Beyond Beale: The Best Day Trips from Memphis for Culture, Food, and Local Flavor

A short drive west brings you to Helena, Arkansas, home of the longest-running daily blues radio show in the U.S., King Biscuit Time. As featured by National Public Radio and the Smithsonian, you can watch a live broadcast at the Delta Cultural Center and explore the city’s blues history on foot. Pair your visit with a drive through St. Francis National Forest for hiking or birding—outdoor adventure meets living musical heritage in one laid-back day trip.

Oxford’s literary legacy runs deep, and Square Books is its heart and soul. This independent bookstore, recognized by The New York Times and Southern Living, sits on a picturesque town square and hosts frequent readings by local and national authors. The shop’s curated selection, knowledgeable staff, and cozy upstairs café draw book lovers from miles around. Take time to explore the surrounding boutiques and sample Southern fare at nearby restaurants, making Oxford a well-rounded day trip for lovers of culture and creativity.

Collierville’s historic town square, recognized by Parade Magazine as ‘America’s Best Main Street,’ offers a delightful blend of old-fashioned charm and modern-day bustle. Independent shops, a vintage train depot, and the family-owned Mensi’s Dairy Bar—serving up classic shakes and burgers since 1974—make for a walkable, family-friendly outing. Seasonal events like the summer concert series add extra appeal and a true sense of community.

While the famously eccentric Graceland Too is now closed, Holly Springs remains rich in quirky history and classic Southern hospitality. The town is home to Phillips Grocery, a family-run burger joint operating since 1948 and lauded by Food & Wine and Garden & Gun for its distinctive, time-tested recipe. Pair your meal with a leisurely drive past antebellum homes and the historic Rust College campus for a day that feels both timeless and uniquely local.

For a high-octane experience, head across the river to Riverside International Speedway, an independently operated dirt track that’s been thrilling fans since 1949. Featured in the Arkansas Times and praised by motorsports enthusiasts, the speedway’s Saturday night races offer an adrenaline rush in an atmosphere that’s as welcoming as it is electrifying. Grab a seat in the stands, chat with regulars, and experience a grassroots tradition that’s pure Americana.

Just 75 miles south of Memphis, Clarksdale is considered the cradle of the Delta blues. At the heart of it all is Ground Zero Blues Club, co-founded by actor Morgan Freeman and beloved by blues aficionados from around the world. The club offers live music every week and an atmosphere thick with history and grit—Rolling Stone and Condé Nast Traveler both recommend it for its authentic performances and deep ties to local musicians. The surrounding town is dotted with murals, juke joints, and the Delta Blues Museum, making for a full, soulful day steeped in musical heritage.

Literature and history come alive at the modest boyhood home of Alex Haley, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Roots. This museum, praised by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and the Memphis Flyer, offers insight into African American history and genealogy, with moving exhibits and knowledgeable guides. A visit here pairs well with exploring the rural charm of Lauderdale County’s farm stands and scenic backroads.

Area 51 Ice Cream has been spotlighted by Garden & Gun for their inventive, small-batch flavors made with local ingredients. Owned by a husband-and-wife team, the shop is a favorite stop for Memphians seeking a sweet treat and a stroll around Hernando’s vibrant historic square. Try flavors like brown butter pecan or Mississippi mud, or check their ever-changing seasonal specials. The shop’s playful energy and commitment to community make it a must-visit for families and foodies alike.