The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN
Cheapest price
$140
Average price
$145
Fastest journey
10 h 37 m
Average duration
15 h 54 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
774 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN will cost around $145 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $140.
Of the 3 trains that leave Chicago, IL for Memphis, TN on Tue, Mar 17, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Mar 17 the direct trains cover the 774 km distance in an average of 15 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 37 m .
On Tue, Mar 17 the slowest trains will take 22 h 27 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
391 Saluki · 59 City Of New Orleans
59 City Of New Orleans
393 Illini · 59 City Of New Orleans
59 City Of New Orleans
393 Illini · 59 City Of New Orleans
391 Saluki · 59 City Of New OrleansTravel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $69. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $69, and a flight costs an average of $91.
Distance: 480 miles (774 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$163 Average price | $113 Average price Cheapest | $327 Average price |
10h 56m Average total duration 10h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 41m Average total duration 11h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 17m Average total duration Fastest 2h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | 2.3 - 4.6kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN trains for today, Monday, March 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
393 Illini · 59 City Of New Orleans | 9:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 14h37 | 11:42 AM Memphis Central Station, Memphis, TN | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, March 17 | |||||
59 City Of New Orleans | 1:05 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 10h37 | 11:42 AM Memphis Central Station, Memphis, TN | 0 transfersDirect | |
391 Saluki · 59 City Of New Orleans | 1:15 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 22h27 | 11:42 AM Memphis Central Station, Memphis, TN | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN
Trains from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $92 (€75) but you can travel from only $69 (€56) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:15, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 480 miles (774 km) distance in 10h 22m.
Distance 480 miles (774 km) |
Average train duration 10h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $92 (€75) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 10h 22m |
First train 08:15 |
Last train 23:40 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Memphis, TN from $69 (€56). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN
Traveling between Chicago, IL and Memphis, TN is made convenient with Amtrak providing a comfortable train connection. The journey spans approximately 7 hours and covers around 400 miles, allowing you to relax while enjoying scenic views along the way. With amenities such as Wi-Fi and dining options on board, your trip will be both enjoyable and efficient. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this route offers an excellent travel experience between these two cities.
Train Connection: Chicago to Memphis
Traveling from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN takes approximately 10 hours and 22 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day on this route. Passengers will depart from Union Station, IL and arrive at Memphis Central Station, TN.
Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN Train Connection
The first and last daily journey from Chicago to Memphis departs at 23:05. This late-night schedule allows travelers to embark on their adventure under the stars, making it a unique experience as they transition between these two cities.
Train Tickets Price for Chicago to Memphis
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN is $96 (86.4€). The average ticket price typically hovers around $131 (118.0€), making the lowest fare an attractive option for travelers looking to save on transportation costs while exploring these vibrant cities.
Exploring the Heart of Memphis: A Journey Through Music and History
Welcome to Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, known as the King of Rock 'n' Roll. This iconic mansion not only showcases Elvis's lavish lifestyle but also serves as a pilgrimage site for fans from around the world who come to pay homage to his enduring legacy in music and culture. Unique features include an extensive collection of memorabilia, including his famous jumpsuits and gold records, along with a serene meditation garden where he is laid to rest.
Next on our journey is the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the historic Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. This powerful museum chronicles the American civil rights movement through immersive exhibits that highlight both its struggles and triumphs while inspiring visitors toward social justice today. One unique aspect is its integration with historical artifacts alongside personal stories that create an emotional connection with this pivotal chapter in history.
Finally, we arrive at Beale Street, often referred to as "the Home of Blues," which has been a vibrant hub for African American music since it emerged during post-Civil War America. The street’s significance lies not just in its rich musical heritage—having hosted legends like B.B. King—but also in how it symbolizes cultural resilience and community spirit throughout decades of change and challenge. What sets Beale Street apart are its lively atmosphere filled with live performances every night and charming venues steeped in history that invite you into Memphis's soulful rhythm.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Memphis, TN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN
- 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Canal Street.
- The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
- Lou Mitchell's
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Kimpton Gray Hotel
- JW Marriott Chicago
- W Chicago - City Center
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, Amtrak services
- Hall 2: Metra services
- Hall 3: food court and retail shops
- Bus: Several lines available
- CTA: Blue Line, Pink Line
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available near the station.
- Central BBQ
- Arcade Restaurant
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- $1
- The Central Station Memphis, Curio Collection by Hilton
- Hotel Napoleon
- The Peabody Memphis
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform for Amtrak trains
- Bus: MATA Bus services available
- Trolley: Main Street Trolley
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN
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