Spend a Day at Memphis’ Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid
The Bass Pro Shops at the Memphis Pyramid isn’t your average outdoor gear store. Step inside this towering, glass-covered landmark, and you’ll find yourself in a wilderness-inspired playground filled with everything from live alligators to sky-high views of the Mississippi. Originally a sports arena, this 32-story structure has transformed into a unique experience at the crossroads of shopping, nature, and Southern hospitality. Here’s what makes the Pyramid in Memphis worth exploring.
01 The Memphis Pyramid: An Urban Oasis with a Wild Twist
This pyramid has been a fixture of the Memphis skyline since 1991, but its story has taken an unexpected turn. Originally built for sports events, it now draws in nature lovers, travelers, and curious locals alike. At 321 feet tall, the Pyramid is one of the biggest in the world, but its size is just the beginning. Step inside, and you’ll find a sprawling Bass Pro Shops store, an indoor swamp teeming with wildlife, a 28-story elevator with sweeping views, and even a treehouse-inspired hotel. From day trips to overnights, this place has a little bit of everything—and a whole lot of character.
02 A Walk Through the Indoor Swamp – Nature in the Heart of Memphis
One of the Pyramid’s standout features is the indoor swamp, a mini-ecosystem inspired by the nearby Mississippi Delta. Towering cypress trees, moss-covered branches, and slow-moving waters create an atmosphere that’s as close as you can get to a Southern wetland without leaving the city. The swamp is home to alligators, turtles, and fish, with daily feeding shows that offer a glimpse into the lives of these creatures. This immersive setup does more than just look cool—it gives you a feel for the real, untamed side of the South. You can watch the alligators bask or catch sight of turtles resting on logs as you explore the elevated walkways. The indoor swamp isn’t just an attraction; it’s a quick escape into a different world.
03 The Lookout at the Pyramid – Views with a Side of Adrenaline
If you’re up for a high-altitude adventure, head to the Lookout at the top of the Pyramid. Hop into the glass-walled elevator (the tallest freestanding one in the U.S.), which will take you up 28 stories to an observation deck with panoramic views of Memphis and the Mississippi River. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass floor for those brave enough to look down, the Lookout gives you a view unlike any other in Memphis. Sunset is prime time here when the whole area is bathed in warm light and the river shimmers below. And if you’re staying at the Big Cypress Lodge, access to the Lookout is free—a nice bonus for overnight guests.
04 The Fishbowl – Bowling, but Make It Underwater
Bowling at the Fishbowl is anything but ordinary. Picture lanes are decorated with vibrant murals of coral reefs, sea creatures, and dynamic lighting that mimics the shimmer of sunlight through water. It’s like an ocean escape meets a bowling alley, where you can roll a strike while surrounded by underwater-inspired decor. And when hunger strikes, the Fishbowl has you covered with sea-inspired snacks like fish tacos and seafood salads. If you’re looking for something different, head to Wahlburgers Wild right next door for game-inspired dishes and a refreshing selection of drinks. Bowling here feels more like an immersive experience than a simple night out, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
05 Overnight at the Big Cypress Lodge – A Stay with Style and Spirit
For an unforgettable stay, book a room at the Big Cypress Lodge, a hotel that brings a rustic, treehouse vibe to the heart of the Pyramid. Rooms here feel like cozy cabins, with wood paneling, fireplaces, and screened-in porches overlooking the indoor swamp. Some suites even come with extras like jetted tubs, private balconies, and handcrafted furniture. Guests staying at Big Cypress Lodge get added perks, too—like priority dining reservations, free access to the Lookout, and in-room delivery from Bass Pro Shops, making it more than just a hotel stay. For nature lovers who appreciate city convenience, this lodge offers a unique blend of both.
06 Dining with a View – Restaurants That Go Beyond Basic
Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid offers more than just grab-and-go bites. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty burger or Southern-inspired fare, the dining options here deliver, each with its own unique flair. Wahlburgers Wild is a popular stop for casual bites, with menu options like the “Outdoorsman Burger” and wild game selections served in a rustic, cabin-style setting. At the very top of the Pyramid, The Lookout pairs Southern flavors with stunning views of the river—a BBQ platter or a “Pyramid Punch” cocktail tastes even better with the Mississippi River as your backdrop. With its underwater decor, Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill is a favorite for families, combining dining and entertainment in one fun stop.
07 Activities for Every Type of Adventurer
Beyond its shopping appeal, the Pyramid packs in activities for every kind of adventurer. You can try your hand at the state-of-the-art shooting range or hone your archery skills with realistic 3D animal targets. The Ducks Unlimited Waterfowling Heritage Center offers insights into the history of duck hunting and conservation, while a live duck aviary provides a close-up look at waterfowl in a naturalistic setting. And, of course, if you’re looking to gear up for your own outdoor adventures, the massive Bass Pro Shops retail space has everything you need, from fishing gear to camping essentials.
08 An Adventure Right in the Heart of Memphis
The Bass Pro Shops at the Memphis Pyramid is a one-of-a-kind experience that blurs the lines between retail, entertainment, and the outdoors. Whether you’re watching alligators in the swamp, taking in the view from the Lookout, or grabbing a bite at one of the themed restaurants, this Pyramid offers a Memphis adventure like no other. Perfect for families, weekend travelers, and anyone curious about exploring Memphis in a new way, the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid combines the spirit of the outdoors with a vibrant twist on the typical shopping experience—all under one iconic roof.
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