The airport is FedEx's primary global cargo hub, a role that coexists with handling passenger domestic flights to major American cities.
Gateway to Memphis, birthplace of blues and rock and roll, home of Elvis Presley and host to Graceland.
How to get to Memphis International Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to MEM
Parking near Memphis International Airport
Multi-story car parks are located adjacent to the terminal, with daily rates: Short-Term 24 USD, Long-Term 15 USD, Economy 9 USD (first 30 minutes free in all areas); Blue and Yellow lots (overflow) open when other areas are full, 9 USD with complimentary shuttle.
How to get to Memphis from MEM
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Memphis International Airport
Each major car rental company has a desk inside the terminal.
Driver's license, passport, and credit card are sufficient; the IDP is not required for short stays if your license is in Latin characters.
Hotels near Memphis International Airport
Airport area and Graceland
7-10 minutes by car or hotel shuttle from the terminals; Graceland is about 4 miles away.
Best for: Travelers visiting mainly Graceland, with a dawn flight or a short layover, who don't want to go far.
- Just minutes from both the terminals and Graceland's gate
- Frequent free shuttles, some running from 4:30 to 23:00
- An area of interchanges and warehouses, nothing to do on foot in the evening
- For Beale Street and downtown you still need a car, 12-16 minutes
Recommended hotels
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Airport Graceland Just minutes from both the airport and Graceland, with free shuttle and breakfast included. View availability
- Courtyard by Marriott Memphis Airport Just minutes from the terminals, with an on-site restaurant handy for late arrivals. View availability
Downtown and Beale Street
12-16 minutes by car or taxi from the airport, with no direct train or bus connection.
Best for: Travelers who want Beale Street's live music venues, the river and the downtown museums within walking distance.
- Beale Street, the FedExForum and the riverfront within walking distance
- Historic downtown trolley for getting around between South Main and downtown
- A longer transfer from the airport than the airport area
- Event nights on Beale Street are loud and crowded
Recommended hotels
East Memphis (Ridgeway and Primacy Parkway)
About 25-30 minutes by car from the airport, farther from both the terminals and Beale Street.
Best for: Business commitments in the East Memphis business district, or wanting to stay close to Shelby Farms Park.
- Business area with offices and headquarters of large companies
- Closer to Shelby Farms Park than the other areas
- The farthest from the airport among the areas in this guide
- A car is always needed, there are no tourist attractions within walking distance
Recommended hotels
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal, historically an important FedEx cargo hub, also handles passenger traffic.
It's good practice to arrive 2-2.5 hours early for flights.
Map of Memphis International Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. Is Memphis Airport close to Graceland?
Yes, Elvis Presley's historic residence is relatively close to the airport, closer than the historic downtown on Beale Street.
Q. Is the MATA bus to the airport free?
At the moment yes, thanks to a fare-free period extended until March 31, 2026; check whether it's still in effect when you travel.
Q. Is Memphis Airport a major cargo hub?
Yes, it's FedEx's main global cargo hub.
Q. How long is the bus ride to downtown Memphis?
About 50-55 minutes on MATA Route 28, with 20 stops along the way.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights
