Southaven, Mississippi: Where Fun Never Takes a Vacation – Best Things To Do and Places To Visit!
Planning a trip to Southaven, Mississippi and want the best of it? You are in luck, because Southaven runs a long list of activities and attractions. Delicious food, exciting entertainment, or beautiful outdoor space. All three are covered here.
The food is a real strength in Southaven. The city holds restaurants and cafes that serve genuinely good food. Classic Southern comfort food through to international cuisine. And for a sweet treat, there are dessert spots across town.
When you are not eating, there are playgrounds and entertainment venues to work through. Take a trip to one of the city’s shopping centers for eclectic and unique items, or head to an entertainment venue for a night of music or comedy. And for outdoor adventure, Southaven has beautiful parks and nature trails. Whatever you want, Southaven has a version of it.
Key Takeaways
- Southaven, Mississippi has a wide variety of activities and attractions to keep you entertained.
- The city is known for its delicious food scene, with a variety of restaurants and cafes serving up tasty eats.
- From shopping and entertainment to beautiful outdoor spaces, Southaven has something for everyone.
The Belly-Filling Food Spots
On satisfying your taste buds, Southaven, Mississippi holds some of the best food spots in the region. Pizza, margaritas, or good old-fashioned fried fish, all three are covered. These are the top spots to check out:
Pizza Palaces
Southaven is flat, and it is built entirely around cars. Nothing here is walkable between attractions, and the whole city sits inside the Memphis metro, so the state line is the only thing that makes it a separate trip. Snowden Grove Park is the one place here that is genuinely worth walking around. The amphitheater is in it. Everything else is another parking lot away.
In the mood for some cheesy goodness? Head to one of Southaven’s pizza palaces. Loaded with toppings or a classic margherita, both are here. The best pizza spots in town include Maria’s Cantina and the Texas Roadhouse.
Margarita Marvels
What is better than a cold margarita on a hot day? Southaven has some of the best margarita spots around, so you cool off and drink well at the same time. Maria’s Cantina does the best in town.
Fried Fish Finds
Seafood fans have options in Southaven. Shrimp through to catfish, it is all here. The best spots for fried fish include the Texas Roadhouse and Maria’s Cantina.
Whatever the craving, Southaven will satisfy it. So go ahead and indulge a little. You deserve it.
The Fun-Filled Playgrounds
Looking for outdoor fun in Southaven, Mississippi? The city’s playgrounds are the answer. A kid or a kid at heart, both are welcome at these play areas.
Arcade Adventures
If you’re looking for a break from the sun, head to one of Southaven’s arcades for some air-conditioned fun. Try your hand at classic games like Pac-Man and Galaga, or test your skills on modern favorites like Dance Dance Revolution and Guitar Hero. Some of the best arcades in town include the Playtime Entertainment and the Dave & Buster’s.
Bowling Bonanzas
Bowling is a classic American pastime, and Southaven has some of the best bowling alleys around. Check out the Strike Zone Bowling Lanes for a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of lanes to choose from. Or, head to Lander’s Center Strike Zone for a more upscale experience, complete with a full bar and restaurant.
Golfing Gallivants
If you’re looking for a more laid-back way to enjoy the outdoors, why not try a round of golf? Southaven is home to the beautiful North Creek Golf Club, a challenging course that’s perfect for golfers of all skill levels. With scenic views and well-manicured greens, you’re sure to have a great time on the links.
Whatever the age or the interest, Southaven’s playgrounds cover it. So grab friends and family and get out in the sun.
The Eclectic Shopping Escapades
On shopping in Southaven, you are in for a treat. Antique attractions through to outlet overloads, and every kind of shopper is covered. These are the best shopping destinations in Southaven.
Antique Attractions
If you are a fan of all things vintage, Southaven Antiques and Gifts is the place. This antique mall runs over 100 vendors selling furniture through to jewelry, and you lose hours in it easily. The Towne Center is the other spot for antiques, with multiple shops carrying vintage finds.
Outlet Overloads
Tanger Outlets Southaven is the stop for bargain hunters. Over 70 stores, from designer clothing to home decor, all at discounted prices. Check Shopper Services for additional savings and coupons before you start.
Mall Meanders
For indoor shopping, head to The Towne Center. This mall runs stores from clothing through to electronics. And there are restaurants inside it when the walking catches up with you.
Whatever kind of shopping you want, Southaven covers it. So put on the walking shoes, grab the wallet, and go.
The Exciting Entertainment Experiences
Looking for exciting entertainment in Southaven, Mississippi? Music melodies through to escape room enigmas and sporting spectacles. This city covers all three.
Music Melodies
Music lovers will be pleased to hear that Southaven has serious venues for live performances. The BankPlus Amphitheater is where you catch a favorite artist under the stars. With a seating capacity of up to 10,000 people, this open-air venue has hosted a long list of popular musicians.
The Landers Center is the other venue for music lovers. This multipurpose arena hosts concerts, sporting events and trade shows. With a seating capacity of up to 8,500 people, it fills most weekends.
Escape Room Enigmas
For anyone who loves puzzles and challenges, Liberation Escape Rooms is the place. It runs several themed rooms, each with its own challenges and puzzles. Beginner or experienced escape artist, both work here.
Sporting Spectacles
Sports fans should not miss the Desoto Civic Center. This multipurpose arena hosts sporting events, ice hockey and basketball and indoor football among them. With a seating capacity of up to 8,400 people, it is a good place to cheer on a favorite team.
Southaven, Mississippi runs a real spread of entertainment. Music lover, puzzle enthusiast or sports fan, all three are covered in this city.
The Beautiful Outdoor Oases
Southaven, Mississippi holds some of the best outdoor space in this part of the South. A quiet spot for a picnic, a fishing pond, or a hiking trail. All three are here.
Parks and Picnic Spots
For somewhere to relax outdoors, Southaven has parks and picnic spots to choose from. Snowden Grove Park is the popular one for families, with playgrounds, a splash pad and baseball fields. Central Park is the other option, with walking trails, tennis courts and picnic tables.
Fishing Ponds
Fishing fans have some good spots in Southaven. The fishing pond at Snowden Grove Park is stocked with catfish, bass and bluegill, and anglers of all ages use it. The pond at Central Park is the other option, stocked with rainbow trout.
Hiking Trails
For anyone who explores on foot, Southaven has some good hiking trails. The trails at Snowden Grove Park wind through the woods with views of the surrounding landscape. For a harder walk, the trails at Central Park include steep inclines and rocky terrain.
Whatever the outdoor adventure, Southaven, Mississippi covers it. So grab the picnic basket, the fishing pole or the hiking boots, and go and use the outdoor space here.
The honest case for Southaven is the case for a good base rather than a destination in its own right. Memphis is a short drive north and it holds the music, the barbecue and the museums. What Southaven has is cheaper rooms, easier parking, an amphitheater that pulls real touring acts, and an arena that fills weekend after weekend. Snowden Grove is a good park. That is enough for a weekend away.
The Best Time to Visit Southaven
So you are planning a trip to Southaven, Mississippi and wondering when to go? Let us break it down.
First, if you are not a fan of the cold, avoid January and February. Temperatures drop into the 30s and 40s, and nobody wants to shiver on vacation.
If you like festivals and events, May is the month. The city hosts the Southaven Springfest, with live music, carnival rides and food. And the weather in May is usually mild, which makes it the best time to work through the city.
March is the other good month, particularly for sports fans. The Landers Center runs a range of sporting events then, basketball and hockey games among them. So grab a hot dog and cheer on a favorite team.
But on a budget, traveling during the off-season in November and December is the better call. Hotel rates drop and the crowds thin out, though the temperatures come down with them.
So the best time to visit Southaven depends on what you want out of it. Warm weather, festivals, sports or a cheap trip, there is a month for each.
The Southaven Stay Options
You have decided to visit Southaven, Mississippi, which works well as a vacation base in the South. But where do you stay? These are the Southaven options for the budget-conscious traveler.
First up, we have the Holiday Inn Southaven Central – Memphis. This hotel is a great option for those who want to stay close to the action without breaking the bank. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and come with all the amenities you need for a great stay. Plus, you’ll be just a short drive away from all the fun things to do in Southaven.
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, check out the Home2 Suites by Hilton Memphis – Southaven. This hotel offers spacious suites with separate living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and plenty of room to spread out. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure.
For those who want to stay in the heart of Southaven, the Comfort Suites Southaven I-55 is a great option. This hotel is located just minutes away from all the best shopping, dining, and entertainment options in town. Plus, the rooms are spacious and come with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
If you’re looking for something a little more budget-friendly, check out the Days Inn by Wyndham Southaven MS. This hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms at a great price. Plus, it’s located just a short drive away from all the fun things to do in Southaven.
Wherever you choose to stay in Southaven, it will work. So pack the bags, hit the road, and go and enjoy one of the South’s quieter bases.
The Unmissable Events and Festivals
Looking for fun in Southaven, Mississippi? The city’s events and festivals are where it is. Music through to food through to family activities, all three are covered.
Memphis Magic
Just a short drive from Southaven, Memphis holds some of the best music, food and culture in the country. The annual Beale Street Music Festival through to the Memphis in May International Festival, and something is always on. Do not miss the chance to see Memphis for yourself.
Record Collector Rendezvous
Music lovers should not miss the annual Record Collector Rendezvous. This event pulls collectors and dealers from all over the country together for a weekend of vinyl hunting and swapping. With thousands of records to work through, something in there will be worth taking home.
Children’s Birthday Bash
Looking for a way to celebrate a child’s birthday? The Children’s Birthday Bash at the Landers Center. This all-inclusive party package covers admission to a Grizzlies game, a private party room, and a visit from the team mascot. It makes for a birthday they remember.
Music lover, record collector, or a parent after a birthday party idea, Southaven’s events and festivals cover all three. Do not miss the chance to use them.
The Unique Southaven Experiences
Looking for unique experiences in Southaven, Mississippi? These three options will make a visit memorable.
Paint Your Pet
Are you a pet lover? Then unleash your inner artist at Paint Your Pet and make a one-of-a-kind portrait of your furry friend. Do not worry if you cannot paint, because the staff walk you through it and you leave with something you can hang up. And your pet might even recognize themselves in it.
Morning Walks
Start the day with a morning walk in one of Southaven’s beautiful parks. The Lowlands is the popular spot with locals and visitors, with serene walking trails and picturesque views. Breathe the fresh air, look at the scenery, and get moving before the rest of the day starts. And you might spot some wildlife on the way.
Urban Adventure Park
For a thrill-seeking afternoon, head to Urban Adventure Park. This indoor park runs zip lining, rock climbing and obstacle courses, all of it built to get the heart going. It is the place to try something new. And if the high-flying part is not for you, there is laser tag and arcade games instead.
Animal lover, nature enthusiast or adrenaline junkie, Southaven has something for all three. So go ahead and try something new. You will not regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique ways to explore Southaven, Mississippi?
For a genuinely unique way to see Southaven, try a helicopter tour. You get a bird’s eye view of the city and the country around it, which is a different perspective entirely. Or, for something more adventurous, go skydiving and see the city on the way down.
What are the top-rated restaurants in Southaven, Mississippi?
Southaven has an unusual number of good restaurants, but the top-rated ones are Memphis Barbecue Company, Central BBQ and The Half Shell Oyster House. And for something sweet, the Donut Hutt does donuts and pastries.
What are the best places to shop in Southaven, Mississippi?
For shopping, the Tanger Outlets is hard to beat. With over 70 stores, something will land. And for something a little more unusual, the Southaven Towne Center has local shops and boutiques.
What are some fun weekend activities in Southaven and nearby areas?
For weekend activities, there are plenty in and around Southaven. Go hiking or biking at the nearby T.O. Fuller State Park, or take a trip into Memphis for the famous Beale Street. And music lovers should check out the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum.
What makes Southaven, Mississippi a great place to live?
Southaven works as a place to live for several reasons. It is a safe, family-friendly community with excellent schools and plenty of parks and recreational activities. And it is a short drive from Memphis, which gives you the amenities of a big city without living inside one.
Frequently asked questions about Southaven, Mississippi
Is Snowden Grove Park actually worth the stop?
Yes. It is the one place in Southaven that does not feel like a parking lot with a building attached to it. Playgrounds, a splash pad, baseball fields and a stocked fishing pond, plus the amphitheater sitting in the middle of the whole thing. Families use it properly, all day long, every weekend right through the summer.
Is it worth driving into Memphis for the museums?
Yes, and it is a short drive north rather than an expedition. The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and Beale Street are the obvious two, and Memphis in May fills the calendar for a whole month. Southaven is where you sleep and where you park the car for the night. Memphis is where the trip actually happens, and that is fine.
Which Southaven festival is actually worth planning around?
Springfest in May, if it is running that year. Live music, carnival rides and food, and the weather in May is as good as this part of Mississippi gets all year. The rest of the calendar belongs to the amphitheater and the arena, so check what is booked before you commit to any particular set of dates.
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