Olive Branch, Mississippi: 10 Short Road Trips for Weekend Getaways

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10 Easy Road Trips Near Olive Branch, Mississippi (All Out of DeSoto County)

If you live in or near Olive Branch, Mississippi, you probably love how easy it is to hop in the car and be somewhere totally different in under an hour. The best part? You don’t have to go far to find fun new places, great food, and unique things to do. In this guide, we’re taking 10 short road trips outside of DeSoto County, focusing on nearby spots in:
  • Crittenden County, Arkansas
  • Marshall County, Mississippi
  • Tate County, Mississippi
  • Tunica County, Mississippi
  • Shelby County, Tennessee
All of these make great day trips from Olive Branch. Most are about 30–60 minutes away, depending on traffic. So fill up the tank, grab some snacks, and let’s ride.

1. Memphis, Tennessee: Beale Street & Downtown Vibes (Shelby County)

Let’s start with the obvious one: Memphis. Even if you’ve been there a hundred times, downtown always has something new going on. From Olive Branch, you can usually get to downtown Memphis in about 30–40 minutes, depending on where you start and the time of day. Once you’re there, check out:
  • Beale Street – Live music, neon lights, and classic Memphis bars and restaurants.
  • Mississippi Riverfront – Walk along the river, watch the barges float by, and catch sunset views.
  • Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – A great intro to the city’s music history.
If you enjoy people‑watching, just grabbing a drink or some barbecue and hanging out on Beale can feel like a mini-vacation. It’s one of the easiest short road trips from Olive Branch when you want a little energy and nightlife.

2. Graceland: Walk in Elvis’s Footsteps (Shelby County)

Even if you’re not a huge Elvis fan, Graceland is one of those “you’ve got to do it at least once” kind of places. Located in southwest Memphis, Graceland is about a 25–35 minute drive from Olive Branch. Parking is simple, and the whole area is set up for visitors. You can:
  • Tour Elvis’s mansion and grounds
  • See his famous jumpsuits, cars, and planes
  • Walk through exhibits about his life and music
If you grew up hearing Elvis on the radio, this place hits different. I still remember the first time I walked through the Jungle Room—it felt like stepping straight into a time capsule from the ‘70s. It’s a great option when you want a local road trip with history and music rolled into one.

3. Shelby Farms Park: Big Green Escape in the City (Shelby County)

Need some fresh air but don’t want to drive all day? Shelby Farms Park in east Memphis is perfect. It’s one of the largest urban parks in the country, and it’s only about 35–45 minutes from Olive Branch. What can you do there?
  • Walk or bike miles of paved and natural trails
  • Rent kayaks or paddleboards on the lake
  • Let the kids burn energy at the huge playground
  • Watch the bison herd roaming in the fields
If you’re trying to get in more steps or start a weekend with a long walk and a coffee, this is a great spot. It’s a nice change of pace from neighborhood sidewalks and small local parks.

4. Germantown & Collierville: Cute Town Squares and Local Flavor (Shelby County)

If you like charming streets, local shops, and laid-back afternoons, you’ll enjoy a drive to Germantown or Collierville. Both are a short hop from Olive Branch—usually around 20–30 minutes. In Germantown, you can:
  • Stroll through parks and greenways
  • Catch a show or event at the Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC)
  • Browse local boutiques and grab lunch at a locally owned restaurant
In Collierville, don’t miss:
  • Historic Town Square – Old-fashioned charm, a gazebo, and seasonal events
  • Local shops and bakeries around the square
  • Christmas lights and decorations in winter
These towns are perfect when you want something calmer than downtown Memphis but more “destination” than your usual routine.

5. Tunica Casinos & River Views (Tunica County)

If you’re in the mood for bright lights and a little gambling, Tunica makes a fun quick trip. It’s usually about a 45–60 minute drive from Olive Branch, mostly straight roads. In Tunica County, you’ll find:
  • Several casinos with slots, table games, and entertainment
  • Casual and upscale restaurants inside the casino resorts
  • Views of the Mississippi River and wide open Delta fields
Some people go just for the food and the shows and never touch the gaming floor. Others like to set a small budget, play for a couple hours, and call it a night. Either way, it feels like a different world compared to everyday suburban life.

6. Tunica RiverPark & Museum: Learn the Story of the Mississippi River (Tunica County)

If casinos aren’t your thing, Tunica RiverPark & Museum offers a quieter kind of day trip. It’s near the Mississippi River and gives you a closer look at the natural and cultural history of the area. You can:
  • Walk the riverfront trails
  • Explore museum exhibits about the Mississippi River
  • Take in scenic views from observation areas
It’s a good spot for a relaxed afternoon. Bring a camera, because the river can look completely different depending on the season and the light. If you enjoy photography or just being near water, this is a peaceful getaway.

7. Holly Springs: Small-Town Charm & History (Marshall County)

Head southeast from Olive Branch, and in roughly 40–50 minutes you’ll reach Holly Springs in Marshall County. This little town has a surprising amount of history and character. Here are a few ideas:
  • Historic downtown square – Old buildings, local shops, and a classic courthouse vibe.
  • Home tours and historic sites – Holly Springs is known for its historic homes and architecture.
  • Seasonal events – From festivals to parades, small-town events can be some of the most memorable.
If you like driving old back roads, the route to Holly Springs can be half the fun. It’s also a good starting point if you plan to explore nearby nature areas.

8. Wall Doxey State Park: Woods, Water, and Easy Hiking (Marshall County)

Just a short drive from Holly Springs, Wall Doxey State Park gives you a classic Mississippi woods-and-lake experience. From Olive Branch, expect about a 50–60 minute drive, depending on your route. At Wall Doxey, you can:
  • Walk around the lake on a nature trail
  • Have a picnic under the trees
  • Fish, paddle, or just sit by the water and relax
If you’ve been meaning to get outside more, this is an easy way to do it without driving half the day. It’s also a nice spot to unplug—cell service can be spotty in places, which honestly isn’t always a bad thing.

9. Senatobia & the Tate County Countryside (Tate County)

About 30–40 minutes south of Olive Branch, you’ll find Senatobia in Tate County. It’s a good choice when you want something simple: a nice drive, a small town, and a slower pace. In and around Senatobia, you can:
  • Explore the downtown area with local businesses
  • Grab a meal at a small-town diner or cafĂ©
  • Drive country roads and enjoy views of fields, pastures, and rolling hills
This kind of trip is less about a single “big attraction” and more about the feel of the place. Sometimes an unhurried lunch and a drive with the windows down is exactly what you need.

10. West Memphis & Mississippi River Views (Crittenden County, Arkansas)

If you’re looking for something just across the river, head west to West Memphis in Crittenden County, Arkansas. It’s usually about 40–50 minutes from Olive Branch, depending on traffic through Memphis. In West Memphis and the surrounding area, you can:
  • Catch views of the Mississippi River and bridges
  • Visit local eateries and casinos just over the Arkansas line
  • Use it as a base to explore more of eastern Arkansas
It’s interesting to see how crossing the river can make things feel different, even though you’ve only driven a short distance. If you like checking states off your list, this is an easy way to add Arkansas to your weekend adventures.

Tips for Enjoying These Short Road Trips from Olive Branch

To make these out-of-county day trips more fun and less stressful, a little planning helps:
  • Check drive times before you go, especially through Memphis traffic.
  • Call ahead or check websites for hours, tickets, or any special events.
  • Bring water, snacks, and a light jacket, even on short trips.
  • Keep some cash on hand for small shops, parking, or roadside stops.
You don’t have to go far from Olive Branch to feel like you’ve gotten away for the day. Whether you’re into history, music, nature, or just good food and a nice drive, these nearby counties have plenty to offer.

What’s Your Favorite Day Trip Near Olive Branch?

Now it’s your turn.
  • Have you taken any of these road trips from Olive Branch?
  • Did I miss a must-see spot in Shelby, Tunica, Tate, Marshall, or Crittenden County?
Share your favorite places and road trip stories in the comments—your ideas can help other folks plan their next weekend adventure. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family who live in or around Olive Branch. Sometimes the best trips are the ones close to home.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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