Points of Interest between Batesville, Mississippi to Knoxville, Tennessee

picture of Batesville, Mississippi

The Ultimate Southern Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Batesville, MS to Knoxville, TN

Are you planning a road trip from Batesville, Mississippi to Knoxville, Tennessee? Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, delicious cuisine, or historic landmarks, this scenic drive has it all. In this post, we'll highlight the best places to visit along the way, ensuring an unforgettable journey. So fasten your seat belt and let's hit the road!

Visit the Best Local Sites

  1. Buckhorn Tavern, MS: Start your journey with a hearty meal at Buckhorn Tavern, which has been in business since 1900. Try the fried pork chops, a local favorite, or the catfish fillets with hush puppies and coleslaw.
  2. Natchez Trace Parkway, MS and TN: As you drive north to Tennessee, make sure to take a detour on the Natchez Trace Parkway. This scenic route, which stretches over 400 miles, offers stunning views of forests, fields, and rivers. Stop by the Visitor Center in Tupelo, MS to get maps and tips for an unforgettable journey.
  3. Elvis Presley Birthplace, MS: Head to Tupelo to visit the home where the King of Rock and Roll was born in 1935. The modest house has been turned into a museum that showcases his childhood, family, and early career. You can also see the church where Elvis learned to sing and the statue that honors him.
  4. Graceland, TN: A must-see attraction for any Elvis fan, Graceland is the iconic mansion where Elvis lived from 1957 until his death in 1977. Take a tour of the house and see the famous Jungle Room, Trophy Room, and Meditation Garden, where Elvis and some of his family members are buried.
  5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN: As you approach Knoxville, make time for a detour to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which draws millions of visitors each year. This stunning wilderness spans over 800 square miles and offers opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. Don't miss the iconic Cades Cove Loop and the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower.

Experience the Best Local Eats

  1. Bryant's Breakfast, MS: For a classic Southern breakfast, stop at Bryant's in Tupelo, where the biscuits are flaky, the gravy is creamy, and the coffee is strong. Try the cathead biscuits with sausage, egg, and cheese, or the country ham with red-eye gravy.
  2. Mississippi BBQ Trail, MS: Mississippi is famous for its barbecue, and you'll find some of the best joints along the way. Check out Abe's in Clarksdale for smoked ribs and hot tamales, Big Bad Wolf in Greenville for pulled pork and brisket, and The Shed in Ocean Springs for award-winning sauces and sides.
  3. Arnold's Country Kitchen, TN: In Nashville, stop by Arnold's for a plate of meat and three sides, a Southern tradition that includes a protein (like fried chicken or roast beef) and three sides (like mac and cheese, collard greens, or mashed potatoes). The line can be long, but it's worth the wait.
  4. Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant, TN: A staple in several Tennessee towns, Puckett's offers Southern comfort food favorites like smoked brisket, fried chicken, and sweet potato fries. Don't miss the famous sticky toffee pudding for dessert.
  5. Blackberry Farm, TN: For a fine dining experience to remember, book a table at Blackberry Farm, a luxury resort near Knoxville that features farm-to-table cuisine with a Southern twist. The tasting menu includes seasonal dishes like smoked duck and sweet pea risotto, and wines from their impressive cellar.

Discover the Best Local Attractions

  1. Delta Blues Museum, MS: Clarksdale is the birthplace of the Delta blues, a genre of music that originated in the fields and juke joints of the Mississippi Delta. The Delta Blues Museum showcases the history and legacy of this vibrant culture, with exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
  2. Vicksburg National Military Park, MS: One of the most important battles of the Civil War took place in Vicksburg, where the Union army besieged the Confederate forces for 47 days until they surrendered. The Vicksburg National Military Park includes preserved trenches, earthworks, and monuments, as well as a visitor center with exhibits and films.
  3. Jack Daniel's Distillery, TN: If you're a fan of whiskey, you can't miss a tour of the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg. Learn about the history and process of making this iconic Tennessee sour mash whiskey, and taste samples of their different varieties.
  4. Country Music Hall of Fame, TN: As the capital of country music, Nashville has plenty of museums and venues that celebrate this genre. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-visit for any music fan, with exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that showcase the history and diversity of country music.
  5. Dollywood, TN: Finally, wrap up your road trip with a visit to Dollywood, the amusement park in Pigeon Forge that is owned by Dolly Parton herself. With roller coasters, water rides, shows, and festivals, Dollywood offers fun for all ages and tastes. Don't miss the Southern Gospel Jubilee or the Smoky Mountain Christmas.

Conclusion

There you have it, folks: the top places to see when driving from Batesville, Mississippi to Knoxville, Tennessee. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, a nature lover, or a music enthusiast, this road trip has something for everyone. Remember to bring your camera, your appetite, and your sense of adventure, and enjoy the ride!