Top Places to See When Driving From Birmingham, Alabama to Jackson, Tennessee

Taking a road trip can be an adventure in and of itself, but it's even better when you have amazing destinations to look forward to along the way. If you're driving from Birmingham, Alabama to Jackson, Tennessee, there are plenty of cool places to check out. From natural wonders to historical landmarks, we've got a list of must-visit spots for your journey.

Before we dive into our top places to visit, let's talk about the route you'll be taking. If you take I-22 E and US-72 E, you'll cover around 250 miles and get to your destination in roughly four hours. Along the way, you'll pass through small towns, scenic routes, and picturesque landscapes. Now, let's get to the good stuff!

Natural Wonders

1. Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the most beautiful drives you can take in the southeastern United States. This scenic route stretches for over 440 miles and features rolling hills, lush forests, and stunning views of the Tennessee River. Along the way, you'll spot wildlife, historic sites, and recreational opportunities. While you won't be able to cover the entire parkway on this trip, we recommend driving through a portion of it for a memorable experience.

2. Pickwick Landing State Park

Located on the Tennessee River, Pickwick Landing State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing spots, and boating opportunities. You can rent a boat or bring your own and explore the river's coves and islands. If you're lucky, you might spot some of the park's resident bald eagles. There are also cabins and campsites available if you'd like to extend your stay.

3. Shiloh National Military Park

If you're a history buff, you won't want to miss a visit to the Shiloh National Military Park. This site commemorates the Battle of Shiloh, which took place in April 1862 and was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. The park features a museum, a cemetery, and monument markers. You can also drive the Shiloh Battlefield Tour Road, which takes you through the park's historic sites and provides detailed information through an audio tour.

Small Town Charm

4. Tuscumbia, Alabama

Tuscumbia, Alabama is a quaint town that's worth a stop on your road trip. It's known for being the birthplace of Helen Keller and has several historic sites related to her, including Ivy Green, her childhood home. The town also has a downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and a farmers market. You can take a stroll through Spring Park, which has a fountain, playground, and walking paths.

5. Corinth, Mississippi

Just a short detour off the main route, Corinth, Mississippi is a charming town with a rich history. During the Civil War, it was a strategic location between Memphis and the Confederate capital of Richmond. Today, you can visit the Corinth Contraband Camp, a site that provided refuge for escaped slaves during the war. The town also has a downtown area with shops, restaurants, and museums.

Foodie Finds

6. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

You can't take a road trip through the South without indulging in some barbecue. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur, Alabama is widely considered one of the best barbecue joints in the state. They're known for their smoked chicken and white sauce, which is a tangy mayo-based sauce. They also have pork, brisket, and ribs, as well as sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.

7. Casey Jones Village

If you're in the mood for some southern comfort food, stop by Casey Jones Village in Jackson, Tennessee. The village has a restaurant, Old Country Store, that serves up traditional southern dishes like chicken and dumplings, fried catfish, and mashed potatoes. You can also check out other attractions in the village, like the train museum and mini-golf course.

Conclusion

While it's tempting to power through a road trip to get to your destination, taking the time to explore along the way can make the journey even more enjoyable. From natural wonders to small town charm to delicious food, there are plenty of reasons to make stops on your drive from Birmingham, Alabama to Jackson, Tennessee. We hope this list inspires you to hit the road and discover all that the region has to offer. Safe travels!