Olive Branch, Mississippi: 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Olive Branch, Mississippi (DeSoto County Travel Guide)

If you’re looking for a laid‑back getaway with easy access to Memphis, Olive Branch, Mississippi is a great place to start. This friendly DeSoto County town offers a mix of small‑town charm, local eats, outdoor fun, and big‑city attractions just a short drive away. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, visiting family, or road‑tripping through North Mississippi, here are 10 things to do in and around Olive Branch that locals and visitors both love.

1. Stroll Through Historic Old Towne Olive Branch

Start your visit in Old Towne Olive Branch, the historic heart of the city. This walkable area is perfect if you enjoy relaxed mornings, local shops, and a little bit of history. You’ll find:
  • Charming boutiques selling home décor, gifts, and antiques
  • Local restaurants and coffee spots
  • Historic buildings and small-town streets ideal for photos
On certain weekends, Old Towne hosts markets, festivals, and parades. If you can, time your visit around a local event—it gives you a real feel for life in DeSoto County.

2. Spend a Relaxing Day at Olive Branch City Park

If you’re traveling with kids, dogs, or just need some fresh air, Olive Branch City Park is a must‑visit. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Olive Branch for both locals and visitors. The park offers:
  • Walking and jogging trails around lakes
  • Playgrounds and picnic areas
  • Sports fields and tennis courts
  • Plenty of open green space
Bring a blanket, grab takeout from a local spot, and have a simple picnic by the water. On a sunny afternoon, it’s one of the most peaceful places in town.

3. Shop, Dine, and Play at Olive Branch’s Retail Hubs

Olive Branch has become a popular shopping and dining stop in DeSoto County. If you like mixing errands with fun, you’ll have plenty of options. You can:
  • Browse major retailers and smaller shops
  • Try local restaurants next to familiar chains
  • Fuel up with coffee or dessert between stores
This is especially handy if you’re visiting family nearby or staying in Olive Branch while exploring the Memphis area. You’ll find what you need without big‑city traffic.

4. Tee Off at a Local Golf Course

Love golf—or traveling with someone who does? Olive Branch and DeSoto County are known for their golf courses and wide‑open fairways. Within a short drive, you can find courses that offer:
  • 18-hole layouts with tree‑lined fairways
  • Practice ranges and putting greens
  • Clubhouse grills for a post‑round bite
Even if you’re not a serious golfer, hitting a few balls at the range on a quiet afternoon can be a fun way to unwind.

5. Take a Day Trip to Downtown Memphis, Tennessee

One of the best things about staying in Olive Branch is how close you are to Memphis. Depending on traffic, you can be in downtown Memphis in roughly 30–40 minutes, which opens up a huge list of things to do. Popular Memphis stops include:
  • Beale Street – live music, neon lights, and Southern food
  • National Civil Rights Museum – powerful, moving, and worth several hours
  • Mississippi Riverfront – river views, walks, and photo ops
You get the best of both worlds: sleep in a quieter town like Olive Branch, then spend the day in a major city with world‑class attractions.

6. Dive Into Rock ’n’ Roll History at Graceland

If you’re anywhere near DeSoto County, it’s hard to skip Graceland in Memphis—Elvis Presley’s famous home. From Olive Branch, the drive is short, and it’s one of the most iconic attractions in the entire region. At Graceland, you can:
  • Tour Elvis’s mansion and grounds
  • See his cars, costumes, and personal items
  • Visit exhibits dedicated to his life and music
Even if you’re not a huge Elvis fan, the history and storytelling are fascinating. Many people say they’re surprised by how much they enjoy it once they’re there.

7. Catch a Game or Concert at a Major Memphis Venue

Sports fan? Music lover? Olive Branch is close enough to Memphis that you can easily plan a night out and still head “home” to a quieter hotel or rental. Depending on the season, you might:
  • Watch an NBA game with the Memphis Grizzlies
  • Catch a minor league baseball game with the Memphis Redbirds
  • See big‑name concerts and shows at downtown arenas or theaters
If you like your days relaxed and your nights exciting, this combo of Olive Branch calm and Memphis energy works really well.

8. Explore Other DeSoto County Towns

Olive Branch is just one piece of DeSoto County. If you have a car, you can explore nearby communities that each have their own flavor. A few ideas:
  • Southaven – shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment
  • Hernando – a classic town square and historic courthouse
  • Horn Lake – local dining and easy access to Memphis attractions
Think of Olive Branch as your base camp for exploring North Mississippi. Each town is only a short drive away, usually under 20–30 minutes.

9. Enjoy Local Southern Food and Hidden‑Gem Eateries

Food is a big part of travel, and Olive Branch does not disappoint. From barbecue to biscuits, this area serves the kind of Southern comfort food people crave long after they leave. Around Olive Branch and DeSoto County, you can find:
  • Slow‑smoked barbecue with all the fixings
  • Fried chicken and catfish plates
  • Biscuits, gravy, and hearty country breakfasts
  • Dessert shops and bakeries
Ask a local where they like to eat. You’ll often end up at a small, family‑owned place that doesn’t look fancy but tastes unforgettable.

10. Join Seasonal Festivals, Markets, and Community Events

If you enjoy traveling like a local, watch for community events in and around Olive Branch. Throughout the year, DeSoto County towns host:
  • Holiday parades and tree lightings
  • Craft fairs and farmers markets
  • Outdoor concerts and family festivals
These events are usually family‑friendly and low‑key, but they’re a great way to meet people, support small businesses, and get a true taste of local culture.

Planning Your Trip to Olive Branch, Mississippi

Olive Branch works well as:
  • A quiet base for exploring Memphis and North Mississippi
  • A stop on a road trip along the I‑55 or I‑22 corridors
  • A weekend escape with a mix of small‑town charm and big‑city access
With easy highway connections, hotels, and familiar conveniences, it’s simple to get around. In just a few days you can enjoy parks, local food, history, and live music—without feeling rushed.

What Would You Add to This Olive Branch Travel Guide?

Have you been to Olive Branch or other spots in DeSoto County?
  • What was your favorite thing to do?
  • Did you discover a great local restaurant or hidden gem?
  • Would you stay in Olive Branch again as a base for visiting Memphis?
Share your tips, stories, and questions in the comments—your experience can help someone else plan their trip. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend or on social media. It’s a simple way to support small towns like Olive Branch and spread the word about this corner of Mississippi.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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