About
A pyramid in Memphis? Why, yes! One of the city’s most recognizable and curious destinations is Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid rising over the banks of the Mississippi River.
The Pyramid first debuted in 1991 as a sports and concert arena. In 2015, it was converted into a huge retail and entertainment complex with an outdoor theme. Due to its amazing size and distinctive design, the structure is a prominent, if not quirky, element of the Memphis skyline.
The Pyramid occupies 535,000 square feet and offers a wide range of experiences extending well beyond shopping. Providing an immersive outdoor-themed showcase was precisely among the objectives upon converting the pyramid.
This sure isn’t company founder Johnny Morris’ original 8-square-foot shop from Missouri. This is the largest Bass Pro Shop in the world! There are fish-filled aquariums, the opulent Big Cypress Lodge hotel, and even an indoor swamp.
Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, thanks to its prime location in downtown Memphis, offers a unique fusion of outdoor adventure and urban excitement.
Just up the river from Beale Street, the pyramid offers an eccentric nod to the city’s ancient Egyptian namesake.
Not just for outdoor enthusiasts, the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid is an adventure unlike anything else in Memphis.
Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid: Fun Facts & Cool Features
An interesting part of the history as to why Bass Pro Shops is at the Pyramid in Memphis comes down to a fishing bet.
According to Big Cypress Lodge at the Pyramid, Bass Pro Shops’ founder, Johnny Morris, was fishing along the Mississippi River with friends in 2005 when they got near the structure. Morris allegedly looked up and told his fellow fishermen that if they caught a 30-pound catfish, he would put a store in the pyramid. With about an hour left on their fishing adventure, Morris’ friend Jack reeled in a 34-pound catfish and, needless to say, Johnny lived up to his word.
Today, entering the Pyramid is like stepping into a world where outdoor adventure meets breathtaking design. Among the most striking features inside is the Ducks Unlimited Waterfowling Heritage Center, a free museum that honors conservation initiatives and highlights the history of duck hunting. For further duck appreciation, catch the Peabody Ducks in downtown Memphis.
Additional features that delight nature lovers include the building's live swamp with alligators and lush vegetation. Furthermore, the Sky High Ride 28-story elevator transports visitors to the Pyramid's summit for a bird's-eye view.
For those looking to dine, The Lookout at the summit offers delicious meals with a panoramic skyline view. Alternatively, when heading back downtown, Maciel’s Tortas & Tacos offers authentic Mexican food in a casual, quick-service setting with indoor and outdoor dining options.
Even if you’re not into fishing or hunting, the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid in Memphis provides a unique combination of retail and adventure. Visiting during your Memphis vacation will be an unforgettable experience.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Memphis to the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid:
- Start on Union Avenue heading west toward Riverside Drive.
- Turn right onto Riverside Drive and head north for 1.3 miles.
- Continue to follow signs toward A.W. Willis Avenue/I-40 West.
- Exit to A.W. Willis Avenue, and you’ll see the Pyramid on your right.
- Turn right onto Bass Pro Drive to enter the parking lot.
- Address: 1 Bass Pro Drive, Memphis, TN, 38105.
Local Tips
- Parking on-site costs $10 but is free if you spend $20 or more inside.
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, offering a quieter experience.
- The Sky High elevator can have long lines, so try early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the rush.
- Check out the Fish Bowl bowling alley for a unique entertainment option.
- Don’t skip the outdoor observation deck for the best photos of Memphis and the Mississippi River.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; the enormous space is best enjoyed without rushing.
