20 Things to Do in Jackson, TN: A Detailed Guide to the Hub City

Jackson, Tennessee, more warmly known as the Hub City, offers the visiting traveler or local a host of diverse activities and attractions. From historical sites to outdoor adventures, gastronomic delights to cultural experiences, everything is there within this bustling city to find something according to taste. There are so many things to do in Jackson, TN, making it  a great visit.

1. Distilleries and Wineries

The products of distilleries, wineries, and breweries are available throughout the area. Even if you miss visiting the exact locations, you may check out in the restaurants, general stores, or groceries. Here is a list of some popular wineries, and distilleries to visit on your trip to Jackson. 

Samuel T. Bryant Distillery

Located right in the heart of Jackson is the Samuel T. Bryant Distillery. It would be a great place for anyone who has a real fondness for spirits. A family-run business that lets its patrons learn more about the distilling craft with a view of the various processes right on its premises. A walk around the distillery will help you get an insight into the process of  making their successful whiskey, gin, and moonshine.

Without a doubt, tasting can be the most delightful experience at Samuel T. Bryant Distillery. Do try the locally handcrafted spirits to get the different flavors and distinct nuances of the products. The experienced staff will make sure that even beginners and seasoned patrons will be taken on a tasting journey paired with a little insightintot their methods of production and the flavor profiles.

Century Farm Winery

While those who prefer the fruit of the vine will find Century Farm Winery, a must-visit on things to do in Jackson, TN; family ownership of this winery sits on a beautiful, still working farm of over a century in operation. The winery combined traditional farming with modern winemaking techniques and came up with a host of award-winning wines.

Visitors are guided through the vineyard and winery at Century Farm Winery as part of creating an art of wine-making from grape growing. The tasting room is provided with all the coziness possible, so you may taste their varied selection of wines, from crisp whites to robust reds. Furthermore, the settings of the winery create a full-fledged farming experience for the real West Tennessee, letting the guests get as close as possible to their agricultural heritage.

Crown Winery

Crown Winery encompasses wine tasting and social activity, thus pulling all the locals and tourists’ attention to visiting the place. It is popular for the setting around it—picturesque by its high-quality wines—and what makes it different are some events that run throughout the entire year.

In its live music nights, Crown Winery features local and regional musicians—a perfect background to enjoy the tasty wines under the stars. On the other hand, if one is looking for an invigorating type of activity, a quiet night of yoga at the winery is also accommodated. The thought of posing in a yoga stance amid a vineyard and taking in one of the refreshing glasses of wine can really blow one’s mind right and is ultimately rejuvenating to the soul.

The bowling alley features modern lanes suitable for bowlers of all skill levels. Whether you are a pro or a first-timer, you will have assured a perfect lane to enjoy a few good games. The head office does offer bumper bowling to kinder age groups.

The laser tag arena provides a pumped-up, interactive environment for clients wishing for that extra dose of energy. As you weave your way through a maze, strategize among your friends or coworkers in this high-octane, high-energy game scored on both strategy and furtiveness.

To round out the offerings, the center also features go-karts. Feel the adrenaline rush as you speed around the track and seek to show your friends or family that you can come out on top. With its various activities, the Jackson Bowling & Skating Family Fun Center makes sure there is never a dull moment throughout the visit.

The Ballpark at Jackson

Sports aficionados will find everything to love at The Ballpark at Jackson. The modern sports complex offers more than just a baseball stadium; it is the center for many activities and community-based events.

Although the main aim of a ballpark is to accept baseball games, it could also be used to perform concerts, hold festivals, and many other events of high magnitude. This place is well equipped with ultramodern facilities, offering comfortable seating, great sight lines, and a lot to offer in terms of food and liquor.

It’s worth a visit, even if there is no game or special event taking place at the time of your visit. The ballpark’s architecture and designs are a treat to watch. 

2. Culinary Delights: Food Scene in Jackson

For those with a knack for experimenting with delectable cuisine, Jackson won’t fail to impress you at all. Here are some of the amazing culinary delights to check out. 

Restaurants Downtown Jackson, TN

Great food comes with great variety, and that is exactly what Jackson, TN has to offer. From succulent BBQ and Mexican to delightful pubs and bars, downtown Jackson is a haven for any foodie. Take a taste of these great temptations:

• Pizza Joints: A classic Margherita to gourmet toppings that will give your taste buds a new way of looking at pizza.

• Steakhouses: The pulse of the city’s steakhouses speaks to juicy steaks, perfectionism—nothing short of it.

• Sandwich Shops: From authentic deli sandwiches to gourmet creations, Jackson’s sandwich shops have it all.

• Jamaican Cuisine: Come one, come all and taste that vivacious flavor of the Caribbean pouring out of the Jamaican restaurants in Jackson.

• Italian Eateries: Authentic pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas you’ll get a first-hand experience of Italian cuisine here. 

• African Restaurants: Experience the incredible and colorful taste of African food in these unparalleled restaurants.

• Southern BBQ: It wouldn’t be Jackson without trying some of the local BBQ in the city. It’s all about the slow-smoked meats and zingy sauce.

Dining at the downtown Jackson restaurants is certainly one of the best ways to spend your dining out experience because each business has its flair and specific food items.

West Tennessee Farmers Market

The West Tennessee Farmers Market is one of those treasures for the do-it-yourself people who really like fresh, local produce. This invigorating market brings local farmers, artisans, and food producers under one roof, offering a large variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses, among other handcrafted products.

It’s not just about the shopping; you’re at the farmers market. Have an opportunity to meet the growers and makers of your food, learn about the ideas and businesses you’re supporting by buying their produce or handmade products, and score some quirky local products for yourself. From heirloom tomatoes to artisan honey, the market is a celebration of the best West Tennessee has.

3. Fun for everyone: Business and Facilities

If you wish to have a whale of a time with your family, and friends, Jackson won’t disappoint you. 

Jackson Bowling & Skating Family Fun Center

The top-ranking family-friendly activity in Jackson, TN, is the Jackson Bowling & Skating Family Fun Center. Find something in this multifaceted entertainment complex that will keep every member of your family interested and on their toes.

ate the sophistication of conventional ballparks but have been modernized with all the amenities that technology can offer and that the Jackson people take great pride in.

Carl Perkins Civic Center

For those interested in performance arts and live entertainment, there is the Carl Perkins Civic Center, named after the world-renowned rockabilly musician Carl Perkins; this is an all-purpose facility hosting events from one end of the spectrum to the other year-round.

From Broadway shows, concerts, comedies, and dance recitals, there is always an event going on at the Civic Center—great acoustics and an intimate venue, making every performance unforgettable.

The Carl Perkins Civic Center also hosts entertainment events such as conferences, trade shows, and community gatherings. Consequently, centrally located in downtown Jackson, this venue manages to be convenient and adds to the vibrant cultural scene inside the city.

Jackson Symphony Orchestra

Music lovers won’t want to miss hearing the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. This orchestra is one of Jackson’s true cultural treasures, providing a high-quality classical musical performance throughout its season.

The orchestra’s repertoire spans ages of music history, from the greatest symphonies to new masterpieces. With world-class conductors and adept musicians, every performance is a perfect synthesis reflecting the power and beauty of orchestral music to the tee.

This orchestra, besides its regular concert series, also has educational programs and community outreach. All these programs help to make the orchestra significant in Jackson’s cultural life by instilling an appreciation of classical music into diverse age groups.

4. Interactive Experiences: Engaging Activities in Jackson

If on the lookout for some interactive experiences to keep your family, and kids hooked, you’ll get all of it in Jackson. 

Jackson Scavenger Hunt

If you are in the mood for some adventure and problem-solving, then the thrill of Jackson Scavenger Hunt may be the perfect option to get the real essence and hack a way around some traditional spots and secret places throughout the city of Jackson. The experience brings the sights to life through an interactive journey around Jackson’s greatest landmarks and lesser-known parts.

You will pick up many cool details of the history, architecture, and culture of Jackson as you shuffle through the clues and try to solve the riddle. The scavenger hunt is meant to be both enlightening and enjoyable, so it is one of the most engaging things to do in Jackson, TN.

It will ensure that as a visitor, you do not just come to know the city well but get to have hair-raising experiences.  It is one of the greatest activities ever for families, groups of friends, or even team-building events.

Jackson Escape Rooms

If you’re looking for something to stimulate your mind, one of Jackson’s escape rooms will certainly put you through an entertainingly immersive experience. These cutting-edge, interactive puzzle games are sure to have throngs of interested parties going wild across the world, and Jackson’s are no exception.

You and your team will get “locked” in a highly decorated room chosen by theme. You are, therefore, going to have to use your brains, work together, and apply problem-solving skills to work out clues and puzzles to master the ultimate “escape” within time constraints. The rooms can be themed, each with its unique story. Some of the exciting themes are detective mystery and science fiction adventure.

The escape room accommodates all different group sizes and levels of challenge, which makes it perfect for a family, a group of friends, or even business team-building activity. It is a good activity for testing yourselves, team bonding, and creating bright impressions.

5. Places with History: Getting to Know the Historical Past of Jackson

If you wish to delve deep into Jackson’s history, there are ways to do the same. Let’s discuss a few of them 

Casey Jones Village and Old Country Store

The Casey Jones Village and Old Country Store-the most visited by everyone is a place without doubt that history buffs in Jackson, TN must visit. It narrates the story of a railroad engineer who lost his life saving his passengers, dedicated to preserving the legacy of his great name.

• Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum: This is a home that has been restored to give one a peek into how Casey Jones and his family used to live. The museum houses vast railroad memorabilia collecting the story about the last fateful run of Jones.

• Old Country Store: Step into the olden days as one walks into this real general store from the 1890s. Stroll through vintage merchandise, indulge in candies that are definitely old-fashioned, and enjoy good Southern comfort food in the restaurant.

• Providence House: The antebellum has been filled with period pieces to demonstrate how Tennesseans really lived in the 19th century.

• Mini Golf Course: Step right up for a bit of family fun around the train-themed mini-golf course on-site.

The emphasis at Casey Jones Village is rightly on educational and entertaining values, therefore making this a location anybody with an interest in American railroad history cannot afford to miss out on or indeed an unusually different type of family day out.

Carnegie Legends Museum

The Carnegie Legends Museum should interest the music lovers visiting Jackson since it plays host to the great musical history found in the legendary venue of the Carnegie Library.

From blues and gospel to rock ‘n’ roll and country, starting at the roots, the exhibitions trace the origins of many diverse genres, including the local legends of music who went on to shape the musical history of America, such as Carl Perkins, Sonny Boy Williamson, and W.C. Handy.

The pioneering musicians come to life through interactive exhibits, rare photos, and personal memorabilia. Frequently, the museum has live performances, where you, too, can bask in the living legacy of this unique part of West Tennessee’s music scene.

6. Outdoor Adventures: Exploring Jackson’s Natural Beauty

If you are on the lookout for an exciting outdoor adventure then here are some exciting activities to partake. 

Cypress Grove Nature Park

For one finding refuge in a silent retreat surrounded by nature, Cypress Grove Nature Park, lying the heart of the city would afford the perfect, peaceful respite. The 165-acre park introduces an entire unique habitat of natural surroundings centered on a beautiful cypress swamp.

The scenic boardwalk winding through the swamp and surrounding woodlands are its main feature. Stroll the length of this wonderful elevated pathway for great opportunities to view a wide array of wildlife in their natural settings. It has plenty of different bird species, so one can indulge in the activity of bird watching.

The other facilities, besides the boardwalk, at Cypress Grove Nature Park are: 

• A raptor center that has some birds of prey.
• Guided nature walks and educational programs
• Picnic areas and a play area for family fun
• Small museum featuring local ecological exhibits

Popular Themes

• Detective Mystery: Solve a crime before time runs out.
• Haunted House: Escape a spooky setting, while uncovering supernatural clues.
• Sci-Fi Adventure: Smash out of the future with technologically induced puzzles.
• Historical Challenge: Dwell back and serve a mission dated from the past.

Every room is painstakingly crafted with hidden clues in mind and bewildering puzzles that one can crack with wit, reasoning, and teamwork. The ticking clock of Chronos would make this an exhilarating experience—perfect for groups of friends, family, or corporate teams to bond over.

11. International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame Museum

The International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame Museum is an asset for music lovers, more specifically, those into the roots of rock and roll. The museum was established in the center of Jackson and aims to preserve and promote the rockabilly genre that led to the rise of rock and roll.

Exhibitions and Collections :

• The place is vast and filled with memorabilia, including rare photos and vintage instruments, along with the personal belongings of Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, and Jerry Lee Lewis.

• The development of rockabilly can be viewed with the aid of displayed interactive features all the way, from the roots of rockabilly in country and blues up to its widening influence on today’s modern rock music.

• It re-creates a 1950s recording studio so that visitors may gain insight into the technology and techniques behind the iconic indie rockabilly sound.

Special Events:

• Live performances throughout the year by established and up-and-coming rockabilly artists let visitors get a feel for the genre’s timeless appeal.

• Annual induction ceremonies that seat new members of the Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame pay respect to what their contribution has been to the genre.

Educational Programs:

• The museum provides school programs allowing students to learn about music history and rockabilly’s cultural effects in a fun, interactive way.

Gift Shop:

• Here, you can buy some very exceptional souvenirs in rockabilly style: vintage-like clothes, vinyl records, and many books containing information on genre history and some outstanding personalities.

12. Ned R. McWherter West Tennessee Cultural Arts Center

Known locally as “The Ned,” this is a cultural arts center for Jackson and the surrounding area. The center was named in memory of former Tennessee Governor Ned McWherter and serves as a much-needed facility wherein any talent developed and produced at home may be developed and showcased.

Art Gallery:

• Within the center is a large art gallery featuring various exhibits that change throughout different times of the year.

Exhibitions

• Ranging from solo exhibits of local artists to curated collections of regional and national interest

Opening receptions

• Frequent part of gallery event schedule with lively discussions between visitors and artists.

Theater

The Ned features a fully-equipped theater that fields dramatic productions of various kinds, such as:

• Plays and musicals of local theater groups
• Concerts by many different genres of musical groups
• Dance recitals and performances
• Stand-up comedy shows

Educational Workshops:

Classes and workshops are conducted By the center for people of all ages in various art forms. Visual arts include painting, drawing, or sculpture; performing arts include theater, dance, and music; and last but not least, creative writing.

Community Events: 

The Ned acts as a venue for almost every type of cultural celebration, film screening, or even a lecture series.

It often collaborates with local schools and organizations to promote arts education and appreciation.

13. Liberty Garden Park and Arboretum

Situated within the city limits of Jackson, Liberty Garden Park and Arboretum offers serenity. This 12-acre park offers a mix of nature’s beauty and education—being an area of attraction for nature lovers, families, and casual visitors alike.

Arboretum:

• There are many varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers, with most native to the region.

• Plants are identified by common and botanical names, thus truly making this an outdoor botany classroom.

• The arboretum is landscaped with plants that grow well in West Tennessee’s climate, inspiring home gardeners with ideas.

Walking Trails:

• The gardens and wooded areas have well-maintained paths winding through them, providing scenic routes for walking or jogging.

• The trails were designed to be accessible, with benches placed along the way for resting and reflection.

Koi Pond:

• Also serving as a centerpiece in the park is a serene koi pond stocked with colorful fish.

• The area at the pond is provided with seating and has become a very popular place to sit and enjoy a quiet moment of reflection and remembrance.

Memorial Garden:

• A special section of the park has been dedicated as a memorial to the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

• Opinions, with a piece of steel from the World Trade Center, share their recollections at this poignant reminder and area for remembrance.

Educational Programs:

• Educational programs occur at the park regularly, ranging from guided nature walks and bird watching sessions to gardening workshops.

Community Events:

• Liberty Garden Park also hosts several events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, art shows, and seasonal celebrations.

14. Jackson Generals Baseball Game

The Ballpark at Jackson was mentioned above, but the action of attending a Jackson Generals baseball game deserves an identity all its own. The team offers quality baseball entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Game Experience:

Visitors can see some high-level baseball action with exciting players who might someday make it to the major leagues. The layout of the stadium is such that the sight lines from all seats give a great view of the action.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere:

• Between-inning entertainment features loads of fun and games—participatory activities for kids and adults alike.

• Special theme nights throughout the season add an extra level of excitement to the games themselves.

Concessions:

• Caucasian and local specialties in food are available in the ballpark.
• Local craft beers list is available for adult PNL fans.

Community Involvement:

• The Generals are very involved in their local community with their charity events and youth programs.

• The team often recognizes and honors local schools and organizations at their games, tightening their relationship further.

Fireworks Shows:

Most home games end with brilliant fireworks shows, a bonus to the overall experience.

15. Cypress Grove Nature Center

Cypress Grove Nature Center complements a visit to Cypress Grove Nature Park, providing education and interactive exhibits that introduce one to the cypress swamp and nearby habitats.

Exhibits of an Educational Nature:

• The center features exhibits on local flora and fauna, including information on the cypress trees for which the park is named.

• Some exhibits are hands-on, allowing visitors to learn about concepts such as the water cycle and the food chains which govern local ecosystems.

Live Animal Encounters:

The nature center houses several native species and includes:

• Birds of prey, such as owls and hawks
• Reptiles, including snakes and turtles
• Local Amphibians

Nature Programs:

Staff naturalists provide a number of programs which include:

• Staff Naturalist Guided Nature hikes in the park
• Wildlife watching programs on birds, butterflies, and a variety of animals
• Educational workshops such as Wildlife photography and plant identification among others

Gift Shop:

• Nature-themed bookstores with toys and locally made crafts are sold.

• It also sells field guides and other informational materials on the local environment for visitors who want to learn more.

These expanded descriptions give a deeper view of these attractions, outlining the depth of experience they provide to their visitors and the community of Jackson, TN. All these places help weave the cultural tapestry that Jackson is about, and each provides a unique opportunity for learning, entertainment, and community involvement.

16. Jackson Flea Market

The Jackson Flea Market is a Technicolor mass of commerce, but it is still so much more than that—the shopping is a little outside the mainstream.

Location and Schedule:

• The flea market usually operates on weekends and at times on large open grounds or fairgrounds.

• Offers its services all year round, but in spring and fall, it is at its peak.

Vendor Diversity:

The market offers most of these vendors, which include: antique dealers dealing in vintage furniture, collectibles, and memorabilia; local artisans who created a virtual storefront with handcrafted jewelry, artwork, and home decor; farmers and produce sellers offering fresh, locally harvested fruits and vegetables; clothing vendors with both new and second-hand apparel; specialty food produce homemakers who deal in homemade jams, baked goods, and local delicacies.

Atmosphere and Experience:

• Flea market-esque ambience with regular vendors and odd sellers.

• It is expected that one will have to haggle or at least bargain for some items, which actually adds up to the excitement of shopping here.

• It’s not really shopping; a lot of visitors just go out for the social aspect-wham, basically enjoying conversations with the vendors as well as other shoppers.

Food and Refreshments:

• Moving trucks/trailers plus stands ranging from local Southern specialties to international cuisine.

• Many visitors make a day of it, eating lunch or having snacks while they peruse the many stalls. 

Community Impact

The flea market serves a vital economic role for small business people and sole proprietors alike. It is also a kaleidoscope of culture, representative of Jackson’s community. 

17. Tour Historic Downtown Jackson

Downtown Jackson is the heartbeat of the city—resiliently blending historical charm with modern amenities. It’s a walk through time, peering into the pulsing present of the city when one strolls through this district.

Architectural Heritage:

The downtown area features well-preserved buildings from these eras, including:

• Commercial buildings from the Victorian era with ornate fronts
• Art Deco structures from the beginning of the 20th century
• Mid-century modernist architecture from the middle of the 20th century

Most notably, there also exist a number of boutiques — for those people who call it their nest, selling truly unique clothing; antique and vintage stores; unique gift stores that sell locally and handmade items; independent bookshops; and art galleries.

Food and Drink:

• Downtown Jackson is tapping into the southern regional trend where food and drink options are developing ever more distinctive. One can find everything here from traditional Southern diners to more upscale farm-to-table dining.

• Many of these restaurants are located in historic buildings that have been transformed to make the dining experience especially memorable.

Street Art and Public Space:

• Colorful murals and other works of public art bring excitement to the central core.

• Well-kept squares and parks offer spaces to relax and serve as sites for community gatherings.

Historical Markers and Walking Tours:

• Informative plaques peppered throughout downtown point out significant events and figures in Jackson’s history.

• Self-guided walking tours are available through tourism offices or any number of apps that let individuals move at their own pace.

Events and Festivals:

• Quite frequently, Downtown Jackson will host an event like a street fair, music festival, or holiday celebration, all helping to further bind the community together.

18. Jackson Cruise-In

Jackson Cruise-In brings people together under the stars during nights with tons of nostalgia and oneness. Automotive culture is being celebrated here by bringing car enthusiasts together with the casual observer.

Event Details:

The event occurs during weekends from spring to early fall. It is conducted within the large parking lot or a street closed for the occasion within the Jackson downtown area.

Cars on Display

The event displays, among other categories, cars of this nature—classic American from the 50s and 60s, vintage European sports, custom hot rods/resto-mods, and modern muscle/exotics.

Firmament

• The events have a chill vibe. Very much family-friendly.
• Car owners generally are more than willing to stop and chat about their cars. They reminisce and discuss the technical aspects.

Entertainment:

Most events have live music with local bands that play oldies, rock ‘n’ roll, and country. Some have dancing areas for people who might get inspired with the music.

Food and Beverages:

Food trucks along with other locals come to sell their cuisine. A few have a beer garden for adults only.

Community Aspect:

• The Cruise-In serves as a social function for car enthusiasts and the community at large
• Most attendees set up lawn chairs to sit around to be a part of the environment

Special Themes:

• There may be some themes or emphasis that focuses on specific types of cars to add variety throughout the season927. Bemis Mill Village Museum

• The Bemis Mill Village Museum opened a window into Jackson’s industrial past and insight into the lives of workers that formed it.

Historical Background:

• The museum is housed in the former company town of Bemis, now part of Jackson
• It houses the story of the Bemis Cotton Mill that operated from 1900 to 1991

Architecture:

The museum itself has historical significance, representing early 20th-century industrial architecture

Guided Tours:

• Guided Tours: Knowledgeable volunteers supplement the self-guided portion with added context and answer questions.

• Many of the tours include stories about life in the mill, along with obscure facts.

Educational Programs:

The museum offers a range of educational programs for school-age groups interested in industrial history, labor relations, and social change.

Special Events:

Periodic demonstrations of crafts or lectures on topics specific to the mills make the visit more memorable by being more engaging.

20. Jackson Community Art Program

The Jackson Community Art Program promotes imagination, creativity, and artistic expression in people of all age groups.

Course Offerings:

Courses include, but are not limited to:

• Painting: Watercolor, acrylic, oil
• Drawing and sketching
• Sculpture and ceramics
• Photography
• Digital art and graphic design

Workshops and other Special Sessions:

Along with the regular classes, it also offers one-time workshops and multi-day intensives on specific techniques or themes.

Read Also: Best Things to Do in Nepal

Community Projects:

The program organizes collaborative art installations and public murals. These projects have many artists and community members often working together in collaboration.

Focus on Youth:

There are special classes and summer camps for children and teenagers. The programs are specially designed to develop young talent and provide a lifelong appreciation of the arts.

Accessibility

• The program is designed to make art accessible to all, and scholarships or sliding scale fees are often made available.

• Classes are available for all levels—from beginning to advanced artists.

Quality of Instructors

Classes are taught by local working artists and experienced art instructors. Also, the guest instructors occasionally present specialized workshops

Conclusion

From its divergent history and effervescent music scene to natural beauty and singular attractions, Jackson, Tennessee, has a very disparate set of experiences awaiting every kind of visitor. Museums, culinary delights, and outdoor activities give you a reason not to be less enthusiastic about what to do in Jackson, TN.

This guide has only scratched the surface of what Hub City has in store. Experiencing Jackson, you will find so much more to discover and create unforgettable experiences all your own. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to be overwhelmed by graciousness and hospitality that awaits you right here in Jackson, Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Question