How to Visit the Memphis Pyramid

The Memphis Pyramid, an iconic architectural landmark rising above the Mississippi River skyline, is more than just a striking structureits a cultural hub, entertainment destination, and historical monument all in one. Originally constructed in 1991 as a basketball arena for the NBAs Memphis Grizzlies, the Pyramid has since evolved into a multi-use complex housing museums, event spaces, dining venues, and observation decks. Today, visiting the Memphis Pyramid offers a unique blend of urban exploration, architectural admiration, and immersive experiences that reflect the spirit of Memphis, Tennessee. Whether youre a local resident, a first-time tourist, or a history and design enthusiast, understanding how to visit the Memphis Pyramid ensures you make the most of your time at this singular landmark. This comprehensive guide walks you through every essential detailfrom planning your route and purchasing tickets to navigating the interior and maximizing your experiencewith expert tips, real-world examples, and practical tools to help you succeed.

Step-by-Step Guide

Visiting the Memphis Pyramid is a straightforward process, but preparation enhances the experience. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a seamless, enjoyable, and memorable visit.

Step 1: Confirm the Pyramids Current Operations and Hours

Before making travel plans, verify the Pyramids current operating status. While the exterior remains a constant fixture, the internal attractionsincluding the Bass Pro Shops Mega Store, the Memphis Pyramid Observation Deck, and the National Civil Rights Museums satellite exhibitsmay have seasonal or event-based hours. Visit the official website at memphispyramid.com or check the Bass Pro Shops Memphis page for the most accurate, up-to-date schedule. Typically, the Pyramid is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with extended hours during holidays and special events. The observation deck usually closes earlier, around 7:00 PM, and may require separate timed entry.

Step 2: Choose Your Primary Destination Within the Pyramid

The Memphis Pyramid houses multiple attractions under one roof. Determine your main reason for visiting to optimize your time:

• Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid The worlds largest Bass Pro Shops, featuring a two-story aquarium, indoor shooting range, wildlife dioramas, and a 150-foot indoor waterfall.
• Observation Deck A 360-degree panoramic view of downtown Memphis, the Mississippi River, and the Arkansas skyline from the 27th floor.
• Event Spaces The Pyramid hosts concerts, conventions, and sporting events; check the calendar if youre attending a scheduled performance.
• Historical Exhibits Temporary and rotating exhibits often highlight Memphiss musical, civil rights, and cultural heritage.

If your goal is shopping and immersive nature experiences, prioritize Bass Pro Shops. If you seek breathtaking views, plan your visit for late afternoon to catch sunset from the observation deck.

Step 3: Plan Your Transportation and Parking

The Memphis Pyramid is located at 100 Pyramid Way, Memphis, TN 38103, near the I-40 and I-240 interchange. It is easily accessible by car, rideshare, or public transit.

By Car: Use GPS coordinates or enter Memphis Pyramid into your navigation system. Multiple parking options are available:

• Free surface parking on the north and east sides of the building.
• Structured parking garages adjacent to the main entrance, ideal during peak hours or events.
• Designated drop-off zones for rideshare services near the Bass Pro Shops entrance.

By Public Transit: Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) Route 12 and Route 14 stop within a 10-minute walk of the Pyramid. Check MATAs real-time app for schedules. For those staying downtown, the free Downtown Loop trolley also provides access during daytime hours.

Step 4: Enter the Pyramid and Navigate the Lobby

Upon arrival, head to the main entrance on the south side of the building, marked by the iconic pyramid shape and large Bass Pro Shops signage. The entrance leads to a grand, cathedral-like lobby with soaring ceilings and natural stone finishes. Here, youll find:

• Information kiosks with staff available to answer questions.
• Restrooms and water fountains.
• Security screening (non-intrusive bag checks for all visitors).
• Wayfinding signage directing you to Bass Pro Shops, the observation deck, and event entrances.

Follow signs labeled Bass Pro Shops for retail and dining, or Observation Deck for the elevator access point. Elevators are clearly marked and operate 24/7 during business hours.

Step 5: Visit Bass Pro Shops

Bass Pro Shops occupies the first seven levels of the Pyramid. Allow at least two to three hours to explore fully. Highlights include:

• The Great Hall: A massive open space with a 24-foot-tall elk statue, a 150-foot indoor waterfall, and a 120,000-gallon aquarium housing over 5,000 fish, including alligators and stingrays.
• The Wildlife Exhibit: Lifelike dioramas of North American animals in natural habitats, including grizzly bears, wolves, and bald eagles.
• The Shooting Range: A state-of-the-art indoor facility offering skeet, trap, and archery experiences (reservations recommended).
• Dining Options: The Rivers Edge Grill offers Southern cuisine with river views; the Outfitters Caf serves quick bites.
• Merchandise: Over 250,000 square feet of outdoor gear, clothing, fishing tackle, and Memphis-themed souvenirs.

Dont miss the escalator ride through the aquarium tunnelviewing fish from below is a signature experience.

Step 6: Access the Observation Deck

To reach the observation deck, take the dedicated elevator located near the Bass Pro Shops customer service desk. The ride to the 27th floor takes approximately 30 seconds. Upon exiting:

• Present your ticket if purchased in advance (recommended during peak seasons).
• Enjoy 360-degree views of the Mississippi River, Beale Street, the Peabody Hotel, and the Arkansas bluffs.
• Use the interactive digital kiosks to identify landmarks and learn historical facts.
• Photography is encouraged; bring a tripod if you plan to capture sunset or night views.

The deck is climate-controlled and features seating areas, binoculars for rent, and a small gift shop with exclusive Pyramid-themed items.

Step 7: Explore Special Exhibits and Events

Check the Pyramids event calendar before your visit. Past exhibits have included:

• Memphis: The Birthplace of Rock n Roll Featuring artifacts from Sun Studio and Stax Records.
• Civil Rights in the Delta A collaboration with the National Civil Rights Museum.
• Seasonal displays like Haunted Pyramid during Halloween or Holiday Lights in December.

These exhibits are often included with general admission or require a small additional fee. Look for QR codes posted near exhibit entrances to access audio guides on your smartphone.

Step 8: Exit and Reflect

When youre ready to leave, follow signs to the main lobby. You may exit through the same entrance or use the west exit near the parking garages. Consider visiting the outdoor plaza for a final photo with the Pyramids illuminated faade at night. The structure is beautifully lit after dark, with soft white and gold lighting that highlights its geometric form.

Best Practices

Maximizing your visit to the Memphis Pyramid involves more than just following directionsit requires strategic planning and mindful engagement. These best practices ensure you avoid common pitfalls and uncover hidden gems.

Visit During Off-Peak Hours

Weekday mornings (TuesdayThursday, 9:00 AM11:00 AM) offer the least crowded experience. Weekends, especially after 2:00 PM, see heavy foot traffic due to families and tourists. If youre visiting the observation deck, aim for sunsetaround 6:00 PM in summer and 5:00 PM in winterfor the most dramatic lighting and fewer crowds.

Download the Official App

The Bass Pro Shops app includes a real-time map of the Pyramid, live wait times for elevators, and push notifications for special promotions or pop-up events. It also features augmented reality (AR) overlays that highlight architectural details as you walk through the building.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

The Pyramid spans over 500,000 square feet. Even if youre only visiting the observation deck, youll walk significant distances between parking, elevators, and exhibits. Opt for supportive walking shoeshigh heels or sandals are not recommended.

Bring a Reusable Water Bottle

Water fountains are available on every level. Refilling your bottle reduces waste and saves moneybottled water inside the Pyramid can cost up to $4.50.

Use the Free Wi-Fi

Connect to PyramidGuest in the lobby to access high-speed internet. This is especially useful for uploading photos, checking maps, or accessing digital exhibits without using mobile data.

Reserve Tickets in Advance

While general admission to Bass Pro Shops is free, the observation deck requires a timed-entry ticket. Purchase online at memphispyramid.com/observation-deck to guarantee access, especially during holidays or concerts. Online tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, and free for children under 6.

Engage with Staff and Docents

Many employees are trained in local history and architecture. Ask questions about the Pyramids construction, the materials used, or the inspiration behind the wildlife displays. Youll often receive insider tipslike the best photo spot on the observation deck or a hidden mural in the Bass Pro Shops restroom.

Respect the Environment

The Pyramids aquarium and wildlife exhibits are living ecosystems. Do not tap on glass, feed animals, or flash lights near sensitive habitats. These actions disrupt animal behavior and violate park policies.

Plan for Weather

Memphis experiences hot, humid summers and occasional winter storms. Check the forecast before your visit. While the Pyramid is climate-controlled, walking from your car to the entrance may expose you to elements. Bring a light jacket in winter and sunscreen in summer.

Combine Your Visit with Other Memphis Attractions

The Pyramid is located just 2 miles from Beale Street and 4 miles from Graceland. Plan a full-day itinerary: visit the Pyramid in the afternoon, enjoy dinner on Beale Street, and end the night with live blues music. Many local tour operators offer bundled passes that include Pyramid admission and downtown attractions.

Tools and Resources

Successful navigation of the Memphis Pyramid relies on leveraging the right tools and resources. Below is a curated list of digital and physical resources to enhance your visit.

Official Websites

• Memphis Pyramid Official Site www.memphispyramid.com The primary source for hours, ticketing, events, and exhibit updates.
• Bass Pro Shops Memphis www.basspro.com/memphis Detailed floor plans, restaurant menus, and activity schedules.
• Memphis Tourism www.memphistravel.com Comprehensive guides to nearby attractions, dining, and transportation.

Mobile Applications

• Bass Pro Shops App Available on iOS and Android. Includes store maps, product locator, and exclusive member discounts.
• Google Maps Use the Indoor Maps feature to navigate the Pyramids interior. Search Memphis Pyramid and toggle the Indoor layer.
• Memphis MATA Transit App Real-time bus tracking and route planning for public transit access.
• Weather Underground Hyperlocal forecasts for Memphis, including UV index and precipitation alerts.

Printed Materials

At the information kiosk near the main entrance, request a free printed map of the Pyramid. It includes:

• Level-by-level floor plans.
• Restroom and elevator locations.
• Accessibility features.
• Historical timeline of the Pyramids transformation.

These maps are also available in Spanish and large-print formats upon request.

Audio Guides and Digital Content

Scan QR codes located throughout the Pyramid to access free audio tours. Narrated by local historians, these guides cover:

• Architectural design and engineering challenges.
• Memphiss role in the civil rights movement.
• The ecological significance of the aquarium species.

For deeper dives, listen to the Memphis Pyramid Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Episodes feature interviews with architects, museum curators, and former NBA players who competed inside the building.

Accessibility Resources

The Pyramid is fully ADA-compliant. Resources include:

• Wheelchair-accessible elevators and ramps.
• Assistive listening devices for the observation deck audio tour.
• Service animal relief areas near the west entrance.
• Braille signage on all exhibit panels.

Contact the Pyramids accessibility coordinator via email at accessibility@memphispyramid.com for personalized assistance.

Photography and Social Media Tools

For photographers:

• Use a wide-angle lens for interior shots of the Great Hall.
• Bring a neutral density filter for long-exposure shots of the waterfall.
• Shoot the observation deck at golden hour for maximum contrast against the river.

Tag your photos with

MemphisPyramid

Real Examples

Real-world examples illustrate how visitors have successfully navigated and enriched their experience at the Memphis Pyramid. These stories highlight practical applications of the strategies outlined above.

Example 1: The First-Time Tourist from Chicago

Anna, a 34-year-old history teacher from Chicago, visited Memphis on a weekend getaway. She planned her Pyramid visit for a Tuesday morning, arriving at 9:30 AM. Using the Bass Pro Shops app, she downloaded the indoor map and set a reminder for the 11:00 AM observation deck tour. She spent two hours exploring the aquarium and wildlife exhibits, then took the elevator to the top just before sunset. The view of the river turning orange was unforgettable, she said. I took 47 photos and even spotted a riverboat passing under the bridge. Anna used the free Wi-Fi to upload her photos to a shared family album and later created a classroom presentation on urban landmarks using her visit as a case study.

Example 2: The Local Family with Young Children

The Rodriguez family from South Memphis visited the Pyramid with their two children, ages 5 and 8. They arrived at 1:00 PM on a Saturday and purchased a family pass for the observation deck ($35 total). They used the app to locate the Kids Discovery Zone near the aquarium, where children could touch real fish scales and play interactive games about river ecosystems. My son spent 45 minutes watching the alligators, said Maria Rodriguez. We didnt buy much, but we had a picnic lunch on the outdoor plazabrought our own sandwiches and saved $40. The family returned the next month for the Holiday Lights event, turning the Pyramid into an annual tradition.

Example 3: The Architectural Enthusiast

James, a 58-year-old civil engineer from Atlanta, visited the Pyramid to study its unique structure. He reserved a private guided tour through the Pyramids visitor services office. His guide, a former construction project manager, showed him the steel framework supporting the pyramids 300,000-ton concrete shell and explained how the building was designed to withstand Mississippi River wind shear. James took detailed notes and later published an article on Medium titled The Memphis Pyramid: Engineering a Symbol. He shared his article with his universitys architecture department, sparking a student research project on repurposed sports arenas.

Example 4: The Solo Traveler with a Camera

Daniel, a 26-year-old photographer from New Orleans, traveled solo to Memphis to capture urban decay and rebirth. He arrived at 7:00 PM, just as the Pyramids exterior lights turned on. He spent two hours photographing the structure from multiple angles: the riverbank, the parking garage rooftop, and the observation deck. He used a drone (legally registered) to capture aerial footage from a nearby public park. His Instagram series, Pyramid at Dusk, gained over 12,000 likes and was featured by @memphistravel. Its not just a building, he wrote in his caption. Its a story of reinvention.

Example 5: The Group of College Students

A group of six students from the University of Memphis visited the Pyramid as part of a cultural studies field trip. They split into teams: one explored the Bass Pro Shops merchandise, another documented the wildlife exhibits, and a third interviewed staff about the buildings history. They created a short documentary using smartphone footage and posted it on YouTube with the hashtag

PyramidProject. Their video received 8,000 views and was shared by the universitys communications department. We learned more about Memphiss identity in three hours than we did in three weeks of lectures, said team leader Lila Nguyen.

FAQs

Is there an entrance fee to visit the Memphis Pyramid?

No, entry to the Memphis Pyramid building and Bass Pro Shops is completely free. However, certain attractions within the Pyramid require paid admission: the observation deck ($12 for adults), the shooting range, and special exhibits. Parking is also free.

Can I bring my dog to the Memphis Pyramid?

Service animals are permitted throughout the Pyramid. Pets are not allowed inside Bass Pro Shops or the observation deck due to health and safety regulations. However, there is a designated pet relief area near the west parking entrance.

How long does it take to see everything in the Pyramid?

If youre only visiting Bass Pro Shops, plan for 23 hours. If you include the observation deck and any special exhibits, allocate 45 hours. For a thorough experienceexploring every exhibit, dining, and watching the waterfallyou could spend an entire day.

Is the observation deck worth visiting?

Absolutely. The 360-degree view from the 27th floor is unmatched in Memphis. On clear days, you can see up to 20 miles in every direction. Sunset and night views are particularly stunning, with the city lights reflecting off the Mississippi River.

Are there food options inside the Pyramid?

Yes. The Pyramid offers a variety of dining options, including The Rivers Edge Grill (full-service), Outfitters Caf (fast casual), Starbucks, and multiple snack kiosks. Prices are slightly higher than downtown due to location, but quality is excellent.

Can I host a private event at the Pyramid?

Yes. The Pyramid hosts weddings, corporate events, and conferences in its event halls. Contact the events team via the official website for pricing and availability. The observation deck can also be rented for private receptions during non-operating hours.

Is the Pyramid accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?

Yes. The entire facility is wheelchair-accessible with elevators, ramps, and wide corridors. Restrooms are ADA-compliant, and assistive listening devices are available upon request. Staff are trained to assist visitors with disabilities.

Can I take photos inside the Pyramid?

Yes, photography is encouraged for personal use. Tripods are allowed on the observation deck but must be set up in designated areas. Commercial photography requires a permitcontact the media relations department for details.

Whats the best time of year to visit?

Spring (MarchMay) and fall (SeptemberNovember) offer the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is hot and humid but ideal for evening visits to the observation deck. Winter is quiet and perfect for photography, especially during the Holiday Lights display.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. Free self-guided audio tours are available via QR codes. Paid private group tours (minimum 10 people) can be booked through the visitor services office. These include behind-the-scenes access and historical commentary.

Conclusion

Visiting the Memphis Pyramid is not merely a stop on a tourist itineraryits an immersive journey into architecture, culture, and regional identity. From the echoing grandeur of the Great Hall to the quiet solitude of the observation deck at dusk, every corner of the Pyramid tells a story. Whether youre drawn by its scale, its history, or its transformation from sports arena to cultural landmark, the experience is uniquely Memphis. By following the step-by-step guide, applying best practices, leveraging the recommended tools, and learning from real visitor examples, you ensure your visit is not just successful, but meaningful. The Pyramid stands as a testament to reinvention, resilience, and the enduring power of place. Dont just see itexperience it. Plan your visit, arrive with curiosity, and leave with a deeper understanding of a city that turned a pyramid into a symbol of pride. The Mississippi flows on, but the Pyramid? It still rises.