Memphis (MEM) Airport Guide

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A Convenient Airport to Negotiate, Complete with Southern Charm

This is a smaller airport, by bigger city standards, so getting from one point to the other is generally pretty quick and convenient. All three Concourses (A, B, and C) are connected, so there is no hassle going from building to building.

Some airlines offer self-service check-in at a self-service kiosk in the ticketing area. Passengers love the time savings and convenience of utilizing this service, an alternative to traditional check-in desks.

Great reviews have been posted about the 'southern hospitality' shown here from airport employees all across the complex. And for travelers that need some guidance around the airport, Blue Suede Service volunteers are all about the airport, helpfully pointing out baggage claim, concessions, restrooms, and gates, and are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Have Your Own Refreshments Handy if You're at the Airport Beyond Early Evening

There aren't many dining and drinking options in the airport, and what businesses are there close pretty early in the evening. The one dining option in all of Concourse A is Sam Adams Brew House, offering bar food, snacks, beer, wine, and liquor. They are open at 9:30 am, and are closed up already at 5:30 pm daily.

In Concourse B, there are six establishments. If you're up for a cocktail in this area, Maggie O'Shea's, an Irish pub-themed bar & grille is popular. But again, get there early if you can, as they close at 6:30 pm Sunday through Friday, and are only open from noon-5:00 pm on Saturdays. Starbucks, in two locations here, is open later than the pub is during the week. Also in Concourse B is Ciao, a gourmet market kiosk. Just don't plan on visiting here on Saturday, as they're closed on Saturdays.

In Concourse C, there are four establishments, with the Interstate Bar-B-Que being a very popular local favorite.

Fliers have provided negative feedback on the scarcity of shopping options in the airport. Concourse A has but one 'store' (River City Books & News). Concourse C has two, with their only options, like Concourse A, bookstores. Of the 11 establishments in Concourse B, five are bookstores. The lack of variety, business numbers, and hours of operation are among the biggest things travelers dislike about MEM.

Entertainment Options are Limited Here

Memphis is famous for the Blues and Elvis, but that doesn't translate into anything at the airport. At times, quartets from the Memphis Symphony Orchestra perform in the passenger corridor near the Blue Note Cafe, and in the Concourse B rotunda. Some artwork from local artists can be seen in some areas, but it's provided more for seeing in passing, not for specific walking to and viewing. There are some Belz Museum pieces on display in the Concourse B-C walkway corridor.

For a bit of atmosphere, visit the Sun Studios Cafe. They provide a 'uniquely Memphis atmosphere' here with a music-themed menu, and music paraphernalia lining the walls.

Be Very Mindful of Hours of Operation at the Airport

Even though the airport is technically open 24 hours daily, this doesn't mean there is free access to all passenger areas all day and night. In fact, if you are on the landside (public area) of the terminal beyond the TSA security screening checkpoint hours, you won't be able to get through to the airside (secure area) of the terminal until morning. TSA's hours:

Terminal A: 4:00 am - 7:00 pm

Terminal B: 4:00 am - 8:30 pm

Terminal C: 4:00 am - 7:00 pm