Is there a direct train?

No, there is no direct Amtrak service from Pasadena to Memphis.

What is the best highway?

Interstate 40 is the most direct and well-maintained route.

Yes, expect tolls on the Will Rogers Turnpike in Oklahoma.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 28 hours of pure driving time.

No, most flights from LAX to Memphis require at least one connection.

Pasadena

Memphis

Flight Driving

Pasadena to Memphis

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Pasadena to Memphis spans approximately 2,900 kilometers across the American Southwest. Most travelers fly from Los Angeles International Airport to Memphis International Airport, taking about 4 hours. Driving via Interstate 40 East is the primary road route, passing through Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. This route offers diverse landscapes from the Mojave Desert to the Mississippi River delta. Expect significant elevation changes and varying weather conditions throughout the trip.

Total Distance: Driving distance 2,900 km; straight-line air distance 2,550 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from LAX to MEM is the fastest, taking roughly 6 hours including airport transit.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more people sharing fuel costs.

Compare Pasadena to Memphis Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 15 mins	28 hours
Avg Price	$300 - $600	$400 - $700 in fuel
Operator	Delta Air Lines	Personal Vehicle
Route	LAX to MEM via hubs like ATL or DFW.	I-10 E to I-40 E through Flagstaff and Amarillo.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Check your tire pressure before crossing the Mojave Desert.

Travel Tips

Time Zone
Remember that you will cross from Pacific Time to Central Time during your journey.
Hydration
Carry extra water when driving through the desert sections of Arizona and New Mexico.
Tolls
Keep a small amount of cash or a transponder for toll roads in Oklahoma.
Airport Transit
Use the FlyAway bus from Pasadena to reach LAX efficiently.
Packing
Pack layers as temperatures fluctuate significantly between the desert and the humid South.

Safety Tips

Road Fatigue
Stop every four hours to stretch and avoid driver fatigue on long highway stretches.
Weather Alerts
Monitor weather reports for potential dust storms in the Southwest.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your cooling system is in top condition before driving through high-heat areas.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic emergency kit with jumper cables and a flashlight in your trunk.