Memphis has rightfully earned its place in history for its impact on American music and the Civil Rights Movement. Its strategic location near Mississippi and Arkansas, coupled with excellent road and rail connections, makes it an ideal base for travelers eager to explore the rich Southern landscape.
Venturing outside Memphis allows you to delve into what makes the region unique, including its culinary delights and the vibrant music scene of the Blues Highway. Without further ado, here are six outstanding day trips from Memphis.
1. Celebrate the Powerful Women of Music and Barbecue in Brownsville, Tennessee
Travel time: 1 hour
Brownsville is where visitors can learn about the Queen of Rock n’ Roll, Tina Turner. Her one-room schoolhouse was moved from nearby Nutbush, Tennessee, to the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Museum, where you’ll find a remarkable collection of Turner memorabilia. Furthermore, the school is near the former residence of blues pioneer Sleepy John Estes, adding to the area’s musical history.
While there, enjoy a meal at Helen’s BBQ, a century-old establishment recognized for its slow-roasted pork, ribs, and sausage. Helen, the pitmaster, has received the Southern Foodways Alliance Lifetime Achievement Award.
How to get to Brownsville from Memphis: Drive east on I-40 for one hour, exiting at 56 to discover local museums or continue ten minutes into town.
2. Embrace Your Inner Student in Oxford, Mississippi
Travel time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Oxford is home to the prestigious University of Mississippi, often referred to as “Ole Miss.” With origins dating back to 1844, this vibrant campus is best explored during football game day in the Grove, where tailgating becomes a grand social affair.
Oxford is also the residence of literary giant William Faulkner. His home, Rowan Oak, has been transformed into a museum where visitors can explore the house’s original furnishings and grounds. The town boasts several award-winning restaurants led by Chef John Currence, including City Grocery, celebrated for its Southern cuisine and inviting atmosphere.
How to get to Oxford from Memphis: Take I-55 south until you cross into Mississippi, then turn onto 278 in Batesville, leading you directly to Oxford.
3. Tour Dyess, Wilson, and Helena: Historic Towns of the Arkansas Delta
Travel time: 1 hour and 20 minutes to Dyess; 1 hour and 20 minutes to Helena
Across the Mississippi River lie intriguing towns packed with American history. In Dyess, visitors can explore Johnny Cash’s childhood home at the Historic Dyess Colony, where exhibits commemorate his legacy, including photos from his iconic Folsom Prison concert.
The nearby town of Wilson offers delightful restaurants such as Wilson Cafe, showcasing delicious soul food, while Hampson Archaeological Museum State Park provides a glimpse into Indigenous history through pottery displays.
If time permits, head south to Helena-West Helena, home to the annual King Biscuit Blues Festival in October and plenty of opportunities to learn about the region’s culture.
How to get to Dyess from Memphis: Drive I-55 north for approximately 45 minutes, taking exit 41 and following Arkansas Hwy 14W.
4. Hear the Blues in Clarksdale, Mississippi
Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Clarksdale is steeped in musical lore, being reputed as the crossroads where Robert Johnson supposedly sold his soul to the devil to learn the blues. With the highest concentration of juke joints in the Delta, the vibe is electric at places like Ground Zero Blues Club and Red’s Lounge.
History enthusiasts should not miss the Delta Blues Museum, which houses artifacts from some of the greatest legends of blues music, including Muddy Waters and B.B. King. For dining, Hooker Grocer & Eatery offers great food paired with live music and Abe’s Bar-B-Q serves up delicious pit-roasted pork and Delta-style tamales.
How to get to Clarksdale from Memphis: Driving is recommended. Simply follow B.B. King Boulevard, which transforms into US Hwy 61 traveling south from downtown Memphis.
5. Visit the Birthplace of the King in Tupelo, Mississippi
Travel time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Tupelo is celebrated as the birthplace of Elvis Presley. Visitors can tour the modest two-room house where Elvis spent his early years, as well as visit Tupelo Hardware, where he bought his first guitar. Food lovers can dine at Johnnie’s Drive In, famous for its unique “slug burger,” a cherished regional dish.
Tupelo is also a midpoint on the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway, one of the most picturesque drives in the nation. The city’s vibrant dining scene includes options from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, and music lovers should not miss the chance to catch live performances at local venues.
How to get to Tupelo from Memphis: Take Lamar Avenue south, which turns into Hwy 78, leading you to Tupelo in under two hours.
6. Live Out Your Presidential Dreams in Little Rock, Arkansas
Travel time: 2 hours
Little Rock has much to offer, from the Clinton Presidential Library, which showcases life in the White House between 1993 and 2001, to the beautiful Arkansas River Trail, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the longest pedestrian bridge in North America – the Big Dam Bridge, which forms part of the trail.
Additionally, quirky attractions like the Esse Purse Museum provide a unique insight into fashion and everyday items we carry. To satisfy your hunger, stop by The Fourth Quarter for one of Arkansas’s top-rated burgers or visit a local brewery for a refreshing drink.
How to get to Little Rock from Memphis: Driving is the quickest option—take I-40 west for about two hours.
By taking these day trips, you’ll not only enhance your understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the regions surrounding Memphis but also enjoy a taste of authentic Southern hospitality and cuisine.
