Horn Lake, Mississippi Weekend Escapes: 10 Short Road Trips Nearby

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10 Easy Road Trips From Horn Lake, MS: Fun Things To Do Just Outside DeSoto County

If you live in Horn Lake, Mississippi (or you’re staying nearby), you’re in a sweet spot for quick road trips. In less than an hour, you can hit casinos, rivers, small towns, farmland, and downtown Memphis nightlife—without having to hop on a plane or book a week-long vacation. Today we’re taking 10 short road trips from Horn Lake, all outside DeSoto County, into these nearby counties:
  • Crittenden County, Arkansas
  • Marshall County, Mississippi
  • Tate County, Mississippi
  • Tunica County, Mississippi
  • Shelby County, Tennessee
All of these are simple, out‑of‑county day trips from Horn Lake. Most are under an hour’s drive, so you can leave after breakfast and be home by bedtime.

1. Hit the Casinos and the River Views in Tunica, MS (Tunica County)

Head south about 40–50 minutes and you’ll land in Tunica County, one of the biggest casino areas in the South. What to do in Tunica:
  • Try your luck at the casinos – You’ll find slots, table games, poker rooms, and plenty of buffets.
  • Walk the Mississippi River levee – Pause the gaming and soak in big-sky river views.
  • Catch live entertainment – Many resorts host concerts, comedy shows, and special events.
If you want a classic “Vegas-style” night without flying to Nevada, a Tunica road trip from Horn Lake is an easy win.

2. Discover Outdoor Adventure at Arkabutla Lake (Tate & DeSoto–adjacent)

Even though the dam area touches DeSoto County, you can access Arkabutla Lake from the Tate County side and still keep this an “out‑of‑county” adventure. Why go: It’s close, peaceful, and feels like a different world compared to busy suburban streets. Things to do near Arkabutla Lake (Tate side):
  • Fishing – The lake is known for crappie, catfish, and bass. Throw a line in from the bank or bring a small boat.
  • Picnics – Pack a cooler, spread out a blanket, and enjoy a slow afternoon by the water.
  • Hiking and nature walks – There are trails and quiet spots where you can just listen to the birds and relax.
If your idea of fun is leaving the noise behind and hearing nothing but wind in the trees, this quick trip from Horn Lake will hit the spot.

3. Step Into Small‑Town Charm in Senatobia, MS (Tate County)

About 30–40 minutes south of Horn Lake sits Senatobia, the county seat of Tate County. It’s a simple, friendly Mississippi town—and that’s part of its charm. What to enjoy in Senatobia:
  • Walk through downtown – Check out local shops, grab a coffee or a plate lunch, and enjoy the slower pace.
  • Visit local parks – Let the kids play, or just relax on a bench with an iced tea.
  • Hunt for antiques – Poke around shops for old signs, furniture, or vintage finds.
If you’re burned out on crowds in Memphis or Tunica, a laid-back afternoon in Senatobia is a nice reset.

4. Explore Holly Springs & the Hills of North Mississippi (Marshall County)

Drive about 45–60 minutes southeast from Horn Lake and you’ll reach Holly Springs in Marshall County, known for historic homes, rolling hills, and old‑school Southern charm. Things to do around Holly Springs:
  • Drive through the Holly Springs historic district – Admire beautiful old homes and churches.
  • Visit nearby countryside – You’ll see winding roads, tall trees, and open fields—great for a Sunday drive.
  • Catch a local event – Depending on the season, there may be festivals, markets, or community gatherings.
If you enjoy history and scenic drives, this Marshall County road trip from Horn Lake belongs on your list.

5. Get Lost (In a Good Way) in the Fields Near Byhalia, MS (Marshall County)

Another Marshall County option is the small town of Byhalia, about 35–45 minutes from Horn Lake, depending on your route. Why Byhalia?
  • Quiet roads – It’s perfect if you like just driving, listening to music, and watching farmland roll by.
  • Local eats – Stop for a simple country meal, a burger, or some sweet tea.
  • Country photography – Old barns, fields, and backroads make great photo backdrops.
Ever feel like you just need open space and a full tank of gas? Byhalia is that kind of trip—simple, slow, and easy.

6. Dive Into Downtown Memphis, TN (Shelby County)

Head north from Horn Lake about 20–30 minutes and cross into Shelby County, Tennessee. Downtown Memphis is packed with things to do. Classic downtown Memphis experiences:
  • Walk along Beale Street – Live music, neon lights, and a flavor you can’t find anywhere else.
  • Visit the riverfront – Take a stroll along the Mississippi River or relax on a bench and people‑watch.
  • Check out the big attractions – Museums, sports arenas, and plenty of places to grab barbecue.
If you want big-city energy without a long drive, this is one of the best short road trips from Horn Lake.

7. Enjoy Family Fun in East Memphis & Suburban Shelby County

Shelby County isn’t just downtown. Head toward East Memphis and the suburbs for a more relaxed city feel, with lots of family‑friendly options. Ideas around East Memphis and the suburbs:
  • Stroll through parks – Shelby County has many green spaces where you can walk, jog, or toss a frisbee.
  • Explore shopping centers – Browse shops, grab coffee, or find a new favorite restaurant.
  • Catch a movie or simple date night – Easy access to theaters, casual dining, and dessert spots.
If you live in Horn Lake and you’ve only done quick Memphis runs, try exploring different parts of Shelby County—you might find a new go‑to hangout.

8. Cross the River to West Memphis, AR (Crittenden County)

Just across the Mississippi River from downtown Memphis sits West Memphis in Crittenden County, Arkansas. It’s a short drive but has a different feel from the Tennessee side. Things to do in West Memphis and Crittenden County:
  • Enjoy the river views – The wide Mississippi looks different from this side; it’s worth a look.
  • Try local diners – Grab a plate of comfort food or a big breakfast at a hometown spot.
  • Take a scenic drive – Head out into Crittenden County’s backroads and you’ll see fields stretching for miles.
If you’ve never crossed the bridge from Memphis into Arkansas, this is an easy way to check another state off your list in a single afternoon.

9. Feel the Wide‑Open Delta in Rural Crittenden County, AR

Instead of stopping in town, keep driving deeper into Crittenden County and the Arkansas Delta. Why this road trip is special:
  • Big-sky scenery – Flat fields, long straight roads, and sunsets that seem to go on forever.
  • Photography and reflection – It’s the kind of place where you can pull over, take photos, and just breathe.
  • True “Sunday drive” vibes – Roll the windows down, put on some music, and let the miles slide by.
If you grew up in the South, this might remind you of childhood drives. If you didn’t, it’s a chance to see what people mean when they talk about “Delta country.”

10. Craft Your Own “Loop” Day Trip Through Multiple Counties

Here’s a fun idea: instead of just one stop, turn your day into a loop that hits several counties around Horn Lake. Sample loop from Horn Lake:
  • Start in Horn Lake and drive to Tunica County for a morning river walk or some casino time.
  • Head over toward Tate County for a relaxing break near Arkabutla Lake.
  • Continue to Marshall County to pass through Holly Springs or Byhalia for small‑town charm.
  • Come back up through Shelby County and swing by Memphis for dinner.
You’ll cross different landscapes—river, fields, hills, and city—without ever being more than a couple hours from home. It’s like taking a mini‑vacation around Horn Lake, using the nearby counties as your playground.

Tips for Planning Road Trips From Horn Lake

  • Keep it flexible – Pick a general direction (Tunica, Memphis, Arkansas, or the hills) and see where the day takes you.
  • Check hours ahead of time – Especially for casinos, shops, or museums that may have changing schedules.
  • Pack a simple “day trip kit” – Water, snacks, phone charger, and maybe a small cooler.
  • Take the backroads when you can – Highways are fast, but the real beauty of Mississippi, Tennessee, and Arkansas is often on the smaller roads.

Ready to Hit the Road From Horn Lake?

Living in or near Horn Lake, Mississippi means you’re surrounded by quick, easy road trip options—from the energy of downtown Memphis to the quiet fields of Arkansas and the casinos of Tunica. You don’t have to spend a lot of money, and you don’t have to drive all day. Just pick a county—Crittenden, Marshall, Tate, Tunica, or Shelby—and start exploring. Now it’s your turn:
  • Have you taken any of these short road trips from Horn Lake?
  • Do you have a favorite spot in Tunica, Memphis, or out in the Arkansas Delta?
Share your favorite day trip ideas in the comments so other travelers can discover new places too. And if you found this guide helpful, send it to a friend or share it on social media—you might just inspire someone’s next weekend adventure.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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