7 Shocking Secrets Inside The Bass Pro Shop Pyramid: Photos And Features You Won't Believe
Step inside the Memphis Pyramid today, December 24, 2025, and you'll find a world far beyond a simple retail store. What was once a massive, underutilized sports arena has been completely transformed into one of the most dynamic and immersive outdoor retail and entertainment destinations on the planet: the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. This 535,000-square-foot structure is not just a place to buy fishing gear; it is a national destination experience that combines a luxury wilderness hotel, a massive indoor swamp, and a breathtaking observation deck, making it an essential stop on any trip to Downtown Memphis.
The sheer scale and ambition of the project are what truly captivate visitors. It stands as a beacon on the Mississippi River, inviting curiosity about what lies beneath its steel-sided exterior. From the moment you enter, you are transported from the urban landscape into a meticulously crafted, multi-story wilderness complete with real-life alligators, live fish, and towering cypress trees that reach toward the apex of the structure.
The Ultimate Wilderness Retreat: Big Cypress Lodge and Sky High Views
The Bass Pro Shops Pyramid is more than just a mega-store; it is home to the Big Cypress Lodge, a 103-room wilderness-themed hotel that is an attraction in itself. This luxury accommodation extends across the second and third floors of the Pyramid, offering guests an unrivaled experience. The rustic, individually decorated rooms are considered some of the largest hotel rooms in Memphis.
Luxury Suites with a View (Inside the Pyramid)
Unlike traditional hotels, many of the Big Cypress Lodge rooms—such as the Interior Double Queen and Premier Rooms—feature balconies that overlook the vast, immersive indoor cypress swamp and the retail floor below, providing a constant, unique view of the activity and the 100-foot-tall artificial trees. Key room types include:
- Deluxe Rooms: Feature over-sized beds and electric fireplaces, emphasizing a cozy, rustic feel.
- Terrace King Suite: Spacious options for larger groups or those desiring a more expansive stay.
- Exterior Double Queen: Offer views of the Memphis skyline or the Mississippi River outside the Pyramid.
A major perk for Big Cypress Lodge guests is complimentary access to the Pyramid's most famous attraction: the Sky High Ride and Observation Deck.
The Sky High Ride and Glass-Floored Observation Deck
The centerpiece of the entire experience is the Sky High Ride, a massive, free-standing elevator that travels 28 stories to the apex of the Pyramid. This ride is an adventure in itself, delivering guests to the top for a spectacular panoramic view.
At approximately 300 feet above the Mississippi River, the Observation Deck offers a breathtaking vista of the Memphis skyline, the river, and the surrounding landscape. The deck famously features a section of glass flooring, allowing the most adventurous visitors to look straight down into the retail store and the swamp below—a truly vertigo-inducing photo opportunity.
At the top, visitors can also dine at The Lookout at the Pyramid, a full-service restaurant and bar that provides an unparalleled dining experience with a view, especially at night when the nearby Mighty Lights Bridge is illuminated.
Observation Deck Ticket Details (Approximate):
- Adult Admission: $8 to $10 (varies by time/source).
- Children (5-12): $5.
- Lodge Guests: Admission is included free with the stay.
Inside the 600,000-Gallon Cypress Swamp
The retail floor of the Bass Pro Shops is unlike any other store in the world, largely due to the massive, living ecosystem built within it. The interior features a meticulously designed cypress swamp habitat that includes 600,000 gallons of water features. This indoor wetland is populated with live fish, including bass and catfish, and even features live alligators in a secure enclosure, giving the entire space a genuine, immersive outdoor feel.
The atmosphere is enhanced by the presence of 100-foot-tall artificial cypress trees, which not only serve as a key visual element but also help house the unique, stilt-cabin style rooms of the Big Cypress Lodge.
Hidden Attractions and Must-See Entities
Beyond the retail and the hotel, the Pyramid is packed with unique attractions that boost its topical authority as a true destination:
1. Fishbowl Bowling Alley: Located near the base of the Pyramid, the Fishbowl is a 13-lane, underwater-themed bowling alley. The immersive design features marine life and an overall aquatic aesthetic, providing a fun, family-friendly activity inside the massive structure.
2. Ducks Unlimited Waterfowling Heritage Center: This is a major non-retail attraction located within the Pyramid. The Heritage Center is dedicated to the history of waterfowling and wetland conservation. It is free and open to the public during store hours.
- Exhibits: The Center features world-class, rotating exhibits, including new displays added as recently as 2020, such as a celebration of the Canada Goose.
- Mission: It serves as an educational hub, generously supported by Bass Pro Shops, to promote the mission of Ducks Unlimited.
3. Beretta Gallery: Located on the second floor, this upscale gallery caters to enthusiasts of fine firearms and outdoor apparel, adding a layer of luxury retail to the overall experience.
The Memphis Pyramid: A True National Destination
The transformation of the Memphis Pyramid into a Bass Pro Shops destination has solidified its status as a national tourist landmark. It successfully blends outdoor retail with entertainment, lodging, and education, making it a unique experience that draws visitors from across the country.
From the thrill of the 28-story elevator ride to the tranquility of the indoor cypress swamp, and the educational value of the Ducks Unlimited exhibits, the Pyramid offers a multi-faceted adventure. Whether you are a dedicated outdoors enthusiast, a traveler seeking a quirky and luxurious hotel stay, or simply curious about the massive structure on the Mississippi River, the Bass Pro Shop Pyramid is a must-see marvel in Memphis, Tennessee.
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