Memphis Central Station
A historic Amtrak station transformed into a stylish Hilton hotel, featuring a popular lounge with live DJs and craft cocktails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Ladies' night specials
Memphis Central Station
Best Time
Ladies' night specials
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Amtrak station transformed into a stylish Hilton hotel, featuring a popular lounge with live DJs and craft cocktails.
"This hotel is not merely a waystation, it's a destination."
🎯 Use Hotel Entrance for Ride Shares
For ride shares or pickups, use the hotel entrance at the platform level. Street access from Amtrak is through the hotel. :car:
🎶 Vibe at Eight & Sand
Enjoy craft cocktails and DJ sets at this popular lounge. Great for a chill night out. :cocktail:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Eight & Sand Bar
Inside Central Station Hotel
A moody, stylish bar with a curated vinyl collection and live DJs. Perfect for craft cocktails and a relaxed vibe.
Historic Train Station Architecture
Central Station Memphis
Experience the grandeur of a bygone era. The hotel beautifully preserves the original train station's charm.
Live Music & DJ Sets
Lobby and Patio
Enjoy nightly DJs in the lobby and live music on the patio on Thursdays. A vibrant atmosphere for any evening.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Station & Hotel
Vibe Check: Eight & Sand
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Use Hotel Entrance for Ride Shares
For ride shares or pickups, use the hotel entrance at the platform level. Street access from Amtrak is through the hotel. :car:
🎶 Vibe at Eight & Sand
Enjoy craft cocktails and DJ sets at this popular lounge. Great for a chill night out. +2 :cocktail:
📅 Check Event Schedule
Thursdays feature live music on the patio, while weekends have lively DJ sets in the lobby.
🅿️ Parking Considerations
Amtrak passengers have limited free parking. Paid parking ramps are available nearby. :parking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use Hotel Entrance for Ride Shares
For ride shares or pickups, use the hotel entrance at the platform level. Street access from Amtrak is through the hotel. :car:
🎶 Vibe at Eight & Sand
Enjoy craft cocktails and DJ sets at this popular lounge. Great for a chill night out. +2 :cocktail:
📅 Check Event Schedule
Thursdays feature live music on the patio, while weekends have lively DJ sets in the lobby.
🅿️ Parking Considerations
Amtrak passengers have limited free parking. Paid parking ramps are available nearby. :parking:
🏨 Unique Hotel Stay
Consider staying at the hotel for a unique experience blending history and modern comfort.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Central Station Memphis for its unique blend of historic architecture and modern luxury, particularly highlighting the vibrant atmosphere of Eight & Sand with its live DJs and craft cocktails. The hotel's stylish design and comfortable rooms are frequently mentioned as positives. However, some guests have noted challenges with Amtrak station accessibility and parking.
"I arrived here by train one night, and I couldn't find a way to get to the street through the Amtrak station. There were no stairs, and the elevator was not working. Upon revisiting the station during the day, I was able to determine that even though there is an entrance to the Amtrak station from the street, it is not being used. It turns out the entrance that Amtrak uses is next to the hotel entrance at the track platform level above the street. If you want to get to the street from the Amtrak station, you need to go through the hotel and either down the stairs or elevator to street level. If you are using ride share or being picked up/dropped off, use the hotel entrance at the parking lot/platform level as your location. The Amtrak station is only open and staffed during certain hours and is closed the rest of the day. I would suggest that Amtrak take the street level sign down and place signage directing patrons where to go at both the street and platform levels."
Randy Petersen
"2/2017:The train ride was good. I have mobiity issues so I had my meals in my sleeper. The service was ok but the meals were dried out both ways. Dry salmon and dry pot roast. I did not feel the need to send them back since they were included in my fare. I still tipped the conductor for service. I know to be more specific on my next trip. This station is definitely not a person with disabilities friendly and the staff isn't either. Oh well, Amtrak needs to read these reviews.
UPDATE: 3/2020
The station has moved to one corner of the building and the rest has be converted into a Hilton hotel. The parking is all jacked up. Amtrak passengers have only 14 spots to park and the other 100 or so is pay$25 a day or valet parking is $30? Anyone travelling by rail from this station better do his or her homework for parking. I did find a parking ramp hidden on buttler and front st. for $10 /day if you're willing to walk a few blocks"
Rayford Hickman
"As you are shown through the front doors you are presented with an artistically curated wall of vintage speakers. The vibe is moody welcoming as you descend the stairs that open up to a massive wall with neatly compartmentalized vinyl. Grab a craft cocktail from the bar and sink into the plush leather couches as you crane your neck to take in an entire host of labels. Train your eyes to the disc jockey delicately placing a vintage vinyl on the old school turn table: tune your ears to the nostalgia of the phonographic crackle. As you retire to your room you will open a door to an oasis presenting you with moody lamps, floor to ceiling tile shower, full length mirror, and softest of beds. This hotel is not merely a waystation, it's a destination."
AJ Robinson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Central Station is accessible by Amtrak. For ride shares or drop-offs, use the hotel entrance at the platform level. Street access from the Amtrak station requires going through the hotel lobby.
Amtrak passengers have a limited number of free parking spots. Paid parking is available nearby, with ramps offering more affordable options if you're willing to walk a few blocks.
Yes, Central Station is located downtown, making it a convenient starting point to explore areas like Beale Street. You can even catch the trolley nearby.
If you're staying at the Central Station Hotel, the Amtrak station is integrated into the building. For other hotels, ride-shares or taxis are readily available from the hotel entrance.
Reviews suggest that accessibility can be challenging, particularly regarding elevators and staff assistance. It's advisable to contact Amtrak and the hotel in advance to discuss specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the hotel lobby and the Eight & Sand bar is generally free. Live music and DJ sets typically do not have a cover charge.
The Amtrak station is only open and staffed during certain hours and is closed at other times. It's best to check Amtrak's schedule for specific operating times.
As a bar and lounge, Eight & Sand likely adheres to standard age restrictions for alcohol service, typically 21 and over. +1
Yes, Central Station is a Hilton Curio Collection hotel. You can book rooms directly through the Hilton website or other booking platforms.
The vibe at Eight & Sand is generally relaxed and stylish. While there's no strict dress code, dressing smart-casual would be appropriate. +1
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
You can expect a variety of music, including live DJs spinning vinyl in the lobby and live music on the patio on Thursdays. Genres often lean towards R&B, soul, and electronic.
Ladies' nights on Thursdays often feature $10 drink specials. It's always a good idea to check with the venue for current promotions. +1
Yes, there is a restaurant within the hotel, Bishop, that serves food. The kitchen at Eight & Sand also serves food, with hours typically extending to 10:30 PM on Thursdays.
The atmosphere is described as moody, vibey, and sophisticated, with a focus on music and craft cocktails. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors looking for a unique Memphis experience.
Yes, the bar features a large, curated wall of vintage vinyl records that guests can admire.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bishop is a restaurant located inside the Central Station Hotel, offering a place to eat and drink. Eight & Sand also serves food.
Bishop is described as a cozy restaurant within the hotel, though specific cuisine details are not widely available. It's a good option for a convenient meal.
Yes, Bishop offers happy hour daily from 4-6 PM. Ladies' nights on Thursdays at Eight & Sand also feature drink specials.
On Thursdays, the kitchen at Eight & Sand is open until 10:30 PM. Other nights may have varying kitchen hours.
Central Station is in downtown Memphis, close to many other dining establishments, including those on Beale Street and other popular Memphis eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The lobby with its vintage speakers and vinyl wall, the stylish bar area, and the hotel's unique architectural details offer great photo opportunities.
While you can take photos of your own hotel room, it's generally best to be respectful of other guests' privacy. Some influencers have shared tours of suites.
Yes, you can take photos of the trains and the station's exterior. The historic nature of the station makes for interesting shots.
There are no widely publicized restrictions on photography for personal use in public areas of the hotel or bar. However, professional or commercial photography may require permission.
The moody lighting in the evening, especially with the DJs and bar atmosphere, can be very photogenic. Daytime offers natural light for architectural shots. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For activities, the nearby trolley line is a fun way to explore downtown Memphis with kids. Destinations like the Peabody Ducks or the Children's Museum of Memphis are easily accessible. Remember that parking can be a consideration, so factor that into your family's travel plans.
💰 Budget Travelers
For parking, look for the more economical parking ramps a few blocks away rather than the hotel's valet or daily rates. If arriving by Amtrak, research ticket prices and consider off-peak travel times for potential savings.
🥂 Couples & Date Nights
Consider booking a stay at the Central Station Hotel for a truly memorable experience. Many suites offer luxurious amenities, and the hotel's historic charm adds a unique touch. You can even arrange for special decor or food services through local event planners for an extra romantic touch.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Memphis Central Station
In recent years, the station underwent a significant transformation. A portion of the historic building was meticulously restored and converted into the Central Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton. This adaptive reuse project preserved the station's architectural integrity while infusing it with modern luxury and amenities. The hotel aims to provide a unique stay that honors the building's heritage, making it more than just a place to sleep, but a destination in itself.
The integration of the Amtrak station within the hotel complex is a distinctive feature. While the hotel offers a contemporary experience, the Amtrak services continue to operate, allowing travelers to arrive or depart by train, experiencing the unique blend of old and new. This duality is a key part of the Central Station's charm and appeal.
Experiencing Eight & Sand: Music and Mixology
The music programming at Eight & Sand is a major draw. Live DJs regularly spin a mix of genres, often focusing on R&B, soul, and electronic beats, creating a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe. On Thursdays, the patio comes alive with live music, adding another layer to the entertainment options. This focus on music makes it a popular spot for locals seeking a quality night out and visitors looking to experience Memphis's dynamic nightlife.
+1Beyond the music, Eight & Sand is known for its craft cocktails. The bartenders are skilled in creating both classic and innovative drinks, using fresh ingredients and premium spirits. Whether you're looking for a classic Old Fashioned or something more adventurous, Eight & Sand offers a refined drinking experience. It's a place where you can unwind, socialize, and enjoy the distinctive sounds and tastes of Memphis.
Navigating Amtrak at Central Station
Travelers with mobility issues should be aware that accessibility has been noted as a challenge in past reviews, with mentions of non-working elevators and less-than-ideal staff assistance. It is highly recommended to contact Amtrak and the Central Station Hotel directly in advance to discuss any specific accessibility needs to ensure a smoother journey.
Parking for Amtrak passengers is limited, with only a small number of free spots available. For longer stays or if free spots are occupied, paid parking options are necessary, including a nearby parking ramp that offers a more economical choice if you don't mind a short walk. Planning your parking strategy ahead of time is crucial to avoid inconvenience.
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