Is there a train to Memphis?

There is no direct Amtrak service from Berwyn to Memphis.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 8 to 9 hours.

What is the best airport?

Memphis International Airport is the primary hub.

Yes, expect tolls on the Illinois portion of the route.

Like any major city, stay in well-lit, populated tourist areas.

Berwyn

Memphis

Flight Driving

Berwyn to Memphis

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Berwyn to Memphis spans approximately 850 kilometers. Most travelers prefer driving via I-57 South through Illinois and Missouri. Alternatively, you can fly from Chicago Midway Airport to Memphis International Airport. The drive typically takes 8 hours depending on traffic near Chicago. This route connects the industrial Midwest to the cultural heart of the Mississippi Delta.

Total Distance: 850 km driving, 780 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Midway Airport takes roughly 2 hours in the air.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups of two or more.

Compare Berwyn to Memphis Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 15 mins	8 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$150-$300	$120-$180 in fuel
Operator	Southwest Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MDW to MEM.	I-57 S to I-55 S through Champaign and Sikeston.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance for the best fares.	Avoid rush hour traffic in Chicago by leaving Berwyn before 6 AM.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Expect heavy congestion on I-57 near the Chicago city limits.
Fuel
Gas prices are generally lower in rural Missouri than in Illinois.
Parking
Use parking garages in downtown Memphis to avoid street parking fines.
Dining
Try dry-rub ribs at local institutions like Central BBQ.
Weather
Check for severe thunderstorms in the spring months.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Stay alert for deer crossings in rural southern Illinois.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires are properly inflated before the long drive.
Night Driving
Avoid driving through rural stretches late at night due to limited lighting.
Emergency
Keep a physical map in your car in case of cellular dead zones.