Cotton Junction Trail
Teapots to sweet spots. Get ready for a rural journey through West Tennessee, named for the hypnotic beauty of the region’s signature cotton fields in early fall. It’s dotted with amazing stories, historic landmarks, and unique sights.
Riverside Drive Welcome Center
Pose for great photo memories here with bronze statues of Elvis Presley and B.B. King on the shores of the mighty Mississippi, as you prepare to head out on the Great River Road. Pick up info about area attractions, discount coupons for restaurants and hotels, and get the inside scoop on local events.
119 N. Riverside Dr.
TN
United States
The Peabody Hotel Memphis
This 1925 landmark continues to welcome visitors to the heart of downtown. It is most famous for its unusual residents: a group of ducks lives on the rooftop. Each day, they march to the Grand Lobby at 11 a.m., and return to their quarters at 5 p.m. The tradition dates back to 1933.
Beale Street
The blues are alive and well today on historic Beale Street. Dance to the music of live bands in open-air W. C. Handy Park, or spend a night sliding in and out of its famous spots. From 2nd to 3rd Streets, Beale Street is closed to vehicles. Park and walk to see the attractions, restaurants, shops, clubs and museums. Here are a few highlights: B.B. King's Blues Club: This Beale Street original features live music nightly. It's open for lunch, dinner and late-night entertainment. Blues City General Store: Find the perfect Memphis souvenir here. King's Palace: Stop at this cozy little joint for jazz and Southern delicacies. A. Schwab Dry Goods Store: This Memphis landmark features merchandise from old time candies to undergarments, hoodoo potions to rain gear. "If you can't find it at Schwab's, you're probably better off without it." Silky O'Sullivan's: It's always St. Patrick's Day in this 100-year-old saloon. Grab a Hurricane and visit the "Irish Diving Goats." Alfred's: Great food, live music and the best dance floor on Beale. Withers Collection Museum & Gallery: Freelance African American photographer and Memphis native Dr. Ernest C. Withers is famous for his black and white images of the segregated South, the Civil Rights Movement, Memphis music and Negro League baseball. W.C. Handy House Museum: Moved here from its original South Memphis location, this museum houses the desk where the Father of the Blues wrote his greatest hits. Ground Zero Blues Club: Get a taste of the Delta blues and BBQ at this restaurant, co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman.
Beale St.
38103 TN
United States
Memphis Rock ‘n' Soul Museum
This permanent exhibition about the birth of rock and soul music was created by the Smithsonian Institution and tells the story of musical pioneers who overcame racial and socio-economic barriers to create the music that shook the entire world.
191 Beale St.
TN
United States
McEwen's on Monroe
Executive Chef Keith Bambrick combines classic Southern cuisine with South American, Asian and Creole elements to create dishes both familiar and new.
120 Monroe Ave.
TN
United States
Slave Haven Museum
This 1849 clapboard house served as a way station on the Underground Railroad, a secret series of hiding places for runaway slaves seeking freedom in the North and Canada. Take the tour and visit the hidden tunnels, trap doors, and cellars where slaves waited for their chance to escape to the Mississippi River on their way to the next secret stop. The house is furnished with period pieces and slavery artifacts. Hours vary; call ahead for information.
826 N. 2nd St.
TN
United States
ALSAC/Danny Thomas Pavilion-St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
This facility is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in catastrophic childhood diseases. It was founded in 1962 by Hollywood entertainer Danny Thomas; you can visit his burial place and see memorabilia from his life at the Danny Thomas/ ALSAC Pavilion. Hospital tours available Mon.-Fri., 10a.m.-1p.m.; call to schedule.
Arlington
Known as the "best kept secret in Memphis," this charming town was named for Arlington National Cemetery. Many of its current residents are descendents of its founders, who arrived here in the 1830s and watched the town grow around the Memphis & Ohio Railroad. Park at Depot Square and visit the historic post office and the Rachael H.K. Burrow Museum. When yellow fever struck Memphis in 1878, Arlington's community leaders quarantined the town and forbid outsiders from entering.
TN
United States
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
Known for its unbeatable fried chicken and one-of-a-kind spice, be sure to take in this Memphis-area original. GQ magazine calls it one of the top five restaurants in the U.S. worth flying to just to have a meal.
310 S. Front St.
TN
United States
Historic Stanton Presbyterian Church & Mausoleum
Built in 1870 by Nathan Adams, son-in-law of the town's founder, this structure is modeled after a Scottish church. The marble shaft and doors were purchased in Italy for $10,000, then shipped to New Orleans and up the Mississippi River to Memphis, then moved by freight car to Stanton and hauled on wagons here. The whole town came out to watch construction. Enjoy the grounds and unique architecture.
56 Main St.
TN
United States
Stanton Welcome Center
Learn about Stanton's history as a bustling railroad town. Open Mon., Wed. & Fri., 10a.m.-5p.m.; Tues. & Thurs., 1-5p.m.
49 Main St.
TN
United States
Stanton Masonic Lodge
This 1871 structure is sometimes called the Old Schoolhouse as it also served as a school building. Appreciate its history then explore the town to see other Antebellum homes and churches.
109 Covington St./ Hwy 179N
TN
United States
Trinity United Methodist Church & Cemetery
Organized in 1822, this was known as Buckhorn Church because deer antlers served as hat racks inside. Over 50 Confederate soldiers are buried in the cemetery; every year on Mother's Day, Confederate flags are placed on the Confederate graves and U.S. flags on other veterans' graves. A directory board lists the veterans' names and gravesites.
5659 Nunn Rd.
TN
United States
The Mindfield
This 100-foot metal sculpture depicting the life of Brownsville artist Billy Tripp is a continuous work in progress; the structure was begun in 1989 and will evolve until Billy's death. Stop and see this eclectic, larger-than-life art that's intended to generate dialogue between communities and governmental systems. The site has a comment box for you to leave your own thoughts and reactions.
Tripp Country Hams
Family-owned since 1962, Tripp's cures award-winning hams and bacon famous for their distinct country flavor. The one-of-a-kind taste is from a secret family recipe. Stop in to learn more and pick some up to take home.
Brownsville Square
First erected in 1824, the Haywood County Courthouse was rebuilt in 1832 and has since undergone several renovations. According to local lore, the money for the 1928 work was borrowed from a resident farmer, Dee Evans. When it was not repaid on time, Evans threatened to fill the courthouse with hay. Explore the square's shops and restaurants and let markers guide you through more of the area's stories.
Haywood Co. Courthouse 1 N. Washington Ave.
TN
United States
Helen's Bar-B-Q
Owner Helen Turner is one of only a few female pit-cooks in the country; she smokes pork shoulders on site and serves them with her famous sauce. Unexpected live music performances have occurred here throughout the years, including a now-famous jam session with bluesman and Brownsville native Yank Rachell in 1996, just months before his death.
Denmark Presbyterian Church
Located near the site of a Civil War battlefield (point 50), this 1854 church was built by slave labor and originally housed Masonic Lodge #154. After the battle, it was used as a prison for Union soldiers who had surrendered. It is undergoing renovation and will house a Civil War museum.
Britton Lane Civil War Battlefield
This site became an unexpected Civil War battlefield in 1862, when Union and Confederate troops accidentally met here. They battled for four hours, and 87 Union soldiers were imprisoned in the Denmark Presbyterian Church (point 49). The location includes a mass Confederate gravesite and log cabin used as a hospital during the war.
Downtown Jackson
This town shares its name with Andrew Jackson, who began his political career in West Tennessee before going on to become the nation's 7th president. As the county seat, Jackson is anchored by the Madison County Courthouse, historically significant for an event that occurred here in 1835 involving another famous Tennessean. The Madison County Courthouse steps are where David Crockett famously delivered the line, "The rest of you can go to hell, for I am going to Texas."" A year later, he was killed at the Alamo.
Madison Co. Courthouse
100 E. Main St.
TN
United States
Carnegie Center for Arts and History
Explore the history of West Tennessee through displays that chronicle the Civil War history of the area as well as works of art, interactive exhibits and family-friendly programs.
305 E. College St.
38301 TN
United States
International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame & Museum
This site celebrates rock-a-billy, where early rock '‘n' roll meets "hillbilly" music, made popular in the early 1950s by acts like Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, Bill Haley, W.S. "Fluke" Holland, Rayburn Anthony, Carl Mann, and of course, Jackson's famous son, Carl Perkins. See memorabilia and photographs; learn about the people behind the music.
Nashville, Chattanooga & Saint Louis Depot & Railroad Museum
The Nashville, Chattanooga, & St. Louis Railroad brought passengers to Jackson's South Royal depot to partake of the town's mineral waters, eat popcorn supplied by a local character named Popcorn Johnny and gather for live music. The depot contains photos, artifacts, and memorabilia as well as two authentic cabooses and a dining car.
Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park
This 1200-acre site is the largest mound group of the Middle Woodland period in the U.S., with the second highest mound in the country. These 15 earthen mounds were used as a ceremonial site for a Native Americans tribe that predates any of the tribes we know today.
Brooks Shaw's Old Country Restaurant
This popular spot preserves the atmosphere of a late 1890s general store with a gift, confectionery and souvenir shop that features thousands of antiques. After working up an appetite from shopping, stop by the authentic ice cream parlor, soda shop and restaurant for a tasty treat. Old Country Store: 731-668-1223 Museum: 731-668-1222 Music Highway Crossroads: 731-660-4243
Crown Winery
A British gas physicist and Tennessee beauty queen mixed business with pleasure when they opened this Tuscan-inspired villa. Try the highly recognized 11 wine varietals; if you visit on a Friday, stay for a relaxing "Wine Down" event.
Downtown Humboldt
Explore local shops like Brasfield's Jewelers and historic sites like First United Methodist Church here in the home of the West Tennessee Strawberry Festival, held each May since 1934. Be sure to stop in City Gift Co. for the area's largest selection of strawberry-themed items. Brasfield's Jewelers, 1314 E. Main St., Humboldt, 731-784-9714 First UMC, 200 N. 12th Ave., Humboldt, 731-784-3191 City Gift Co., 1321 E. Main St., Humboldt, 731-784-2724 Humboldt Chamber of Commerce,1200 Main St., Humboldt, 731-784-1842
1314 E. Main St.
TN
United States
West Tennessee Regional Art Center
This is the permanent home to the Caldwell Collection of paintings, folk art and sculpture; the Ewers Collection; and the Lois and Wallis Jones Boehm Porcelain Collection. The center also hosts juried exhibitions throughout the year.
Gibson Mural
To honor the town's history, 12 local artists came together to create a mural on the side of Gibson City Hall that depicts significant historical sites. Come see this unique tribute to the area's abundant culture and heritage.
2204 Gibson Sq.
TN
United States
Downtown Milan
Park and walk to enjoy the shops, restaurants and entertainment here. Stop into Antiques & Home Décor or Elliott's Music & Nutrition Center for a unique find or catch a movie at the Ritz Theatre III. After working up an appetite, drive about two miles south on 1st Street to visit Candyland Gift Shoppe for double-dipped strawberries or L&T Cakery for more sweet confections. Antiques & Home Décor, 1082 S. Main St., Milan 731-686-3557 Elliott's Music, 1079 S. Main St., Milan 731-686-1821 Ritz Theatre III, 1109 S. Main St., Milan 731-686-7691 Milan Chamber of Commerce, 1061 S. Main St., Milan 731-686-7494 Candyland, 1019 Jones Blvd. Milan 731-686-7324 L&T Cakery, 1021 Jones Blvd. Milan 731-562-9500
1082 S. Main St.
TN
United States
West Tennessee Agricultural Museum
This museum presents life-size displays depicting everyday challenges faced by settlers forging a new territory. Explore West Tennessee's heritage, through artifacts including equipment, materials, photos and art. Guided tours available.
Huntingdon
Find a variety of options at this quaint square surrounding the Carroll County Courthouse. Start with a taste of the South at Mallard's Restaurant. Shopping highlights include The Gift Grove, carrying the area's largest selection of Vera Bradley merchandise and Mockingbird Threadworks for the sewing enthusiast. Mallard's Restaurant, 19720 E. Main St., Huntingdon, 731-986-0400 The Gift Grove, 203 Court Sq., Huntingdon, 731-986-4721 Mockingbird Threadworks, 19703 E. Main St., Huntingdon, 731-986-8111 Carroll Co. Chamber of Commerce, 20740 E. Main St., Huntingdon, 731-986-4664
Court Sq.
TN
United States
Dixie Carter Performing Arts & Academic Center
This state-of-the-art theater is named in honor of Carroll County native Dixie Carter. The venue hosts local performances and national acts alike. Across the street, visit Mudslinger's Studio, an annex of "The Dixie,"" where students of all ages hone their pottery skills and exhibit their work.
191 Court Sq.
TN
United States
Gordon Browning Museum
This former post office in the heart of McKenzie houses documents, images and artifacts that reflect on the culture of Carroll County and its railroad history. Native son Gordon Browning was a two-time governor of Tennessee; see many of his papers, personal effects and photographs. While you're here, stroll downtown and enjoy the area.
640 N. Main St.
TN
United States
University of Tennessee Martin (UTM)
Founded in 1900 as Hall- Moody Institute, a private Baptist school, UTM has been a part of Knoxville-based UT since 1927. Stroll the campus and check the school calendar for art, music, theater and athletic events open to the public.
325 Administration Bldg.
38237 TN
United States
Big Cypress Tree State Park
Relax and enjoy nature in this 27- acre state park, situated within a 330-acre state natural area in the floodplain of the Middle Fork of the Obion River. Bring a picnic and admire the native wild flowers, trees and wildlife. Get up close and personal with birds of prey during the yearly fall festival.
Downtown Trenton
While small in size, this town is rich in tradition. Admire the 1899 Gibson County Courthouse, one of the most handsome in the state, as you visit the restaurants and shops around the square. If you're driving the Cotton Junction Trail in late April, attend the Teapot Festival, a week-long series of events celebrating Trenton's "tea-rrific" reputation.
200. E. Eaton St.
TN
United States
Battle of Trenton Driving Tour
Stop in the Gibson County Public Library or point 94 and pick up a CD guide and brochure to explore the events that took place here in 1862 as Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest's men captured this stop on the Mobile & Ohio Railroad. After putting up a brief fight in the depot area, the Union surrendered rather than face destruction by Forrest's artillery. Signs guide you through this exciting journey in Civil War history.
303 S. High St.
TN
United States
World's Largest Teapot Collection
What road trip is complete without a "World's Largest"?" This permanent exhibition is recognized as the World's Largest Collection of Porcelain Veilleuses-Theieres, an ornate type of teapot (often called a night-light teapot). The teapots on display date from 1750 to 1860 and were purchased around the world by Trenton native Dr. Frederick Freed. Stop in Trenton City hall to see this unique collection.
309 College St.
TN
United States
Alamo Court Square
For almost 50 years, citizens in West Tennessee petitioned the state to form a new county to give them better access to government. In 1871, Crockett County was created and named for David Crockett; Alamo was named its seat. As you stroll downtown, visit the shops and restaurants and notice the Classical Revival architectural elements of the historic Bank of Alamo.
7 S. Bells St.
TN
United States
Veterans Memorial
On the Crockett County Courthouse lawn, these 16 granite tablets honor over 4,700 local individuals who have served the U.S. since World War I.
1 S. Bells St.
TN
United States
Hillcrest Safari Tours
Take a walk on the wild side when you visit the state's only walk-through zoo combined with a drive-through park. The site has more than 400 animals representing 80 different species. For a hands-on experience, there is a full petting zoo as well as a gift shop.
West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center
This final stop includes three regional museums that capture the life and landscape of West Tennessee: the West Tennessee Cotton Museum, West Tennessee Music Museum and Hatchie River Museum. See the last home of blues legend, Sleepy John Estes; visit Flagg Grove School, the childhood school of Tina Turner. Open Mon.-Sat., 9a.m.-5p.m.; Sun., 1-5p.m.
121 Sunny Hill Cv.
I-40 at Exit 56, Behind McDonald's
38012 TN
United States
