Southaven, Mississippi: 10 Short Day Trips to Explore
10 Easy Road Trips from Southaven, Mississippi for a Fun Day Out
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| From Memphis music nights and river views to Holly Springs charm and scenic Mississippi backroads, these easy Southaven day trips make any free day feel like an escape. |
Need a quick break from Southaven, Mississippi without planning a huge vacation? You’re in luck. Southaven sits in a great spot for short road trips, easy day trips, and even a simple nearby getaway when you just want to get out and do something different.
Since Southaven is in DeSoto County, this list skips anything in DeSoto County itself. Instead, it focuses on fun places in nearby counties like Shelby County, Tennessee, Tunica County, Mississippi, Tate County, Mississippi, Marshall County, Mississippi, and Crittenden County, Arkansas. These are the kinds of spots that are close enough for a same-day adventure but different enough to feel like a mini escape.
I always love trips like this because they feel low-pressure. You can grab coffee, hit the road, and be somewhere new in less time than it takes to binge a few episodes of a show. So, where should you go first?
1. Walk Historic Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee
County: Shelby County, TN
Why go: If you want live music, bright neon signs, and a true Memphis vibe, Beale Street is a classic.
This is one of the most iconic day trips from Southaven, MS. Beale Street has that electric energy that makes even a short visit feel special. You’ll find blues clubs, restaurants, photo spots, and plenty of people-watching.
Even if you only spend a couple of hours here, it’s worth it. It’s the kind of place that feels like the heartbeat of Memphis. If you’ve got friends or family visiting Southaven, this is an easy pick.
- Great for music lovers
- Easy walkable area
- Fun for lunch, dinner, or an evening outing
2. Tour Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee
County: Shelby County, TN
Why go: It’s one of the most famous music landmarks in America.
You don’t have to be the world’s biggest Elvis fan to enjoy Graceland. There’s just something fun about seeing such a well-known place up close. It blends history, pop culture, and a little bit of that larger-than-life style Elvis was known for.
For travelers looking for a weekend trip or a memorable afternoon near Southaven, this one checks a lot of boxes. It’s polished, easy to visit, and packed with stories.
If you like attractions with personality, this is a solid stop.
3. Explore the Memphis Zoo in Memphis, Tennessee
County: Shelby County, TN
Why go: It’s family-friendly, fun, and full of animals from around the world.
Sometimes the best road trip is the one that keeps everybody happy. The Memphis Zoo is great for families, couples, and even solo visitors who just want a relaxed day out. It’s easy to spend several hours here without feeling rushed.
Think of it like an all-in-one outing: walking paths, animal exhibits, snack breaks, and plenty to see. If you’re traveling with kids, this is an especially easy win.
Bring comfy shoes. You’ll likely do a lot of walking.
4. Visit the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee
County: Shelby County, TN
Why go: It’s one of the most meaningful and powerful museums in the region.
If you want a trip that’s more thoughtful and moving, make time for the National Civil Rights Museum. Located at the Lorraine Motel, this museum tells an important story in a way that really stays with you.
Not every nearby getaway has to be about entertainment. Sometimes the most memorable trips are the ones that teach you something and give you a deeper sense of place. This is one of those.
It’s a good choice if you want your day trip from Southaven to feel both interesting and important.
5. Try Your Luck in Tunica, Mississippi
County: Tunica County, MS
Why go: Casinos, dining, and nightlife make this a fun adults-only escape.
Tunica has long been known as one of the go-to spots for a quick getaway near Southaven. If you’re in the mood for gaming, live entertainment, or a change of scenery, it’s a simple drive for a lively day or night out.
Even if casinos aren’t really your thing, many people still enjoy the restaurants and the overall energy. It can feel like a mini vacation without the high cost or long drive.
Want something easy for a date night or friend trip? Tunica works well for that.
6. Stop by the Tunica RiverPark and Museum in Tunica, Mississippi
County: Tunica County, MS
Why go: It mixes river views, local history, and a calmer pace.
If you prefer a quieter outing, the Tunica RiverPark and Museum is a nice change of pace. The Mississippi River has a way of making you slow down for a minute. Watching that huge stretch of water roll by is a little like staring into a campfire. It’s simple, but it pulls you in.
This spot is a good fit for travelers who enjoy scenic views and local history. It also pairs nicely with lunch in the area if you want to build a half-day adventure.
For a laid-back day trip near Southaven, Mississippi, this one is easy to recommend.
7. Ride Through History at the Tunica Queen Riverboat in Helena-West Helena, Arkansas
County: Crittenden County, AR
Why go: Actually, skip this one for Crittenden County travel plans and head to a more fitting county attraction instead.
For this list, it makes more sense to focus on places truly tied to the counties around Southaven. So if you’re heading into Crittenden County, Arkansas, a better pick is exploring the West Memphis area and the riverfront gateway into Arkansas.
One of the easiest ways to enjoy this side of the region is by taking a scenic drive over the Mississippi River and spending time around Big River Crossing access areas near West Memphis and the surrounding Arkansas side. The views back toward Memphis are fantastic, especially around sunset.
Sometimes a simple scenic outing is all you need. Roll the windows down, take in the river, and enjoy the feeling of crossing into another state for the day.
8. See the Wineries Around Senatobia, Mississippi
County: Tate County, MS
Why go: You’ll find a slower pace, pretty countryside, and a fun tasting-room feel.
Tate County makes for a pleasant weekend trip or day drive from Southaven, especially if you enjoy rural scenery. The Senatobia area gives you that small-town Mississippi feel that’s easy to like. Local winery stops in the region can make the day feel a little more special.
This is a good choice if you want something relaxed and a little different from the usual city attractions. It’s less about rushing from stop to stop and more about enjoying the drive.
I’d call this a “take your time” kind of trip, and honestly, those are often the best ones.
9. Visit Holly Springs and Marshall County’s Historic Charm
County: Marshall County, MS
Why go: Historic homes, old streets, and small-town charm make this a lovely escape.
Holly Springs is one of those places that feels made for a quiet afternoon drive. The historic downtown area and beautiful older homes give it a timeless feel. If you enjoy architecture, local history, or simply discovering towns with character, this is a great pick.
It’s also one of the easier road trips from Southaven, Mississippi if you want to avoid big crowds. Grab a meal, stroll around, and enjoy a slower rhythm for the day.
There’s something refreshing about a town that doesn’t try too hard. Holly Springs has that easy charm.
10. Tour the Hill Country Around Byhalia and Marshall County, Mississippi
County: Marshall County, MS
Why go: Scenic backroads and open landscapes make for a peaceful drive.
Not every trip needs one big attraction. Sometimes the drive itself is the point. The countryside around Marshall County, especially near Byhalia and the wider hill country area, offers a peaceful break from busy routines.
This is the kind of nearby getaway that works well when you just want to clear your head. Pack snacks, make a playlist, and enjoy the open road. In a way, it’s like pressing a reset button without traveling far from home.
If your ideal day trip from Southaven includes scenery and quiet, this is a great final pick.
Tips for Planning Day Trips from Southaven, MS
Before you head out, here are a few quick tips to make your trip smoother:
- Start early to avoid traffic, especially if you’re heading toward Memphis.
- Wear comfortable shoes for museums, downtown walks, and attractions.
- Check hours ahead of time since some small-town spots have limited schedules.
- Bring a camera or use your phone because several of these stops are very photo-friendly.
- Leave room in your plans for spontaneous stops. Sometimes those become the best part of the day.
Final Thoughts on Nearby Getaways from Southaven
One of the best things about living in or visiting Southaven, Mississippi is how easy it is to branch out for a fun day. You can dive into Memphis music history, enjoy a scenic river view, try your luck in Tunica, or slow things down in a small Mississippi town.
These short road trips prove you don’t need a long vacation to make great memories. A tank of gas, a free day, and the right destination can go a long way.
Which of these day trips near Southaven, MS would you try first? If you’ve already explored some of them, share your favorite in the comments. And if this list helped you plan your next adventure, send it to a friend or share it on social media so they can start planning too.
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