South of the Line

Just south of Memphis lies a slice of Mississippi that's equal parts charm, heart, and soul. Southaven, Hernando, and Olive Branch invite you to slow down and dig into the good stuff, from old-school diners to quiet trails, antiques, and legendary local lore. This tour blends Southern hospitality with surprising delights. Whether youโ€™re craving soul food, chasing blues legends, or cooling off with homemade ice cream, this day trip is about savoring the moment and the place.

DeSoto County

Breakfast - The Country Skillet

Start your morning where the locals do. The Country Skillet serves up generous portions and Southern favorites that feel like a warm hug.

Coffee Stop - Coffee Central

Refuel with small-batch coffee and friendly baristas at Coffee Central. This community hub is part cafรฉ, part mission, and all heart.

Mid-Morning Adventure - Ark Walking Trail & Nature Center

Slip into nature mode on this quiet, family-friendly trail system. The Ark is home to rescued wildlife, peaceful walking paths, and plenty of learning moments. Great for birdwatchers and anyone needing a little forest therapy.

Lunch - Juniorโ€™s Eatinโ€™ House

Juniorโ€™s is a classic meat-and-three spot where the iced tea never stops flowing and the cornbread is worth writing home about.

Shopping & Antiques - Hernando Courthouse Square & Kilgoreโ€™s Antiques

Wander Hernandoโ€™s picturesque Courthouse Square, popping into boutiques, book nooks, and local shops. Or head over to Kilgoreโ€™s Antiques, where you can lose yourself among treasures, oddities, and vintage gems.

Afternoon History Stop - Desoto Museum

Small but mighty, this local museum packs centuries of history into its welcoming walls. From Civil War relics to blues pioneers, itโ€™s a deep dive into the stories that shaped the county.

Sweet Treat - City Hall Cheesecake & Area 51 Ice Cream

Looking for a sweet treat? City Hall Cheesecake is famous for decadent, creamy cheesecake in every flavor imaginable. If you need something cold, check out Area 51 Ice Creamโ€™s small-batch, cosmic-inspired ice cream thatโ€™s just weird enough to work.

Dinner - SideStreet Burgers

From the outside, itโ€™s humble. Inside? Gourmet-level burgers with unexpected toppings, locally sourced ingredients, and flavor that punches way above its weight.

After Hours - Sippin Silo Wine Bar & Side Car Cafรฉ

Head over to Sippin Silo for a chic but cozy atmosphere, this wine bar offers curated pours, cheese boards, and laid-back tunes. Or check out Side Car Cafรฉ for a retro bar with a menu that keeps things playful. Great for a post-dinner laugh or live music night.

Extras:

Brussel's Bonsai Nursery

Mississippi Blues Trail Stops

Nesbit Blueberry Farm

Jerry Lee Lewisโ€™ Former Ranch Home (Stops: Dickinson Family, Big Walter Horton, Memphis Minnie, Joe Callicott, and Beale Town Bound)

WAYPOINTS

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Up the Bend

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South(east) of the River