Just a short drive south of downtown Memphis lies Southaven, Mississippi, a city often overshadowed by its bustling neighbor. While Memphis may dominate in some ways, Southaven stands out as a unique suburban city with a distinct character. Those who delve into this charming town will discover a lively community with a variety of charming attractions.
Whether you’re visiting Southaven for the first time or looking to rediscover the area, we’ve compiled a list of must-see places and activities to enjoy if you’re planning to spend a day in this neighboring Memphis city.
DINING + SHOPPING
Silo Square
Built on the premise that town squares serve as the centers of small towns nationwide, Silo Square stands as a distinct community in Southaven. This mixed-use development boasts upscale lofts and residences alongside commercial areas that house local boutiques and unique eateries. The Square also serves as the backdrop for numerous community events throughout the year. For a list of upcoming events, visit Silo Square’s community calendar.
When it comes to shopping, there are plenty of fabulous shops in which to spend an afternoon. Don’t miss Moda Designs for gifts and home decor or Stella Ivy and Trouble for women’s clothing and accessories (but there are so many more to explore!).
If you’re looking for a caffeine hit to keep the momentum going, Beans & Leaves is ready to provide. If it’s lunch you’re after, stop by Central BBQ or Slim Chickens for comfort food, or if you’re in the mood for something lighter, try Fresh Valley Juice & Salad Bar. There are plenty of sweet treats to be had as well, along with sit-down dinner options. Visit their website to see a full list of the businesses at Silo Square.
Maria’s Cantina
For good eats outside of Silo Square, locals love Maria’s Cantina. Established by a group of local friends aiming to introduce a distinctive dining experience to Southaven, Maria’s Cantina offers Mexican cuisine with a creative flair. Renowned for its signature mason jar margaritas and innovative take on traditional Mexican cuisines, such as its infamous BBQ pork nachos, Maria’s Cantina has become a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. And if you’re not in the mood for Mexican food, there are still plenty of other menu options to enjoy.
Southaven Towne Center
If you’re looking for even more shopping, Southaven Towne Center is a bustling hub with a mix of retailers, specialty shops, and dining options. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or a delicious meal, this center has you covered. But the Towne Center is more than just retail. The complex frequently hosts events and activities, allowing visitors to experience movie nights, live performances, and seasonal festivities.
Tanger Outlet
Another destination for the hobby shopper, Tanger Outlets offers a premier shopping experience with various stores. From fashion to home goods, this shopping outlet caters to a variety of style interests and features hundreds of brands, most at discounted prices. Plus, there are promotions throughout the year for different stores. Visitors can view the most up-to-date specials on Tanger Outlet’s website.
ACTIVITIES + ATTRACTIONS
Pottery Haven
Offering a creative space for individuals to paint, decorate, and personalize pottery items, Pottery Haven is a unique venue for people of all ages. The creative space is a popular destination for those looking for a fun and artistic activity or a special event space for group outings.
If you’re really looking to flex your artistic muscle, Pottery Haven also offers Pottery Wheel Throwing Classes every other week, teaching the basics of wheel throwing with wet clay. A complete list of events and classes can be found on the Pottery Haven website.
Liberation Escape Room
If you have an adventurous side and love live-action games, Liberation Escape Room provides a 60-minute experience that’s great for the whole family. The escape room includes four rooms and 85 themes to choose from — including mysteries and adventure scenarios ranging from historical to fantasy. The themes change throughout the year, and information can be found on the Liberation Escape Room website.
BankPlus Amphitheater
This open-air venue stands as a beacon for music aficionados, showcasing a top-tier entertainment roster since it opened in 2006. With its picturesque setting and top-notch acoustics, the BankPlus Amphitheater has hosted a wide range of concerts and events featuring various renowned artists and performers.
With a capacity to accommodate several thousand attendees, the venue offers both covered seating and open lawn areas, providing a vibrant atmosphere for live music and entertainment. Check the Amphitheater’s website for a list of upcoming concerts and events.
Landers Center
As one of the region’s premier entertainment venues, Landers Center hosts a range of events, including concerts and sporting events. Whether you’re into music, sports, or conventions, the Landers Center has you covered. From big-name artists rocking the stage to thrilling sports matches, there’s always something cool happening here. With events often occurring multiple times a week, be sure to keep up with the Landers Center event page for upcoming concerts and activities.
PARKS + GREEN SPACES
Snowden Grove Park
Spanning over 100 acres, Snowden Grove Park is a premier park for sports and outdoor enthusiasts. The 17-field-youth baseball facility features state-of-the-art sports facilities, walking trails, and playgrounds.
Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll, engage in team sports, or attend a local event, Snowden Grove Park provides a welcoming environment for Southaven’s residents and visitors. Plus, the vibrant green space is nationally recognized for its expansive facility that mimics professional baseball stadiums. Enjoy a picnic at one of the designated areas, explore the park’s scenic trails, or enjoy a relaxing day by the water while fishing in the freshwater ponds.
Jim Saucier Memorial Park
Looking for a place to take social-media-worthy photos? Jim Saucier Memorial Park is a quaint but scenic park that features a small waterfall, beautiful walking trails, and an activity section. Centered around a large lake, this green space is most notably known by locals but is a good place for tourists to immerse themselves in Southaven’s culture.
DeSoto County Veterans Park
A small but memorable park, the DeSoto County Veterans Park honors all U.S. veterans. Showcasing information on wars fought by U.S. soldiers, the beautiful stretch of greenery is more than an educational park; it’s also a tourist attraction and community gathering space paying homage to those who have served the country.
Happy exploring!
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