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Chicago, IL, USA to Memphis, TN, USA from $22: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States
to
Memphis, United States

How to Get from Chicago to Memphis: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$22 by trainBest price
782 kmDistance
5h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Memphis with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$214-467
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
10h  22m
Estimated price
$22-190
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 782 km
Duration: 5h 43m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
13h  12m
Estimated price
$58-134
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  12m
Estimated price
$94-607
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
8h  7m
Estimated price
$94-506
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  40m
Estimated price
$2140-2141
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Traveling From Chicago to Memphis

Traveling from Chicago to Memphis offers a striking contrast between the bustling urban landscape of the Windy City and the soulful, musical charm of the birthplace of blues.

Best Neighbourhoods in Memphis

Memphis boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Beale Street
• Vibrant nightlife with live music venues
• Rich history in blues and jazz culture
Midtown
• Eclectic dining options and local shops
• Lively arts scene and community events
Germantown
• Family-friendly parks and green spaces
• Upscale shopping and dining experiences

Best Times To Visit Memphis's Attractions

Planning your visits around peak times can enhance your Memphis experience.

Graceland
Visit early on weekdays for smaller crowds and a more intimate tour.
Beale Street
Enjoy mid-week nights for a lively atmosphere without overwhelming crowds.
National Civil Rights Museum
Go during the first hour after opening for a quieter, reflective experience.

Memphis Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Memphis experiences a humid subtropical climate, bringing hot summers and mild winters, with the best times to visit being in spring and fall when temperatures are pleasant. Weather conditions can influence your travel plans; for example, summer heat may lead to more indoor activities, while mild days in fall make it ideal for outdoor exploration.

Dining Recommendation

Consider trying Memphis-style barbecue ribs at Central BBQ, where the slow-smoked flavor showcases a distinct depth that contrasts sharply with Chicago's deep-dish pizza. The laid-back, friendly atmosphere, complemented by rich, locally-sourced ingredients, creates a unique dining experience that invites you to savor Southern hospitality.

Chicago - Memphis operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Memphis, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chicago Union Station to Memphis

Average Duration
10h 22m
Estimated price
22-190
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago to Memphis Bus Station

Average Duration
9h 35m
Estimated price
2144-2145

Bus from 3Rd St@Eastman Rd to Third@Adams

Average Duration
21m
Estimated price
226-226
Plane
Website
https://aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Memphis

Average Duration
1h 57m
Estimated price
2146-2147
Website
https://delta.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Memphis via Atlanta

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
2149-4670
Website
https://united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Memphis

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
2146-2147
Website
https://southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway Airport to Memphis Airport

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
2142-4675

Chicago to Memphis: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Memphis offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from Chicago to Memphis covering a distance of 535 miles. Enjoy the scenic drive through the heart of the Midwest, with a journey time of approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes. 💰 Prices for the trip from Chicago to Memphis by car typically range from $95 to $140, offering a budget-friendly travel option for those looking to explore the music-filled city of Memphis. As you hit the open road, be prepared for diverse landscapes and charming pit stops along the way.
Average price
$95 - $140
🚆 Traveling by train from Chicago to Memphis is a convenient and scenic journey. The direct train operated by Amtrak departs from Chicago Union Station and arrives in Memphis, taking approximately 10 hours and 22 minutes. 🌆 The route covers a distance of 529 miles, offering passengers a relaxing way to witness the changing landscapes from Illinois to Tennessee. The train service from Chicago to Memphis operates once daily, providing travelers with a consistent transportation option. 💵 Ticket prices for the Chicago to Memphis train vary between $22 and $190, making it a budget-friendly choice for those looking to explore the vibrant city of Memphis. With a journey time of around 10 hours, passengers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as they make their way to their destination.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Memphis station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the Amtrak route from Chicago to Memphis, you can take advantage of their onboard cafe service, which offers a selection of snacks, meals, and beverages for purchase. Expect options ranging from sandwiches and salads to microwavable meals if you're looking for something warm, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Remember, cash is no longer accepted in the dining car, so have your cards ready!
• Amtrak provides a variety of seating options on this route. You can choose from Coach Class for more economical seating, which provides basic comfort for the budget-conscious traveler. For added comfort, consider upgrading to Business Class, which offers more spacious seating and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. First Class, while not specifically available on this route, could include sleeper accommodations on longer journeys, but it's less common between Chicago and Memphis.
• If you are planning to travel with Amtrak, visit their website at amtrak.com for up-to-date schedules, ticket booking, and information on your journey. Other operators on this route include Greyhound (greyhound.com) for bus travel, providing yet another option for your trip; be sure to check their schedules as services may differ. For local transport in Memphis, check out the MATA (Memphis Area Transit Authority) website (matatransit.com) for bus schedules and routes.
🛫 Explore the musical heritage of Memphis on a quick 1 hour and 35 minutes flight from Chicago Midway Airport with Southwest Airlines.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Memphis Airport
Though there's no direct route, you can reach Memphis in approximately 13 hours and 12 minutes with transfers. 🗺️ Route options vary in duration and distance, with one route taking about 9 hours and 55 minutes, covering 542 miles. Other routes may involve transfers and longer travel times. 💲 Prices for the bus journey between Chicago and Memphis range from $58 to $134, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the best option for their trip.
Departure Point
Chicago station
Arrival Point
Memphis Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your trip, check the Greyhound schedules for any updates regarding your bus departure from Chicago's Greyhound Station; you can find detailed information at greyhound.com
• For a smoother transfer at Airways Transit Center in Memphis, familiarize yourself with the layout of the station in advance, so you can easily navigate to your next bus or find local transportation; a station map is available at their website.
• While in transit, consider packing light snacks and a refillable water bottle, as you may have limited food options on the bus and during transfers; there are dining options available at the Airways Transit Center, including some fast-food chains.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Memphis.

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The distance between Chicago and Memphis is 782.1 km by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 10 hours and 22 minutes to reach Memphis from Chicago. Taking a flight from Chicago Midway followed by a bus ride on line 39 takes about 5 hours and 42 minutes. Driving by car typically takes around 8 hours and 40 minutes, while buses can take approximately 11 hours and 19 minutes to make the journey.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Memphis is by train, with tickets costing between $22 and $190. Although it takes 10 hours and 22 minutes, it provides a budget-friendly option for travelers. If time-efficiency is a priority, the fastest way is to fly from Chicago and then take the line 39 bus, which takes approximately 5 hours and 42 minutes and costs between $85 and $550.
The prices for a train ticket between Chicago and Memphis can range from $22 to $190 depending on the class and time of travel. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Memphis and Chicago can vary from $45 to $138 depending on the bus company and type of ticket.
To travel from Chicago to Memphis without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The road distance is approximately 861.0 km, and it takes around 8 hours and 40 minutes by car. Keep in mind that the cost may vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls. On average, the estimated price to drive from Chicago to Memphis ranges from $95 to $140.
To travel from Chicago to Memphis without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 10 hours and 22 minutes and ticket prices range from $22 to $190.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Chicago and Memphis. The train journey takes approximately 10 hours and 22 minutes, departing from Chicago Union Station and arriving at Memphis station. However, there is no direct bus route between the two cities. Bus services, operated by Flixbus USA, are available with transfers and the journey takes approximately 11 hours and 19 minutes.
The flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Memphis Airport typically takes 1 hour and 35 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the time of booking and other factors, but generally, a round-trip ticket can range from $200 to $400.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Memphis. With over 419 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $58 per night, offering a range of affordable and luxurious options.