Quick Facts: Nashville to Memphis Day Trip at a Glance
Thinking about a whirlwind trip from Music City to the Home of the Blues? It’s an epic day, but you need to know what you’re getting into. Here are the essential numbers for your Nashville to Memphis day trip in 2025.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance One-Way | Approx. 212 miles / 341 km |
| Driving Time One-Way | 3 to 3.5 hours (without traffic) |
| Total Driving Time | 6 to 7 hours (Round Trip) |
| Time in Memphis | Approx. 8-9 hours |
| Estimated Cost (Per Person) | $110 – $250+ (Gas, Food, Attractions) |
| Best Time to Go | Spring/Fall, Weekdays (Wed/Thu) |
How to Get From Nashville to Memphis
When it comes to a day trip, time is everything. While there are a few ways to connect these two Tennessee music giants, only one makes sense for a single-day adventure.
Driving (The Best & Only Realistic Option)
The freedom of having your own car is non-negotiable for this trip. The drive is a straight shot west on Interstate 40 (I-40 W) and is quite manageable. To maximize your time, you must leave Nashville early—ideally no later than 7:00 AM—to beat the morning rush and get a full day in Memphis. Remember to factor in parking costs; downtown garages typically run $10-$20 for the day, while major attractions like Graceland have their own paid lots ($10-$15).
Other Transportation Options
For a day trip, other methods just don’t add up. Here’s a quick comparison to show you why driving is the clear winner.
| Mode | Travel Time (One Way) | Estimated Cost (Round Trip) | Verdict for a Day Trip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car | 3 – 3.5 Hours | $60 – $80 (Gas) | Recommended |
| Bus (Greyhound) | 4 – 5 Hours | $50 – $100+ | Not Recommended (Too slow) |
| Organized Tour | 3.5+ Hours | $150 – $250+ | Pricey but possible |
| Train / Plane | N/A | N/A | Not a viable option |
Top 5 Memphis Attractions for a Day Trip
You can’t see everything in one day, so you have to choose wisely. This curated list focuses on the absolute must-see landmarks that define Memphis.
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Graceland (The King’s Castle)
No trip to Memphis is complete without paying homage to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Touring Elvis Presley’s iconic home is a surreal journey back in time. The “Elvis Experience Tour” is the most popular option, giving you access to the mansion, his custom airplanes, and the massive entertainment complex across the street filled with cars, gold records, and dazzling jumpsuits.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets online in advance! This is critical to secure your time slot and avoid wasting precious hours in line.- Location: 3764 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116
- Visit Duration: Allow 3-4 hours.
- Price: ~$80 for the popular tour packages.
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National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel
This is more than a museum; it’s a deeply moving pilgrimage. Built around the actual Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spent his final hours, the exhibits trace the history of the Civil Rights Movement in America. It is a powerful, emotional, and essential experience that provides profound context to American history. Be prepared for an impactful visit.
- Location: 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103
- Visit Duration: Allow at least 2.5-3 hours.
- Price: ~$18-$20 for adults (Closed on Tuesdays).
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Sun Studio (The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll)
Step into the legendary room where music history was made. This is where artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, B.B. King, and Jerry Lee Lewis got their start. The only way to see the studio is via a guided tour, and the passionate guides bring the stories to life. Standing in the exact spot where giants recorded is a spine-tingling experience for any music fan.
- Location: 706 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103
- Tour Duration: 45 minutes (allow 1 hour total).
- Price: ~$15-$20 per person.
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Beale Street
Known worldwide as the “Home of the Blues,” Beale Street is the historic heart of Memphis music. During the day, it’s less about the raucous nightlife and more about soaking in the history. Walk the cobblestones, read the musical notes of fame embedded in the sidewalk, and pop into the historic A. Schwab general store. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch and feel the city’s rhythm.
- Location: Downtown Memphis
- Visit Duration: 1-2 hours for a daytime stroll and meal.
- Price: Free to walk around.
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The Peabody Ducks
Witness one of the most charming and unique traditions in the South! Twice a day, five resident Mallard ducks march along a red carpet through the grand lobby of the historic Peabody Hotel to and from their fountain. It’s a delightful, free spectacle that offers a wonderful “Memphis moment.” The 11:00 AM march is perfectly timed for your arrival from Nashville.
- Location: The Peabody Hotel, 149 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103
- Times: Daily at 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
- Price: Free (Arrive 20-30 minutes early for a good spot).
Sample Itinerary: A Packed 8-Hour Memphis Day Trip
To make this long day a success, you need a plan. Choose one of these two tailored itineraries based on your primary interests. Remember to pre-book all your attraction tickets!
Option 1: The Music Lover’s Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Depart Nashville (full tank of gas, coffee in hand!) |
| 10:30 AM | Arrive in Memphis, head to Sun Studio for the 11:30 AM tour. |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch! Grab legendary Gus’s Fried Chicken or Central BBQ nearby. |
| 2:00 PM | Arrive at Graceland for your pre-booked tour. Immerse yourself in the world of Elvis. |
| 5:30 PM | Drive to Beale Street for a quick walk as the famous neon signs begin to glow. |
| 6:30 PM | Depart Memphis for the drive back to Nashville. |
Option 2: The History & Culture Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Depart Nashville. |
| 10:30 AM | Arrive at The Peabody Hotel to secure a good spot for the 11:00 AM Duck March. |
| 11:30 AM | Walk to the National Civil Rights Museum for a profound afternoon. |
| 2:30 PM | Late lunch. Experience the iconic Rendezvous for their famous dry-rub ribs. |
| 4:00 PM | Explore Beale Street, visit A. Schwab, and maybe pop into the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. |
| 6:30 PM | Depart Memphis, filled with history and great food. |
Where to Eat in Memphis (A Quick Bite Guide)
You can’t come to Memphis and not eat well. The city’s culinary scene is legendary. Here are a few can’t-miss spots perfect for a quick yet unforgettable day trip meal.
World-Class BBQ
- Central BBQ ($$): Universally loved, a can’t-miss choice for classic pulled pork or ribs. Their BBQ nachos are a local favorite.
- The Rendezvous ($$$): A Memphis institution famous for its unique dry-rub ribs, served in a bustling basement alley. It’s an experience.
More Than BBQ
- Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken ($$): Legendary spicy fried chicken that absolutely lives up to the hype. Crispy, juicy, with a kick.
- Arcade Restaurant ($): Step back in time at Memphis’s oldest cafe, an Elvis favorite. Perfect for a classic diner breakfast or lunch.
Insider Tips for a Successful Day Trip
A little planning goes a long way on a marathon day like this. Follow these tips to make your adventure smooth and memorable.
- Start Early, Leave Late: This is non-negotiable. Be prepared for a 14 to 16-hour day from start to finish. The earlier you leave Nashville, the more you can do.
- Book Everything in Advance: We can’t say this enough. Tickets for Graceland, Sun Studio, and other popular tours should be booked online days or weeks ahead to avoid disappointment.
- Pick a Theme: Don’t try to do it all. You’ll end up rushed and exhausted. Choose a primary focus—like our “Music Lover” or “History” itineraries—and stick to it.
- Manage Driving Fatigue: If you can, share the driving with a companion. Plan for a quick coffee and stretch break on the way back. Stay hydrated.
- Pack Smart: A small bag with essentials will be your best friend. See our checklist below!
- Time Zone Check: Good news! Nashville and Memphis are both in the Central Time Zone, so there’s no time change to worry about.
What to Pack Checklist
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be on your feet a lot!)
- Portable phone charger / power bank
- Car phone mount and charger
- Snacks and a refillable water bottle
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (especially in spring/summer)
- A light jacket or sweater (museums can be chilly)
- Your pre-booked digital tickets saved on your phone
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person) for 2025
Here’s a realistic look at what your Nashville to Memphis day trip might cost per person.
| Item | Low-End Estimate | High-End Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (shared cost) | $30 | $40 |
| Attractions (1-2 major) | $40 | $100 |
| Lunch | $15 | $30 |
| Dinner/Snacks | $15 | $30 |
| Parking | $10 | $20 |
| Total | $110 | $220 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip from Nashville to Memphis?
Yes, you absolutely can! But it’s a long, ambitious day. With 6-7 hours of total driving, it’s best suited for travelers who are highly motivated, have a specific must-see goal (like visiting Graceland), and are fully prepared for an early start and a late return to Nashville.
Is it better to stay in Nashville or Memphis?
This completely depends on your interests! They are both incredible but different cities. Nashville is the undisputed capital of country music, with its vibrant ‘Honky Tonk’ nightlife and the Grand Ole Opry. Memphis is the gritty, soulful home of the blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll, with a deeper, more historical vibe. Choose Nashville for country music and a party atmosphere; choose Memphis for blues, rock history, and civil rights significance.
Is there a day trip from Nashville to Graceland?
Yes, and for many people, visiting Graceland is the entire reason for making the day trip. It’s very feasible. You can easily drive from Nashville, spend 3-4 hours exploring everything Graceland has to offer, grab a great Memphis meal, and drive back. Our “Music Lover’s Itinerary” above shows you exactly how to structure that day.
Is Memphis, Tennessee worth visiting?
A thousand times, yes. Memphis is a city with a soul. It’s worth visiting for its monumental impact on American and world music (Sun Studio, Stax, Beale Street), its critical role in the Civil Rights Movement (National Civil Rights Museum), and its world-famous, mouth-watering BBQ. It offers a deep, authentic, and unforgettable cultural experience.
TLDR: The Final Verdict
A Nashville to Memphis day trip is tiring but totally worth it for the right traveler in 2025. If you are passionate about music history or American history and don’t mind a long day on the road, you’ll be rewarded with an experience you’ll never forget. The keys to success are: start early, book tickets in advance, and pick just 2-3 main attractions to focus on. Go for it!
