Traveling From Atlanta, GA to Memphis, TN: A Practical Guide for Atlanta Travelers

If you’re in Atlanta, GA and planning a trip to Memphis, TN, you have several solid options for getting there—whether you’re driving, flying, or taking a bus. This guide walks through the best routes, typical travel times, costs, and local tips from an Atlanta perspective, so you can choose what fits your schedule and budget.

How Far Is It From Atlanta to Memphis?

The distance between Atlanta, Georgia and Memphis, Tennessee is roughly:

• By road: about 380–400 miles
• Direct flight distance: around 330 miles (about 1–1.5 hours of flight time)

Most Atlanta residents choose between driving or flying, with buses as a budget-friendly backup.

Driving From Atlanta to Memphis

For many people in metro Atlanta, driving is the most flexible option—especially for families, group trips, or those wanting to explore parts of Alabama and Mississippi along the way.

Main Driving Route (Fastest for Most Atlantans)

From most parts of Atlanta (including Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and the airport area), the usual route is:

1. Start on I-20 West from Atlanta.
2. Take I-20 W into Alabama, passing cities like Anniston and Birmingham.
3. Near Birmingham, connect to I-22 West toward Memphis.
4. Stay on I-22 as it continues northwest through Mississippi.
5. I-22 merges close to the Memphis area, where you’ll follow signs into Memphis, TN.

Approximate drive time:

• 6 to 7 hours, depending on:
  • Traffic leaving Atlanta (especially on I-20 westbound)
  • Construction or backups around Birmingham
  • How often you stop for gas, food, or rest

When You’re Leaving From Different Parts of Atlanta

• Downtown / Midtown Atlanta:
  Easiest is to hop on I-20 W directly via the connector (I-75/85) and head toward Birmingham.

• Atlanta Airport (Hartsfield-Jackson):
  From the airport area, you can get on I-285 West/North, then connect to I-20 W toward Birmingham.

• Northern Suburbs (Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta):
  You might take I-285 West to I-20 W, or navigate surface streets to avoid heavy connector traffic, depending on time of day.

• Westside (Douglasville, Lithia Springs):
  You’re already close to I-20 W, which makes the route very straightforward.

Pros and Cons of Driving From Atlanta to Memphis

Advantages:

• Flexibility: Leave when you want, stop where you want.
• Cost-effective for groups: Gas split among several people is often cheaper than multiple plane tickets.
• No airport hassles: No security lines, bag fees, or boarding times.
• Easy luggage management: Pack coolers, instruments, sports gear, or kids’ items without airline limits.

Drawbacks:

• Long stretches of interstate: Some parts of the drive are rural and can feel repetitive.
• Weather considerations: Heavy rain or winter weather can slow you down, especially in higher elevations around Alabama.
• Traffic leaving Atlanta: Peak times (weekday late afternoons, Friday evenings, holiday weekends) can add an hour or more just getting out of metro Atlanta.

Road Trip Tips for Atlantans

• Time your departure:
  • Leaving before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. often helps you avoid the worst I-20 congestion inside the Perimeter (I-285).
• Plan fuel and food stops:
  Towns like Birmingham (AL) and Tupelo (MS) are common stopping points with plenty of fuel and restaurants.
• Vehicle prep in Atlanta:
  Before heading out, consider a quick check at a local service center near you (for example, along Metropolitan Parkway, Peachtree Street, or Cobb Parkway) for:
  • Tire pressure and tread
  • Oil level
  • Coolant and windshield washer fluid

Flying From Atlanta to Memphis

If you’re in or near Atlanta, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is a major advantage. Flying is usually the fastest way to get from Atlanta, GA to Memphis, TN, especially for short weekend trips or business travel.

Flight Basics

• Departure airport:
  Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
  6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
  Main phone (airport information): (800) 897-1910

• Arrival airport:
  Memphis International Airport (MEM)

• Typical non-stop flight time:
  About 1 to 1.5 hours in the air

• Total airport-to-airport time (door to door):
  When you factor in:

  • Arriving early for security
  • Boarding, taxiing, and deplaning
    Most Atlantans experience 3–4 hours total.

Getting to ATL From Around Atlanta

• MARTA:
  The Airport Station is directly inside the domestic terminal. From Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead, you can ride the Red or Gold line straight to the airport, avoiding parking costs and traffic.

• Driving and Parking:

  • ATL offers park-ride lots, covered parking decks, and economy lots.
  • Many Atlantans also use off-site parking lots near the airport with shuttle service.

• Rideshare or Taxi:
  Common for those in Midtown, Downtown, College Park, East Point, and nearby neighborhoods who want to avoid overnight parking.

Pros and Cons of Flying From Atlanta to Memphis

Advantages:

• Fastest travel time: Especially if you live close to a MARTA station or the airport.
• Comfortable for solo travelers: No long hours behind the wheel.
• Predictable schedule: Good for business trips and events with tight timelines.

Drawbacks:

• Cost: Flights can be more expensive than gas, especially near holidays or last-minute.
• Airport routines: Security lines, boarding processes, and potential delays.
• Baggage and transport in Memphis: You’ll still need ground transportation once you land.

Taking a Bus From Atlanta to Memphis

For budget-conscious Atlantans, intercity buses can be an option. While schedules and operators can change, it’s common for Atlanta-to-Memphis routes to run through large hubs like Birmingham or other nearby cities.

Where Buses Typically Depart in Atlanta

Major bus carriers often use stations or curbside locations in or near Downtown Atlanta. A commonly used facility historically has been in the Downtown / Five Points / Garnett area. Because bus operators sometimes shift terminals or pickup points:

• Check departure address and time carefully when buying your ticket.
• Plan how you’ll get to the bus location (MARTA, rideshare, or parking in a secure lot).

What to Expect

• Travel time:
  Usually 8–10 hours, depending on route and connections.
• Amenities:
  Most long-distance buses offer:
  • Reclining seats
  • Restrooms
  • Limited Wi-Fi or power outlets (varies by coach)
• Best for:
  • Solo travelers on a tight budget
  • People who don’t want to drive or deal with airport screening

Comparing Your Options From Atlanta to Memphis

Here’s a simple comparison to help you decide:

*Costs vary widely by season, advance booking, and current prices.

Timing Your Trip: When Atlantans Should Leave

The time you leave Atlanta can have a big impact on how smooth your travel feels:

If You’re Driving

• Avoid:
  • Weekday rush hours (roughly 7–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m.) inside the Perimeter
  • Friday afternoons and evenings on I-20 West
• Better windows:
  • Early morning (5–7 a.m.)
  • Late evening (after 7 p.m.) for less congestion

Consider checking real-time traffic maps before leaving neighborhoods like Decatur, East Atlanta, or West Midtown to choose the best route to I-20.

If You’re Flying

• Early flights (6–9 a.m.) from ATL are popular with business travelers; security lines can be longer.
• For most domestic flights, travelers often aim to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure at Hartsfield-Jackson, especially during:
  • Holiday weeks
  • Monday mornings
  • Friday afternoons

If you’re using MARTA, factor in:

• Train frequency (more frequent during weekday rush)
• Walking time inside the airport from train platform to your concourse

Packing and Planning Tips for Atlanta-Based Travelers

Even for a relatively short trip from Atlanta to Memphis, planning ahead makes the journey easier.

For Drivers

• Essentials to keep in the car:
  • Phone charger and car mount
  • Printed or saved offline directions in case of weak cell signal
  • Bottled water and snacks
  • Small first-aid kit
• Before leaving Atlanta:
  • Top off your gas tank to avoid high prices at isolated exits.
  • Check weather along the route from Georgia through Alabama and Mississippi.

For Flyers

• Airport prep for Atlantans:
  • Decide in advance: MARTA, rideshare, or parking.
  • Factor in Atlanta’s traffic when planning your ride to ATL.
  • Consider how much luggage you truly need to avoid checked bag fees and baggage claim time.

For Bus Travelers

• At the Atlanta departure point:
  • Arrive early to account for check-in and boarding procedures.
  • Keep valuables in a small bag you keep with you at all times.
  • Pack:
    • Light blanket or jacket
    • Headphones
    • Snacks and a refillable water bottle

What Awaits You in Memphis (From an Atlanta Perspective)

From Atlanta, Memphis can feel familiar yet distinct:

• Music:
  Memphis is known for its blues and rock ‘n’ roll history, pairing well with what Atlantans may already know from local music venues and festivals.
• Food:
  Many Atlanta residents compare Memphis barbecue with Atlanta’s own BBQ spots; some travelers go specifically for food-focused weekends.
• City size and layout:
  Memphis is smaller than Atlanta, so drivers from here often find local traffic less intense but should still learn the main routes and parking options.

Planning where you’ll stay and how you’ll get around before leaving Atlanta (car rental, rideshare, or walking areas near your hotel) can help you hit the ground running when you arrive.

Key Takeaways for Traveling From Atlanta, GA to Memphis, TN

• The drive from Atlanta to Memphis is about 6–7 hours via I-20 W and I-22, and is a good option for families or flexible travelers.
• Flights from Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) to Memphis (MEM) are about 1–1.5 hours in the air, ideal for fast business or weekend trips.
• Buses provide a budget option but usually take 8–10 hours or more.
• Atlanta-based travelers should factor in:
  • Traffic patterns on I-20 and around the airport
  • MARTA access to ATL for flights
  • Their budget, time constraints, and comfort preference

With a clear sense of your priorities—time, cost, comfort—you can choose the route from Atlanta, GA to Memphis, TN that fits your needs and plan your trip with confidence.