Riding the Rails of History: The Central Station Memphis, Curio Collection by Hilton

The writer was hosted.



The Central Station Memphis is not just an accommodation; it’s an immersive experience in the echoes of a bygone era of American train travel. Wandering through corridors that once buzzed with departures and arrivals in Memphis Central Station, the magic of train travel is, quite literally, etched in its architecture.



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The speaker wall in the lobby honors the musical heritage of Memphis as the home of blues, soul, and rock and roll. Photo credit: Central Station Hotel


Railroad Hub Becomes Luxury Haven


A bustling regional rail hub until the 1960s, The Central Station Memphis, Curio Collection by Hilton , is now a chic haven where the past meets luxury.



The rail station, built in 1914 as Memphis’s Grand Central Station, still serves rail traffic. Today, it is a hub for MATA trolleys and Amtrak’s City of New Orleans route to Chicago.



The Central Station Memphis  opened in 2019, offering 123 thoughtfully designed rooms. The stylish public area features an Instagram-worthy wall of EgglestonWorks speakers.



A wall of vintage vinyl records decorates the public spaces. Photo credit: Central Station Hotel


Memphis’ Living Room


In the Eight & Sand Lounge, the station’s history is brought to life by an original green neon track sign above the bar and a reel-to-reel deck, both mounted like objects d’art.



The lounge serves as Memphis’ living room. DJs regularly spin records and musicians perform amid original train station benches and a DJ booth crafted from an old Hammond organ. Behind the bar lies the Listening Room, a hidden gem for music lovers.



The Eight and Sand Lounge features an original green neon track sign. Photo credit: Central Station Hotel



The Memphis hotel’s vinyl record collection numbers more than 4,000 records, each one with some connection to the city’s rich musical legacy. In some cases, the record was recorded here. In others, the recording artist or the song includes a bow to Memphis.



A cozy guestroom. Photo credit: Central Station Hotel


Guestrooms


My king room was a cozy sanctuary. The attention to detail, plush bedding, and custom artwork set the tone for my stay. The oversized windows offered views of Memphis’ charming South Main neighborhood.



Staying connected was a breeze with the free wifi, and the 49-inch HDTV provided entertainment at the end of my day. The workspace had plenty of USB outlets and the Keurig coffeemaker kept me fully caffeinated.



One of the highlights was the music playing on the custom-designed Egglestonworks speakers. It made my time in the room a delightful retreat.



I liked my room so much that I opted to order room service. It allowed me to indulge in a delicious meal in comfortable surroundings.



Photo credit: Central Station Hotel



In line with the hotel’s train station theme, the bathroom was a visual delight. The white marble sink, black metal accents, plush white towels, and premium toiletries echoed the charm of the early 20th century.



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A southern breakfast at Bishop with heavenly biscuits. Photo credit: Sharon Kurtz


Dining at Central Station Hotel


The hotel boasts two outstanding on-site restaurants.



The Bishop  is a brasserie with a contemporary French fusion menu highlighting fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavors.



At breakfast, the Southern biscuits were pure bliss thanks to their golden crust and fluffy interior.



Eight and Sand Lounge and Bar offers small plates, hearty mains, and libations. Photo credit: Central Station Hotel



Eight and Sand , the hotel’s lounge and bar, offers an impressive menu from small plates to hearty mains, complemented by tempting cocktails, an extensive wine list, and craft beers.  



The 24-hour fitness center. Photo credit: Central Station Hotel


Amenities at Central Station Hotel


Central Station Hotel is pet-friendly and family-friendly. Room choices at the 4-star hotel are two queen beds or a luxurious king bed, with options for connecting rooms and complimentary cribs for families.



Central Station Hotel is pet-friendly. Photo credit: Central Station Hotel



Amenities include:




24-hour fitness center



24-hour front desk



business center



onsite ATM



gift shop



onsite self-parking



free wifi




The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is nearby. Photo credit: Central Station Hotel


Things to Do Near Central Station Hotel


The hotel’s central location in the South Main District of Memphis makes it a great spot for sightseeing in the city’s arts district.




Immerse yourself in the city’s soul by exploring Beale Street,  Stax Museum of American Soul , and Graceland,  the iconic home of Elvis Presley.



The historic Arcade Restaurant  is right across from the hotel on Main Street.



The  National Civil Rights Museum  is within walking distance from the hotel



Head to the Fedex Forum to take in a Memphis Grizzlies game or visit the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum .



Take a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River at  Tom Lee Park .  




The Central Station Memphis. Photo credit: Central Station Hotel



SheBuysTravel Tip:  Before you book, join the Hilton Honors program for extra perks and to earn points for future hotel stays. The post Riding the Rails of History: The Central Station Memphis, Curio Collection by Hilton appeared first on She Buys Travel .