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Exploring Memphis Airport Memphis Tennessee: Your Gateway To Southern Charm

The Top 10 Things To Do in Memphis

Jul 30, 2025
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The Top 10 Things To Do in Memphis

When you think about visiting Memphis, Tennessee, your journey often begins right at the Memphis International Airport, or MEM. This airport, you know, is more than just a place where planes land and take off; it's truly a first impression of a city rich with music, history, and incredibly good food. It is that feeling of arriving somewhere special, a place that holds so many stories.

This spot, the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee, acts as a warm welcome to folks coming to experience the city's unique vibe. From the moment you step off your plane, you get a sense of the friendly atmosphere that Memphis is so famous for. It's a key spot for anyone wanting to check out all the amazing things to do here, like Graceland or Beale Street, or just to enjoy some really tasty barbecue.

For visitors, getting to know the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee can make your trip a lot smoother and more enjoyable. It’s where your Memphis adventure truly kicks off, giving you easy access to all the attractions, events, and delicious restaurants that make this city such a draw. So, let’s talk about what makes MEM a good starting point for your visit.

Table of Contents

Memphis International Airport: Your Gateway to the Delta

The Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee, known by its code MEM, is a really important hub for the Mid-South region. It's not just a spot for people flying; it also has a big history as a cargo airport, which is pretty interesting. So, it helps a lot of goods move around the country, which is a big deal for the local economy.

For travelers, MEM has seen some changes over the years to make things smoother. You know, they've worked on updating parts of the airport to give everyone a better experience. It’s a place that tends to be quite efficient for arrivals and departures, which is good news for busy people.

This airport serves as a primary point of entry for millions of visitors each year, all coming to experience Memphis. It really connects the city to the rest of the world, allowing people to come and see what makes this place special. It’s, in a way, the city’s front door for air travel.

Getting Around Memphis International Airport (MEM)

Once you land at the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee, getting around is, you know, pretty straightforward. The layout is designed to be easy for folks to find their way from the plane to baggage claim and then out to ground transport. It’s not one of those huge, confusing airports, which is a relief for many travelers.

There are signs everywhere to help you, and the staff usually seem happy to point you in the right direction. You can, for example, pretty quickly get your bearings once you are inside the main terminal area. It’s built with the traveler in mind, making your first moments in Memphis quite simple.

Inside the Terminal: Amenities and Services

The Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee has a good selection of amenities to make your wait more comfortable. You’ll find places to sit and relax, and of course, there’s Wi-Fi available for everyone. So, you can easily check your messages or look up things to do in Memphis while you wait for your bags or your next flight.

There are also, you know, restrooms that are kept clean, and places to charge your phone or other devices. It's basically all the things you expect from a modern airport, helping you stay connected and comfortable. They really try to cover the basics well for everyone passing through.

Food and Drink Options at MEM

When hunger strikes at the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee, you'll find various places to grab a bite. There are options for quick snacks, like coffee shops and grab-and-go spots, which is handy if you’re in a hurry. You can get something light, or something a bit more substantial, depending on what you feel like.

You can also find places to sit down for a meal, perhaps a casual restaurant or a bar where you can relax a bit before or after your flight. It’s not an overwhelming number of choices, but there’s enough variety to satisfy most tastes. You might even find a little taste of local flavor, which is kind of nice.

Shopping and Souvenirs

If you're looking for a last-minute gift or a souvenir from your trip to the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee, there are shops available. You can pick up things like books, magazines, or travel necessities. It's a good spot to get those little items you might have forgotten or just want to take home as a reminder of your visit.

You’ll often find some Memphis-themed items, too, which is really cool. Things like t-shirts, mugs, or local snacks can be found. So, if you didn’t get a chance to buy something downtown, you can often find a little piece of Memphis right at the airport before you leave.

Getting to and From Memphis Airport

Once you’ve landed at the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee and picked up your bags, getting to your final destination in the city is quite simple. There are several ways to get around, giving you choices based on your budget and how much stuff you’re carrying. It’s pretty convenient, actually.

Whether you’re heading to a hotel, a meeting, or directly to an attraction, there’s a transport option for you. Knowing these choices beforehand can really help you plan your arrival. You can feel pretty confident about finding a ride that works for you.

Ground Transportation Choices

For getting from the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee into the city, you have several common ground transportation choices. Taxis are always available right outside the terminal, which is a quick way to get going. You can just hop in and tell them where you need to go.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are also a popular choice and operate freely from MEM. You just use your app, and a car will come to pick you up at a designated spot. This is, you know, a very common way for many people to get around these days.

Many hotels near the airport or in downtown Memphis offer shuttle services for their guests, so it's a good idea to check with your hotel if they provide this. This can save you a bit of money and make things really easy. It's often a free service, which is a bonus.

For those who prefer to drive themselves, car rental agencies have counters at the airport. You can pick up a car right there and have the freedom to explore Memphis on your own schedule. This is a good option if you plan to visit many different places, like Graceland or the Memphis Zoo, which are spread out a bit.

Parking at MEM

If you're driving to the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee to catch a flight, or to pick someone up, there are different parking options available. They have short-term parking for quick drop-offs or pick-ups, which is very convenient for those brief stops. It’s usually close to the terminal, making it easy to get in and out.

For longer stays, like when you’re going on a trip for a few days or weeks, there are long-term parking lots. These are usually a bit further away but offer more affordable rates. There might be shuttle services from these lots to the terminal, which is, you know, pretty typical for airports.

It's always a good idea to check the airport's official website for the most current parking rates and availability before you head out. This way, you can plan ahead and avoid any surprises. You can find out about specific parking garages or lots, and their current prices, which helps a lot.

Connecting MEM to Memphis Attractions

The Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee is perfectly positioned to get you quickly to the city's most beloved spots. As "My text" tells us, Memphis is full of "Attractions, events, restaurants, places to stay and things to do." The airport really acts as your direct link to all that excitement. You can land and be exploring in no time, which is pretty cool.

From the airport, it's not a long drive to some of the most famous places that draw visitors from all over the world. You know, like, you can literally be on your way to see Elvis's home just a little while after you get off the plane. This connection makes your travel plans much simpler, really.

Graceland: A Short Trip Away

One of the biggest draws in Memphis, Graceland, is actually quite close to the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee. This means you can get from your plane to Elvis Presley's iconic home very quickly. It’s a huge plus for fans who want to see the King's mansion without a long commute.

Many visitors make Graceland their first stop, and the airport's closeness makes that very doable. You can, for example, arrange for a taxi or a ride-share service, and be at Graceland in a matter of minutes. It’s almost like the airport was planned with Graceland visitors in mind, in a way.

Beale Street: Music and Fun

After you’ve settled in, or maybe even before, you might want to head to Beale Street, which is famous for its live music and lively atmosphere. It's where the blues really comes alive, and you can find lots of places to eat and just enjoy the scene. This historic street is a must-see for anyone visiting Memphis.

Getting to Beale Street from the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee is also pretty easy. It’s a short drive into downtown Memphis, where Beale Street is located. You can spend an evening listening to great music and soaking up the unique Memphis vibe. It’s definitely a fun place to be, you know.

Memphis Zoo: Wildlife Adventures

For families or anyone who loves animals, the Memphis Zoo is a fantastic place to visit. It’s known for its beautiful exhibits and a wide variety of animals from around the world. As "My text" points out, the Memphis Zoo is one of the top attractions here.

The zoo is not too far from the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee either, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. You can spend a whole day there, or just a few hours, depending on your schedule. It's a great spot for all ages, really, and offers a different kind of fun compared to the music attractions.

Delicious Memphis Barbecue

You simply cannot come to Memphis without trying its world-famous barbecue, which "My text" rightly highlights as a key thing to do. From ribs to pulled pork, the city has its own distinct barbecue style that people come from all over to taste. It’s a culinary experience you really don’t want to miss.

Many of the best barbecue joints are spread throughout the city, but they are all accessible from the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee. You can easily find a ride to a popular spot to get your fill of slow-cooked goodness. It’s a delicious part of the Memphis experience, you know, and a truly memorable meal.

Planning Your Visit: Tips for Travelers

To make your trip to Memphis as smooth as possible, a little planning goes a long way, especially concerning your arrival at the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee. Thinking about where you’ll stay and what you’ll do can really improve your overall experience. It's about making things easy for yourself.

Considering things like transportation from the airport and how to get to attractions will help you save time and stress. You want to focus on enjoying Memphis, not on figuring out logistics. So, a few simple steps can make a big difference, honestly.

Staying Near the Airport

If you have an early flight or a late arrival, staying at a hotel close to the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee can be a very smart choice. There are many hotels in the immediate area that offer comfortable stays and often shuttle services to and from the terminal. This can really cut down on travel stress, especially at odd hours.

These hotels provide convenience and a place to rest right after you land or before you leave. They are also usually well-connected to major roads, making it easy to get into the city if you decide to explore. It’s a practical option for many travelers, really.

Events and Things to Do in Memphis

Memphis is a city that always has something going on. As "My text" mentions, you can "Find what to do today, this weekend, or in July." Whether it's a music festival, a sports event, or a special exhibit, there's always something to check out. The Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee helps you get right into the action.

Before your trip, it’s a good idea to look up local event calendars to see what’s happening during your visit. You might find a concert, a festival, or a local market that perfectly fits your interests. This can really add a lot to your trip, making it even more special, you know.

For more ideas on what to do, you can find a lot of great information on sites like TripAdvisor, which has "272,442 traveler reviews and photos of Memphis tourist attractions." This is a fantastic resource for planning your days in the city. You can learn more about Memphis attractions on our site, and also check out other travel guides we offer.

The Airport's Role in the Community

The Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee plays a really big part in the local community, beyond just being a place for travel. It supports a lot of jobs and helps the economy grow, which is pretty important for the city. It’s a key piece of the infrastructure that keeps Memphis moving.

It also, you know, helps connect local businesses to the wider world, making it easier for them to operate and expand. The airport is, in a way, a symbol of Memphis's connection to national and international commerce. It's not just about tourism; it's about the city's overall well-being.

Recently, there have been talks about how Memphis, as a city, tries to make its mark on bigger stages, like the mention of "The Big 12 rejected a $200 million bid from the University of Memphis to join the conference." This shows the city's ambition, and the airport is a critical part of that larger picture, helping to bring people and opportunities to the area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Memphis Airport

Is Memphis airport easy to get around?

Yes, the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee is generally considered easy to get around. It has a fairly straightforward layout, and signs are clear. Passengers often find it simple to move from gates to baggage claim and then to ground transportation options. It’s not one of those huge, confusing places, which is nice.

What airlines fly out of Memphis?

Several major airlines operate flights out of the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee. You'll find carriers like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Allegiant Air, among others. It offers a good range of choices for destinations, both direct and connecting. You can usually find a flight that fits your needs.

How far is Graceland from Memphis airport?

Graceland is actually very close to the Memphis airport Memphis Tennessee. It’s typically just a short drive, often less than 10 minutes, depending on traffic. This makes it incredibly convenient for visitors who want to see Elvis Presley's home right after they arrive or just before they leave. It's practically next door, you know.

Related Resources:

The Top 10 Things To Do in Memphis
The Top 10 Things To Do in Memphis
Memphis, Tennessee - WorldAtlas
Memphis, Tennessee - WorldAtlas
Facts about Memphis you did not know about!
Facts about Memphis you did not know about!

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