Flight
Driving
Paradise Valley to Memphis
Updated: 29 May 2026
The route from Paradise Valley to Memphis covers approximately 2,700 kilometers. The most direct driving route follows Interstate 40 East, taking you through New Mexico, the Texas Panhandle, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. Flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor to Memphis International Airport is the fastest alternative. This journey transitions from the high desert of the Southwest to the rolling hills and river plains of the Mid-South. Expect a long but scenic drive across the heart of the country.
Total Distance: Driving distance 2,750 km; straight-line air distance 2,300 km.
Fastest Way
Flying from Phoenix (PHX) to Memphis (MEM) is the fastest option.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective for multiple travelers.
Compare Paradise Valley to Memphis Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 hours | 25 hours |
| Avg Price | $250 - $550 | $350 - $600 in fuel |
| Operator | American Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | PHX to MEM with a layover in Dallas or Charlotte. | I-40 East through Albuquerque, Amarillo, Oklahoma City, and Little Rock. |
| Tip | Check for direct flights during peak holiday seasons. | Plan for an overnight stop in Oklahoma City to break up the drive. |
Travel Tips
-
BBQTry the famous Memphis-style dry rub ribs at local smokehouses.
-
TransportRent a car as Memphis is spread out and public transit is limited.
-
SafetyStay in well-traveled tourist areas, especially at night.
-
WeatherSummers are very hot and humid; pack accordingly.
-
BookingBook tours for Graceland in advance to ensure availability.
Safety Tips
-
Road SafetyBe cautious of high winds in the Texas Panhandle while driving.
-
Night DrivingAvoid long-distance night driving through rural Arkansas.
-
Personal SecurityKeep your vehicle locked and valuables out of sight.
-
EmergencyKeep a physical map as cell service can be spotty in rural areas.
People Also Ask
-
Is there a train?No, there is no direct passenger rail service from Phoenix to Memphis.
-
How long is the flight?Total travel time including layovers is usually 5 to 7 hours.
-
What is the best highway?Interstate 40 is the primary route across the country.
-
Is Memphis walkable?Only in specific areas like Beale Street; otherwise, you need a car.
-
What is the distance?The driving distance is approximately 2,750 kilometers.
Quick Info
- From Paradise Valley, Arizona, United States
- To Memphis, Tennessee, United States
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring or fall for pleasant temperatures while exploring Beale Street.
Things to Do in Memphis
1
Graceland
Tour the iconic home of Elvis Presley and see his collection of cars and planes.
2
Beale Street
Experience the birthplace of blues music with live performances and historic clubs.
3
Sun Studio
Visit the legendary recording studio where rock 'n' roll history was made.
4
National Civil Rights Museum
Learn about the history of the civil rights movement at the Lorraine Motel.
Tags
Paradise Valley to Memphis
flights to Memphis
driving to Memphis from AZ
I-40 road trip
traveling to Tennessee
Phoenix to Memphis
best way to Memphis
Memphis travel tips
Arizona to Tennessee
travel guide
