Using the Sky High Ride and observation deck: what to know

The Sky High Ride is the glass elevator that takes guests to the Pyramid’s glass observation deck at Big Cypress Lodge. Complimentary Sky High Ride tickets are included with a room stay; the ride and deck operate daily with specific public hours—check the hotel for current times.
In this guide
What the Sky High Ride and observation deck are
The Sky High Ride is a glass elevator that travels to a glass observation deck at the top of the Memphis Pyramid where Big Cypress Lodge is located. The deck provides elevated views of downtown Memphis and the Mississippi River area.
The attraction is run as part of the Pyramid complex and is listed among the on-site activities available to hotel guests and visitors.

Hours and when to go
Public operating hours for the Sky High Ride and Glass Observation Deck are Monday–Saturday 11:00 AM–8:30 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM–6:30 PM. These are the posted standard hours; special events or seasonal changes can affect availability.
If you have limited time or prefer fewer people, arrive near opening or in late afternoon — evenings can be busier, especially on weekends and when there are events downtown.
- Standard hours: Mon–Sat 11:00 AM–8:30 PM; Sun 11:00 AM–6:30 PM
- Last entry times may be earlier on busy days or at closing
- Confirm hours with the front desk or hotel website on the day of your visit
Tickets, who’s included, and how to access the ride
Complimentary Sky High Ride tickets are included with a room stay at Big Cypress Lodge, per the property’s list of included amenities. Non-guest visitors can use the attraction as a separate paid activity (check with the property or Bass Pro Shops for current non-guest policies).
To access the ride from the hotel, show your room key or ticket at the Sky High Ride entrance. If you’re a hotel guest and want to confirm how your complimentary tickets are delivered or reserved, ask the front desk at check-in.
- Hotel guests: complimentary Sky High Ride tickets included with a stay
- Confirm whether you need a physical ticket or a room-key entry at check-in
- Non-guests: contact the Pyramid/Bass Pro Shops or hotel for current access rules
What to expect on the ride and at the deck
The ride uses a glass elevator traveling to the Pyramid’s observation deck, offering elevated views of the city and riverfront when you step off at the top. The deck area is designed for viewing and for the rooftop dining venue The Lookout at the Pyramid.
Expect typical lines at popular times; staff manage boarding for safety and capacity. If you have mobility needs or questions about elevator access, confirm details with the hotel since the Sky High Ride is an elevator-based attraction.
- Glass elevator ride to rooftop observation level
- Views include downtown Memphis and the Mississippi River area
- Boarding and capacity are controlled by ride staff — follow posted safety instructions

Accessibility, safety, and guest policies
The Sky High Ride is an elevator-based attraction; guests who require mobility assistance should speak with hotel staff or ride attendants to confirm boarding procedures and any accommodations. Big Cypress Lodge also provides 24-hour access to the property with your room key.
As with other hotel areas, the property enforces its general guest policies (for example, lead guests must be 21 or older to check in). For any health or safety concerns about the Sky High Ride, ask staff at the elevator entrance before boarding.
- If you have mobility concerns, notify staff for assistance
- Follow posted safety rules and attendant directions while boarding
- Confirm ride access if the Pyramid closes to retail visitors — hotel key access may differ

Planning tips and combined experiences
Combine the Sky High Ride with a meal at The Lookout at the Pyramid for an elevated dining experience; The Lookout’s hours are listed separately and reservations are recommended. The observation deck and rooftop dining are part of the same top-level area of the Pyramid.
While at the Pyramid, you can also use other on-site activities such as The Fishbowl bowling, the Bass Pro Shops retail areas, and the on-demand downtown shuttle offered to hotel guests. If you’re staying at Big Cypress Lodge, check with the front desk about the complimentary shuttle hours and how to request it.
- Reserve The Lookout at the Pyramid if you plan to dine after the ride
- Pair the ride with a walk through Bass Pro Shops, or The Fishbowl bowling upstairs
- Ask the front desk about complimentary shuttle service to Beale Street and downtown
| On-site option | Notes |
|---|---|
| The Lookout at the Pyramid (restaurant) | Top-level dining; separate hours and reservations recommended |
| The Fishbowl (bowling/bar) | Ocean-themed bowling and bar on the main floor; family-friendly activity |
| Bass Pro Shops | Large retail area and aquarium with daily fish feedings |


