The most affordable downtown accommodations are in chain hotels. One of the best choices is the Sleep Inn at Court Square (40 N. Front St., 901/522-9700, $100–150), with 124 simple but clean and well-maintained rooms. Guests have access to a small fitness room, free parking, and a free continental breakfast. For those with a bigger appetite, the excellent Blue Plate Café is just across the square. It’s a five-block walk to Beale Street from Court Square, but the trolley runs right past the front door of the hotel.

A little closer to the action is the 71-room Comfort Inn Downtown (100 N. Front St., 901/520-0583, $100–135). This hotel is within easy walking distance of all the city-center attractions. Rooms are nothing special, but the staff are often quite friendly and guests get free breakfast, Internet access, and indoor parking, and there’s an outdoor pool. Ask for a room facing west and you’ll have a nice view of the Mississippi River.