Everything you need to know about getting around Memphis

28.02.2024 - 07:31 / lonelyplanet.com

A city at the crossroads of three states (Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi), Memphis has a major airport, train line, buses, and highways that make it an easy place to travel to and around.

However, first-time visitors can find navigating around the various sights a little overwhelming due to the size and buzz of the city. But there are plenty of options for transportation, whether it's hopping aboard a bus, a trolley or exploring on foot.

Here's what you need to know about getting around magnificent Memphis.

MATA, the Memphis transportation system, has a wide network throughout the city, especially when it comes to buses. Most visitors will use the same few routes – Route 28, which runs from the airport into downtown, and Route 12, which comes from the Amtrak station.

This transit map highlights which buses go to the various big attractions around the city. The fare is $1 for an adult.

Even if you don’t need them to get around, the colorful, vintage trolleys are a fun sightseeing opportunity and a great experience. The Main Street Rail Line in particular runs from the Amtrak Station in the South Main Arts District past landmarks like the National Civil Rights Museum and Beale Street before terminating in the Pinch District.

The Riverfront Line also goes through the Pinch District, near the transit center, as well as alongside the Mississippi River past the Pyramid and Memphis Farmers Market. The Madison Avenue Line is the east-west route, connecting Memphis Park to the Madison Park & Ride Lot.

Fares are only $1 per ride and you'll need the exact change or a transportation pass. Double-check the hours during your visit because some services end at 6pm.

If you need to get somewhere quickly, your best bet beyond driving is to book a ride using popular apps like Uber and Lyft. Taxi companies do exist in the city but you might not be able to hail one unless you’re at a hotel or the airport. Download the apps before you arrive if you don't already have them – it'll save you a lot of time if your account already exists.

Bikes and scooters are a good way to cover short distances quickly in Memphis. Explore Bike Share is run by BCycle, a national bike-share chain, with outposts throughout Memphis, including in Overton Park, Crosstown and Downtown.

The fleet of e-bikes comes with baskets and locking capabilities, but you’ll need to bring your own helmet. Follow traffic patterns and use bike lanes when possible. You can rent using the app and fares start at $5 for a 20-minute ride.

Scooters have made a recent appearance on the streets of Bluff City from brands like Bird and Veo, which has both traditional scooters and seated scooters. They can be rented through their respective apps, but keep in mind that some parts of