The Iconic Pyramid in Memphis: A Historic Transformation

1. A Brief History of the Pyramid

The Pyramid in downtown Memphis has been a significant part of the city’s skyline since 1991. Throughout its history, this remarkable structure has undergone various transformations, serving as an entertainment arena, a vacant dilemma for the City of Memphis, and most notably, as a captivating retail attraction.

Initially, the Pyramid operated as an events arena and was home to the city’s NBA team, the Memphis Grizzlies, as well as the University of Memphis men’s basketball team. During its peak, nationally renowned musical acts, including Mary J. Blige, Guns ‘N’ Roses, Hank Williams Jr., Eric Clapton, and Garth Brooks, performed at this illustrious venue.

Additionally, significant events such as the World Wrestling Federation’s St. Valentine’s Day Massacre pay-per-view event and the famous Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson fight in 2002 took place at the Pyramid Arena, alongside various basketball conference tournaments.

2. Renovation and Transformation to Bass Pro Shops

Following the opening of FedExForum in 2004, which led the Memphis Grizzlies and the University of Memphis to relocate, the Pyramid Arena was left empty for many years, until its revival in 2015.

In 2009, Shelby County sold its shares of the building to the City of Memphis, which then initiated discussions with Bass Pro Shops to renovate the Pyramid under a 20-year lease. Construction for this dynamic project began in 2012.

3. Unique Features and Attractions

In late April 2015, Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid celebrated its grand opening, signaling a new era for this iconic structure. It has now been transformed into an eye-catching retail location and an enticing visitor destination. Key features include:

• Two floors of outdoor gear and retail.
• More than half a million gallons of water features.
• 100-foot-tall cypress trees, live alligators, and fish.
• A museum and a bowling alley.
• Two restaurants and two glass-floored observation decks.
• A stunning 28-story glass elevator leading to a breathtaking view at the top.

Furthermore, the Pyramid houses the Big Cypress Lodge, a wilderness-themed luxury hotel and event center featuring 103 cozy rooms that provide guests with the experience of a log cabin, complete with top-notch amenities.

4. Interesting Facts About the Pyramid

Here are some intriguing facts about the Pyramid itself:

• The Pyramid has been referred to as “The Great American Pyramid,” “The Pyramid Arena,” and currently, “Bass Pro Shops At The Pyramid.”
• Standing at 321 feet tall, it ranks as the third largest pyramid in the world.
• This Memphis structure is a 60% replica of the Great Pyramid of Cheops in Egypt.
• Until 2012, a 25-foot statue of Ramesses II guarded the Pyramid’s entrance, which is now located on the University of Memphis campus.
• The Pyramid’s exterior features elegant stainless steel cladding.
• Bass Pro’s glass elevator is recognized as the nation’s tallest freestanding elevator.

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid is conveniently located at 1 Bass Pro Drive (formerly known as 1 Auction Avenue) in downtown Memphis.