Air
- Companies:Delta Air Lines, American Airlines
- Duration:Approximately 5 hours (including layovers)
- Distance:Approximately 580 miles
- Costs:Estimated at $250 - $400 depending on booking time and class
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Book flights at least 2 months in advance to secure better rates and consider using a fare alert tool to monitor price drops.
If you prefer to avoid airport hassle, consider breaking your journey into two legs by flying to Minneapolis and then to Memphis. This might give you more flight options and potentially lower costs.
Train
- Companies:Amtrak
- Duration:Approximately 12 hours (including transfers)
- Distance:Approximately 600 miles
- Costs:Approximately $120 for standard tickets
- Roads/Routes: Amtrak’s Empire Builder Route to Chicago, followed by the City of New Orleans route to Memphis
Pro Tip: Travel overnight to save on accommodation costs while enjoying scenic routes through the Midwest.
Traveling by train offers comfort and stunning views; however, make sure to check Amtrak's schedule as trains may not run as frequently.
Road Trip
- Companies:Rental cars from Enterprise, Hertz, or Avis
- Duration:Approximately 9 hours
- Distance:Approximately 600 miles
- Costs:$70 - $100 for a one-day car rental plus gas ($80 estimated for fuel, total around $150 - $180)
- Roads/Routes:I-94 E to I-35 S, then I-40 E into Memphis
Pro Tip: Utilize an app like Waze or Google Maps for real-time traffic updates and the best routes to avoid delays.
A road trip provides the freedom to stop at interesting places along the way such as Nashville, so plan your breaks to explore.
Conclusion
For a smooth journey with convenience and speed, I recommend flying from Eau Claire to Memphis, especially if you book in advance. However, if you prefer a more scenic experience, consider taking the train or enjoy the freedom of a road trip.