Great River Road: Explore the Heart of West Tennessee
Journey through history, flavor, and small-town charm along these unforgettable trail stops.
West Tennessee is filled with places that spark curiosity, celebrate local heritage, and showcase the region’s one-of-a-kind spirit. From lakeside resorts and legendary dining rooms to museums, wineries, and historic sites, each stop invites you to slow down and discover something meaningful along the way. On the Great River Road, you can trace the roots of American music, spot wildlife on Reelfoot Lake, or explore hidden gems in small towns. This stretch of Tennessee delivers experiences worth returning to.
Henning
Alex Haley Museum and Interpretive Center
Step into the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential storytellers at the Alex Haley Museum and Interpretive Center. Located in Haley’s childhood hometown, the museum sits on the grounds of his family home and honors the Pulitzer Prize–winning author of Roots. Thoughtfully curated exhibits trace his writing journey, heritage, and global impact, while the peaceful setting offers space to reflect on the stories that shaped generations.
Fort Pillow State Historic Park
Photo Credit: Tennessee State Parks
Fort Pillow State Historic Park invites visitors to explore a dramatic chapter of Civil War history surrounded by sweeping Mississippi River bluffs. The fort’s earthworks, museum exhibits, and interpretive signage shed light on the 1864 Battle of Fort Pillow, while miles of wooded trails and scenic overlooks offer a beautiful natural backdrop. It’s a place where history and landscape meet, creating a meaningful stop along your journey.
Hornbeak
Blue Bank Resort
Situated along the shores of Reelfoot Lake, Blue Bank Resort blends small-town hospitality with incredible access to one of Tennessee’s most unique natural wonders. Guests can enjoy comfortable lakeside lodging, bird-watching excursions, world-class crappie and bluegill fishing, and unforgettable sunsets over cypress-studded water. The resort’s on-site restaurant and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal basecamp for exploring the region.
Tiptonville
Carl Perkins Visitor Center
The Carl Perkins Visitor Center celebrates the life and music of one of rockabilly’s most influential pioneers. The visitor's center, located in a refurbished caboose, features a jukebox containing recordings of Perkins' songs along with other artists from the era. The exhibit also includes pictures of Perkins, along with his family and friends. Next door is Perkins' boyhood home, which was moved to its current location from its original outside of Tiptonville. Guests can also walk along the 2.5-mile walking and cycling trail to Tiptonville's riverfront park.
Reelfoot Lake State Park
Reelfoot Lake State Park showcases one of the South’s most intriguing landscapes — a shallow, cypress-filled lake formed by a series of 19th-century earthquakes. Visitors can enjoy eagle-watching cruises, boardwalk trails, excellent fishing and peaceful lakeside views in every season. The park’s interpretive center adds depth to the lake’s unusual natural history, making it a standout stop for outdoor lovers.
Boyette’s Dining Room
Photo Credit: Journal Communications Inc.
A beloved Reelfoot Lake tradition since 1921, Boyette’s Dining Room is as comforting as a Sunday supper. Known for its family-style catfish dinners, homemade sides, and classic Southern desserts, the restaurant pairs its time-honored menu with warm hospitality. It’s the perfect place to savor local flavor after a day on the water or exploring the park.
Union City
Discovery Park of America
Photo Credit: Discovery Park of America / Designsensory
Discovery Park of America brings science, art, technology, and history to life through its innovative exhibits and striking 100,000-square-foot museum. Visitors can explore everything from dinosaur fossils to a replica of the human body to a full-scale 1800s town. The expansive outdoor grounds add gardens, sculptures, and interactive spaces that make this attraction a West Tennessee must-see for families and curious travelers.
Kenton
White Squirrel Winery
White Squirrel Winery blends small-batch craftsmanship with the quiet charm of rural West Tennessee. Named for the area’s famous population of white squirrels, the winery offers tastings of locally produced reds, whites, and fruit wines in a relaxed countryside setting. It’s an inviting stop for travelers looking to unwind, sip something flavorful, and enjoy scenic views.
Millington
Jones Orchard Market & Kitchen
Jones Orchard Market & Kitchen celebrates generations of family farming with fresh-picked produce, homemade treats, and seasonal specialties. Visitors can browse shelves filled with jams, jellies, pies, and local goods or enjoy a meal highlighting ingredients grown right on the farm. In fall, the orchard becomes a festive destination with pumpkin patches, hayrides, and autumn activities.
Halls
Murray Hudson Antiquarian Shop
A treasure trove for explorers and collectors, the Murray Hudson Antiquarian Shop overflows with rare books, historic maps, globes, and vintage curiosities. Founded by former pilot and passionate collector Murray Hudson, the shop invites visitors to wander through rooms filled with discoveries from around the world. It’s a one-of-a-kind stop that turns every visit into a bit of an adventure.
