Brownsville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and how to get around in Brownsville, Tennessee.


Brownsville, a charming city situated in Western Tennessee, boasts the ideal mix of natural beauty, rich history, and culture. Bearing evidence of its rich heritage, Brownsville is dotted with towering historical landmarks, museums, and galleries. Additionally, the city offers a plethora of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination among nature lovers. In this comprehensive travel guide to Brownsville, find out everything you need to know to plan your itinerary, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and how to get around.

Introduction to Brownsville

Brownsville is a small city in western Tennessee, located in the South of the United States of America. It is situated about an hour northeast of Memphis. Known for its charming streets, lively music scene, and rich history, Brownsville offers a delightful escape to travelers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. As one of the state’s oldest communities, Brownsville is a land steeped in heritage and tradition, as seen in the famous Delta Heritage Center, the West Tennessee Cotton Museum, and other significant historical landmarks.

List of Places to Visit in Brownsville

Discover the top places to explore in Brownsville, a city known for its historical and cultural landmarks and natural beauty.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Explore Brownsville’s rich history and culture at the city’s top historical landmarks and museums.

  1. Delta Heritage Center: This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, music, and culture of the Mississippi Delta. Visitors can learn about influential blues musicians, including Tina Turner, B.B. King, and W.C. Handy.

  2. West Tennessee Cotton Museum: Experience the story of cotton cultivation in West Tennessee through various exhibits. As you meander through the museum, you’ll learn about the machines and tools used in cotton farming throughout history, as well as the cultural significance.

  3. Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge: Find yourself immersed in wildlife and nature at the Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a must-visit destination for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and those looking to explore the great outdoors.

Natural Attractions of Brownsville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

From scenic hiking trails to beautiful parks, Brownsville offers some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Tennessee.

  1. Chickasaw State Park: This gorgeous state park offers miles of hiking trails, as well as a lake, playgrounds, a swimming pool, and camping facilities. The park is a great place to relax and take in the fresh air.

  2. Brownsville Golf & Country Club: Get active and enjoy a few rounds of golf at the Brownsville Golf & Country Club. This beautiful 18-hole course is perfect for experienced golfers and beginners alike.

  3. Blue Basin: Explore some of the most stunning views in Brownsville at Blue Basin. The natural pool is peaceful, serene, and a refreshing way to cool off during the hot summer months.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Brownsville

Brownsville is known for its stunning natural landscapes and trails, perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts.

  1. Chickasaw Trail: This trail stretches over three miles and winds through the beautiful Chickasaw State Park.

  2. Hatchie Bottoms Trail: This trail is ideal for experienced hikers and takes about six hours to complete. It offers scenic views of the Hatchie River and wetlands.

  3. Piney Grove Trail: This two-mile trail offers a gentle and scenic hike through a lush forested area.

Best Things to Do in Brownsville: Activities and Tours

Discover the top activities and tours to take while in Brownsville, perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.

  1. Blues Trail Tour: Discover the birthplace of the Blues on this self-guided tour of historic sites in West Tennessee.

  2. Local Bison Safari: Take a bison safari tour and see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Considered one of the most popular tours in Brownsville, the bison safari never fails to impress.

  3. Attend a Live Music Event: Brownsville is known for its live music scene, and there’s no better way to experience it than by attending an event. Check out the local listings and head to a show.

Week-Long Itinerary for Brownsville

Discover the best way to spend a week in Brownsville with this comprehensive itinerary.

Day 1: Visit the Delta Heritage Center, then explore the West Tennessee Cotton Museum. Day 2-3: Explore Chickasaw State Park, go hiking, biking, or relax by the lake. Day 4: Take a local Bison Safari and visit Blue Basin Day 5: Hit the links and spend the day playing golf at Brownsville Golf and Country Club Day 6: Explore the city’s historic district, including the Court Square and the Brownsville Depot Museum. Day 7: Attend a live music event and enjoy the local music scene in Brownsville.

Food and Drink Scene of Brownsville

Brownsville’s food and drink scene is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the flavors and local cuisine of Tennessee.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. BBQ: A classic Tennessee dish, Brownsville has some of the best BBQ in the state. Check out Helen’s BBQ for mouth-watering brisket, ribs, and smoked pork.

  2. Fried Chicken: Another Southern classic, Brownsville has its own version of fried chicken. Visit the local Dairy Queen and try their famous fried chicken.

  3. Sweet Potato Fries: Tennessee’s favorite side dish, sweet potato fries, are a must-try. Visit Kelly’s Country Cooking for the best sweet potato fries.

Local Beverages

  1. Southern Sweet Tea: A classic southern beverage, Brownsville’s sweet tea is something you cannot miss.

  2. Cola: The Southern soda Cola has its origins in Tennessee. Check out Brownsville’s local brands and flavors.

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

Find the perfect place to stay during your trip to Brownsville with these top recommendations for accommodation.

  1. Hampton Inn Brownsville: A popular choice among travelers, the Hampton Inn offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and free breakfast.

  2. Days Inn by Wyndham Brownsville: This popular budget hotel is located close to the city’s top attractions and offers free breakfast, Wi-Fi, a pool, and fitness center.

  3. Comfort Inn Brownsville: A great option for families traveling with kids, Comfort Inn Brownsville offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, free breakfast, and Wi-Fi.

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

Complete your trip by taking some local souvenirs and products back home with you.

  1. Handmade Pottery: Visit Brownsville Pottery and purchase some of their beautiful, locally crafted pottery.

  2. Sweet Treats: Stock up on sweet treats, candies, and jams at Sweet Southern Lady.

  3. Local Honey: Grab a jar of locally made honey from Williams Bee Farm.

Local Culture and Customs of Brownsville

Brownsville has deep roots in Southern history and culture, and travelers should be aware of local customs and customs.

Best Time to Visit Brownsville

The best time to visit Brownsville is in the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons when temperatures are mild and the foliage is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Brownsville

Do:

  1. Respect local culture and customs.

  2. Explore the natural beauty of Brownsville’s parks and wildlife.

  3. Try the local BBQ and sweet tea.

Don’t:

  1. Litter in public areas.

  2. Disrespect local landmarks and historical sites.

  3. Ignore safety and health guidelines.

Safety and Health

Get familiar with Brownsville’s safety and health guidelines.

Safety in Brownsville

Brownsville is a generally safe city, but travelers should take necessary precautions and avoid dark or deserted areas.

Health in Brownsville

Travelers should be up to date with standard vaccinations and carry insect repellent, sunscreen, and mosquito nets, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Brownsville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Find out how to get to Brownsville with these transportation options and logistics.

Airports Near Brownsville

The nearest airport is Memphis International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from Brownsville.

Bus Stations Near Brownsville

Greyhound Bus Lines provides transportation services to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

Travelers can also rent a car or hail a taxi to get around Brownsville.

How to Get Around in Brownsville

Travelers can get around Brownsville by car, bike, or taxi.

Where to Go Next from Brownsville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Discover some of the nearby destinations and excursions to take from Brownsville.

  1. Memphis: Located just an hour’s drive away, Memphis is home to some of Tennessee’s most iconic attractions, such as the Graceland Mansion and the Memphis Zoo.

  2. Nashville: Enjoy the lively music scene, vibrant nightlife, and historical highlights of the state capital.

  3. Oxford: Just over an hour’s drive, Oxford is home to the University of Mississippi and a vibrant downtown.

Conclusion

Brownsville offers a perfect blend of rich history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for travelers to Tennessee. From exploring the city’s museums and historical landmarks to hiking along scenic trails and experiencing the local cuisine and culture, there’s something for everyone in Brownsville. Plan your itinerary using this comprehensive travel guide and make the most of your trip to Tennessee.