5.0
Pros: The scenery quite relaxing. Cons: The bathroom too small. Tips: My Recommendation.
4.0
Pros: The trip was remarkable. Cons: Crew presence during the trip was not there. Tips: Be ready.
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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Chicago to Memphis. Traveling by train from Chicago to Memphis usually takes 11 hours and 6 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak City of New Orleans train can make the trip in 10 hours and 22 minutes.
| Distance | 483 mi (777 km) |
| Fastest train | 10h 22m |
| Lowest price | $90.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak City of New Orleans |
| Train lines | 2 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Memphis
(Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
4.5
What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Memphis?
The average price for a train ticket from Chicago to Memphis is $90.00, By booking your trip at least 13 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay $127.91 more.
Average prices by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Memphis will cost between $90 and $124. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Monthly avg. prices
You can find the lowest prices on this route during September. This time of year offers the best deals on train tickets from Chicago to Memphis, with the average price at just $97. Train tickets on this route are most expensive in November, when the average price goes up to $132. You can still score cheap deals below this average price, though, especially if you plan ahead and book your ticket in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from Chicago to Memphis. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 13 days before departure, you can save around $127.91. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Memphis?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Memphis. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 3d 4h 44m | $395.80 |
| Amtrak City of New Orleans | 1 | 10h 22m | $97.21 |
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 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $245.
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 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
Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Memphis. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.
The distance between Chicago and Memphis is approximately 483 miles, or 777 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 11 hours and 6 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 10 hours and 22 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.
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 days, there is only one train which leaves Chicago at 5:00am and arrives in Memphis around 10 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Memphis with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Memphis to Chicago.
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 is the train station in Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
Main departure station: Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
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:
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
Pacific Central Station
10251 St Edwards Dr
Where is the train station in Memphis?
Image credit: Reading Tom
Link to image attributionMain 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
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