March/Spring Break To-Do Along the Backroads
Spring Break comes at the perfect time of the year when the winter blues are gone and the sunshine hangs around a little longer. However, trying to plan for an entire week of your kids being out of school, can be more demanding than it is relaxing.The backroads have you covered with itineraries to fit every level of adventure.
- For the days when you’re thinking “what am I going to do to help my kids get their energy out?” head to https://www.urbanair.com/mississippi-southaven/attractions/ in Southaven, Miss. where your kids will be challenged in both body and mind. This indoor adventure park boasts climbing walls, ninja-like courses, trampolines, ziplines, bumper cars, and more. There is even a designated area for kids 7 and younger.
- For toddlers and small children, check out Jumpin’ Jellybeans in Collierville, Tenn., where kids can have fun and parents can relax. While your little ones are exploring the ball pit and other play spaces, you can enjoy a free cup of coffee. That’s right, we said free! Jumpin’ Jellybeans also allows you to bring in your own snacks.
- If you want to make sure your kids continue learning over spring break, visit Discovery Park of America. Located in Union City, Tenn., the museum boasts state-of-the-art learning experiences to help families discover something new all while having fun.
- When you don’t want to worry about your kids being loud, head to Atoka Railroad Adventure. From mini golf to a ferris wheel to bumper cars, this outdoor amusement space will keep you busy for hours.
When you need a breath of fresh air:
- Meeman Shelby Forest State Park in Millington, Tenn. has 49 campsites, more than 20 miles of hiking trails, disc golf, and lakes for boating or paddling. If you’re lucky, you might see some wildlife like deer, turkey, otter, beaver, foxes, and bobcats.
- Shelby Farms Park and Conservancy has something for the whole family, including your four-legged friends. With walking trails, lakes, horseback riding, and a special, 100-acre off-leash dog park, everyone can enjoy the great outdoors.
- WC Johnson Park in Collierville, Tenn. is a more laid back approach, featuring a playground, walking trails, baseball fields, and a boardwalk-style trail leading you to Wolf River.
- At Cedar Hill Farm in Hernando, Miss., you can take a hayride to a pirate-ship playspace, ride ponies, visit the petting zoo, and spend hours at the playground. If you happen to stay past 4:30 p.m. on Thur. - Sat., you can grab dinner at The Barn restaurant.
When you need to grab a bite to eat:
- The Silver Caboose and Side Car Market in Collierville, Tenn. features daily specials of your southern favorites like chicken and dumplings, fried catfish, turnip greens, and almost any pie you can remember from your childhood. If you don’t have time for a sit-down meal, visit their Side Car Market to grab a frozen casserole, homemade pie, or any of your favorite salads – from chicken to pimento cheese to cream cheese and olive.
- Visit Dale’s in Southaven, Miss. for burgers and southern comfort food, featuring favorites like chicken fried chicken, vegetable plates, and banana pudding.
- In Ripley, Tenn., you’ll find Kissell’s Kitchen, a family owned diner specializing in barbecue, burgers, and fish. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Kissell’s Kitchen has a menu packed with omelets, biscuits, barbecue, and a surprisingly good selection of egg rolls. We hear the philly style egg roll is a crowd favorite.
- Last, but certainly not least, the Shelby Forest General Store in Millington, Tenn. is the perfect place to grab a quick bite in a unique, small-town atmosphere. All the food is fresh and cooked-to order. The best part? You can pair your meal with a coke in a glass bottle. This restaurant has old-school charm and nostalgia while providing one of the most delicious burgers.