A Comprehensive Travel Guide For Map Of Mississippi And Tennessee

Introduction

Mississippi and Tennessee are two states located in the southern region of the United States. Both states are known for their rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. From the blues music of Memphis to the Civil War battlefields of Vicksburg, there is something for everyone in this part of the country. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, and much more in Mississippi and Tennessee.

Top Attractions

Graceland – Memphis, Tennessee

Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, is one of the most popular attractions in Tennessee. Visitors can take a tour of the mansion, visit the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum, and see the King’s collection of jumpsuits and guitars.

Vicksburg National Military Park – Vicksburg, Mississippi

Vicksburg National Military Park is a must-visit destination for history buffs. The park commemorates the Civil War battle that took place in Vicksburg in 1863 and features over 1,300 monuments and markers.

Hidden Gems

The Natchez Trace Parkway – Mississippi and Tennessee

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic drive that stretches 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Along the way, visitors can enjoy beautiful vistas, historic sites, and outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

The Arcade Restaurant – Memphis, Tennessee

The Arcade Restaurant is the oldest restaurant in Memphis and has been serving up classic diner fare since 1919. The restaurant has been featured in several movies and TV shows and is a favorite among locals.

Food Scene

Hot Chicken – Nashville, Tennessee

Hot chicken is a Nashville specialty that is not for the faint of heart. This spicy fried chicken is served with white bread and pickles and is a must-try for foodies visiting Tennessee.

Barbecue – Mississippi

Mississippi is known for its delicious barbecue, and there are plenty of options to choose from across the state. Some of the most popular spots include The Shed in Ocean Springs, Leatha’s BBQ Inn in Hattiesburg, and Abe’s BBQ in Clarksdale.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Attractions – Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is home to several free attractions, including the Memphis Zoo, the Memphis Botanic Garden, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Visitors can also take a stroll down Beale Street, which is free to explore.

State Parks – Mississippi

Mississippi has over 20 state parks, and many of them offer affordable camping and recreational activities. Some of the most popular parks include Tishomingo State Park, Buccaneer State Park, and Clarkco State Park.

Outdoor Adventures

Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with over 800 miles of trails to explore. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this beautiful park.

Sardis Lake – Mississippi

Sardis Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and swimming in Mississippi. The lake is surrounded by beautiful forests and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Family-Friendly Activities

Memphis Zoo – Memphis, Tennessee

The Memphis Zoo is a great destination for families, with over 3,500 animals to see and plenty of interactive exhibits. The zoo also offers educational programs and events throughout the year.

Gulf Islands Waterpark – Gulfport, Mississippi

Gulf Islands Waterpark is a fun-filled destination for families, with water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools to enjoy. There are also plenty of food options and cabanas available for rent.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Delta Blues Museum – Clarksdale, Mississippi

The Delta Blues Museum is a must-visit destination for music lovers, with exhibits on the history of blues music and the musicians who made it famous. Visitors can also see live performances and participate in workshops and events.

The Peabody Ducks – Memphis, Tennessee

The Peabody Ducks are a quirky Memphis tradition that has been going on for over 80 years. Every day at 11 am and 5 pm, a group of ducks march down a red carpet from their rooftop home to the lobby fountain, where they spend the day swimming and entertaining visitors.

Natural Wonders

Ruby Falls – Chattanooga, Tennessee

Ruby Falls is an underground waterfall located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave system and see the stunning waterfall up close.

Tishomingo State Park – Mississippi

Tishomingo State Park is a beautiful park located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the park’s unique rock formations and waterfalls.

Vibrant Nightlife

Beale Street – Memphis, Tennessee

Beale Street is the heart of Memphis nightlife, with live music, bars, and restaurants lining the street. Visitors can enjoy everything from blues music to karaoke in this vibrant entertainment district.

The Oxford Square – Oxford, Mississippi

The Oxford Square is a charming downtown area that comes alive at night with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. This college town has a lively atmosphere and plenty of options for a night out on the town.

Local Markets

The Cooper-Young Farmers Market – Memphis, Tennessee

The Cooper-Young Farmers Market is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The market features fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music every Saturday morning.

The Oxford Community Market – Oxford, Mississippi

The Oxford Community Market is a weekly market that showcases local food and artisanal products. Visitors can browse the stalls, enjoy live music, and sample some of the delicious food on offer.

Beaches and Mountains

Gulf Islands National Seashore – Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Gulf Islands National Seashore is a beautiful stretch of coastline that includes barrier islands, beaches, and salt marshes. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast.

Smoky Mountains – Tennessee

The Smoky Mountains are a stunning mountain range located in eastern Tennessee. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and taking in the breathtaking views from the top of the mountains.

Cultural Immersion

The National Civil Rights Museum – Memphis, Tennessee

The National Civil Rights Museum is located at the site of the Lorraine Motel, where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. The museum features exhibits on the history of the civil rights movement and the struggle for equality in America.

The Mississippi Blues Trail – Mississippi

The Mississippi Blues Trail is a collection of markers and sites that commemorate the history of blues music in Mississippi. Visitors can follow the trail to learn about the musicians, venues, and events that shaped this iconic musical genre.

Art and Music Scene

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music – Memphis, Tennessee

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is a must-visit destination for music lovers. The museum features exhibits on the history of soul music and its influence on popular culture. Visitors can also see memorabilia from legendary artists like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes.

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens – Memphis, Tennessee

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is a beautiful museum and botanical garden that features an impressive collection of art and artifacts. Visitors can explore the galleries, stroll through the gardens, and attend special events and exhibitions.

Walking Tours

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – Memphis, Tennessee

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum offers a walking tour of Beale Street and the surrounding area, with stops at historic landmarks and music venues. Visitors can learn about the history of rock and soul music in Memphis and see where some of the most iconic musicians got their start.

The Oxford Historic Tour – Oxford, Mississippi

The Oxford Historic Tour is a walking tour of the town’s most historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can learn about the town’s rich history and see examples of architectural styles from the 19th and 20th centuries.