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Discover Flatland Cycling Routes near Memphis
These cycling routes near Memphis take you to towns full of history, beauty and culture.
May 10, 2024
Cycling Routes near Memphis
Take to the winding roads near Memphis that will lead you to charming towns full of history, scenic beauty and delicious food. These cycling routes are perfect for a day trip or weekend. If you’re craving a unique and authentic cycling experience, continue reading below.
Cycling Routes near Memphis
West Tennessee Classic Loop - Brownsville
Cruise along the low-traffic rural roads and wide open farm fields that showcase Tennessee’s agrarian charm on the West Tennessee Classic Loop cycling route. This route will take you to Brownsville, Tennessee and through the Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge, more than 11,000 acres of aquatic life and waterfowl.
Shiloh Battlefield Tour - Shiloh
The Shiloh Battlefield Tour cycling route is one of the best places to ride near Memphis, offering a unique glimpse into West Tennessee’s rich past. Along the way, you can experience Shiloh National Military Park, the site of a Civil War battle that had nearly 24,000 casualties. Nearby, Shiloh Indian Mountains National Historic Landmark preserves the site of an ancient cheifdom and earthen mounds. Pause at interpretive markers to soak in the historic and cultural significance.
Pinson Mound Loop
Cycle back in time at Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park where more than 15 earthen mounds date back 2,000 years on the Pinson Mounds Loop. Some are more than 70 feet high and were used as Native American ceremonial and communal grounds. The biking route has hills to climb, but not so many that you can’t dismount for a post-ride stroll through the park.
Refuel at these Restaurants
Helen’s Bar-B-Que - Brownsville
You can’t cycle in Brownsville and not stop at the iconic Helen’s Bar-B-Q for some low-and-slow barbecue. The world-renowned, family-friendly restaurant utilizes oak and hickory wood to acquire the unique flavor that keeps travelers and locals alike coming back for more. While navigating the West Tennessee Classic Loop, stop in to order a barbecue sandwich topped with Cole slaw, take a seat at one of the picnic tables and enjoy your meal while soaking in the quiet, rural atmosphere.
Hagy’s Catfish Hotel Restaurant - Shiloh
Nearby the Shiloh National Military Park is Hagy’s Catfish Hotel Restaurant with a history that dates back to 1825. It’s one of the oldest family-owned restaurants in the U.S. You’ll soon learn why when you order the world-famous, southern style fried catfish with hush puppies and a side of fries, baked potato, sweet potato or steamed vegetable medley and signature Cole slaw. Fish tacos, grilled salmon, burgers, salads and baby back ribs can also be enjoyed.
Brook Shaw’s Old Country Store - Jackson
Cycle to Brook Shaw’s Old Country Store after enjoying the Pinson Mound Loop to enjoy award-winning southern soul food buffest, salad bar and homemade desserts. Refuel with fried chicken, barbecue and catfish or daily specials like hot tamale pie, barbecue bologna, baked cinnamon apples and creamed spinach. Pile your plate with must-have sides like sweet potatoes, black-eyed peas and turnip greens. And, if you have time, stop by Miss Anne’s Ice Cream Shoppe, named one of the Top 50 Ice Cream Parlors in America by USA Today where you can find classic candies, delicious ice cream and milkshakes and nostalgic toys.
Nearby Things to Do
Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School - Brownsville
Learn about Haywood County’s most famous native, Anna Mae Bullock, known worldwide as Tina Turner. Her childhood Flagg Grove School now houses the Tina Turner Museum, full of the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s costumes, memorabilia, records, awards and even her high school year book. You can also learn about rural education of African American students in the one-room schoolhouse attended by Bullock which still houses an authentic chalkboard, benches and original desks.
Explore Downtown Jackson
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@whattoseewithab
Spend some time strolling downtown Jackson on your way to or from the Pinson Mound Loop. You’ll find incredible local music history at the Tennessee Legends of Music Museum where the music careers of local greats Carl Perkins, Tina Turner and W.S. Holland among many others are told through exhibits. Pop into shops and enjoy the many murals and art downtown. Stop in for an ice cream treat at Peppermint Addie’s or an organic juice from Crystal’s Zen and Juice.
Tennessee River Museum
Dive deep into Tennessee’s history at the Tennessee River Museum in the charming small town of Savannah, Tennessee, nearby the Shiloh National Military Park. You could spend hours marveling at the artifacts and exhibits that tell personal accounts of historically significant events from pre-historic life dating back millions of years to the golden age of steamboats that traded in the Tennessee River Valley. Admission is $5. Afterwards, stroll downtown Savannah for boutique shopping.
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