Southaven Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Southaven in Mississippi? Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Southaven

Located in the northern region of Mississippi, Southaven is a charming city that offers a perfect balance of scenic natural beauty and rich history. Known for its countryside vibes, Southaven stands out as a city with modern amenities that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway or you want to indulge in some outdoor adventure, Southaven promises to satisfy your interests.

List of Places to Visit in Southaven

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

DeSoto County Museum

For history buffs, the DeSoto County Museum, located in Hernando, MS, is a must-visit. With its collection of exhibits showcasing the life and times of the early settlers, the Civil War era, and the Delta Blues experience, visitors can get a glimpse of the history of the region.

Elvis Presley Birthplace Park

Elvis Presley Birthplace Park in Tupelo, MS, is a popular attraction that showcases the life and times of one of the most prominent music legends of all time. The museum displays the cultural heritage of the region from the 1930s, which is followed by tours of the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum.

Natural Attractions of Southaven: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Arkabutla Lake

Located to the south of the city, Arkabutla Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Boasting of over 16000 acres of water, visitors can indulge in numerous water sports activities that include fishing, boating, and swimming.

Snowden Grove Park

The Snowden Grove Park, located on the eastern side of the city, offers a myriad of recreational activities, which include baseball, soccer, basketball and tennis facilities. If you are looking for a peaceful spot perfect for a picnic or an afternoon stroll, this park is an excellent spot for you.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southaven

Southaven offers a diverse range of hiking and biking routes, each with unique terrain and scenic views. Some of the popular trails include the Snowden Grove Trailhead and the Mississippi River Trail.

Best Things to Do in Southaven: Activities and Tours

Memphis Music and Heritage Tour

The Memphis Music and Heritage Tour is a must-try for music lovers. The tour takes you through the birthplace of blues and rock n’ roll, through the Memphis music scene, and the historical city.

Southaven Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, the Southaven Farmer’s Market offers an authentic cultural experience of the city, and visitors can taste the local flavors and crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southaven

Day 1

Visit the DeSoto County Museum to get a glimpse of the history of the city

Day 2

Spend a day at Snowden Grove Park visiting the recreational facilities, including tennis courts and soccer fields.

Day 3

Explore the natural beauty of Arkabutla Lake by indulging in some water sports activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming

Day 4

Take a tour of the Memphis Music and Heritage Tour to discover the birthplace of blues and rock n’ roll.

Day 5

Visit the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, which offers a glimpse into the animal kingdom and the history of the region.

Day 6

Visit the Memphis Zoo- home to over 3,500 animals

Day 7

Spend a relaxing day at Southaven Park enjoying the natural beauty and the local sights.

Food and Drink Scene of Southaven

Must-Try Dishes

Mississippi Catfish

Mississippi catfish is a must-try dish for seafood lovers. Served in various forms, including fried and broiled, this tasty dish is a local favorite.

BBQ Ribs

The BBQ ribs at Memphis, located just a few minutes from Southaven, are a must-try. The restaurant serves saucy ribs with a hint of smoky flavor that will undoubtedly leave you craving for more.

Local Beverages

Sweet Tea

Sweet tea is a local drink that is a perfect refreshment during hot weather. It’s a refreshing blend of sweet sugar and tea that is sure to quench your thirst.

Mississippi Mud

If you are looking for a drink that offers a mix of chocolate and coffee, you should try the Mississippi mud, a popular cocktail in the city.

Where to Stay in Southaven: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southaven offers numerous accommodation options catering to the budget of every traveler. Some of the popular hotels in the city include Hampton Inn, Comfort Suites, and Fairfield Inn by Marriott.

What to Buy in Southaven: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Consider buying a piece of real Mississippi pottery from the local shops in the city. If you are craving for something sweet, try one of the Mississippi mud pies, a unique dessert specialty of the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Southaven

Southern hospitality and down-to-earth charm are the two most striking characteristics of the local culture in Southaven. The locals are friendly and warm, and visitors can expect to receive a warm welcome when they arrive in the city.

Best Time to Visit Southaven

The best time to visit Southaven is between March and May or from September to November when the weather is mild, and the city is at its most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southaven

Do:

  • Carry cash for smaller transactions, especially at local markets
  • Respect the local customs and culture
  • Try the local cuisine and get a taste of the vibrant culture

Don’t:

  • Litter the streets or open public spaces
  • Take photographs of people or their possessions without consent.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southaven

Southaven is a safe city with low crime rates, making it a perfect destination for solo travelers and families alike. Visitors should still exercise caution while walking around the city late at night.

Health in Southaven

Visitors should exercise caution while drinking tap water in the city. It’s recommended to drink bottled water during your stay.

Getting to Southaven: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southaven

The Memphis International Airport is the closest airport to Southaven, located only 8 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Southaven

The Greyhound station is located in Memphis, which is a few minutes’ drive from Southaven.

Other Options

Visitors can get around in Southaven by renting a car or by using rideshares services like Uber and Lyft.

How to Get Around in Southaven

The city is well connected with public transport buses that connect the city center to most of the key tourist destinations.

Where to Go Next from Southaven: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Birmingham is a charming city located nearby that is ideal for a road trip. The city has a rich history and offers visitors a perfect blend of scenic views and historical monuments.

Conclusion

Whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a food lover, Southaven, Mississippi, is a city that will leave a lasting impression on you. With its perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Southaven promises an unforgettable experience for travelers.