I thought all hotels fit into the same travel category until I stumbled upon this prized pearl.
If you have Memphis on your travel list this year, you have to (no – you must!) do yourself a favor and check out one of the most exotic hotel structures overlooking the Mississippi River. It’s a big treat in an unexpected location.
Meet the Big Cypress Lodge – a luxurious treasure found in the Bass Pro Shops! The initial introduction will knock your socks off (literally).
This endearing pyramid-shaped structure stands strong with hundred-foot cypress trees beautifully planted in the floors of the pyramid. It’s so tempting to stay in the lobby and admire it all (get those selfies in!).
You’ll feel the enchantment of childhood through the broad views of retail shops, amusement park layouts, fishing activities, and foods that will make you want to savor the moment forever. In the center, you’ll find the tallest freestanding elevator that leads to the hotel’s premier dining spot, The Lookout (brace yourself for an elevated view 300 feet above the ground).
When you think your eyes have hit its sweet spot, you’ll soon discover that you’ve only seen a piece of the pie. Keep walking around, and you’ll find alligator ponds, an aquatic-themed bowling alley, large water tanks, and majestic sea creatures daintily exploring the river. There’s even a Cypress swamp in the middle that makes the landscape even more intriguing.
Remember, you’re still indoors. But the outdoor ambiance makes you feel like you’re in the coziest part of the wilderness.
You might be surprised to hear that this lodge was once home to the University of Memphis men’s basketball program and the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies. So, this beauty is extra special, and you’ll be one of the first to experience it.
The Big Cypress Lodge opened in Spring 2015. The accommodations are well suited to make any traveler’s heart pump. Get ready for an energy burst unlike any other.
Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable nature experience in an aquatic-themed scene or an intimate setting perfectly designed to capture your romantic pleasures, you’ll be mesmerized by every detail that you unwrap – and trust me, your room is no exception!
When you spot the handcrafted deer head on the wall (it’s seated right above you as you sleep!), you’ll get immediate confirmation that this isn’t your typical hotel room. It’s more like an elegant treehouse with an electric fireplace, cabin-style décor, and dimly lit jetted bathtub.
Just wait until you see the French doors that give you access to your private porch and rocking chairs. You’ve reached the peak of relaxation as you overlook the magnificent view of the activities on the ground level.
You’ll need more than one night here to soak it all in. So, plan accordingly and add this to your must-see list when you visit Memphis. It will fulfill your most outlandish adventure taste buds in seconds.
Charlene Rhinehart is an award-winning speaker, consultant, and coach who uses digital technologies to share inspiring stories with the world. She helps others live their best life as a Financial Coach at Wealthy Women Daily, Founder of the Career Goddess Academy, and Travel & Lifestyle Writer at BlackCoupleTravels.com.