Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Memphis
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Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Chicago to Memphis. Traveling by train from Chicago to Memphis usually takes 14 hours and 30 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 | $75.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
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Chicago to Memphis Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by train or bus from Chicago to Memphis?
There are usually 13 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Memphis.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$126.93 | Avg. Price$113.84Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips3 | Daily Trips13 |
Duration | Duration14h 30mFaster | Duration15h 53m |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Memphis (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
5.0
4.0
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Memphis:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Memphis?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Memphis was $108.44. 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 27 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $74.55 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 $93 and $150. 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 $114. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Memphis during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $155 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 27 days ahead of time, you can save about $74.55 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Chicago to Memphis?
There are multiple trains that travel from Chicago to Memphis, including Amtrak, Amtrak City of New Orleans. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 16h 27m | $117.51 |
| Amtrak City of New Orleans | 1 | 10h 37m | $145.55 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad 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 restroom, free WiFi and power outlets 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 on the weekends, with prices starting from $75.
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 $145.55 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 traveling 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 traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Memphis for $59.
TRIPS PER DAY
3
DIRECT TRIPS
1
The distance between Chicago and Memphis is approximately 483 miles, or 777 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 14 hours and 30 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 spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies 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 8:15am while the last train of the day leaves at 8:05pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
EARLIEST TRAIN
8:15am
LATEST TRAIN
8:05pm
Trains from Chicago to Memphis are the most crowded on Monday. 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 traveling on Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Monday
LEAST CROWDED
Thursday
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 vacation 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 neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.
Chicago is one of the biggest transportation 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 bus 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 theaters. 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 center of the South. It was the vibrant center of the civil rights movement, and it was here that Martin Luther King Jr. took his last breath. Travelers 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 does the train leave from 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 bus 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 does the train arrive in Memphis?
Main arrival station: Central Station - 545 S Main St
Memphis Central Station is a historic train station that has served as the central hub of Memphis’ transportation 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.
All train stations in Memphis:
- Central Station - 545 S Main St
Need a return trip from Memphis to Chicago?
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