Jackson Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Jackson, Tennessee with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, hiking routes, activities, food scene, accommodations, and more!


Introduction to Jackson

Located in western Tennessee, Jackson is a vibrant city that offers visitors a unique blend of southern charm and urban amenities. With its rich history, natural beauty, and bustling downtown district, Jackson is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Jackson

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

There are plenty of museums and historical sites in Jackson that are worth a visit. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Casey Jones Village: This historic attraction is home to the Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum, the Old Country Store, and the Providence House. Visitors can take a train ride, shop for souvenirs, dine at the restaurant, and learn about the history of the city.
  • Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame: Music lovers won’t want to miss the chance to visit this museum, which celebrates the birthplace of rockabilly music. Displays feature artifacts, memorabilia, and recordings from the early days of rock and roll.
  • West Tennessee Farmers Market: This indoor market is the perfect place to browse locally-grown produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food. Visitors can sample fresh fruits and vegetables, shop for gifts, and enjoy live music and entertainment.

Natural Attractions of Jackson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Jackson is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best places to explore the great outdoors:

  • Cypress Grove Nature Park: This 165-acre park features walking trails, a butterfly garden, and a wildlife habitat. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking, and learn about the history of the area.
  • Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park: This park is home to the largest Native American earthworks complex in the nation. Visitors can explore the mounds, hike the nature trails, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area.
  • Natchez Trace Parkway: This scenic drive offers stunning views of the rolling hills and lush forests of Tennessee. Visitors can stop at various scenic overlooks, hike the trails, and visit historical sites along the way.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jackson

For those who love hiking and biking, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors in Jackson. Some popular trails include:

  • North Fork Loop Trail: This 3.2-mile loop trail is perfect for hikers and trail runners. The trail winds through the woods and follows the shore of a scenic lake.
  • South Fork Loop Trail: This 4.1-mile loop trail is a more challenging hike, with steep climbs and rocky terrain. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Jackson Greenway: This multi-use trail is ideal for cyclists and runners. It features 4.5 miles of paved trails that wind through parks and alongside the river, offering beautiful views of the city.

Best Things to Do in Jackson: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Jackson. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Escape Jackson: This escape room experience is perfect for groups or families. Visitors can choose from four different themed rooms and work together to solve puzzles and clues.
  • Blue Goose Hollow Trail Rides: Horseback riding is a great way to see the countryside around Jackson. The Blue Goose Hollow Trail Rides offer guided tours of the beautiful forests and streams in the area.
  • Jackson Symphony: Music lovers won’t want to miss the chance to see a performance by the Jackson Symphony. The symphony offers a range of concerts throughout the year, featuring classical and contemporary music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jackson

Here is a suggested itinerary for spending a week exploring all that Jackson has to offer:

Day Activity
1 Visit Casey Jones Village and the Old Country Store
2 Hike the North Fork Loop Trail and have a picnic at the lake
3 Visit the Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame
4 Explore Cypress Grove Nature Park and the butterfly garden
5 Take a scenic drive on the Natchez Trace Parkway
6 Visit Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park
7 Shop for produce at the West Tennessee Farmers Market

Food and Drink Scene of Jackson

No trip to Jackson is complete without experiencing the city’s food and drink scene. Here are some of the top dishes and beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ: Jackson is known for its delicious BBQ, so be sure to try some at one of the local restaurants.
  • Hot Chicken: This spicy fried chicken dish is a Tennessee staple.
  • Sweet Tea: The South is famous for its sweet iced tea, and Jackson is no exception.

Local Beverages

  • Tennessee Whiskey: Tennessee is home to some of the best whiskey distilleries in the country, so be sure to try some while you’re in Jackson.
  • Craft Beer: There are several local breweries in Jackson that offer a wide range of craft beers to try.

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

There are plenty of accommodations options in Jackson to fit every budget and preference. Some of the top choices include:

  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jackson: This hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant, all in a convenient location.
  • Camping: There are several campgrounds in the area, which offer a great way to experience the outdoors.
  • Airbnb: For a more unique experience, consider staying in an Airbnb in Jackson. There are plenty of options available, from cozy cottages to spacious apartments.

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

If you’re looking for a souvenir or something to bring home with you, here are some of the top options:

  • Local crafts and art: Jackson is home to many skilled artists and craftspeople, so be sure to check out the local galleries and shops.
  • BBQ sauce and spices: Take a taste of Tennessee home with you with some locally-made BBQ sauce and spices.
  • Tennessee Whiskey: Bring home a bottle of Tennessee’s famous whiskey as a gift or for yourself.

Local Culture and Customs of Jackson

Southern hospitality is a big part of the culture in Jackson, so expect to receive a warm welcome from the locals. It’s also important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as saying “yes, ma’am” and “no, sir” when speaking to elders.

Best Time to Visit Jackson

The best time to visit Jackson is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the city is alive with festivals and events. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be chilly and occasionally snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jackson

Do:

  • Tip your servers and service workers.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Explore the great outdoors by hiking or biking.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the heat and humidity in the summer.
  • Forget to try the local BBQ and hot chicken.
  • Neglect to bring plenty of sunscreen if you’ll be spending time outside.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jackson

Jackson is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Keep your valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Jackson

There are several hospitals and medical clinics in Jackson, so visitors shouldn’t have any trouble finding medical care if needed. It’s also important to stay hydrated during the hot and humid summer months.

Getting to Jackson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jackson

The closest major airport to Jackson is the Memphis International Airport, which is about 90 miles away. There are also several smaller regional airports in the area.

Bus Stations Near Jackson

Greyhound and Megabus both have stations in Jackson, making it easy to get to the city by bus.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Jackson, as the city is conveniently located near several major highways. There are also several car rental companies in the area.

How to Get Around in Jackson

Driving is the easiest way to get around Jackson, although there are also several taxi and rideshare services available. The city is also pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and bike lanes.

Where to Go Next from Jackson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of western Tennessee, here are some nearby destinations worth a visit:

  • Memphis: This vibrant city is known for its music, food, and history. Be sure to visit Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum, and the Blues Hall of Fame.
  • Nashville: The capital of Tennessee is just a few hours’ drive from Jackson. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, enjoy the nightlife on Broadway, and explore the historic Ryman Auditorium.
  • Shiloh National Military Park: This park commemorates the Battle of Shiloh, which took place during the Civil War. Visitors can explore the battlefield, visit the museum, and hike the trails.

Conclusion

Jackson, Tennessee is a unique and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. With its rich history, natural beauty, and bustling downtown district, Jackson is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation. Use this travel guide to plan your trip, and get ready to discover all that this charming city has to offer.