Road trip from Branson, Missouri to Memphis, Tennessee

Thinking of exploring the southern region of the United States? A road trip from Branson, Missouri to Memphis, Tennessee could be a great adventure for you! Both cities have a lot to offer, and the drive between them is filled with beautiful sceneries and amazing places to explore. Let's take a closer look at the options you have to make this journey and their driving times.

The I-40 route: 372 miles, approximately 6 hours

The most direct route from Branson to Memphis is via the I-40. This route takes you through the Ozark Mountains, across the Mississippi River, and a beautiful stretch of Tennessee countryside. The distance between the two cities is approximately 372 miles, and driving time varies between 5 and 7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

If you're up for an adventure, you can stop by the Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas or the Ozark National Forest and enjoy some hiking and natural hot springs. Also, if you like fried chicken, you can't miss out on the deliciousness of Gus's Fried Chicken in Little Rock, AR.

The US-65 and US-67 route: 383 miles, approximately 7 hours

If you prefer a more scenic drive, you can take the US-65 and US-67 route from Branson to Memphis. This route runs through the stunning Mark Twain National Forest and the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. It follows the Missouri River, and Missouri's state capital, Jefferson City, is along the way.

If you have time to spare, stop by the Elephant Rocks State Park and see giant red granite boulders, formed over one-billion-years ago. Another great stop is Meramec Caverns, which offers guided tours in one of the largest cave systems in Missouri.

The US-412 and US-63 route: 335 miles, approximately 6.5 hours

For an alternate but still scenic route, the US-412 and US-63 provides a more straightforward route to Memphis. The route passes through Arkansas State University and the population center of Jonesboro, Arkansas. The driving time is shorter than the previously mentioned routes, taking approximately 6.5 hours.

If you want to break the journey along this route, you can stop at the Lake Wedington Recreational Area for a picnic or take guided tours in the Hemmed-in-Hollow waterfall in the Ozark National Forest.

Conclusion

The journey from Branson, Missouri, to Memphis, Tennessee, is filled with great options for a road trip or even an extended vacation. There are multiple beautiful and scenic routes to take, each taking around 5 to 7 hours in driving time. Depending on your interests, you can visit state parks, hiking trails, and lakes for outdoor adventure, or opt for comfort stops in drive-through zoos, museums, and restaurants. So, pack your bags, hop onto the wheel and get ready for an exciting journey!