What to pack for a stay at Big Cypress Lodge — seasonal checklist
Pack season-appropriate clothing for Memphis weather, plus items for indoor-lodge amenities: comfortable shoes for walking the Pyramid and Bass Pro Shops, a light jacket for rooftop and riverfront breezes, and evening attire if you plan to dine at The Lookout at the Pyramid. Bring ID and the card used to guarantee the reservation (guests must be 21+ to check in), any pet supplies if bringing dogs, and chargers / toiletries for an unplugged-style lodge room.
In this guide
What to bring year-round — daily essentials
Always travel with a government photo ID and the credit card used to guarantee your reservation; Big Cypress Lodge requires a photo ID and places an authorization hold at check-in. The lead guest checking in must be 21 or older.
The property includes complimentary Wi‑Fi, 24-hour fitness center access, valet parking and complimentary Sky High Ride tickets, but meals and spa services cost extra — plan for that when packing.
- Photo ID and credit card (for check-in and $100 authorization hold)
- Phone charger, portable battery, and any travel adapters
- Cash or card for on-site meals, spa treatments, parking fee, and activities
- Small daypack for exploring Bass Pro Shops, the swamp exhibit, and nearby downtown
| Included with stay | Pack if you want it |
|---|---|
| Complimentary Wi‑Fi | Streaming devices / HDMI cable (if you prefer) |
| 24-hour fitness center access (level three) | Workout clothes & trainers |
| Complimentary Sky High Ride tickets | Binoculars for observation deck views |
Clothing checklist by season
Memphis has hot, humid summers and cool winters. Aim for breathable layers in late spring through early fall and warmer outer layers in late fall through winter.
If you're visiting in shoulder seasons (spring or fall), pack a lightweight rain jacket — spring is the rainier season and severe weather is more likely in spring and parts of fall.
- Summer (May–Sept): shorts, moisture-wicking shirts, sun hat, sandals plus one evening outfit
- Spring / Fall: layers (T‑shirts, light sweater, rain jacket), comfortable walking shoes
- Winter (Dec–Feb): warm coat, long underwear if you run cold, closed shoes
- Evening: casual-smart outfit for The Lookout at the Pyramid or The Den Bar & Lounge
| Season | Key items |
|---|---|
| Summer | Shorts, breathable shirts, hat, sunscreen |
| Spring/Fall | Layered tops, light jacket, rain shell |
| Winter | Warm coat, sweater, closed-toe shoes |
Room-type and in-room items to consider
Room styles include Interior Room, Duck Cabin, Exterior Room, Fly Fishing Lodge, Terrace Room, Terrace Suite, and Treehouse Room — many rooms have porches or balconies overlooking the indoor cypress swamp or city/river views. If you prefer a balcony or porch, request Terrace Suite, Terrace Room, Exterior Room, or rooms that list balcony access when you book.
Big Cypress Lodge rooms are rustic in style; bring any small comforts you prefer (your preferred pillowcase, slippers, or a favorite robe) but note the hotel provides standard bedding and towels.
- Bring slippers or camp-style shoes for walking room porches and indoor boardwalks
- If staying in Duck Cabin or Treehouse Room, consider insect-repellent wipes (the rooms are indoors but mimic outdoor styles)
- Pack swimwear only if you plan riverfront activities off-property — the hotel has no pool
| Room name | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Interior Room | Indoor-facing rooms, rustic decor |
| Terrace Suite / Terrace Room | Balcony/porch options and river/downtown views |
| Duck Cabin / Treehouse Room | Cabin or elevated treehouse styling, themed furnishings |
Toiletries, meds and bathroom notes
Hotel bathrooms provide standard toiletries and towels; bring any prescription medications, travel-size first-aid items, and specialty products you need. If you have mobility or accessibility needs, confirm room features before arrival.
Some suites feature larger soaking tubs and glass showers — if a deep soak matters, request a suite with that bathroom style when you book.
- Prescription meds, pain reliever, allergy meds
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, deodorant, preferred skincare
- Small supply of laundry items or stain remover for active trips
| Bathroom feature | Pack if you want it |
|---|---|
| Soaking tub / suite bathroom | Extra towels (if you prefer) / robe |
| Standard vanity & shower | Shampoo/conditioner or brand preferences |
| No pool on-site | Plan swims off-property; pack swimwear only if you’ll go to riverfront activities |
Activities — what to pack for on-site entertainment
Big Cypress Lodge offers indoor activities such as the Sky High Ride (glass observation deck), a 13-lane bowling alley (The Fishbowl), archery, a 24-hour fitness center (level three), and on-site shopping at Bass Pro Shops. Pack activity-specific gear or attire so you can take advantage of these options.
Spa treatments at Big Cypress Spa by Gould’s are available for purchase on the 2nd floor; availability can vary so confirm hours/reservations ahead of time.
- Comfortable shoes for walking the Bass Pro Shops and exploring the indoor swamp exhibit
- Athletic wear for the 24-hour fitness center
- Casual clothes for bowling and The Fishbowl; a light jacket for rooftop/observation deck visits
| On-site activity | Suggested items to pack |
|---|---|
| Sky High Ride / Observation Deck | Light jacket, camera/binoculars |
| Bowling (The Fishbowl) | Casual clothes, socks (shoes provided at lanes if needed) |
| Archery | Closed-toe shoes, comfortable pants |
Travel logistics, families and pets
Big Cypress Lodge welcomes children of all ages but the lead guest must be 21+ to check in. Confirm family-room bedding (some room types offer 2 Queen Beds or a King + Queen) when booking if you need specific layouts.
Dogs are permitted (maximum two per room) for a fee; service animals are welcome free of charge. If bringing pets, pack pet bedding, food, leash, and cleanup supplies and never leave pets unattended in rooms.
- If traveling with children: bring any needed children’s meals/medication — breakfast is available for purchase on-site but is not included in the room rate
- If traveling with dogs: pack leash, food, bedding, and waste bags; expect a per-pet fee
- Parking: overnight guests are charged a required parking fee (valet or self-parking); plan for this charge
| Policy | What to bring |
|---|---|
| Minimum check-in age | Photo ID for the 21+ lead guest |
| Pets | Dog supplies; per-pet fee applies |
| Parking | Payment method for nightly parking fee |
