Driving
Madison to Memphis
Updated: 28 May 2026
The drive from Madison to Memphis is approximately 200 miles, taking about 3.5 hours. You will travel west on US-72 and then connect to I-22, which provides a direct path into Memphis. This route takes you through the rolling hills of North Alabama and into the Mississippi Delta region. Memphis is famous for its music history, including Beale Street and Graceland. Ensure you have enough fuel before entering the more rural stretches of Mississippi.
Total Distance: 320 km driving distance; 280 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest method, taking 3.5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most practical and cheapest way to travel.
Compare Madison to Memphis Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
3 hours 30 minutes
Avg Price
$40-$50 in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
US-72 West to I-22 West.
I-22 is a modern highway with limited services; fuel up in Tupelo, MS.
Travel Tips
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Time ZoneMemphis is in the Central Time Zone, same as Madison.
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TrafficMemphis traffic can be heavy near the I-40/I-55 interchange.
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SafetyStay in tourist-friendly areas like Beale Street and Midtown.
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DiningTry the world-famous Memphis-style dry rub BBQ.
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NavigationI-22 is well-marked, but keep your GPS active for city navigation.
Safety Tips
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Highway SafetyBe alert for deer on rural stretches of US-72.
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City SafetyAvoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.
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Vehicle SecurityAlways lock your car and remove valuables.
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EmergencyKeep a charged phone and emergency supplies in your vehicle.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train to Memphis?No, there is no passenger rail service between Madison and Memphis.
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How long is the drive?The drive takes about 3.5 hours.
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Are there tolls?No, there are no toll roads on this route.
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What is the best route?US-72 to I-22 is the most efficient path.
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Is it a safe drive?Yes, it is a standard interstate drive.
Quick Info
- From Madison, Alabama, United States
- To Memphis, Tennessee, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring or Fall to enjoy the outdoor music festivals.
Things to Do in Memphis
1
Graceland
Tour the famous home of Elvis Presley, a must-see for music fans.
2
Beale Street
Experience the heart of Memphis nightlife and live blues music.
3
National Civil Rights Museum
Visit the site of the Lorraine Motel, now a powerful museum.
4
Sun Studio
Take a tour of the studio where rock and roll was born.
Tags
Madison to Memphis
US-72 route
Memphis travel
driving to Memphis
Tennessee road trip
Madison AL to Memphis TN
Memphis commute
I-22 route
