The exceptional experience doesn’t stop at the table. At The Lookout, you can step out onto the observation deck to take in the city from more than 300 feet above the ground. For the truly daring, sections of the deck feature glass floors, offering a unique perspective that you can only find at The Memphis Pyramid.
Rustic Lodging Meets Refined Taste
After dinner, we retired to our charming, rustic lodge-style room, where the design immediately made us feel as if we were nestled far from the city. With earthy tones, a charming fireplace, and a beautiful bathroom, the room struck the perfect balance between warmth, comfort, and luxury.
It felt less like a traditional hotel room and more like a private outdoor retreat — and was the perfect place to unwind after a full evening of dining and entertainment. By the end of our stay, we couldn’t help but feel like we had discovered an entirely new side of a Memphis landmark.
Big Cypress Lodge completely exceeded our expectations, from the culinary experiences and incredible views to the cozy accommodations and amazing service. It’s a place to plan a unique date night, a weekend staycation, or a special celebration or event. We are already planning our next visit, and we can’t wait to see what events they have in store.
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Rachel Mullen
Born and raised in Memphis, Rachel is a third-generation Memphian, professionally trained pastry chef, and owner of Primas Bakery. As StyleBlueprint’s Memphis Market Leader, she is passionate about highlighting the people, places, and stories that make the Bluff City special, with a focus on community, culinary experiences, and meaningful connections.
