Booking Amtrak In Tennessee..!!
There’s a certain timeless charm to train travel – the rhythmic clickety-clack, the ever-changing scenery outside your window, and the sense of journey itself. For those looking to experience this in Tennessee, Amtrak offers a unique, albeit concentrated, gateway to the state’s western reaches.
While the Volunteer State doesn’t boast extensive Amtrak service across its entire length, it is home to a crucial segment of one of America’s most iconic routes: the City of New Orleans. This legendary train connects Chicago to the Crescent City, making a few important stops in West Tennessee along the way.
This guide will provide a complete overview of Amtrak stations in Tennessee, including their locations, what to expect, and essential distance information to key cities and airports.
The City of New Orleans: A Journey Through America’s Heart
The City of New Orleans train offers daily service, traveling northbound from New Orleans to Chicago and southbound from Chicago to New Orleans. Its route through Tennessee offers a glimpse of the state’s rich history, from the vibrant blues culture of Memphis to the quiet charm of its rural landscapes.
Amtrak Stations in Tennessee (and a Crucial Neighbor)
Tennessee currently has two active Amtrak stations on the City of New Orleans route. We also include a vital third station just across the Kentucky border, which serves a significant portion of Northwest Tennessee.
1. Memphis – Central Station (MEM)
Memphis’s Central Station is more than just a train stop – it’s a historic landmark and a beautifully restored transportation hub. Located in the heart of the South Main Arts District, the station seamlessly blends its storied past with modern amenities. You’ll find a grand waiting area, local shops, and even a hotel integrated into the complex.
Station Address: 545 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103
Key Features:
- Staffed station with ticket office
- Waiting room
- Restrooms
- Baggage service (checked bags, baggage assistance, bike/box service)
- Payphones
- Accessible facilities
- Connections to local MATA bus service and the Main Street Trolley
Distances from Memphis Central Station:
| Destination | Distance (Approx. Driving Miles) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Key Tennessee Cities | ||
| Memphis Downtown | 0 miles | Station is in the heart of downtown Memphis |
| Nashville (BNA) | 210 miles (3.5 hours) | No direct Amtrak service to Nashville |
| Knoxville (TYS) | 385 miles (6 hours) | No direct Amtrak service to Knoxville |
| Chattanooga (CHA) | 350 miles (5.5 hours) | No direct Amtrak service to Chattanooga |
| Major Airports | ||
| Memphis International (MEM) | 9 miles (15-20 min drive) | Accessible by taxi/rideshare/bus from downtown |
| Nashville International (BNA) | 215 miles (3.5 hours) |
2. Newbern-Dyersburg (NBN)
Located in the charming town of Newbern, this is a smaller, unstaffed platform stop that serves both Newbern and the nearby city of Dyersburg. Travelers disembark or board directly from a platform, so it’s essential to be ready when the train arrives. While there are no extensive amenities, it offers a convenient entry point for residents of Dyer County and surrounding rural areas.
Station Address: 105 Main St, Newbern, TN 38059
Key Features:
- Unstaffed platform stop
- Shelter available
- No baggage service
- Accessible platform
Distances from Newbern-Dyersburg Station:
| Destination | Distance (Approx. Driving Miles) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Key Tennessee Cities | ||
| Newbern Downtown | 0 miles | Station is within Newbern |
| Dyersburg | 8 miles (15 min drive) | Main city served by this stop |
| Jackson, TN | 40 miles (45 min drive) | Largest city in West TN after Memphis |
| Memphis | 80 miles (1.5 hours) | Convenient for connecting to the larger MEM station |
| Major Airports | ||
| Memphis International (MEM) | 90 miles (1.5 hours) | |
| Nashville International (BNA) | 175 miles (3 hours) |
3. Fulton, Kentucky (FTN) – A Key Gateway for Northwest Tennessee
Although technically located just across the state line in Fulton, Kentucky, this station is critically important for residents of extreme Northwest Tennessee, especially those in Union City, Martin, and the surrounding Obion and Weakley counties. It often serves as a more accessible boarding point than driving further south to Newbern or Memphis.
Station Address: 200 E State Line Rd, Fulton, KY 42041 (The station literally sits on the state line!)
Key Features:
- Staffed station
- Waiting room
- Restrooms
- Baggage service (checked bags, baggage assistance)
- Accessible facilities
Distances from Fulton, KY Station:
| Destination | Distance (Approx. Driving Miles) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Key Tennessee Cities | ||
| Union City, TN | 10 miles (15 min drive) | Closest major TN city |
| Martin, TN | 20 miles (25 min drive) | Home to the University of Tennessee at Martin |
| Troy, TN | 7 miles (10 min drive) | |
| Memphis | 110 miles (2 hours) | |
| Nashville (BNA) | 145 miles (2.5 hours) | No direct Amtrak service to Nashville |
| Major Airports | ||
| Memphis International (MEM) | 120 miles (2 hours) | |
| Nashville International (BNA) | 150 miles (2.5 hours) |
Important Considerations for Amtrak Travel in Tennessee:
- Book in Advance: Especially for popular routes or during peak travel seasons, trains can fill up. Booking early usually secures better fares and your preferred seating.
- Arrival Times: While Amtrak aims for punctuality, freight train traffic (which shares tracks with passenger trains) can sometimes cause delays. It’s wise to build in some buffer time for connections.
- No Direct Service to East/Middle Tennessee: As highlighted in the tables, major cities like Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga currently do not have direct Amtrak passenger rail service. Travelers wishing to reach these destinations by train would need to take Amtrak to Memphis and then arrange for alternative ground transportation (bus, rental car) for the remainder of their journey.
- Baggage: Amtrak generally allows generous baggage allowances, but check their specific policies for checked bags, carry-ons, and special items like bicycles.
- Accessibility: All Amtrak trains and stations are designed to be accessible to passengers with disabilities.
- Unstaffed Stations: At Newbern-Dyersburg, be prepared for a quick boarding/disembarking process. Have your ticket ready and be at the platform well before the scheduled departure.
The Future of Amtrak in Tennessee
There’s ongoing discussion and planning for potential future Amtrak expansion, including routes that could connect Nashville to Atlanta, Louisville, or even extend west towards Memphis. These are long-term proposals, but they signal a growing interest in bringing more passenger rail service to the heart of Tennessee. For now, the City of New Orleans remains the state’s primary Amtrak connection.
Whether you’re traveling for leisure, visiting family, or simply seeking a different way to experience the journey, Amtrak offers a unique window into the culture and landscapes of West Tennessee. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider hopping aboard the City of New Orleans and let the rails guide your adventure!