Southaven, Mississippi: 10 Easy Road Trips for Weekend Getaways

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10 Easy Road Trips From Southaven, Mississippi (That Get You Out of DeSoto County)

If you live in or around Southaven, Mississippi, you probably know how easy it is to fall into the same weekend routine. Target run. Drive-thru. Maybe a movie. Then Monday hits and you wonder, “Where did my weekend go?” The good news? You’re sitting in the middle of some great short road trips that don’t require a full tank of gas or a hotel stay. In about 30–60 minutes, you can cross into new counties, new states, and totally new vibes. Below are 10 out-of-county day trips from Southaven you can enjoy without stepping foot in DeSoto County. We’ll explore cool things to do in: - Crittenden County, Arkansas - Tate County, Mississippi - Marshall County, Mississippi - Tunica County, Mississippi - Shelby County, Tennessee Pack a small cooler, gas up the car, and let’s hit the road.

1. West Memphis, Arkansas & the Mighty Mississippi (Crittenden County, AR)

If you’ve ever crossed the river into Arkansas, you’ve probably passed right by West Memphis without stopping. It’s worth a closer look. Why it’s a fun road trip from Southaven: You get classic Mississippi River scenery, casinos, and that “small river town” feel, all about 25–35 minutes away (depending on traffic). Things to do in Crittenden County:
  • Walk or bike the Big River Crossing (from the Memphis side) – Technically you start in Shelby County, TN, but you’ll walk or bike over the Mississippi River into Crittenden County. The views of the river and city skyline are hard to beat, especially at sunset.
  • Explore the riverfront levees – Drive the roads along the levee near West Memphis and enjoy wide-open river views, barges pushing upstream, and endless sky. It’s a simple pleasure, but it really resets your brain.
  • Try your luck at Southland Casino Hotel – Whether you’re into slots, table games, or just a nice dinner, this is an easy night out across the river.
Road tip: Plan your return across the bridge outside of rush hour if you can. Memphis traffic can back up at peak times.

2. A Country Drive to Senatobia, Mississippi (Tate County, MS)

Just a short hop south, Senatobia gives you that “small Mississippi town” feel without a long drive. It’s usually about 30–40 minutes from Southaven. Why go: When you’re tired of traffic and crowds, a quiet town with a slower pace is exactly what you need. Things to do in Tate County:
  • Stroll around downtown Senatobia – Check out the old storefronts, local shops, and small cafes. It’s a nice change from big-box stores and chain restaurants.
  • Grab a classic Southern meal – Stop into a local meat-and-three or diner-style spot for fried chicken, catfish, or a plate lunch that tastes like somebody’s grandma cooked it.
  • Catch a local event – Tate County often hosts seasonal events, school games, and community festivals. It’s a fun way to plug into small-town life for a day.
Personal note: There’s something about driving two-lane country roads with the radio on, fields on both sides, and no real agenda. That’s what this trip is all about.

3. Sardis Lake Adventures (Tate County, MS)

If you’re craving water and wide-open space, Sardis Lake should be high on your list. Parts of it sit in Tate County, and it’s an easy, scenic drive from Southaven. Why it’s a great day trip: You get the feel of a lake weekend without having to book a cabin or drive hours away. Things to do at or near Sardis Lake:
  • Picnic by the water – Pack sandwiches, snacks, and a cooler. Find a shady spot near the shore and enjoy lake views while you eat.
  • Go fishing – Sardis is known for crappie, bass, and catfish. Even if you don’t catch much, sitting by the water with a line in has a way of making the week’s stress disappear.
  • Walk the shoreline – Take an easy stroll by the water. Kids love skipping rocks and checking out shells and driftwood.
Road tip: Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and a change of clothes if you’ve got kids. Somehow they always end up getting wet or muddy, even if you swear you’re “just going to look at the water.”

4. Holly Springs & Its Historic Squares (Marshall County, MS)

Head east from Southaven and you’ll reach Holly Springs, a town full of history, old homes, and small-town charm. It’s usually about a 45–60 minute drive. Why it’s worth the trip: It feels like stepping back a few decades, in a good way. Slower pace, older buildings, and plenty of Southern character. Things to do in Holly Springs and Marshall County:
  • Explore the historic downtown square – Browse antique stores, grab a coffee or sweet treat, and wander past old brick buildings that look like a movie set.
  • Drive by historic homes – Holly Springs is known for beautiful older houses and mansions. Even a simple driving tour is interesting if you like architecture or history.
  • Check out local churches and courthouses – The historic courthouse and churches downtown are photo-worthy and tell the story of the town’s past.
Engagement idea: Consider turning this into a photo day. How many cool doors, porches, and old signs can you spot and capture?

5. Marshall County’s Back Roads & Small Communities (Marshall County, MS)

Sometimes the destination isn’t one big attraction. It’s the drive itself. Marshall County’s rural roads are perfect when you just want to hit the road with no strict plan. Why this road trip works: You’re close to home but feel totally away from it all. It’s peaceful, quiet, and a nice break from busy suburban life. Things to enjoy on a back roads drive:
  • Rolling fields and farmland – You’ll see barns, tractors, and big open skies. Sunsets out here are worth the drive alone.
  • Country stores and gas stations – Stop at a little local spot for a glass-bottle soda, a bag of chips, or a homemade snack. These places have their own charm.
  • Simple exploring – Follow a road you’ve never taken before (while keeping an eye on your GPS), and see where you end up. Sometimes the best “attraction” is just discovering a new view or small church in the middle of nowhere.
Road tip: Keep your gas tank at least half full before wandering back roads, especially if your cell service can get spotty.

6. Tunica’s Casinos & Nightlife (Tunica County, MS)

Looking for something more high-energy? Head down to Tunica County, about 35–45 minutes from Southaven, depending on which route you take and which casino you choose. Why people love this road trip from Southaven: It’s close, it’s lively, and it feels like a mini-Vegas run without getting on a plane. Things to do in Tunica County:
  • Visit the casinos – Try your hand at slots, blackjack, or poker, or just go for the restaurants, bars, and live entertainment.
  • Enjoy a buffet or steakhouse – A lot of Tunica casinos are known for big buffet spreads and solid steakhouse meals. It’s a popular date-night or group-night option.
  • Catch a show – Watch for concerts, comedy acts, or special events at the casino venues.
Safety note: Decide on a spending limit before you go, and stick to it. And of course, plan a sober driver if drinks are involved.

7. Tunica River Views & Quiet Spots (Tunica County, MS)

Maybe you want the river more than the roulette wheel. Tunica County can give you that too. Why it’s a nice change of pace: The Mississippi River is big, powerful, and calming to watch. It reminds you how small your daily problems really are. Ideas for a peaceful Tunica County visit:
  • Drive along the river and levees – Find a pull-off or lookout where you can sit and watch barges, water, and endless sky.
  • Bring a camp chair and a book – Sometimes a good book, a breeze off the river, and an hour or two of quiet is the best therapy.
  • Photography time – Sunrise and sunset over the river can be stunning. If you’re into photography (even just with your phone), this is a great place to practice.
Road tip: Check the weather before you go. River areas can get windy and muddy after rain.

8. Memphis, Tennessee: Beale Street & Music History (Shelby County, TN)

You can’t talk about road trips from Southaven without mentioning MemphisWhy Memphis is a top out-of-county trip: It’s close (often 20–30 minutes), packed with things to do, and feels like a true “city day” compared to suburban life. Iconic things to do in Memphis (Shelby County):
  • Walk Beale Street – Live music, neon lights, and great people-watching. Even a short walk in the early evening gives you that famous Memphis energy.
  • Tour Graceland – Step into Elvis Presley’s world. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just Elvis-curious, it’s one of those “do it at least once” experiences.
  • Visit the National Civil Rights Museum – A powerful and important museum at the Lorraine Motel site. Plan a couple of hours; it deserves your full attention.
Planning tip: Parking can add up, so carpool if you’re going with friends or family.

9. Memphis Riverfront Parks & Outdoor Time (Shelby County, TN)

If city crowds and bars aren’t your thing, Memphis still has plenty to offer—especially along the riverfront and in its parks. Why this trip hits the spot: You get big-city views with green space to spread out, walk, and relax. Outdoor things to do in Memphis:
  • Stroll the riverfront parks – Walk or bike along the Mississippi River, watch boats go by, and enjoy skyline views. It’s great for couples, families, or solo time.
  • Visit Overton Park – Check out the trails, old forest, and open fields. It’s a classic Memphis hangout on nice-weather days.
  • Pack a picnic – Bring your own food from Southaven or pick up something local in Memphis, then find a shady spot and take your time.
Road tip: Keep some folding chairs and a blanket in your trunk. You’ll use them more than you think.

10. Memphis Food Crawl: BBQ, Soul Food & More (Shelby County, TN)

Sometimes the entire road trip is about one thing: food. And Memphis is a dream for anyone who loves to eat. Why this makes an amazing short road trip from Southaven: You can be sitting in front of world-famous barbecue or soul food in under an hour. That’s hard to beat. Ideas for a self-guided Memphis food tour:
  • Barbecue stop – Pick one BBQ spot you’ve never tried before. Memphis has more than enough options to keep you exploring for months.
  • Soul food or meat-and-three – Try classics like fried chicken, greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread at a local favorite.
  • Sweet treat finish – End with banana pudding, pie, or a bakery dessert before heading back to Southaven.
Personal tip: Don’t try to hit too many places in one day. Pick two or three stops, share plates, and save a few spots for your next Memphis food adventure.

Making the Most of Your Short Road Trips From Southaven

You don’t need a plane ticket or a long weekend to break your routine. Within about an hour of Southaven, Mississippi, you can:
  • Walk across the Mississippi River into Arkansas
  • Relax at Sardis Lake
  • Wander historic downtowns in Holly Springs and Senatobia
  • Try your luck in Tunica’s casinos
  • Explore Memphis music, history, food, and parks
A simple half-day trip can feel like a mini-vacation, especially if you turn off your work email, roll down the windows, and let the road take over for a while.

Share Your Favorite Near-Southaven Road Trip

Have you done any of these short road trips from Southaven? Did I miss one of your go-to spots in Crittenden, Tate, Marshall, Tunica, or Shelby County? I’d love to hear from you.
  • Comment below with your favorite out-of-county day trip or hidden gem.
  • Share this post with friends and family who are always saying, “There’s nothing to do around here.”
Who knows—you might inspire someone’s next great Saturday drive.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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