15 Best Day Trips from Memphis

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to the vibrant heart of the Mid-South! Memphis, Tennessee, a city steeped in musical history and culinary delights, isn’t just a destination in itself—it’s your perfect launching pad for an incredible array of day trips. Imagine waking up in the Home of the Blues and, within a few hours, finding yourself exploring the birthplace of a music legend, hiking through serene forests, or delving into the rich tapestry of American history. From the rolling hills of Mississippi to the tranquil bayous of Arkansas and the vibrant cultural hubs of Alabama and Tennessee, the region surrounding Memphis is a treasure trove of unique experiences waiting to be discovered.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, a music lover, or simply seeking a charming small-town escape, this guide will unlock the best adventures just a short drive away. The best times to embark on these journeys are typically spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak, offering comfortable exploration without the summer heat or winter chill. Get ready to hit the road and uncover the hidden gems of the Mid-South!

Tupelo, Mississippi

Just a short drive south from Memphis, you’ll discover Tupelo, Mississippi, a town globally renowned as the birthplace of Elvis Presley. This charming Southern city offers a unique blend of music history, small-town hospitality, and natural beauty. What makes Tupelo truly special is its tangible connection to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, allowing visitors to walk in his early footsteps. You can expect to see the humble two-room house where Elvis was born, meticulously preserved to reflect its 1935 appearance, offering a poignant glimpse into his origins.

Adjacent to the birthplace, you’ll find the Elvis Presley Museum, a chapel, and a gift shop, all dedicated to his legacy. Beyond Elvis, Tupelo boasts the Tupelo Automobile Museum, showcasing over 100 rare and vintage cars, and the Oren Dunn City Museum, which chronicles local history. The town also features beautiful parks and a vibrant downtown area with local shops and eateries. This trip is perfect for music history enthusiasts, families looking for an educational and fun outing, and solo travelers seeking a nostalgic journey. The best time to visit is during spring or fall when the weather is pleasant for exploring the outdoor sites and walking around downtown.

Tuscumbia, Alabama

Journey southwest from Memphis, and you’ll arrive in Tuscumbia, Alabama, a town rich with Southern charm and profound historical significance, primarily as the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller. What makes Tuscumbia truly unique is “Ivy Green,” the beloved homestead where Helen Keller overcame her profound disabilities to become an international symbol of perseverance. Visitors can step back in time and tour the modest home, seeing the very pump where Anne Sullivan famously taught Helen her first word, “water.” This site offers an incredibly moving and educational experience, allowing you to connect deeply with Keller’s extraordinary life story.

Beyond Ivy Green, Tuscumbia boasts the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, celebrating the state’s diverse musical heritage, and Spring Park, a beautiful urban park featuring a magnificent lighted fountain and a vintage carousel. This destination is ideal for history enthusiasts, families seeking an inspiring educational trip, and anyone interested in the power of human spirit. The annual “Miracle Worker” play, performed on the Ivy Green grounds in summer, offers an immersive experience, though it can be more crowded.

Nashville, Tennessee

While a longer day trip, Nashville, Tennessee, is an absolute must-do for music lovers and culture seekers from Memphis. Known globally as “Music City,” Nashville pulses with an infectious energy driven by its legendary country music scene, but it offers so much more. You can expect to immerse yourself in the rich history of the Grand Ole Opry, take a backstage tour of the Ryman Auditorium (the “Mother Church of Country Music”), or explore the comprehensive exhibits at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Beyond music, Nashville boasts a vibrant culinary scene, from hot chicken joints to upscale dining, and a thriving arts community. Stroll along Broadway to experience live music pouring from honky-tonk bars, visit the Parthenon in Centennial Park (a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple), or explore the historic plantations just outside the city. This trip is perfect for music enthusiasts of all genres, foodies, couples seeking a lively urban escape, and groups looking for diverse entertainment. Given the driving distance, plan an early start to maximize your time in this dynamic city.

Oxford, Mississippi

Just over an hour’s drive south of Memphis lies Oxford, Mississippi, a charming Southern town renowned for its literary heritage, particularly as the longtime home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner. What makes Oxford so captivating is its blend of intellectual vibrancy, historic charm, and quintessential Southern hospitality. You can expect to explore Rowan Oak, Faulkner’s beautifully preserved home, where you’ll gain intimate insights into his life and creative process.

The town square, a bustling hub, is home to independent bookstores like Square Books, art galleries, and acclaimed restaurants that make Oxford a culinary destination in its own right. The University of Mississippi, or “Ole Miss,” adds to the town’s lively atmosphere with its stunning campus and collegiate sports fervor. This trip is ideal for literary buffs, foodies, couples seeking a romantic getaway, and anyone who appreciates a relaxed, sophisticated Southern small-town experience. Visiting during the spring or fall allows for comfortable strolls around the square and campus, and enjoying outdoor dining.

Jackson, Mississippi

A two-hour drive south from Memphis brings you to Jackson, Mississippi, the state capital and a city deeply intertwined with American history, particularly the Civil Rights Movement. What makes Jackson special is its powerful narrative of struggle and progress, offering visitors a profound educational experience. You can expect to explore the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the Museum of Mississippi History, both housed in the same building, providing an immersive and moving journey through the state’s complex past. These world-class museums are incredibly impactful and a must-visit.

Beyond the museums, explore the historic Farish Street Cultural District, once a thriving African American business and entertainment hub, or visit the Eudora Welty House and Garden, the preserved home of the Pulitzer Prize-winning author. Jackson also offers beautiful parks, a growing culinary scene, and a vibrant arts community. This trip is essential for history buffs, those interested in civil rights, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of American heritage. Weekdays are generally best for museum visits to avoid crowds.

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, Tennessee

Just north of Memphis, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park in Tennessee offers a refreshing escape into nature, a stark contrast to the bustling city. What makes this park special is its impressive size and diverse ecosystems, encompassing over 12,000 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, home to a rich variety of wildlife. You can expect to find over 20 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks, perfect for all fitness levels.

The park also features a scenic lake for fishing and paddling, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching, as it’s a designated Important Bird Area. Wildlife sightings are common, including deer, turkeys, and various bird species. This trip is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, families looking for outdoor recreation, and anyone needing a peaceful respite from urban life. Early mornings are best for wildlife viewing and avoiding peak crowds on popular trails.

Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge, Tennessee

East of Memphis, Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge in Tennessee is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts, offering a pristine glimpse into the region’s natural beauty. What makes this refuge unique is its preservation of one of the last remaining unchannelized sections of the Hatchie River, the longest unchanneled tributary of the lower Mississippi River. This makes it a critical habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna. You can expect to explore various habitats, including bottomland hardwood forests, swamps, and oxbow lakes, through a network of trails and observation points.

It’s a birder’s paradise, home to over 200 species, including bald eagles, and a sanctuary for deer, raccoons, and other wildlife. Opportunities for fishing, photography, and quiet contemplation are abundant. This trip is perfect for birdwatchers, photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape into an untouched natural environment. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for wildlife viewing.

Holly Springs National Forest, Mississippi

Venturing south into Mississippi, Holly Springs National Forest offers a sprawling expanse of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that feel a world away from city life. What makes this national forest special is its diverse landscape, encompassing rolling hills, forests of pine and hardwood, and numerous lakes and streams. It’s a fantastic destination for those who love to immerse themselves in nature. You can expect to find miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

The forest is also home to several lakes, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Picnic areas are scattered throughout, and wildlife, including deer and various bird species, are common sightings. This trip is ideal for outdoor adventurers, families seeking active recreation, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape into the wilderness. The cooler months are best for hiking, while summer is great for water activities.

Little Rock, Arkansas

A scenic two-hour drive west from Memphis across the Mississippi River brings you to Little Rock, Arkansas, the state capital and a city rich with American history and a vibrant contemporary scene. What makes Little Rock truly special is its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, particularly the story of the Little Rock Nine at Little Rock Central High School. You can expect to visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, an incredibly moving experience with a visitor center that powerfully tells the story of desegregation.

Nearby, the Clinton Presidential Center offers a fascinating look into presidential history and global issues. Beyond history, Little Rock boasts the beautiful River Market District with diverse dining and shops, the scenic Arkansas River Trail for walking and biking, and the stunning Old State House Museum. This trip is perfect for history buffs, political science enthusiasts, families looking for educational outings, and anyone interested in a blend of urban culture and historical significance.

Jackson, Tennessee

An easy one-hour drive east from Memphis brings you to Jackson, Tennessee, a vibrant city with a rich history, particularly its connections to the Civil War and rockabilly music. What makes Jackson special is its blend of historical significance, unique cultural attractions, and family-friendly entertainment. You can expect to visit the Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum, dedicated to the legendary railroad engineer, which includes his historic home and a replica of his engine.

Another highlight is the Cypress Grove Nature Park, offering elevated boardwalks through a beautiful cypress swamp, perfect for birdwatching and tranquil walks. For music fans, the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame Museum celebrates the genre’s pioneers. Jackson also boasts a charming downtown square with local shops and eateries. This trip is ideal for history buffs, railroad enthusiasts, nature lovers, families looking for diverse activities, and anyone seeking a relaxed day out with a mix of attractions.

Mississippi River State Park, Arkansas

Crossing the Mississippi River west of Memphis, you’ll discover Mississippi River State Park in Arkansas, a sprawling natural wonderland dedicated to preserving and interpreting the unique ecosystems of the Mississippi River Delta. What makes this park truly special is its focus on the “river of many faces,” offering unparalleled opportunities to explore the largest floodplain in North America. You can expect to find diverse landscapes, including dense forests, cypress swamps, and serene lakes like Bear Creek Lake.

The park offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking, with boat rentals available. Miles of hiking trails allow you to immerse yourself in the delta’s flora and fauna, and the visitor center provides educational exhibits about the river’s history and ecology. This trip is perfect for nature enthusiasts, paddlers, anglers, families seeking outdoor adventures, and anyone interested in the ecological significance of the Mississippi River.

Village Creek State Park, Arkansas

Further west into Arkansas, Village Creek State Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, nestled within the Crowley’s Ridge region. What makes this park special is its dramatic landscape—Crowley’s Ridge is an unusual geological formation, an elevated landform rising from the flat delta plains, creating a diverse environment unlike anything else in the area. You can expect to explore miles of hiking and equestrian trails that wind through forests, ravines, and along picturesque lakes.

The park features two lakes, Austell and Dunn, perfect for fishing and paddling, with boat rentals available. Historic structures from the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era add to the park’s charm and provide a glimpse into its past. This trip is ideal for hikers, equestrians, families seeking outdoor recreation, and history buffs interested in the CCC’s legacy. The spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the trails.

Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge, Arkansas

Just across the Mississippi River from Memphis, in Arkansas, Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge provides a serene and ecologically rich escape into the delta’s natural wetlands. What makes this refuge unique is its status as one of the oldest national wildlife refuges in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service system, established in 1961. It encompasses a vast expanse of bottomland hardwoods, cypress-tupelo swamps, and open water, including a large oxbow lake, Wapanocca Lake.

You can expect to find exceptional opportunities for birdwatching, especially during migratory seasons, with numerous waterfowl, wading birds, and raptors. The refuge offers scenic driving routes, walking trails, and observation decks perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. Fishing and non-motorized boating are also popular activities on the lake. This trip is ideal for birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful, uncrowded natural setting. Early mornings are best for spotting wildlife.

Wolf River, Tennessee

Flowing through the heart of West Tennessee, the Wolf River offers a fantastic natural playground just a stone’s throw from Memphis. What makes the Wolf River special is its remarkable diversity, transitioning from a winding, wild stream through swamps and forests to a more channeled urban waterway near Memphis. This offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. You can expect to enjoy paddling (kayaking, canoeing) through serene sections of the river, especially the Ghost River State Natural Area, known for its submerged cypress forests and incredible tranquility.

Opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and hiking along its banks are also plentiful. The Wolf River Greenway, a developing multi-use trail system, offers paved and unpaved sections for walking and biking closer to Memphis. This trip is perfect for paddlers, nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking an active outdoor adventure close to the city. Spring and fall are ideal for paddling and hiking due to comfortable temperatures.

Water Valley, Mississippi

A delightful drive south into Mississippi brings you to Water Valley, a charming small town that perfectly embodies Southern hospitality and creative spirit. What makes Water Valley special is its beautifully preserved historic downtown, a vibrant arts scene, and a strong sense of community that makes visitors feel instantly welcome. You can expect to stroll along Main Street, admiring the charming architecture and browsing unique independent shops, art galleries, and antique stores.

The town is known for its creative community, with artists and craftspeople setting up studios and businesses. Water Valley also offers a selection of cozy cafes and local eateries serving up delicious Southern comfort food. This trip is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, authentic Southern small-town experience, art enthusiasts, shoppers looking for unique finds, and anyone wanting a peaceful escape from the city hustle. Weekdays are generally quieter, allowing for a more intimate browsing experience.

Plan Your Visit

From the musical echoes of Elvis’s birthplace to the solemn power of civil rights history, and from the tranquil beauty of the Mississippi River Delta to the vibrant arts scene of a charming small town, the day trips from Memphis truly offer an unparalleled array of experiences. This guide has unveiled just a glimpse of the diverse adventures awaiting you, whether you’re yearning for a deep dive into history, an invigorating outdoor escape, or a taste of authentic Southern culture. With practical insights and detailed cost information at your fingertips, planning your perfect excursion is easier than ever.

So pack your bags, fill up the tank, and let the spirit of exploration guide you. The Mid-South is calling, promising unforgettable memories and a fresh perspective on the rich tapestry of America. Go forth and discover the magic beyond Memphis—your next great adventure is just a drive away!