It’s no secret that Tennessee is known for music. But nestled between Broadway and Beale Street, just off of I-40, is a haven for rhythm, soul and a whole lot of history. Known worldwide as the home of rock ’n’ roll legend Tina Turner, Brownsville has made a name for itself, and rightfully so. An easy day trip from Memphis and Nashville, the Haywood County seat boasts the state’s oldest synagogue (Temple Adas Israel) and tallest freestanding sculpture (Billy Tripp's “Mindfield”). Brownsville is also a spectacular wedding locale, with unique venues like White Raven Manor and the Stanton Presbyterian Church. But, there’s so much more to discover just off Exit 56.
Welcome To Brownsville
Outdoor Activities in Brownsville
The crowning jewel of Brownsville’s natural beauty is the Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge, spanning over 11,000 acres around the scenic Hatchie River. Brimming with more than 250 species of birds, the refuge is the perfect host for the annual Hatchie BirdFest event, which draws hundreds of seasoned and amateur birdwatchers every spring. Year-round, the stunning scenery invites you to enjoy hikes around O'neal Lake and various trails within the refuge. The Hatchie is also a great place to fish, hunt or a laid-back float in your canoe and kayak on the river itself.
For a longer stay, consider a glamping experience at the aptly named Serendipity Resort & Campground, where you can lounge in furnished yurts, luxury cabins and tents. (Or, roll up in your own recreational vehicle and spend a few days at the RV park.) Fill your downtime and replenish your soul at this retreat with disc golf, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding or adventures to the surrounding state parks.
Places to Eat in Brownsville
The inviting smell of barbecue wafting in the air is common in Brownsville, and many will tell you it's the best you'll ever eat. Indulge yourself at one of these legendary spots while you’re in town:
- Mr. Baby Backs Restaurant
- Rasin' Cain BBQ
- Backyard Bar-be-cue
Stroll like a local along the town square, where every face is friendly and every site is worth seeing. Top it off with a tasty meal at restaurants that are just as creative and full of soul as the town itself. Lilie’s on the Square Livingston’s Soda Fountain & Grill O’Taste and See Less than 20 miles southwest of downtown Brownsville, Suga’s Diner in Stanton is a must-stop on your way in or out of town. Or, you can step into history at Stanton’s Cannery Café – serving breakfast and lunch inside the historic Cannery where families once prepared their garden bounty for winter.
Must-See History Sites in Brownsville
Everywhere you turn in Brownsville, you’ll find pieces of the past.
- The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center is a true cultural destination, comprising museums dedicated to hometown heroine Tina Turner, blues icon “Sleepy” John Estes, the history of cotton in West Tennessee and more. Spend an afternoon exploring the grounds (self-guided tours are free) and essentially taking a crash course on the area’s rich roots.
- Anchored on the east by the farmer’s market, the Jefferson Street Historic District is home to notable attractions like the Dunbar Carver Museum and Cultural Center. Committed to chronicling Haywood County’s African American experience, the museum resides in a former segregation-era high school and shares stories of rural life in the community, as well as the history of the school.
- NEW: Across the street from Carver in Heritage Park is the Tina Turner Statue. The Queen of Rock once attended high school and played basketball there. Her statue serves as a link between her tremendous musical legacy and her humble beginnings.
- Set in the building that previously served as Brownsville Baptist Female College and then Haywood High School, the Haywood County History Museum includes an Abraham Lincoln collection and other dusted-off treasures that history buffs will want to seek out.
Music Events and Annual Celebrations in Brownsville
No surprise here: Brownsville boasts delightful music events that you can plan your whole visit around. Let the tunes be the guide as you immerse yourself in Brownsville’s rhythm and roots.
Every Memorial Day weekend, the Exit 56 Blues Fest celebrates the legacy of the country blues genre and the unofficial start of summer. The fun continues throughout the season with Live on the Lawn, a series of free weekly concerts put on by the Brownsville Arts Council, and Tina Turner Heritage Days in September.
For a bright idea around the winter holidays, pile into the car and gawk at the Markowski Family Lights – this sprawling demonstration of festive spirit features 1 million Christmas lights, displays inspired by local children's drawings and occasional cameos by Santa himself. The dazzling Markowski property anchors Brownsville’s Trail of Lights, which runs annually from Dec. 1-30 and guides you to participating residences across the county.
Just like its history, Brownsville is full of legends. Here, you’re sure to have a trip filled with sweet memories, soulful experiences and one-of-a-kind ventures. Like a great blues song, it’s all just waiting to be discovered. Learn more at visitbrownsvilletn.com.
