Explore Shelby County, Tennessee: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Explore Shelby County, Tennessee: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Located in the heart of the southern United States, Shelby County, Tennessee, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From the vibrant nightlife to the natural wonders, Shelby County offers something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Shelby County is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the United States. Be sure to visit the National Civil Rights Museum, which is located in the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. The Memphis Zoo is another must-visit attraction, with over 4,500 animals and 500 species. The Memphis Belle, Elvis Presley’s Graceland, and Sun Studio are also popular attractions.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Shelby County has plenty to offer. Visit the Crystal Shrine Grotto, a hidden gem located in Memorial Park Cemetery. This underground cave is filled with crystals, geodes, and other natural wonders. Another hidden gem is the Levitt Shell, an outdoor amphitheater that hosts free concerts throughout the year.

Food Scene

Shelby County is known for its barbecue, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Try Central BBQ, which is famous for its dry-rubbed ribs, or Cozy Corner, which serves up some of the best pulled pork in the county. For a taste of something different, head to Maciel’s Tortas & Tacos, which serves up authentic Mexican cuisine.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Shelby County can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Visit the Memphis Botanic Garden, which has free admission on Tuesdays from 1 pm to close. The Pink Palace Museum also offers free admission on Tuesdays from 1 pm to close. For a budget-friendly meal, head to the Dixie Queen, which serves up delicious burgers and fried chicken at a reasonable price.

Outdoor Adventures

Shelby County is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the country. Visit Shelby Farms Park, which is one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Here, you can bike, hike, paddleboard, and even go horseback riding. The Wolf River Greenway is another popular outdoor destination, with over 20 miles of biking and hiking trails.

Historical Landmarks

Shelby County is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks to visit. The Cotton Museum at the Memphis Cotton Exchange is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the cotton industry. The Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum is another popular attraction, with its beautiful architecture and Victorian-era furnishings.

Family-Friendly Activities

Shelby County is a great destination for families. Visit the Children’s Museum of Memphis, which has interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids of all ages. The Memphis Pink Palace Museum is another family-friendly destination, with a planetarium and an IMAX theater.

Natural Wonders

Shelby County is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country. Visit Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, which is home to over 20 miles of hiking trails and beautiful views of the Mississippi River. The Big River Crossing is another popular destination, with a pedestrian bridge that spans the Mississippi River.

Vibrant Nightlife

Shelby County is known for its vibrant nightlife. Be sure to visit Beale Street, which is lined with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. The Hi-Tone is another popular destination, with live music and a dive bar atmosphere.

Local Markets

Shelby County is home to some amazing local markets. Visit the Memphis Farmers Market, which is open on Saturdays from April to October. Here, you can find fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts. The Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market is another popular destination, with over 20 vendors selling everything from fresh flowers to homemade jams.

Beaches and Mountains

While Shelby County is not known for its beaches and mountains, there are still some great destinations to visit. Visit Pickwick Lake, which is located in the northeast corner of the county and offers beautiful views of the Tennessee River. The Ozark Mountains are also within driving distance, with plenty of hiking and outdoor activities to choose from.

Cultural Immersion

Shelby County is home to a rich cultural heritage. Be sure to visit the National Civil Rights Museum, which is dedicated to preserving the history of the civil rights movement. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is another popular destination, with exhibits dedicated to the history of soul music.

Art and Music Scene

Shelby County has a thriving art and music scene. Be sure to visit the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, which is home to an impressive collection of art and beautiful gardens. The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is another popular destination, with over 10,000 works of art in its collection. For live music, head to the Levitt Shell or the Hi-Tone.

Walking Tours

Shelby County is a great destination for walking tours. Be sure to take a walking tour of the Beale Street Historic District, which is home to some of the most iconic buildings in Memphis. The Elmwood Cemetery is also a popular destination for walking tours, with its beautiful Victorian-era architecture and famous residents.

Architectural Marvels

Shelby County is home to some beautiful architectural marvels. Be sure to visit the Memphis Pyramid, which was once home to a sports arena and is now a Bass Pro Shop. The Orpheum Theatre is another popular destination, with its beautiful architecture and history as a vaudeville theater.

Historical Sites

Shelby County is steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical sites to visit. Be sure to visit the Fort Pillow State Historic Park, which is home to the site of the Fort Pillow Massacre during the Civil War. The Chucalissa Indian Village is another popular destination, with exhibits dedicated to the history of the indigenous people of the region.

Biking Routes

Shelby County is a great destination for biking. The Wolf River Greenway is one of the most popular biking destinations in the county, with over 20 miles of trails. The Shelby Farms Greenline is another great destination, with over 10 miles of paved trails.

Wellness Retreats

Shelby County is home to some great wellness retreats. The Memphis Botanic Garden offers yoga classes in its beautiful gardens. The Germantown Athletic Club is another popular destination, with a variety of fitness classes and a state-of-the-art gym.

Adventure Sports

Shelby County is home to some great adventure sports. Visit the Memphis Rox Climbing Gym, which offers indoor climbing for all skill levels. The Big River Crossing is also a popular destination for adventure sports, with a pedestrian bridge that spans the Mississippi River.

As you can see, Shelby County has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or great food, this hidden gem in the heart of the southern United States is waiting to be explored.