Memphis has four distinct seasons with cold winters and hot summers. Spring and autumn can be varied and unpredictable. Severe weather, such as thunderstorms and strong winds, is possible during these transitory seasons. Summers are very humid thanks to moisture encroaching from the Gulf of Mexico, even though the temperature rarely reaches great heights. This makes it feel hotter than it is. Winters, by contrast, can be very cold with temperatures below freezing occurring fairly often. Memphis averages 5.7 inches of snow a year. There is plenty of rain to keep the region green; most falling in thunderstorms, but this does not mean there are not plenty of sunny days.
The best way to get around Memphis is by driving. Traffic can be very slow-moving, but the public buses are slow and infrequent. Memphis is easy to get around and parking is usually available. You need a driver’s licence and have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car, but most rental agencies charge you more if you’re under 25. If you’d prefer to take public transport, the city centre Main Street Trolley, which runs on a circular route, is the most useful. You can also take a taxi, but you’ll need to book ahead by phone.
Getting from the Airport to the City
There are several transportation options from Memphis International Airport (MEM) including hotel shuttles, taxis, limousines and car rental.
Memphis airport overview
Located just 5km (3 miles) from the central business district of the second-largest city in Tennessee, Memphis International Airport is a regional hub serving the greater Memphis area. The airport is within easy distance of both Arkansas and Mississippi, making it a convenient alternative to several airports in the American South.
Flights to Memphis International Airport come mostly from other US cities, including Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, Houston, Minneapolis, New York, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Denver, Boston, Miami, Charlotte and many other cities in the South. There are a few international flights to Cancun and Amsterdam with Delta.
The airport is small, but designed for efficiency. Travellers looking for designer shops and high-tech amenities may be left disappointed, but Memphis International Airport is a practical gateway to Tennessee, and just a short drive from popular Memphis attractions such as Graceland and Beale Street.