24-Hour Layover in Memphis: What To Do
Memphis International Airport (MEM) · USA
Who else is transiting MEM right now?
Key Facts
- Airport: Memphis International Airport (MEM)
- Country: USA
- Layover window: 24 hours
- Recommended time outside: 18–20 hours — treat it as a mini trip
- Visa & Entry: Same USA rules — ESTA or visa required. FedEx hub — most flights are cargo. International limited.
Insider Tip
MEM is 13km from downtown — but Graceland is just 6 km from MEM (most-conveniently-located major US tourist attraction). For 4+ hour layovers: Uber to Graceland + back without going downtown. For 8+ hour layovers: BBQ + Civil Rights Museum downtown.
Getting to Memphis City Centre
| Mode | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| MATA bus 47 (to centre) | USD 1.75 | 50 min |
| Taxi / Uber / Lyft | USD 30–50 | 20–30 min |
Top Memphis: Where to Go
Graceland (Elvis Presley's home)
20 min from city centreElvis Presley's mansion + his grave. Closest major US tourist attraction to its airport (Graceland is 6 min from MEM). USD 47-105. 3-4 hours. Iconic.
Sun Studio + Beale Street
25 min from city centreWhere Elvis + Johnny Cash + Jerry Lee Lewis recorded. USD 15. Adjacent Beale Street has live blues + BBQ joints. Free walking.
National Civil Rights Museum (Lorraine Motel)
25 min from city centreWhere MLK was assassinated in 1968 — now the comprehensive Civil Rights Museum. USD 20. 2-3 hours. Essential American history.
Memphis BBQ + Stax Records Museum
25 min from city centreDry-rub ribs at Rendezvous (since 1948). Pulled pork at Central BBQ. Stax (Otis Redding + Isaac Hayes) Museum is on Stax St.
Eat Like a Local in Memphis
Memphis-style ribs (dry rub) at Rendezvous or Cozy Corner. Pulled pork sandwich at Payne's. Fried chicken at Gus's World Famous (the Mason original).
24-Hour Itinerary
Day 1 — Morning
Check into hotel near city centre
Book a hotel within 15 min of the main sights. Luggage storage available at most hotels even before check-in.
Day 1 — Midday
Memphis signature experience
Use your first afternoon for the city's #1 must-see. Tiredness catches up later.
Day 1 — Evening
Local dinner and evening market or rooftop bar
Evening markets, floating markets, and night bazaars are peak atmosphere. Do this on day 1.
Day 2 — Morning
Second neighbourhood exploration
Mornings offer better light for photos, cooler weather, and fewer tourists at popular sites.
Day 2 — Late Morning
Airport transfer — allow 3 hrs before flight
Build in buffer for morning traffic. International check-in closes 45–60 min before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for a 24-hour layover in Memphis?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries offer free transit visas or visa-on-arrival for layovers under 96 hours. Check your specific passport requirements before travel and confirm with your airline.
Is 24 hours enough to leave Memphis International Airport?
Yes — 24 hours is enough to explore the nearest neighbourhoods of Memphis comfortably, provided you have transit visa clearance. Allow 2–3 hours total for airport transit (both ways).
What is the best way to get from Memphis International to Memphis city centre?
MATA bus 47 (to centre) is typically the fastest and most affordable option at USD 1.75, taking approximately 50 min. Rideshare apps are a convenient alternative.
Is there luggage storage at Memphis International?
Yes, Memphis International Airport has left-luggage facilities in the arrivals and departures hall. Typical cost is $5–15 per bag for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, many airport hotels offer left-luggage for non-guests.
Connect with other travellers at MEM
Book a transfer or rental from Memphis International Airport
Fixed-price airport transfer, licensed drivers, or pick up a rental car — compare and book ahead so you skip the taxi queue.
Things to do in Memphis
Tours, skip-the-line tickets and local experiences — book ahead to skip queues.
Trains & buses from Memphis
Compare overland routes — often cheaper, more scenic and skip the airport queue.
Flights from Memphis
Compare 400+ airlines departing Memphis International Airport
Hotels near Memphis Airport
With 24 hours, a day-use hotel room is worth it — shower, sleep, and recharge before your next flight.