Are you planning a road trip from Memphis to New Orleans? You’ve made a great choice, as this drive will take you through some of the most beautiful and historic parts of the American South. In this ultimate road trip guide, we’ll cover all the details you need to know, including distance, drive hours, stops, and the best driving route.
Hertz
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Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
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Memphis to New Orleans Drive
Driving from Memphis to New Orleans is approximately 5 hours and 57 minutes, depending on the route you choose. The fastest way to get there is to take I-55 S and I-12 E, which will take you through Jackson, MS, and Baton Rouge, LA.
Memphis to New Orleans Distance
The distance between Memphis and New Orleans is approximately 395 miles (636 kilometers). Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, as the exact distance may vary depending on the route you choose.
How far is Memphis to New Orleans by plane?
The flight distance from Memphis to New Orleans is approximately 358 miles (576.1 km). The flight time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, and there are several flights available daily. Memphis International Airport (MEM) offers flights to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).
What is the time difference between Memphis and New Orleans?
Memphis and New Orleans are both located in the Central Standard Time (CST) zone. This means that they are one hour behind Eastern Standard Time (EST) and two hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time (PST).
However, it’s important to keep in mind that Daylight Saving Time (DST) can affect the time difference between these two cities. DST starts on the second Sunday in March, when clocks are moved forward one hour, and ends on the first Sunday in November, when clocks are moved back one hour. During DST, the time difference between Memphis and New Orleans may be one hour less than usual. So if you’re planning a trip during this time, make sure to double-check the current time difference between the two cities to avoid any confusion.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Memphis
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to get from Memphis to New Orleans, consider taking a bus. Greyhound offers bus service from Memphis to New Orleans, with prices starting at $31 per person for a one-way trip. Keep in mind that this option may take longer than driving, as the bus may make stops along the way.
Memphis to New Orleans Drive – Rent A Car In Memphis
Here are some rental car companies to rent a car from in Memphis:
- Alamo: starts at $56 per day
- Avis: starts at $63 per day
- Budget: starts at $55 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $60 per day
- Hertz: starts at $58 per day
- National: starts at $60 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $55 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.785 per gallon and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Memphis to New Orleans – Driving Stops Along The Way
Here are some driving stops you can make along the way:
Vicksburg, MS
Vicksburg is a historic town that played a key role in the Civil War. You can visit the Vicksburg National Military Park to learn about the siege of Vicksburg and explore the many monuments and memorials in the park.
Natchez, MS
Natchez is a charming town that is known for its antebellum architecture and historic homes. You can take a walking tour of the town to see the many beautiful homes and gardens, or visit one of the many museums and art galleries in the area.
Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge is the capital of Louisiana and is home to many historic landmarks and cultural attractions. You can visit the Louisiana State Capitol building, which is the tallest capitol building in the US, or explore the USS Kidd, a World War II-era destroyer that is now a museum.
Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is a 24-mile bridge that spans Lake Pontchartrain and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas. You can drive across the bridge or take a ferry from New Orleans to Mandeville, which will take you across the lake.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the road trip from Memphis to New Orleans is a journey through history and culture. With the right planning and preparation, you can make the most of your trip by exploring the many historic sites and cultural attractions along the way. Whether you choose to drive or fly, take a bus or rent a car, there are plenty of options to suit your travel preferences and budget. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to experience the best of the American South on this unforgettable road trip.