Roadtrip Through the South: Top Five Popular Attractions
Looking for a real adventure? Why not hit the open road and embark on a journey through the heart of the South? From the charming town of Blytheville, Arkansas, all the way to Huntingdon, Tennessee, this region is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Keep reading to discover the top five popular attractions that should definitely be on your itinerary.
Exploring the Route and Halfway Point: Dyersburg, TN
As you make your way down Highway 51, you’ll pass through some quintessential southern towns, such as Ripley, TN, and Union City, TN. However, no journey in this area is complete without a stop in Dyersburg, TN. Often considered the halfway point between Blytheville and Huntingdon, this small city has plenty of great eateries and shops to explore. For a delicious bite to eat, make sure to stop by The Coffee Shop on Court Square. This locally owned and operated cafe specializes in southern comfort food and amazing pies!
Top Five Places to See List
Graceland - This iconic mansion located in Memphis, TN is a must-visit for any music lover. The former home of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, Graceland offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of the most famous musicians in history. From touring the mansion to seeing Elvis’s personal car collection, there’s something for everyone here.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital - This world-renowned pediatric hospital in Memphis, TN is dedicated to finding cures for childhood diseases. Visitors can take a tour of the hospital and learn about the amazing work being done there. Don’t forget to leave a donation to support their efforts!
Reelfoot Lake - This natural beauty is located in Tiptonville, TN, and is one of the best places for birdwatching and fishing in the Mid-South. This unique lake was formed after an earthquake in 1811 and is home to over 250 species of birds. Visitors can rent a boat and explore the lake or relax and enjoy the view from shore.
Discovery Park of America - This interactive museum in Union City, TN is perfect for families and anyone interested in science, history, and nature. With over 70,000 square feet of exhibits, visitors can learn about everything from dinosaurs to outer space. There’s even a 50-acre heritage park that features a train ride and a recreated 1800s settlement.
Natchez Trace Parkway - This scenic highway stretches over 440 miles from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Along the way, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the countryside and explore historic sites such as the Meriwether Lewis Park and the Confederate Cemetery in Franklin, TN. Be sure to stop at one of the many hiking trails and picnic areas for a break from the road.
Best Route for this Trip
While there are several ways to get from Blytheville to Huntingdon, we recommend taking Highway 51 all the way down and turning onto I-40 just outside of Dyersburg. From there, it’s a straight shot to Huntingdon with plenty of gorgeous scenery along the way. Plan to spend at least a few days on this trip to fully experience all that the region has to offer. Happy travels!