Jackson, Tennessee: A Complete Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of West Tennessee, Jackson is a vibrant city known for its rich music history, charming Southern culture, and diverse attractions. Whether you’re a fan of history, music, outdoor adventures, or just looking to explore a new town, Jackson has something for everyone. This complete travel guide will take you through the best things to see, do, and experience in Jackson, Tennessee, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

1. Getting to Jackson, Tennessee: Jackson is conveniently located between Memphis and Nashville, making it an easy stop if you’re traveling along Interstate 40. The city is about 85 miles east of Memphis and 125 miles west of Nashville. If you’re flying in, the nearest major airports are Memphis International Airport (MEM) and Nashville International Airport (BNA), with smaller regional flights arriving at McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport (MKL) in Jackson.

2. Exploring Jackson’s Musical Heritage: Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Jackson. Known as the “Heart of the Music Highway,” Jackson has been home to many influential musicians, including rockabilly legends and blues artists.

• The International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame: Celebrate the legacy of rockabilly music, a genre that combines elements of rock ‘n’ roll and country. The museum features exhibits on iconic artists like Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, and Jerry Lee Lewis, with memorabilia, vintage instruments, and even live performances.
• Casey Jones Village: This unique attraction honors the life of famous railroad engineer Casey Jones and features the Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum. The village also includes a mini-museum dedicated to the life of Carl Perkins, the “King of Rockabilly,” who was born near Jackson. Visitors can learn about Perkins’ influence on music and enjoy a meal at the Old Country Store, known for its delicious Southern fare.

3. Historical Sites and Museums: Jackson’s history is deeply connected to the railroad industry, the Civil War, and the growth of rockabilly music. There are several museums and historic sites that capture the essence of these influences:

• Rusty’s TV and Movie Car Museum: A quirky and fun attraction for film buffs, this museum displays a collection of over 50 iconic cars from movies and TV shows, including the Batmobile, the DeLorean from “Back to the Future,” and the Ecto-1 from “Ghostbusters.”
• The Carnegie Center for Arts and History: Housed in a beautifully restored building that once served as the city’s public library, the Carnegie Center offers rotating exhibits on local history and culture. You can learn about the Civil Rights Movement in West Tennessee and see artifacts related to Jackson’s past.
• The Bemis Historical Society Museum: Located in the historic Bemis Mill Village, this museum provides insight into Jackson’s industrial history, focusing on the textile industry that thrived in the area.

4. Outdoor Adventures: For those who love the great outdoors, Jackson and the surrounding region offer a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities:

• Cypress Grove Nature Park: A 165-acre nature preserve where you can hike along trails, walk through a cypress swamp on a boardwalk, and visit a raptor center that rehabilitates birds of prey. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy the scenery and spot local wildlife.
• Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park: Located about 15 miles south of Jackson, this park is home to prehistoric Native American mounds built over 2,000 years ago. Visitors can explore the park’s museum, hike the trails, and climb the mounds for a unique perspective on ancient history.

5. Dining in Jackson: The culinary scene in Jackson offers a mix of traditional Southern comfort food, BBQ, and international cuisine. Here are a few must-try spots:

• Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store: Located at Casey Jones Village, this restaurant is famous for its Southern buffet, offering everything from fried chicken to collard greens. The Old Country Store also has an ice cream parlor and a nostalgic soda fountain.
• Rock’n Dough Pizza & Brewery: Perfect for those looking for a casual meal, this pizzeria offers handmade pizzas, craft beer brewed on-site, and live music on weekends.
• The Blacksmith: A trendy bistro that offers a refined dining experience, with dishes ranging from steaks and seafood to creative salads and vegetarian options.

6. Shopping and Entertainment: Jackson offers plenty of shopping and entertainment options, from local boutiques to live music venues:

• The Columns: Jackson’s premier shopping area, featuring a variety of stores, restaurants, and a movie theater. You can find everything from fashion to home goods here.
• The Ned McWherter Cultural Arts Center: Commonly referred to as “The Ned,” this cultural center hosts a variety of performances, including theater, live music, and art exhibits. Check their calendar for events during your visit.

7. Family-Friendly Attractions: If you’re visiting with family, Jackson has several attractions that are sure to keep everyone entertained:

• The Jackson Generals Baseball Game: Catch a minor league baseball game at The Ballpark at Jackson. The Jackson Generals, an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, offer a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with games, food, and promotions.
• Discovery Park of America: Located about 40 minutes northwest of Jackson in Union City, this educational park features interactive exhibits on science, history, and technology. Kids will love the dinosaur park, planetarium, and 100-foot observation tower.
• Jackson Bowling & Skating Family Fun Center: Perfect for a day indoors, this entertainment complex offers bowling, roller skating, arcade games, and a laser tag arena.

8. Annual Events in Jackson: Throughout the year, Jackson hosts a range of festivals and events that celebrate its culture, music, and community spirit:

• Rockabilly Fest: Held every summer, this event celebrates Jackson’s rockabilly heritage with live music, classic car shows, and dancing. It’s a must-visit for fans of this unique genre.
• West Tennessee State Fair: A classic Southern fair featuring carnival rides, games, livestock shows, and delicious fair food. Held every September, it’s a family-friendly event that attracts visitors from across the region.
• Jackson International Food and Art Festival: Celebrating the diverse cultures of Jackson, this festival features food, music, and art from around the world. It’s a great way to experience the community’s rich multiculturalism.

9. Where to Stay in Jackson: Jackson has a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, from charming bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels:

• DoubleTree by Hilton Jackson: Offering comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a convenient location, this hotel is ideal for travelers looking for comfort and accessibility.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott: Known for its friendly staff, clean rooms, and amenities like a swimming pool and fitness center, it’s a great choice for families and business travelers.

Jackson, Tennessee, is more than just a stop between Memphis and Nashville. It’s a city with a rich history, a vibrant music scene, and warm Southern hospitality. Whether you’re exploring its musical heritage, enjoying the natural beauty of nearby parks, or simply indulging in local cuisine, Jackson offers a mix of experiences that will leave you wanting more. So next time you’re in Tennessee, be sure to give Jackson the attention it deserves.