Layover Guide

Memphis

Whether you are touching down in the 'Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll' for a few hours or an overnight stay, a Memphis layover is a golden opportunity to experience legendary Southern hospitality. Memphis International Airport (MEM) serves as the primary gateway to the Mid-South and is famously the global 'SuperHub' for FedEx. Unlike sprawling hubs like the one featured in our Atlanta Layover Guide, MEM is compact and remarkably close to the city's most iconic attractions. Before you head out to explore the neon lights of Beale Street, you can track your Memphis flight path on Borderly to visualize your journey across the United States. With the city center just 15 minutes away, even a short stopover allows for world-class BBQ and a dose of music history. If you've previously navigated a Chicago Layover Guide or a Los Angeles Layover Guide, you'll find the pace in Memphis refreshingly soulful and manageable.

By James Windsor
32,000+ layovers planned
10 curated experiences for Memphis
Avg itinerary: 23s

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Quick Answer

A Memphis layover at MEM airport, located just 7 miles south of downtown, offers easy access to iconic landmarks. For a 4-8 hour stopover, visit Graceland or the historic Beale Street. Use ride-sharing for a quick 15-minute commute to experience the city's legendary BBQ and musical heritage before your flight.

Match The Query Intent

What Works for Your Memphis Layover Length?

Start with your connection length first. This is the fastest way to decide whether to stay airside, head into the city, or plan around transit and visa constraints.

2 Hours

Can you leave the airport?

No

Best for Short connections

Enjoy airport BBQ at Neely's Interstate Bar-B-Que, browse local gift shops for Elvis memorabilia.

4 Hours

Can you leave the airport?

Yes

Best for Elvis fans and history buffs

Quick trip to Graceland (10 mins away) for the Mansion tour.

6-8 Hours

Can you leave the airport?

Yes

Best for Culture seekers and foodies

Visit the National Civil Rights Museum and walk Beale Street for live music.

8-12 Hours

Can you leave the airport?

Yes

Best for Comprehensive city explorers

Sun Studio tour, lunch at Gus’s Fried Chicken, and the Peabody Duck March.

12+ Hours (Overnight)

Can you leave the airport?

Yes

Best for Transcontinental travelers

Dinner at The Rendezvous, overnight stay in a downtown hotel, and a morning walk along the Mississippi River.

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Home to These Airports

Memphis International Airport (MEM) Details

MEM
Memphis International Airport (MEM)

MEM is known for its ease of navigation. Security lines are generally short, but allow 2 hours for return during peak FedEx hub operational shifts.

🕒 24/7 (Terminal services vary)🧳 No lockers available; check with your airline or use a third-party service downtown.💺 Military Lounge (Liberty Lounge) and a Delta Sky Club.

Getting There

Find your flights through Memphis

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* Fares are compared live across airlines and agencies for your Memphis connection.

Flights to Memphis

Inside the Terminal

Don't Want to Leave MEM Airport?

Lounge Options at MEM

While MEM is a smaller hub, it offers high-quality rest areas for eligible travelers.

Delta Sky Club

LocationAdjacent to Gate B11
AccessDelta Sky Club Members, Amex Platinum, Delta SkyMiles Reserve Cardholders
AmenitiesWiFi, snacks, bar, comfortable seating
CostMembership based or guest fee

Military Liberty Lounge

LocationNear Gate A27
AccessActive duty military and their families
AmenitiesComplimentary snacks, entertainment, rest area
CostFree

Airport Facilities

Free High-Speed WiFi
Live Music (occasional performances in the Rotunda)
Neely's Interstate Bar-B-Que (authentic local BBQ inside)
Charging Stations at most gates
Nursing Rooms
Pet Relief Areas

Rest Zones and Hotels

There are no dedicated nap pods or transit hotels inside the terminal. However, several hotels like the Courtyard by Marriott and Holiday Inn are located within 2 miles of the airport and offer 24-hour shuttles.

Explore the City

What Can You Do During a Memphis Layover?

10 experiences to discover

Graceland (Elvis Presley’s Home) in Memphis
012.5 - 3 hours

Graceland (Elvis Presley’s Home)

The world-famous home of Elvis Presley. Tour the mansion, the car museum, and his private planes.

3.5 miles from airport

10 minutes

🕒 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM daily

💡 If short on time, do the 'Mansion Only' tour to save an hour.

Beale Street Entertainment District in Memphis
022 hours

Beale Street Entertainment District

The heartbeat of Memphis. Walk the three blocks of neon lights, live blues music, and street performers.

9 miles from airport

15 minutes

🕒 24/7 (Bars/Clubs late night)

💡 Grab a 'Big Ass Beer' and enjoy the street performers known as the Beale Street Flippers.

National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis
032-3 hours

National Civil Rights Museum

Located at the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum offers a powerful look at the movement.

10 miles from airport

18 minutes

🕒 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)

💡 The museum is very detailed; focus on the Lorraine Motel wing if you are on a schedule.

The Peabody Duck March in Memphis
0445 minutes

The Peabody Duck March

A quirky Memphis tradition where ducks march to and from the lobby fountain in the Peabody Hotel.

9.5 miles from airport

15 minutes

🕒 Marches at 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM

💡 Arrive 30 minutes early to get a spot near the red carpet.

Sun Studio in Memphis
051 hour

Sun Studio

The studio where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits.

9 miles from airport

15 minutes

🕒 10:00 AM - 5:15 PM daily

💡 Book your tour time online in advance; they sell out quickly.

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid in Memphis
061.5 hours

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

A massive pyramid containing a cypress swamp, bowling alley, and the tallest freestanding elevator in America.

11 miles from airport

20 minutes

🕒 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily

💡 Take the elevator to the glass-floored observation deck for views of the Mississippi River.

071.5 hours

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Located on the original site of Stax Records, celebrating Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. & the M.G.'s.

7.5 miles from airport

12 minutes

🕒 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)

💡 Don't miss Isaac Hayes’ gold-plated Cadillac.

081 hour

Mud Island Park & Riverwalk

A scale model of the Lower Mississippi River that you can walk along.

11 miles from airport

20 minutes

🕒 Dawn to Dusk

💡 Great for a bit of fresh air and a scenic view of the bridge.

0945 minutes

Victorian Village

A series of 19th-century mansions that showcase the grandeur of old Memphis.

9 miles from airport

15 minutes

🕒 Exterior views 24/7; tours vary

💡 Check out the Woodruff-Fontaine House for the best architecture.

101.5 hours

Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum

A Smithsonian-curated museum telling the story of how music came out of the Delta to Memphis.

9 miles from airport

15 minutes

🕒 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily

💡 Located right at the corner of Beale and Hwy 61.

Viator selectionLive recommendations
Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour
View on Viator
Fits your layover6+ hours layover

Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour

Memphis – Home of the Blues, World Championship BBQ and award winning Craft Brews! Join City Brew Tours Memphis for a half day brewery tour adventure as we explore behind-the-scenes at three craft breweries while tasting local beer and enjoying deliciously paired food. You will taste award-winning beer, learn about the history of each brewery, and explore the brewing process. Enjoy Memphis' exceptional brewery scene on this unforgettable, all inclusive tour. Get VIP access to some of the area's most iconic breweries Up to 12 beer samples, a fresh baked snack, and round trip transportation included. Led by a Beer Guide who will educate, and entertain you with beer history * Explore the Memphis brewery scene in this all inclusive tour. * Get VIP access to three of the areas top breweries. * Up to 12 beer samples, a local hot snack and round trip transportation. * Led by an expert beer guide you educate and entertain you with beer history.

Duration

3h 30m

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 5.5h total

Admission

YES

What you'll see

Attraction stop (45 mins)

These breweries are sample itineraries only. All schedules are subject to change. Grind City Brewing, the embodiment of the city of Memphis… the hard work, blue collar sweat that keeps the city rolling. Grind City brewery is on one of the bluffs of the Mississippi, in the old home of the Tri-State veneer and furniture factory. Grind City refurbished and reused scrap wood and furniture materials to keep the history and spirit of the building alive and give homage to the uptown area it resides in. Table, walls, bar tops, flight boards and more are all re-used factory materials. Grind City has a mission to be a part of Memphis, they work with many charities in the community including St. Jude Children’s hospital, Angel Street, Folds of Honor, the Streetdog Foundation and more.

Attraction stop (50 mins)

These breweries are sample itineraries only. All schedules are subject to change. WISEACRE is a brewery committed to top quality, uniquely flavorful beer that appeals to passionate & progressive people through education & good times. Brothers Davin & Kellan Bartosch dreamed up WISEACRE many moons ago & have been on an extensive quest procuring top-notch experience from around the globe to deliver the crunkest brewery possible in their groovy hometown of Memphis, TN.

Attraction stop (50 mins)

Crosstown Brewing was founded by eager homebrewer Will Goodwin and Clark Ortkiese in 2018. The brewery uses beer and good cheer to strengthen the community. The location of their brewery sits adjacent to the old Sears Crosstown building built in 1927 and sadly sat empty for years and fell into disrepair. In 2017 if was renovated and returned to service as a vertical urban village, the Crosstown Concourse. It houses a grocery store, several restaurants, retail stores, offices, a YMCA, a high school, a post office… and of course right next to Crosstown Brewery.

Ready to book for your Memphis layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator
Memphis 101: Music, History, and Iconic Landmarks Private Tour
View on Viator
Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Memphis 101: Music, History, and Iconic Landmarks Private Tour

Discover Memphis through the eyes of a professional musician on this exclusive 3-hour private tour, designed for your party of up to 4 guests. Travel in luxury aboard a 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV while experiencing Memphis' most iconic locations. Begin with an intimate walking tour of historic Beale Street, where your guide shares stories of W.C. Handy, B.B. King, and the birth of the blues. Visit the Peabody Hotel's famous ducks, explore the powerful National Civil Rights Museum exterior, and stop at legendary Sun Studio. Enjoy Mississippi River views at Martyrs Park, the grand mansions of Victorian Village, and hidden gems like Robert R. Church Park. Your guide's personal stories and musician's perspective provide authentic insights rarely experienced by visitors. Note: Sun Studio and Civil Rights Museum admission tickets available for purchase on-site if desired.

Duration

1h 30m

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 3.5h total

Admission

Check on Viator

What you'll see

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Step into the soul of American music on historic Beale Street, where your guide—a professional musician with 15 years of performance experience—reveals the authentic stories behind this legendary boulevard. Journey past the iconic landmarks where W.C. Handy pioneered the blues, and B.B. King became "King of the Blues." Your walking exploration unveils hidden musical gems and stories of Memphis legends while avoiding typical tourist spots. Learn how this historic district shaped American music history, from blues to rock & roll, through your guide's unique performer's perspective. Experience photo opportunities at historic markers and authentic blues venues as your guide shares personal insights from years of performing on these same legendary streets. This premium walking portion offers an intimate look at America's most important musical street through the eyes of someone who has lived its continuing legacy.

Attraction stop (5 mins)

Visit the modest home of W.C. Handy, famously known as the "Father of the Blues." Here, your guide will share the story of how Handy revolutionized music by introducing the blues to the world, starting right here in Memphis. You'll explore the exterior of this historic home, hear fascinating anecdotes about Handy's life and legacy, and learn how his compositions like “St. Louis Blues” and “Memphis Blues” changed the course of music history. This stop offers a unique opportunity to connect with the roots of blues music while reflecting on its profound cultural impact. Perfect for photo opportunities and rich storytelling, this is an essential stop for music lovers.

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Visit the historic Peabody Hotel, famed as the "South's Grand Hotel" and home to the world-famous Peabody Ducks. While we won’t witness the duck march unless scheduled in advance, you’ll still enjoy seeing these iconic mallards swimming in the grand lobby fountain. Your guide will share the fascinating story of the Peabody Ducks tradition, which dates back to the 1930s, and explain why it has become a beloved symbol of Southern hospitality. Don’t forget to capture a photo of the picturesque setting—complete with elegant architecture, rich history, and, of course, the charming ducks in their luxurious environment.

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Stop at Martyrs Park, a serene and reflective location along the Mississippi River that commemorates the selfless individuals who sacrificed their lives during the 1878 yellow fever epidemic to help others. Your guide will share the compelling history of this chapter in Memphis and the enduring impact it left on the city. While at the park, soak in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy stunning views of the riverfront and iconic bridges. This is a perfect spot for photos and a quiet moment to reflect on the courage and compassion that helped shape Memphis into the resilient city it is today.

+4 more stops

Ready to book for your Memphis layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator

* Tours are scored against your layover length — availability and pricing confirmed on Viator.

Step by Step

Layover Itineraries

Want a personalized itinerary booked for you?

01

2-Hour Itinerary

A Taste of Memphis Airport

12:00 PM: Arrive and clear security.

12:15 PM: Head to the Rotunda area near Concourse B.

12:30 PM: Order a pulled pork sandwich at Neely's Interstate Bar-B-Que.

1:00 PM: Shop for 'I Love Memphis' gear at the local boutiques.

1:30 PM: Return to your gate for boarding.

02

4-Hour Itinerary

The King’s Connection

10:00 AM: Deplane and take a 10-minute Uber to Graceland.

10:15 AM: Start the Mansion Tour (Pre-booked).

12:15 PM: Quick stop at the Graceland gift shop for souvenirs.

12:45 PM: Uber back to MEM airport.

1:00 PM: Clear security (TSA Pre-Check recommended) and head to gate.

03

8-Hour Itinerary

Blues, History & BBQ

9:00 AM: Exit MEM and head downtown via ride-share (15 mins).

9:20 AM: Visit the National Civil Rights Museum.

11:30 AM: Walk 10 minutes to Central BBQ for their famous ribs.

1:00 PM: Head to the Peabody Hotel to see the 1 PM Duck March history or just the lobby grandeur.

2:00 PM: Walk to Beale Street for a daytime drink and some live music.

3:30 PM: Take a quick Uber to Sun Studio for the 4:00 PM tour.

4:45 PM: Head back to MEM airport.

5:15 PM: Arrive at airport for check-in and security.

GetYourGuide selectionLive recommendations

* Suggestions load dynamically based on seasonal availability and ratings in Memphis.

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Memphis

Central BBQ

Memphis BBQ$$Downtown (Near Civil Rights Museum)

⭐ Must try: Dry-rubbed ribs or BBQ nachos

💡 The line moves fast, but there is almost always one. Order to-go if in a rush.

Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken$$Downtown

⭐ Must try: Fried Chicken Plate with Beans and Slaw

💡 The chicken is spicy! Be prepared for a kick.

Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous

Charcoal-Ribs$$$Downtown Alleyway

⭐ Must try: Pork Loin or Charcoal Ribs

💡 Entrance is in the alley across from the Peabody Hotel.

Dyer's Burgers

Burgers$Beale Street

⭐ Must try: Dyer’s Double Double

💡 They use a secret 'ageless' grease from 1912—it sounds weird, but tastes amazing.

The Arcade Restaurant

Diner / Southern$South Main

⭐ Must try: Fried Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich

💡 Memphis' oldest cafe; ask to sit in the Elvis Booth.

The Beauty Shop

New American$$$Cooper-Young

⭐ Must try: Sugar-Crusted Salmon

💡 It was once Priscilla Presley’s actual hair salon.

Shop & Browse

Where to Shop in Memphis

Lansky Bros.

The clothier to Elvis Presley, located inside the Peabody Hotel.

9.5 miles

South Main Arts District

Unique boutiques, art galleries, and record stores.

10 miles

Memphis International Airport Shops

Local favorites like Memphis Olive Oil Co. and Beale Street Blues Gift Shop.

0 miles

Wolfchase Galleria

A large traditional mall with major retailers.

20 miles

Navigate

Getting Around Memphis

Getting from MEM to downtown is easiest via ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, which typically cost $20-$30 and take 15-20 minutes. Taxis are also available at the ground transportation center. While public bus (MATA) Route 28 serves the airport, it is not recommended for short layovers due to infrequent schedules. For those looking to plan their next connection, you can track your flight path on Borderly for real-time updates.

Good to Know

Essential Memphis Layover Tips

01

Check your flight status often; MEM is the FedEx world hub and can get busy at night.

02

International travelers will need a valid US visa or ESTA to exit the airport.

03

There are no storage lockers at MEM; keep your carry-on light.

04

Download ride-sharing apps before you arrive for the fastest transit.

05

Most museums are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays; check hours before heading out.

06

The weather can be humid; dress in layers during summer months.

07

Keep some cash for street performers on Beale Street.

08

Always check the Memphis travel reviews on TripAdvisor for current dining wait times.

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Community Discussions

Real Traveler Advice

T
TravelBug992 days ago

Does anyone know if immigration is fast at this airport during morning hours? We only have a 4 hour layover and want to see the main square...

A
AeroExplorer5 days ago

Just did this exact layover last week! A few tips: definitely take the express train instead of cab, it saves about 45 mins. Also make sure...

Make Every Minute Count

Memphis Time Management

For a successful Memphis layover, follow the 4-hour rule. If you have less than 4 hours, stay at MEM. If you have 4-6 hours, pick one major site (Graceland is closest). For layovers longer than 6 hours, you can comfortably visit downtown. Always plan to be back at the airport 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 2 hours before an international one.

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Flight Connections

Major Routes from Memphis (MEM)

Memphis (MEM) to Atlanta (ATL)

Delta Air Lines

Memphis (MEM) to Dallas (DFW)

American Airlines

Memphis (MEM) to Charlotte (CLT)

American Airlines

Memphis (MEM) to Chicago (ORD)

United / American

Memphis (MEM) to Denver (DEN)

Southwest / United

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 4 hours enough for a Memphis layover?

+

Yes, 4 hours is enough for a quick trip to Graceland, which is only 10 minutes from the airport. However, it is not enough time to visit downtown Memphis comfortably.

Can I leave MEM airport during a layover?

+

Yes, as long as you have the necessary visa/documentation for the US and enough time to clear security upon your return.

What is there to do near MEM airport?

+

The closest major attraction is Graceland (Elvis Presley's home). Beyond that, the Stax Museum is about 12 minutes away.

Do I need a visa for a Memphis layover?

+

If you are not a US citizen or permanent resident, you will likely need a visa or an ESTA to exit the airport and enter the city.

How far is Memphis city center from the airport?

+

Memphis city center (Downtown) is approximately 9-10 miles away, taking about 15-20 minutes by car.

What lounge access is available at MEM?

+

There is a Delta Sky Club and a Military Liberty Lounge. There are currently no Priority Pass lounges at MEM.

Can I sleep at MEM airport during a layover?

+

You can, but it's not very comfortable as there are no dedicated sleep pods. Most travelers book a nearby airport hotel with a shuttle service.

Is there luggage storage at Memphis airport?

+

No, MEM does not offer luggage storage. You may need to take your bags with you or find a storage service in downtown Memphis.

How do I get from Memphis Airport to Beale Street?

+

The most efficient way is a ride-share (Uber/Lyft) or a taxi, which takes about 15-20 minutes.

What can you do in Memphis with 2 Hours between flights?

+

No Enjoy airport BBQ at Neely's Interstate Bar-B-Que, browse local gift shops for Elvis memorabilia.

Is 2 Hours enough time to leave the airport in Memphis?

+

No

What can you do in Memphis with 4 Hours between flights?

+

Yes Quick trip to Graceland (10 mins away) for the Mansion tour.

Is 4 Hours enough time to leave the airport in Memphis?

+

Yes

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