Memphis summers are scorching hot and bustling with life. From the free concert series at Overton Park Shell, to the free dancing classes at the Rumba Room downtown, Memphis has a ton to do. But if you want to escape the Memphis heat and take a ride a few hours outside the city, there are many places within reach. Keep reading for more information!

Union City, Tennessee

A 2 hour drive will bring you to this small town known for its unique Discovery Park of America. One travel blogger states, “It’s like your favorite millionaire uncle took a trip through time and around the world and built you a living postcard in your backyard to tell you a story.” This town is right on the border of Kentucky and has, what many say, the best Mexican restaurant around: Los Portales. Let us know how it compares to Las Delicias ;)

Oxford, Mississippi

A shorter 80 minute drive will take you to one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation, the University of Mississippi. Visit the home of famous writer William Faulkner, walk the street of the historic downtown, and indulge in some true southern soul food at Ajax Diner. If you leave in the morning you’ll be back in Memphis before dinner time! So ask a friend or two to take a drive to this memorable Mississippi city.

Nashville, Tennessee

This is a must see while living in Memphis. It is a longer drive compared to the other cities mentioned, taking nearly 3 hours, but it is definitely a city that has a lot to do. You could spend an entire day hopping between coffee shops alone. And if you like sweets with your coffee, then stop by Five Daughters Bakery for one of a kind donuts. They are sweet and HUGE! A unique and free place to stop is the Gaylord Opreyland Resort. “Boasting 50,000 tropical plants, rare international blooms and romantic Southern species, the horticultural displays at Gaylord Opryland are among the most exquisite in the world” as written on their website.