MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Memphis

How to Get to Memphis

Memphis Tennessee, USA Travel Guide

Airport Overview

Memphis International Airport MEM

MEM is the single major airport directly serving Memphis. It is approximately nine miles (14 km) southeast of downtown Memphis. It serves as a connection point for domestic travel.

Airlines and Routes

  • Major U.S. Airlines: American, Delta, Southwest, United, Allegiant, Spirit, Frontier.
  • Direct flights to principal U.S..S. Hubs: Atlanta, Dallas/Cowtown, Chicago, Houston, Denver, Orlando, Las Vegas, Charlotte.
  • No direct international commercial passenger flights.

International Arrivals & Prices

International travelers arrive via connecting domestic flights from larger U.S. Gateway airports (e.g., Atlanta, DFW, Chicago). Customs and Border Protection processing occurs at the first U.S. Entry point.

Seasonal Flight Info

  • Flight prices higher during peak seasons (spring, fall, holidays).
  • Lower prices in winter (except for holidays) and late summer.
  • Book long before popular festivals like Memphis in May.

Flight Deals

Find affordable flights with services like Dollar Flight Club.

Compare & Save

Compare flight options from various airlines using Skyscanner.

Car Rental

Book your car rental for airport transfers and city exploration at DiscoverCars.com.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

MEM Services

  • Dining: Restaurants and cafes available.
  • Shopping: Retail stores and shops for gifts.
  • Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the airport.
  • Accessibility: Facilities for travelers with disabilities.

Transfer Options

  • Taxi: Readily available outside baggage claim, $25-$35 to downtown.
  • Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate; follow designated pickup signs.
  • Public Bus: MATA Route 28 connects to Airways Transit Center for further connections.
  • Shuttles: Some hotels offer complimentary services; private options available.

Tips for Air Travel

Book Early

Secure flights in advance, especially during peak travel periods and festivals.

Check Connections

International travelers will connect through an U.S. Hub; allow sufficient time for customs.

Plan Transfers

Consider pre-booking taxis or rideshares for seamless airport transfers.

Land Transportation

Train & Bus Connections

Memphis is well-connected by land, offering rail and bus options for regional travel. There are no international border crossings.

Train Services

  • Amtrak's City of New Orleans line serves Memphis Central Station.
  • Connects Chicago to New Orleans, a scenic route through America.
  • Memphis Central Terminal: 545 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Long-distance bus services offer a budget-friendly way to travel to and from Memphis, connecting to major cities across the U.S.

Bus Companies

  • Greyhound: Extensive services to/from Memphis, station downtown.
  • Greyhound Station: 510 Airline St, Memphis, TN 38105.
  • Megabus: Check their website for specific routes and availability.

Self-Driving & Requirements

To rent and drive a car, a current driver's's license is necessary. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is it's a good idea if your home country's license is not in English. Most rental companies require drivers to be 21-25 years old.

Driving Information

  • Valid driver's license and credit card needed.
  • Highways (I-40, I-55) are well-maintained.
  • City roads vary; some locations may have potholes.

Road Conditions & Safety

Traffic can be heavy during peak commute hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays), especially on I-40 and I-55. Road construction projects occur periodically.

Safety Tips for Driving

  • Be aware of traffic and use navigation apps for real-time updates.
  • Exercise caution in unfamiliar areas, especially at night.
  • Keep vehicle doors locked and valuables out of sight when parked.

Important Driving Laws

  • Standard U.S. The rules of the road apply.
  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Obey displayed speed limits and traffic signals.
  • Illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving.
  • Check traffic in the town reports for construction/detours.

Sea/River Arrivals

Mississippi River Cruises

Memphis's location on the Great river River makes it a destination for river-based travel, mainly through cruises. Companies like American Cruise Lines and From the united states Queen Voyages include Memphis on their itineraries.

Cruise Details

  • Memphis is a major port of call for multi-day river cruises.
  • Unique way to experience the river and heritage towns.
  • Not a mode of arrival for independent point-to-point travel.

Connections & Procedures

No regular public ferry services operate for general commuting. River cruise docks are typically located downtown, along the Mighty mississippi Riverfront, offering easy access to land transportation.

Dockside Access

  • Taxis and rideshares are readily available from the heart of the city.
  • MATA buses and trolleys serve the downtown riverfront area.
  • Many downtown lodgings are within walking distance or a short ride.

River History

Explore the historical significance of the Mighty mississippi River to Memphis's development.

Recreational Cruises

Enjoy scenic riverboat tours for skyline views and river history.

Downtown Access

Easy access to land transport from centrally located cruise docks.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes are imposed on individuals departing the U.S. Beyond those already included in your ticket. These are typically part of the ticket price.

Timing Recommendations

  • Domestic Flights (MEM): Arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
  • International Connections: Arrive 2 to 3 hours before MEM departure.
  • Amtrak/Greyhound: Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

Memphis International Airport offers dining, shopping, restrooms, charging stations, lounges (Delta Sky Club), and free Wi-Fi for departing travelers.

Additional Departure Info

  • Security: TSA operates checkpoints; TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are available.
  • Check-in: Online check-in is recommended 24 hours prior to flight.
  • Amtrak/Greyhound Stations: Basic waiting areas, restrooms, ticketing services.

Confirm Your Plans

Flight Schedule

Confirm your flight schedule 24-48 hours before departure for any changes or delays.

Train/Bus Schedule

Verify train or bus departure times to stay informed.

Boarding Passes

Have your boarding passes ready, either printed or on your mobile device.

Final Checks

Confirm your flight, train, or bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure. This helps you stay informed about any changes or delays.