The Best Places to See When Driving from Booneville, Mississippi to Memphis, Tennessee

Are you looking for a weekend getaway from Booneville, Mississippi? How about a road trip to Memphis, Tennessee? You're in for a treat! The 90-mile drive is a scenic and enjoyable trip filled with exciting landmarks, historical sites, and stunning wilderness areas. In this blog post, we'll show you the best places to visit when driving from Booneville, Mississippi to Memphis, Tennessee. So, buckle up, and let's hit the road!

Landmarks & Historical Sites

1. Tupelo Hardware Company

The first stop on our list is the famous Tupelo Hardware Company, located in Tupelo, Mississippi, just 24 miles south of Booneville. This landmark store is the birthplace of Elvis Presley's first guitar, and it's a must-visit for any music lover or fan of the King. You can see the original guitar and other Elvis memorabilia on display while shopping for hardware and southern souvenirs.

2. Elvis Presley Birthplace

Next, let's take a short detour to see the Elvis Presley Birthplace in Tupelo, Mississippi, just 5 miles from Tupelo Hardware Company. This historical site is where the King of Rock and Roll was born on January 8, 1935. You can visit the birthplace home, museum, chapel, and the Assembly of God church where Elvis first sang gospel music.

3. Corinth Contraband Camp

Our third stop is the Corinth Contraband Camp, located in Corinth, Mississippi, just 34 miles northwest of Tupelo. This historical site played a vital role in the American Civil War and the struggle for freedom. It is the former site of a Union Army contraband camp, where escaped slaves and freedmen sought refuge during the war. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in African-American history.

4. National Civil Rights Museum

As we reach the outskirts of Memphis, let's visit the National Civil Rights Museum, located in downtown Memphis. This iconic museum is housed in the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968. The museum chronicles the struggle for civil rights in America, from slavery to the present day. You can see exhibits, photographs, artifacts, and historical documents that tell the stories of the movement's leaders and ordinary citizens who fought for justice.

5. Sun Studio

Finally, let's visit the legendary Sun Studio, where the history of rock and roll was made. This recording studio is the birthplace of rockabilly, blues, and rock and roll music, and it's where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and other greats recorded their first hits. Visitors can take a guided tour of the studio, see the original recording equipment, and learn about the history of music from the knowledgeable guides.

Natural Wonders

1. Tishomingo State Park

As we cross the state line from Mississippi to Tennessee, let's visit Tishomingo State Park, located just 7 miles from the border. This beautiful park is nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and offers hiking, fishing, rock climbing, and scenic overlooks. You can see unique rock formations, including giant boulders and natural bridges, and enjoy the serenity of the forest and streams.

2. Memphis Riverfront

As we near our final destination, let's take time to appreciate the beauty of the Memphis Riverfront. This scenic area offers great views of the Mississippi River, the historic cobblestone streets, and the skyline of Memphis. You can take a riverboat ride, stroll the riverbank promenade, and enjoy the restaurants and entertainment venues that line the riverfront.

3. Shelby Farms Park

Our final stop on our list is the Shelby Farms Park, located in Memphis. This massive park covers over 4,500 acres of green space and offers hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding trails. You can see herds of bison, deer, and other wildlife, and enjoy the many amenities and attractions, including a playground, a disc golf course, and a lake for boating and kayaking.

Conclusion

A road trip from Booneville, Mississippi to Memphis, Tennessee is a great way to experience the beauty, history, and culture of the south. Whether you're a music lover, history buff, or outdoor adventurer, there's something for everyone on this scenic drive. We hope you enjoyed our list of the top places to visit, and we can't wait to hear about your own adventures along the way!