Nashville to Memphis Road Trip with Kids: Best Stops for Families
The 212-mile drive from Nashville to Memphis follows I-40 West across the width of Tennessee, moving from the rolling Cumberland Plateau through the flat farmland of West Tennessee. Without stops, the trip takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes. SmartStops places your family break in Jackson, TN, roughly two hours west of Nashville, where Conger Park on North Highland Avenue has a playground and tennis courts to help kids burn off backseat energy.
Your First Stop: Jackson, TN
2h 2m from Nashville
Best Park
Conger Park
North Highland Avenue
Gas Station
Shell
2800 Old Medina Rd
Family Restaurant
Asahi Japanese Steakhouse
1364 Vann Dr
Asian
Coffee
Panera Bread
1145 Vann Dr
Tips for This Route
Hurricane Mills to Jackson is the boring stretch
The section of I-40 between Hurricane Mills and Jackson is flat, straight, and monotonous. Have audiobooks, car games, or downloaded shows ready for this 60-mile stretch where there is not much to see outside the window.
Gas up before leaving Nashville
While there are stations along I-40, prices tend to be lowest in the Nashville metro area. The Shell at 2800 Old Medina Rd in Jackson is a reliable option at the midpoint if you need to refuel.
Arrive in Memphis via I-40 to avoid Poplar
I-40 takes you directly into downtown Memphis. Avoid exiting early onto Poplar Avenue, which is a congested commercial corridor. Stay on the interstate to reach Beale Street, the riverfront, and most family-friendly Memphis attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I stop on a road trip from Nashville to Memphis with kids?
Jackson, TN is the best family stop, about 2 hours and 2 minutes from Nashville on I-40. Conger Park on North Highland Avenue has a playground, tennis courts, and parking. The Shell station nearby offers gas, and Asahi Japanese Steakhouse on Vann Drive provides a sit-down meal option if the family needs a longer break.
How long is the drive from Nashville to Memphis with kids?
The 212-mile drive takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes nonstop. With a break at Conger Park in Jackson for playground time and a meal, plan for about 4 to 4.5 hours total.
Are there playgrounds along I-40 between Nashville and Memphis?
Conger Park in Jackson, TN has a playground and tennis courts right off I-40 at the midpoint of the drive. Jackson is the largest city between Nashville and Memphis, so it also has the most dining and service options for families needing a longer stop.
This page shows one stop. The app plans your whole trip.
SmartStops finds parks with playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants, gas stations, and coffee shops at every stop — then lets you pick the best options for your family.
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