Peabody Ducks

The Peabody Hotel, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the most unique hotels in the world. What makes it so special? The answer lies in its feathered residents – the Peabody Ducks.

The Peabody Ducks have been a fixture of the hotel since the 1930s. The tradition started when the hotel’s general manager, Frank Schutt, and his friend, Chip Barwick, returned from a hunting trip and thought it would be amusing to place their live decoys in the hotel’s fountain. The stunt was a hit with hotel guests, and the Peabody Ducks have been a fixture at the hotel ever since.

Today, the Peabody Ducks are one of the most beloved attractions in Memphis. Twice daily, at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., the ducks make their way down the red carpet from their rooftop palace to the lobby fountain. A master of ceremonies introduces the ducks and their Duckmaster, who leads them on their march. The ducks are outfitted in their finest attire – a red carpet is rolled out, and a brass band plays “King Cotton March” as the ducks make their way through the lobby.

The ducks are not just for show, however. They have their own luxurious penthouse on the roof of the hotel, complete with a custom-made fountain, a duck-sized elevator, and a specially-designed air conditioning system to keep them cool in the hot Memphis summers. The ducks are tended to by their own Duckmaster, who oversees their care and feeding.

Visitors to the Peabody Hotel can observe the ducks in their natural habitat at the hotel’s lobby fountain, where they spend the day swimming, preening, and sleeping. The hotel also offers a “Duck March” tour, which allows guests to learn more about the history of the Peabody Ducks and to witness the famous march up close.

The Peabody Ducks have become something of a cultural icon in Memphis, and their legacy extends beyond the hotel. The ducks have been featured in countless movies, television shows, and books, and have even inspired their own line of merchandise. The Peabody Hotel has become synonymous with the Peabody Ducks, and no visit to Memphis is complete without a stop at this unique hotel.

But the Peabody Hotel is more than just a home for ducks – it is a luxurious and historic hotel with a rich history of hospitality. The hotel was first opened in 1869 by Robert Campbell Brinkley, who named it after his friend, George Peabody. The hotel quickly became known for its opulence and elegance, attracting guests from all over the world.

Over the years, the Peabody Hotel has undergone several renovations and expansions, but its commitment to luxury and hospitality has remained constant. Today, the hotel boasts 464 guest rooms and suites, each one elegantly appointed with plush furnishings and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s fitness center, rooftop pool, and full-service spa, as well as its fine dining restaurants and bars.

The Peabody Hotel is also home to the world-famous Peabody Rooftop Party, a summer event series that attracts thousands of guests each year. The party takes place on the hotel’s rooftop terrace, where guests can enjoy live music, food, and drinks with stunning views of the Memphis skyline.

In addition to its luxurious amenities, the Peabody Hotel is steeped in history and tradition. The hotel’s grand lobby, with its ornate columns and crystal chandeliers, is a sight to behold. The hotel’s history is on display throughout the property, with artifacts and memorabilia from its illustrious past.

The Peabody Ducks are a testament to the hotel’s commitment to tradition and hospitality. They are more than just a gimmick – they are a symbol of the Peabody Hotel’s enduring legacy of excellence and service. The ducks are a reminder that even the smallest details can make a big difference in creating a memorable guest experience.

The Peabody Hotel has received numerous accolades over the years, including the Forbes Four-Star Award, the AAA Four-Diamond Award, and the Travel + Leisure 500 World’s Best Hotels award. But perhaps the hotel’s greatest achievement is its reputation as one of the most iconic and beloved hotels in the world.

Visiting the Peabody Hotel and witnessing the famous Peabody Duck March is a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to step back in time and experience the elegance and glamour of a bygone era. But it’s also a reminder that true luxury is not just about opulence and extravagance – it’s about creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel special and valued.

Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of luxury, or simply a fan of ducks, the Peabody Hotel is a must-see destination. It’s a hotel like no other, where the residents are just as famous as the guests, and the attention to detail is second to none.

So the next time you find yourself in Memphis, be sure to stop by the Peabody Hotel and witness the Peabody Duck March for yourself. It’s a unique and delightful experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.