Transportation in Memphis
Memphis is home to not just the blues, but also to 1.2 million residents. The metropolitan area sprawls across the states of Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas.The city sits high on the eastern bluffs of the Mississippi River. Jackson, Poplar and Lamar Avenues fan outward east-to-west from Downtown, while the interstate 240 circles the city from just east of Downtown to Germantown.Downtown is the South Main Arts District, buzzing Beale Street and the main business district. Head south to find Elvis’s Graceland. Travel through the cotton fields of the Mississippi Delta to Clarksdale and west for the working-class farms of Arkansas. East of Midtown, is the upscale shopping of Laurelwood and Germantown, while the historic charms of Collierville lie to the south-east.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Trolley
A relaxing ride on the Main Street Trolley is the best way to navigate Downtown attractions. The Riverfront Loop travels through Downtown, with numerous stops along Main Street and the riverfront. The Madison Trolley runs down Madison Avenue and makes stops in the Medical Centre.
Foot
Exploring Downtown Memphis on foot allows you to take in the river from a variety of spots. Enjoy the view from Union Avenue and Front Streets or walk down the hill to get a close-up feel for the muddy waters. Brass duck footprints on the pavements honour famous Memphians, but don’t lead anywhere.
Taxi
Taxis are plentiful Downtown and in the Medical Centre areas, but calling ahead is necessary for trips beginning outside Downtown.
Bus
The bus service in Memphis is regular, and an online route planner allows easy planning for trips to Graceland or other attractions.
Boat
Journey on a paddleboat for a nostalgic trip through the city and surrounding farming communities along the banks of the Mississippi River.
Rent your car
There’s no shortage of car rental companies in Memphis and its international airport, which is around 20 minutes from the city centre. Downtown on-street metered parking costs around $0.50 per hour and is free after 6pm and at weekends.
Transportation Tips
It is possible to purchase trolley tickets for single rides, but it is most economical to buy an all-day or multi-day pass. Horses and carriages are available outside the Peabody Hotel on Union Avenue for an old-fashioned tour of Downtown.
