Hernando, Mississippi: 10 Short Day Trips to Explore Nearby
10 Easy Road Trips from Hernando, Mississippi for a Fun Day Out
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| Trade an ordinary day for river walks, Memphis icons, Tunica casino energy, and a hot tamale stop that makes the drive feel worth it. |
Looking for quick escapes from Hernando, Mississippi? You’re in a great spot for it. In less than two hours, you can swap your usual view for riverfront parks, blues history, casino fun, small-town squares, and even a famous hot tamale trail. If you’ve been craving a simple road trip from Hernando, MS, this list is packed with easy ideas that get you out of DeSoto County and into somewhere fresh.
These picks are all in nearby counties like Shelby County, Tennessee, Tunica County, Mississippi, Tate County, Mississippi, Marshall County, Mississippi, and Crittenden County, Arkansas. That means they work well as day trips, nearby getaways, and even a relaxed weekend trip if you want to stretch things out a bit.
I always think the best short drives feel like pressing a reset button. You don’t need a huge vacation budget. Sometimes you just need a tank of gas, a snack for the car, and a place that feels different by the time you park.
1. Walk the Riverfront at Tom Lee Park in Memphis, Tennessee
If you want a classic day trip near Hernando, head to Tom Lee Park in Shelby County. This large riverfront park sits along the Mississippi River and gives you wide-open views, walking paths, green space, and room to just breathe a little.
It’s the kind of place that works for almost anyone. Couples can take a slow walk. Families can let kids burn off energy. Solo travelers can grab coffee and admire the river. On a nice day, it feels simple in the best possible way.
- Why go: Big river views and an easy downtown Memphis outing
- Best for: Walking, relaxing, photos, and picnics
- Drive from Hernando: About 35 miles, around 45 minutes
2. Tour Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee
You can’t talk about iconic things to do near Hernando without mentioning Graceland. Elvis Presley’s home is one of the most famous attractions in the South, and it makes a fun weekend trip or day trip from Hernando, Mississippi.
Even if you’re not a huge Elvis fan, there’s something fascinating about seeing a place that shaped music history. The home, exhibits, and memorabilia all give the day a larger-than-life feel. It’s a little like stepping into a time capsule with better gift shops.
- Why go: One of the most famous music landmarks in America
- Best for: Music lovers, first-time visitors, and history fans
- Drive from Hernando: About 30 miles, around 40 minutes
3. Dive into Music History at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Another Shelby County gem is the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. If your ideal road trip includes a little culture and a lot of good stories, this is a great pick.
The museum celebrates soul legends and the Memphis sound that changed American music. You’ll see stage outfits, records, instruments, and exhibits that make the past feel alive. It’s easy to enjoy even if you only know a few songs.
And honestly, places like this tend to stick with you. You walk in expecting a museum, and you walk out wanting to make a whole playlist for the drive home.
- Why go: Rich music history and memorable exhibits
- Best for: Rainy days, culture lovers, and adults looking for something different
- Drive from Hernando: About 36 miles, around 45 minutes
4. Explore the Memphis Zoo in Shelby County, Tennessee
Need a family-friendly nearby getaway? The Memphis Zoo is a tried-and-true option. It’s one of the top attractions in the region, and it makes an easy day out when you want something fun without overthinking the plan.
There’s a nice mix of animals, shaded paths, and exhibits that keep kids interested. If you’ve ever done a zoo trip with little ones, you know the trick is finding a place big enough to feel exciting but not so huge it turns into a marathon. This one hits a nice balance.
- Why go: A fun, well-known attraction for all ages
- Best for: Families, animal lovers, and school-break outings
- Drive from Hernando: About 40 miles, around 50 minutes
5. See the Pyramid and More at Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid
Yes, it’s a store, but Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid in Memphis is also an attraction all by itself. This giant landmark is part shopping stop, part entertainment spot, part sightseeing experience.
You’ll find an indoor swamp, aquariums, restaurants, and an observation deck with sweeping views. It’s one of those places that sounds odd until you get there, then suddenly you’re telling friends they have to see it at least once.
- Why go: One of the most unusual and iconic attractions near Hernando
- Best for: Families, casual visitors, and people who like quirky stops
- Drive from Hernando: About 38 miles, around 45 minutes
6. Cross the Mississippi River at Big River Crossing in West Memphis, Arkansas
For a short trip with a little adventure, head to Big River Crossing in Crittenden County. This long pedestrian bridge stretches over the Mississippi River and connects the Arkansas side to Tennessee.
If you enjoy walks with a view, this is a winner. There’s something special about being over the river with trains, skyline views, and that open-air feeling all around you. It turns a simple outing into something memorable without needing a full-day schedule.
- Why go: Unique river crossing with great views
- Best for: Walkers, photographers, and active travelers
- Drive from Hernando: About 42 miles, around 50 minutes
7. Visit Southland Casino Hotel in West Memphis, Arkansas
If your idea of a weekend trip from Hernando includes gaming, dining, and a lively atmosphere, consider Southland Casino Hotel in Crittenden County. It’s an easy drive and offers a very different vibe from a quiet day in town.
This is a good option for adults who want a few hours of fun, a nice meal, or even an overnight stay. Sometimes a nearby getaway doesn’t need a packed schedule. Sometimes it just needs a little sparkle.
- Why go: Casino entertainment close to Hernando, MS
- Best for: Adults, couples, and spontaneous evening road trips
- Drive from Hernando: About 37 miles, around 45 minutes
8. Try Your Luck on the Tunica Casino Strip in Tunica County, Mississippi
Tunica County is one of the easiest places to visit when you want a fast change of scenery from Hernando. The Tunica Casino Strip is well known across the region for gaming, hotels, live entertainment, and dining.
It works well for a quick afternoon or a longer weekend escape. You can keep it simple with dinner and a few games, or turn it into a full overnight trip. Either way, it’s one of the most recognizable road trip ideas near Hernando, Mississippi.
- Why go: Easy entertainment and nightlife not far from home
- Best for: Adults, couples, and friend groups
- Drive from Hernando: About 32 miles, around 40 minutes
9. Learn Delta Stories at the Tunica Museum in Tunica, Mississippi
Looking for something quieter in Tunica County? The Tunica Museum is a nice change of pace. It shares the story of the Mississippi Delta, local culture, river life, farming, and the people who shaped the area.
This stop is a good reminder that a day trip doesn’t always have to be loud or flashy. Sometimes the best outings are the ones that help you understand a place better. Think of it as peeling back the layers of the region, one exhibit at a time.
- Why go: A meaningful look at local Delta history
- Best for: History lovers and slower-paced travelers
- Drive from Hernando: About 28 miles, around 35 minutes
10. Follow the Hot Tamale Trail to Phillips Grocery in Holly Springs, Mississippi
For a food-focused drive, head to Holly Springs in Marshall County and stop by Phillips Grocery. This small but famous spot is tied to Mississippi’s beloved hot tamale tradition and draws visitors looking for local flavor with a side of character.
Food road trips are some of my favorites because they feel low-pressure. You’re not trying to do everything. You’re just chasing one delicious reason to hit the road. And honestly, that can be more fun than a packed itinerary.
While you’re in Holly Springs, you can also enjoy the historic feel of the town, making this a nice little day trip from Hernando, MS that’s both tasty and memorable.
- Why go: Iconic local food and small-town Mississippi charm
- Best for: Foodies, couples, and casual weekend explorers
- Drive from Hernando: About 38 miles, around 50 minutes
Quick Tips for Planning Your Hernando, Mississippi Day Trips
Before you head out, here are a few simple tips to make your road trip from Hernando even smoother:
- Start early if you want to avoid traffic around Memphis.
- Bring cash and cards, especially for small local spots.
- Wear comfy shoes for parks, museums, and walking bridges.
- Check hours before leaving, since some attractions change by season or day of the week.
- Leave room in your plan for a surprise stop. Those often become the highlight.
Final Thoughts on Nearby Getaways from Hernando
One of the best things about Hernando, Mississippi is how many easy escapes sit just beyond DeSoto County. Whether you’re in the mood for music history, river views, casino fun, family attractions, or a simple bite worth driving for, there’s no shortage of things to do near Hernando, MS.
So, which of these short day trips would you try first? A Memphis classic, a Tunica getaway, or a food stop in Holly Springs? Whatever you choose, the nice thing is you don’t have to go far to feel like you went somewhere.
If you found this list helpful, share it with a friend who loves a good road trip. And if you’ve already explored some of these spots, leave a comment and share your favorite nearby getaway from Hernando.
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