Imagine you’ve just landed in the Home of the Blues, picked up a sleek, self-driving-capable Tesla Model 3 from Frontier Tesla right in the heart of downtown, and you’re ready to catch Ja Morant and the Grizzlies at the FedExForum. The neon lights of Beale Street are calling, but there’s one nagging thought in the back of your mind: where am I going to plug this thing in?
We’ve all been there. Range anxiety is a relic of the past, but "logistics anxiety" is very real when you’re navigating a new city on a tight schedule. Whether you’re a local testing the EV waters or a visitor wanting the premium Memphis experience, knowing the layout of the land for Tesla charging FedExForum Memphis is the difference between a seamless night out and a frustrating search for a plug.
At Frontier Tesla, we believe your rental should empower your trip, not dictate it. That’s why we’ve mapped out every high-speed electron and destination charger in the 901. Memphis has seen a 40% increase in EV infrastructure over the last two years, according to local municipal data, and downtown is the epicenter of that growth.
Can You Charge Your Rental Tesla Directly at FedExForum?
Let’s tackle the most common question first. If you’re heading to a game or a concert, you’re likely wondering if you can top off your battery while you’re inside cheering.
The short answer? Yes, but it requires a bit of strategy.
The FedExForum is served by the Gossett Motors Garage, which is the primary parking structure attached to the arena. Within this garage, there are Level 2 charging stations. These aren't Tesla-exclusive Superchargers; they are J1772 plugs (usually ChargePoint or Blink) that require the adapter we provide in every Frontier Tesla rental.
Here’s the thing: these spots are like gold. On a sold-out Grizzlies night, they disappear hours before tip-off. If you manage to snag one, you’re looking at a charging rate of about 25–30 miles of range per hour. It’s perfect for replacing the energy you used driving in from the suburbs, but it won’t "fill the tank" if you’re running on empty.
The FedExForum Parking Garage Reality Check
What we’ve learned is that you shouldn't rely on the arena garage as your primary charging source. While it’s convenient, the chargers are often restricted to certain parking tiers or require a specific app. Furthermore, some users have reported that these stations can be temperamental during high-load events.
If you’re determined to charge at the Forum, arrive at least 90 minutes early. Not only will you beat the traffic, but you’ll also have the best shot at the dedicated EV stalls located near the entrances.
Are There Superchargers Within Walking Distance of the Grizzlies Stadium?
This is a point of confusion for many visitors. When you look at a map, everything in downtown Memphis looks "close." But when you’re dressed for a night out and the humidity is climbing, "walking distance" becomes a subjective term.
Strictly speaking, there are no Tesla Superchargers within a five-minute walk of the FedExForum.
The closest high-speed Supercharger station is located at 100 North Front Street, specifically at the iconic Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. This is approximately 1.5 miles away from the stadium.
Why "Walking Distance" is Relative in Downtown Memphis
Can you walk 1.5 miles? Sure. It’ll take you about 25 to 30 minutes. However, we wouldn't recommend it as a pre-game strategy. The route takes you through the heart of the business district, which is safe and scenic, but it’s a long trek if you’re carrying gear or wearing dress shoes.
Instead, think of the Bass Pro Supercharger as your "pre-game pit stop." We’ve found that the most efficient way to handle a rental Tesla is to spend 15 minutes at the Pyramid before heading to the Forum. You’ll get enough juice to last your entire stay in Memphis, and you can enjoy the view of the Mississippi River while you wait.
The Fastest Tesla Charging Options in Downtown Memphis
If you’re looking for speed, you need Level 3 charging. In the Tesla world, that means Superchargers. Memphis currently hosts several of these, but for the downtown traveler, one stands above the rest.
The Bass Pro Shops Supercharger: A 250kW Powerhouse
Located at the Big Cypress Lodge (The Pyramid), this station features V3 Superchargers. These are capable of delivering up to 250kW of power.
What does that mean in plain English? You can add up to 200 miles of range in about 15 minutes.
It’s the gold standard for Tesla charging FedExForum Memphis visitors. Because it’s a V3 station, you don’t have to worry about "splitting" power with the car parked next to you. You get the full firehose of electricity the entire time. Plus, it’s open 24/7 and sits right next to one of the most unique retail experiences in the world.
Alternative High-Speed Hubs
If the Pyramid is busy—which rarely happens given the number of stalls—your next best bet for speed is the Supercharger station on Union Avenue. This location is slightly further east but is still easily accessible via a 10-minute drive from the FedExForum.
According to a 2024 charging infrastructure report by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the Memphis downtown corridor is slated for two additional high-speed hubs by 2027. For now, the Pyramid remains your best friend for a quick turnaround.
Strategic Destination Charging Near Beale Street
Sometimes you don't need a lightning-fast charge. Sometimes you just want to "sip" electricity while you enjoy some dry-rub ribs at Rendezvous or listen to live music on Beale. This is where destination charging comes in.
Hotel Partners and Public Plugs
Several hotels within three blocks of the FedExForum offer Tesla Destination Chargers. These are Level 2 chargers that are often free for guests or available for a small fee to the public.
- The Peabody Memphis: Just a few blocks away, this historic hotel offers valet parking with EV charging. It’s the ultimate "Memphis" way to charge.
- The Westin Memphis Beale Street: Located literally across the street from the Forum. They have several EV charging spots in their secure garage.
- The Arrive Hotel: A bit further south in the South Main Arts District, but perfect if you’re grabbing coffee before the game.
Using these locations allows you to combine your parking costs with your charging costs. It’s a smart move for anyone who plans on spending the entire day downtown.
Pro Tips for Managing Your Frontier Tesla Rental in Memphis
Renting a Tesla is different than owning one. You don't have a home charger to plug into every night. But don't sweat it. We’ve optimized our fleet to make this easy.
1. Use the In-Car Navigation Always use the Tesla’s built-in GPS to find chargers. Why? Because the car will "pre-condition" the battery on the way there. This warms up the battery cells to the optimal temperature for fast charging, ensuring you get the maximum speed the moment you plug in.
2. The 80% Rule You’ll notice that charging speed slows down significantly once the battery hits 80%. Unless you’re planning a long road trip out to Nashville or Little Rock, don't wait for 100%. That last 20% can take as long as the first 80%. Get your 80% and get back to the fun.
3. Check for "Idle Fees" Tesla charges "idle fees" if you leave your car plugged in after the charging session is finished. This is to ensure stalls stay open for other drivers. The car will send a notification to the screen (and the app) when it’s nearly done. Move your car promptly to avoid extra charges.
Comparing Memphis Charging Speeds: Level 2 vs. Level 3
To really understand your options for Tesla charging FedExForum Memphis, you need to see the data. Not all plugs are created equal.
| Charger Type | Location Example | Speed (Miles per Hour) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supercharger (V3) | Bass Pro Pyramid | 1,000+ mph (peak) | Quick stops, road trips |
| Supercharger (V2) | Union Ave | 500+ mph (peak) | Reliable fast charging |
| Destination (L2) | The Peabody | 30–44 mph | Overnight, long dinners |
| Public (L2) | FedExForum Garage | 20–30 mph | During the game |
As you can see, the difference is staggering. A Supercharger is roughly 30 to 50 times faster than the chargers you’ll find in a standard parking garage. This is why we always recommend a quick Supercharger visit over a long, slow charge if you're on a tight schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tesla Charging FedExForum Memphis
Is it free to charge a Tesla in downtown Memphis?
Generally, no. Tesla Superchargers carry a cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Some destination chargers at hotels are "free" for guests, but you’re usually paying for valet or premium parking to access them.
Can I use a non-Tesla charger?
Absolutely. Every Frontier Tesla rental comes with a J1772 adapter. This allows you to use almost any public charging station in the city. Just look for the "EV Charging" signs in public lots.
What happens if I run out of charge?
First, don't worry—the car will give you multiple warnings long before this happens. It will even suggest chargers within your current range. If the unthinkable happens, Tesla’s roadside assistance (and our team at Frontier) are available to help. But with the density of chargers in Memphis, this is incredibly rare.
Is it safe to charge at night in Memphis?
The major charging hubs, especially the Bass Pro Shops Supercharger and the hotel-based destination chargers, are well-lit and frequently patrolled. We’ve found them to be very safe for our customers at all hours.
Key Takeaways for Your Memphis EV Adventure
- The Pyramid is King: For the fastest Tesla charging FedExForum Memphis experience, head to the Bass Pro Shops Supercharger.
- Plan Ahead for Game Day: If you want to charge at the Forum garage, arrive early. Very early.
- Use Adapters: Don't be afraid of non-Tesla stations; just use the provided adapter.
- Pre-condition: Always navigate to the charger using the Tesla screen to save time.
Why Frontier Tesla is the Best Way to See Memphis
We aren't just a rental company; we’re EV enthusiasts. We chose to base our operations downtown because we know that’s where the heart of Memphis is. When you book with us, you aren't just getting a car; you’re getting a curated experience.
Our Model 3s are kept in peak condition, and our team is always available to walk you through the charging process if it’s your first time. We believe that the future of travel is electric, and there’s no better place to experience that than in a city as vibrant and soulful as Memphis.
Ready to hit the road? Skip the gas station and the airport shuttle. Pick up your Tesla downtown and experience the "Grind City" with the power of sustainable technology at your fingertips.
Book your Memphis Tesla rental today and see why we’re the highest-rated EV rental service in the Mid-South.
Sources
- Tesla Supercharger Map - Official Tesla charging location data.
- City of Memphis EV Initiative - Data on local infrastructure growth.
- TVA 2024 Energy Report - Statistics on regional charging speeds and availability.
- FedExForum Official Site - Parking and facility information for visitors.