As of December 2025, Amtrak does not operate direct train service to Nashville, Tennessee. However, passengers traveling to and from Nashville can connect to Nashville via Amtrak’s Thruway bus connections, which bridge a link with nearby Amtrak stations.
This guide is dedicated to travelers who want to leverage Amtrak service from Nashville. As we delve into this guide, we will explore the current options and future updates that help you plan your travel effectively.
What is the Current Amtrak Status for Nashville?
Amtrak does not offer direct rail access to and from Nashville. The city does not have an active Amtrak station. Amtrak discontinued its service to and from Nashville back in the late 1970s. On a broader note, Tennessee does not have a wider coverage of Amtrak services.
The main Amtrak service that serves Tennessee is the Chicago – Memphis – New Orleans route. This route has two stops – one in Memphis and the other in Newbern–Dyersburg.
Amtrak’s official website confirms that there is no direct train service to Nashville, but rather a Connecting Bus route through Greyhound.
How does the Amtrak Thruway Bus Connections to Nashville, TN works?
As direct trains are not available to Nashville, Amtrak operates Thruway buses in partnership with Greyhound to bridge its rail network.
For instance, if you’re planning your trip from Nashville to Chicago, your primary stop would be the Greyhound Station located at 709 Rep. John Lewis Way South in downtown Nashville. Your key connections include:
- Louisville, KY (LVL)
- Indianapolis, IN (IND)
- Lafayette, IN – CityBus Center (LAT)
- Gary, IN (GRY)
The Greyhound service features amenities such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating.
Fare for bus routes (especially for this route) ranges between 114-126 USD, depending on how flexible the fare you choose is.
What are the Popular Thruway Routes to Nashville?
Amtrak does not run direct rail service to Nashville, so passengers can rely on Thruway bus service, which you can book on Amtrak’s website.
The Thruway Bus connections from NVL, Tennessee, given below, will give direct access to the Amtrak rail service:
Memphis – Nashville Thruway Service
- This operates on a Chicago- Memphis- New Orleans route.
- This will give you direct Amtrak rail station access in Memphis, Tennessee.
- Memphis is 212 miles from Nashville, Tennessee.
Atlanta – Nashville Thruway Service
- This route connects Nashville to Amtrak’s Crescent route in Atlanta.
- This Amtrak rail service has a major stop in New York, Atlanta, and New Orleans.
- Atlanta is 250 miles from Nashville, Tennessee.
Louisville – Nashville Thruway Service
- 3–3.5 hours bus service from Nashville that will connect to the Louisville Rail Station.
- It is a non-stop Thriuway service from Nashville.
Birmingham – Nashville Thruway Service
- Birmingham is served by Amtrak’s Crescent train route.
- This Crescent route is the New York–New Orleans route.
- Birmingham is 191 miles from Nashville, Tennessee.
Why Thruway Routes Matter for Nashville, TN?
Amtrak ceased its rail operations to Nashville in the late 1970s. This way. Amtrak uses its Thruway bus service to keep the city connected to its rail routes.
These Thruway buses (partnered with Greyhound) are ticketed together with the train journey, giving passengers ample time to make their transfers.
Conclusion
To sum up, Nashville has lacked a dedicated Amtrak rail station since the 1970s. However, Thruway buses offer an end-to-end solution connecting passengers to the nearby rail network.
Passengers can take the Amtrak rail service from nearby cities like Memphis, Atlanta, Louisville, and Birmingham, and are ticketed for their entire journey, which includes both bus and rail service.
These bus service connections ensure hassle-free transfers and allow passengers to reach the connecting cities and further destinations efficiently.
FAQs
No, Amtrak does not operate direct train service to Nashville, but Thruway bus connections are available to nearby cities like Memphis, Atlanta, Louisville, and Birmingham.
Yes, Amtrak Thruway buses serve Nashville (NVL) and connect to the train routes from cities like Chicago, Atlanta, and Memphis.
Yes. An intercity Amtrak service has been proposed between Nashville and Atlanta, via Chattanooga, Tennessee.
You can plan your travel via Amtrak’s website or app, which gives you an option to purchase bundled train-bus options.
Yes. These bus services are part of Greyhound-Amtrak’s strategic tie-up. You can book the bus service directly from Greyhound, but it won’t guarantee a timely transfer to your desired Amtrak rail station. If your joynet includes a bus route, it is always recommended to book directly with Amtrak to ensure timely transfers.
