Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Memphis

Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.

Trip Summary

There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Chicago to Memphis. Travelling by train from Chicago to Memphis usually takes 15 hours and 41 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak City of New Orleans train can make the trip in 10 hours and 37 minutes.

Distance: 483 mi (777 km)
Fastest train: 10h 37m
Lowest price: RON 267.80
Trains per day: 3
Most frequent service: Amtrak
Train lines: 2

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Chicago to Memphis Train Timetable

Is it better to travel by coach or train from Chicago to Memphis?

There are usually 19 daily coach trips from Chicago to Memphis.

	Train	Coach
Avg. Price	Avg. PriceRON 629.77	Avg. PriceRON 553.44Cheaper
Daily Trips	Daily Trips3	Daily Trips19
Duration	Duration15h 41mFaster	Duration15h 51m

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Chicago to Memphis (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)

4.5

5.0

GLENDA

18 February 2023 - Visiting family

Amtrak City of New Orleans

Pros: The scenery quite relaxing Cons: The bathroom too small Tips: My Recommendation

4.0

Cathlyn P

28 December 2021 - Solo travel

Amtrak City of New Orleans

Pros: The trip was remarkable. Cons: Crew presence during the trip was not there. Tips: Be ready.

There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Memphis:

See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Memphis?

In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Memphis cost about RON 490 when booked at the cheapest time. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 21 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around RON 455.12 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Memphis by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Memphis will cost between RON 411 and RON 1,588. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Memphis by month

Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Memphis often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only RON 545. If you're thinking of travelling from Chicago to Memphis during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of RON 684 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

By booking your train trip from Chicago to Memphis on Wanderu at least 21 days ahead of time, you can save about RON 455.12 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Chicago to Memphis?

2 train services operate from Chicago to Memphis. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	2	18h 20m	RON 528.89
Amtrak City of New Orleans	1	10h 39m	RON 820.89

Amtrak is the largest passenger railway service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned toilet, free WiFi and power sockets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 2 Amtrak trains from Chicago to Memphis every day, as well as 2 trips at the weekends, with prices starting from RON 267.80.
The City of New Orleans is an Amtrak route that runs daily trains from Chicago to New Orleans and vice versa. The City of New Orleans includes a sightseer lounge with panoramic windows for the best views of the five states along the route. Affordable Coach seats cost about RON 820.89 for a trip from Chicago to Memphis. However, the City of New Orleans also offers private roomettes and bedrooms for added comfort and luxury (and a higher price). Passengers who book sleeper accommodations will enjoy included meals, and all passengers can stop into the cafe car to purchase meals and snacks.

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Chicago to Memphis

There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to Memphis. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip. You can also take a train for your return trip from Memphis to Chicago. If you're not set on travelling by train, you could always take the coach from Chicago to Memphis for RON 282.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Chicago and Memphis is approximately 483 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 15 hours and 41 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 10 hours and 37 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a patchy signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and films to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Distance (mi)

483

Distance (km)

777

The earliest train departs Chicago at 8:15 while the last train of the day leaves at 20:05. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full timetable for your specific travel dates.

First train

8:15am

Last train

8:05pm

Trains from Chicago to Memphis are the most crowded on Saturday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider travelling on Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Saturday

Least crowded

Tuesday

City Information

Chicago

Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban holiday destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.

You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.

Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighbourhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theatre, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.

Chicago is one of the biggest transport hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of coach and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.

Memphis

Nestled on the bank of the Mississippi River, Memphis is a city that constantly vibes to the rhythm of the South. Audiophiles who have fallen in love with the voice of Elvis Presley will find Graceland a must-see destination during their trip. Let the voices of Johnny Cash and B. B. King guide you to the famous Sun Studio, considered the birthplace of rock ‘n roll itself. As the day comes to an end, unwind at the famous Beale Street, where top musicians started out their career, and enjoy live music at one of the local theatres. You'll meet all sorts of visitors, and see why Memphis is one of the best destinations for bachelorette parties. The street also features some of the best restaurants in town, so make sure to check those out.

Memphis is more than just a musical centre of the South. It was the vibrant centre of the civil rights movement, and it was here that Martin Luther King Jr. took his last breath. Travellers interested in the city’s history should definitely take a tour around the National Civil Rights Museum. The moving and surreal exhibitions will offer a wealth of new perspectives.

Memphis' principal train hub is the Memphis Central Station, which has been in service since 1914. From there, you can travel by train to cities such as Chicago, Jackson, and Baton Rouge. On the outskirts of town, you will find the Memphis International Airport, and not far from it is the main bus stop used by Greyhound and other carriers.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Chicago?

Main departure station: Union Station

The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves coach carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.

All train stations in Chicago:

Union Station

Where is the train station in Memphis?

Main arrival station: Central Station - 545 S Main St

Central Station - 545 S Main St - MEMAMT-0

Memphis Central Station is a historic train station that has served as the central hub of Memphis’ transport since 1914. It is the only full-service Amtrak station in the state of Tennessee, and serves the City of New Orleans train line, which runs from Chicago to New Orleans. A luxury Hilton hotel is located at the station, complete with two restaurants and a bar. From the Memphis Central Station downtown, it is a quick walk to the Memphis Farmers Market, National Civil Rights Museum, and Tom Lee Park along the Mississippi River.

Train stations in Memphis:

Central Station - 545 S Main St

Need a return trip from Memphis to Chicago?

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