Located in the southern United States, Memphis is a vibrant city known for its rich musical heritage, delicious barbecue, and iconic landmarks like the National Civil Rights Museum and Sun Studio. However, there’s more to explore beyond the city limits. The surrounding regions offer a plethora of exciting destinations that are just a short drive away. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the coolest places to visit near Memphis.
Why Visit Near Memphis?
Memphis is a fantastic base for exploring the American South, with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. By venturing out of the city, you’ll uncover hidden gems that showcase the region’s charm and character. From scenic drives to historic towns, and from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, the places to visit near Memphis are sure to captivate and inspire.
What to Expect
This article will guide you through some of the most fascinating destinations near Memphis, covering a range of interests and activities. You’ll discover:
- Historic towns with charming architecture and rich heritage
- Natural wonders, including rivers, lakes, and scenic drives
- Cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and music venues
- Outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and water sports
- Delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks
Get ready to explore the best of the American South, just a stone’s throw from Memphis. Let’s start our journey and uncover the coolest places to visit near this vibrant city!
Cool Places To Visit Near Memphis
Memphis, Tennessee is a city rich in music, history, and culture, but there are many cool places to visit near Memphis that offer a change of pace and scenery. From the rolling hills of the countryside to the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River, there are plenty of options to suit all interests and tastes.
Outdoor Activities
For those who love the great outdoors, there are plenty of options near Memphis. The Shelby Forest State Park is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, with over 20 miles of trails to explore. The Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is another great option, offering camping, fishing, and boating opportunities.
- Shelby Forest State Park:
- 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding
- Camping, fishing, and boating opportunities
- Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park:
- Camping, fishing, and boating opportunities
- Scenic overlooks and picnic areas
Historic Sites
Memphis is steeped in history, and there are plenty of historic sites to visit near the city. The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive that follows the historic route of the Natchez Trace, a path used by Native Americans, settlers, and traders. The Wright’s Castle is another historic site worth visiting, featuring a stunning antebellum mansion and beautiful gardens. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Akshardham)
| Historic Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Natchez Trace Parkway | 444-mile scenic drive along the historic route of the Natchez Trace |
| Wright’s Castle | Stunning antebellum mansion and beautiful gardens |
Scenic Drives
For those who love scenic drives, there are plenty of options near Memphis. The Hatchie River Scenic Byway is a 30-mile drive that follows the Hatchie River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Tennessee River Scenic Byway is another great option, featuring scenic views of the Tennessee River and surrounding bluffs.
- Hatchie River Scenic Byway:
- 30-mile drive along the Hatchie River
- Stunning views of the surrounding countryside
- Tennessee River Scenic Byway:
- Scenic views of the Tennessee River and surrounding bluffs
- Historic sites and charming small towns
Other Attractions
There are plenty of other attractions to visit near Memphis, including the Memphis Zoo, which is home to over 3,500 animals from around the world. The Brookhaven Manor is another great option, featuring a haunted house and other spooky attractions.
- Memphis Zoo:
- Home to over 3,500 animals from around the world
- Various exhibits and animal encounters
- Brookhaven Manor:
- Haunted house and other spooky attractions
- Special events and themed nights
These are just a few of the many cool places to visit near Memphis. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, historic sites, scenic drives, or other attractions, there’s something for everyone in the area.
As we conclude our journey through the cool places to visit near Memphis, it’s clear that there’s no shortage of exciting destinations to explore. From the scenic beauty of the Mississippi River to the rich history of the Civil War, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant region.
In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the most unique and off-the-beaten-path attractions that are within a short drive from Memphis. We’ve explored the historic town of Collierville, with its charming Main Street and antique shops. We’ve also visited the picturesque town of Germantown, with its beautiful parks and family-friendly atmosphere. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Kalahasti)
We’ve also delved into the world of music, visiting the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll in Sun Studio and the iconic Stax Museum of American Soul Music. And for those looking for some outdoor adventure, we’ve recommended the scenic trails and waterfalls of the Memphis Botanic Garden.
Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in the cool places to visit near Memphis. So why not start planning your next adventure today? With its rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty, this region is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are five FAQs related to ‘Cool Places To Visit Near Memphis’:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular day trip destinations near Memphis?
Some popular day trip destinations near Memphis include the historic town of Collierville, the scenic town of Germantown, and the charming town of Oxford, Mississippi. You can also visit the iconic Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, or the Memphis Zoo, which is home to over 3,500 animals from around the world.
What are some must-see attractions in Memphis?
Memphis is known for its rich music history, and some must-see attractions include the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. You can also visit the National Civil Rights Museum, located at the site of the former Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.
What are some good restaurants in Memphis?
Memphis is famous for its barbecue, and some popular barbecue joints include Central BBQ, Cozy Corner, and Corky’s BBQ. You can also try some of the city’s famous soul food at restaurants like Gus’s Fried Chicken, Four Way Restaurant, and Arthur’s Restaurant. For a taste of the city’s music scene, visit the Arcade Restaurant, which has been serving up burgers and milkshakes since 1919. (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Bangalore)
What are some good things to do in Memphis with kids?
Memphis has plenty of fun activities for kids, including the Memphis Zoo, the Children’s Museum of Memphis, and the Memphis Pink Palace Museum, which features a planetarium and an IMAX theater. You can also take a stroll along the Mississippi River on the Memphis Riverwalk, or visit the Memphis Botanic Garden, which has a children’s garden with interactive exhibits.
What are some good events and festivals to attend in Memphis?
Memphis hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Memphis in May festival, which features live music, food, and drink. You can also attend the Beale Street Music Festival, the Memphis Jazz and Blues Festival, and the Memphis Film Festival. In the fall, visit the Memphis Oktoberfest, which features German food, beer, and music.