West Memphis Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally diverse West Memphis with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best places to visit, activities to do, food to eat, and more.


Introduction to West Memphis

Located in the Mississippi River Delta, West Memphis is a vibrant city in eastern Arkansas, in the southern part of the United States of America. It is well known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and friendly locals.

West Memphis offers a plethora of exciting attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you are a history buff, adventure seeker, or a foodie, this city has something in store for you. In this travel guide, we will dive deep into the various places to visit, things to do, food to eat, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in West Memphis

Here is a list of the top places to visit in West Memphis:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Blues Highway: This iconic route runs through West Memphis and is a hub of blues music.
  • The Delta Heritage Trail State Park: This 84-mile trail is perfect for cycling, hiking, and experiencing the natural beauty of West Memphis.
  • The West Memphis Welcome Center: This center is a great resource for visitors, providing information about the city’s attractions, events, and accommodations.

Natural Attractions of West Memphis: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tilden Rodgers Park: This park offers scenic views of the Mississippi River and has picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields.
  • The Paddle House: This rental shop allows visitors to rent kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes to explore the nearby waterways.
  • The Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center: This nature center offers hiking trails, bird watching, and educational exhibits about the environment.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West Memphis

West Memphis is perfect for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

  • The Sultana Disaster Trail: This trail is a memorial to the Sultana steamboat disaster and runs along the Mississippi River.
  • The St. Francis Levee Trail: This trail offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and Crowley’s Ridge.
  • The Columbia Bottoms Trail: This trail runs through a wildlife refuge, providing opportunities to spot various bird species and other wildlife.

Best Things to Do in West Memphis: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in West Memphis:

  • Visit Southland Casino Racing: This casino offers exciting slot machines and horse racing.
  • Explore the West Memphis Farmers Market: This local market offers fresh produce and handmade crafts.
  • Take a tour of the historic James Lee House: This 1850s mansion is a well-known tourist attraction and is open to visitors for tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for West Memphis

Here is a week-long itinerary to explore the best of West Memphis:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Delta Heritage Trail State Park for a day of hiking and biking
2 Explore the West Memphis Blues Highway and Historic District
3 Visit the St. Francis National Forest for a day of camping and fishing
4 Head to Southland Casino Racing for an evening of entertainment
5 Take a leisurely stroll through Tilden Rodgers Park
6 Visit the Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center for a day of hiking and bird watching
7 Take a tour of the historic James Lee House

Food and Drink Scene of West Memphis

Foodies will enjoy exploring the diverse food scene of West Memphis. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Memphis-style barbecue: This barbecue is world-famous and is a must-try when visiting West Memphis.
  • Fried catfish: This southern classic is popular in West Memphis and is served with hushpuppies and coleslaw.
  • Banana pudding: This dessert is a southern staple and is a must-try when exploring the food scene.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet tea: This is a classic southern drink that is sweetened with sugar, making it the perfect summer drink.
  • Lemonade: This refreshing drink is perfect for beating the southern heat.

Where to Stay in West Memphis: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best accommodation options in West Memphis:

  • The Comfort Suites West Memphis: This hotel is perfect for families and offers a continental breakfast and an indoor pool.
  • The West Memphis Hampton Inn: This hotel is pet-friendly and offers a hot breakfast and fitness center.
  • The Knights Inn West Memphis: This budget-friendly option offers free Wi-Fi and parking.

What to Buy in West Memphis: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from West Memphis:

  • Memphis-style barbecue sauces and rubs
  • Handmade crafts from the West Memphis Farmers Market
  • T-shirts and hats with the West Memphis logo

Local Culture and Customs of West Memphis

West Memphis is known for its friendly locals and warm southern hospitality. The city celebrates various cultural events throughout the year, and visitors are always welcome to join in the festivities.

Best Time to Visit West Memphis

The best time to visit West Memphis is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities without the harsh summer heat or cold winter temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of West Memphis

Here are some do’s and don’ts of West Memphis:

Do:

  • Do try Memphis-style barbecue and fried catfish.
  • Do explore the natural beauty of West Memphis.
  • Do attend the various cultural events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disturb the natural areas.
  • Don’t be disrespectful to the locals or their culture.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your car when parked in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in West Memphis

West Memphis is a generally safe city, but visitors should still take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your valuables in a safe place.

Health in West Memphis

Visitors should take precautions against mosquitoes and ticks, as West Memphis is located in a high-risk area for diseases like West Nile virus and Lyme disease. Drinking tap water is generally safe, but visitors can choose to drink bottled water for added peace of mind.

Getting to West Memphis: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the various transportation options to reach West Memphis:

Airports Near West Memphis

  • Memphis International Airport: This airport is about 15 miles away from West Memphis and offers various ground transportation options.

Bus Stations Near West Memphis

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Memphis, about 10 miles away from West Memphis, this terminal offers bus services to various destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to West Memphis or hire a taxi or ride-sharing service from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in West Memphis

Visitors can hire a car or use ride-sharing services to explore West Memphis. Biking or walking is also an option for shorter distances.

Where to Go Next from West Memphis: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations to explore after visiting West Memphis:

  • Memphis: This iconic city is only a short drive away and offers various attractions like Graceland and Beale Street.
  • Little Rock: The capital city of Arkansas is about two hours away and is home to various museums and beautiful parks.

Conclusion

West Memphis is a culturally rich and naturally diverse city that offers various attractions to all kinds of travelers. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, delicious food, or cultural experiences, this city has it all. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can explore West Memphis to the fullest and create unforgettable memories.

The de Soto bridge between Memphis and West Memphis The de Soto bridge between Memphis and West Memphis