Just 40 miles west of Memphis, Brownsville boasts historical Blues landmarks and rich cultural heritage throughout its restaurants and shops. Drive through the cotton fields or stroll down the nationally-recognized Main Street for an authentic escape from urban city life. Brownsville is a rural, yet refreshing destination to discover and explore.
WHERE TO EAT: Helen's BBQ
(Credit: Main Street Brownsville)
An open-pit barbecue haven in the heart of town, Helen's smoky shack houses historical excellence and female-owned grit. The pulled pork shoulder, smoked over hickory coals, is a crowd favorite alongside the made-from-scratch slaw and beans. Southern Living dubs pit master-owner Helen Turner a "barbecue queen."
1016 N. WASHINGTON AVE.
BROWNSVILLE, TN 38012
(731) 779-3255
WHERE TO LISTEN: Exit 56 Blues Fest
Located off "Music Highway" (TN Exit 40), the annual Blues Fest features a lineup of live music porch performances at the foot of Blues pioneer "Sleepy" John Adam Estes' home. The outdoor festival also features an arts & crafts juried show. You might even run into the deep-fried barbecue-eating championship contest.
(Credit: Exit 56 Blues Fest)
This year's music line-up opens with Bonafide Blues Band with Linzie Butler. Other performances include Sean "Bad" Apple, Last Chance Jug Band, Elam McKnight Band with West Tennessee Bluesman Dudley Harris, Dylan Whitney Band, James "Super Chickan" Johnson, Little Boys Blue and Travis "Moonchild" Haddix.
121 SUNNY HILL COVE
BROWNSVILLE, TN 38012
(731) 779-9000
WHERE TO SEE: Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School
Tina Turner's early years—which many attest to have inspired her greatest hits—were spent in a quaint one-room schoolhouse in Brownsville. That one-room schoolhouse was recently renovated as the mecca of Turner's memorabilia. The free-admission museum spotlights gold records, show-stopping costumes, and captivating photography. Flagg Grove School is a component of the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center.
121 SUNNY HILL COVE
BROWNSVILLE, TN 38012
(731) 779-9000
