Explore the Region
This part of America is referred to as the “Mid-South.” It serves as the crossroads between the Southeast, Southwest, and the Midwest. Bartlett and the Memphis area are within a 500-mile radius (or an eight-hour drive), to cities such as Asheville, Atlanta, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas, Kansas City, New Orleans, Oklahoma City, and Pensacola.
From the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico and from the Appalachian Mountains to the Great Plains, Bartlett is in the center.
Below is a guide to many of the natural and historical places of interest that is a convenient drive for residents in the Bartlett area.
Whatever your passion—be it fishing, hunting, hiking, skiing, canoeing, sightseeing, camping, history, exploring, beaching, boating, or bird watching—the Mid-South has it all.
The only challenge is prioritizing your list!
This guide will help make that job easier with over 100 different places for you to explore and enjoy. Just find the activities that interest you and click/open the hyperlink. The adventure awaits…
Aquatic Activities
The Mid-South region is blessed with some of the best lakes, rivers, and streams in the country. For those who enjoy water recreation, this region offers access to almost every variety.
Rivers & Lakes
· Current River National Scenic River
· Hatchie State Scenic River (Primitive)
· Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley
· Mississippi River Natural & Recreational Corridor
· Obed River (White Water)
· Ocoee River (White Water)
· Ozark National Scenic Waterway
· White River National Wildlife Refuge
· Wolf River (Primitive)
Beaches
Mid-Southerners love their beaches. Here are some favorites that can be driven to in a day, half day or less.
Historical and Cultural Attractions Section
The Mid-South is rich in history. From pre-Columbian art and archaeology to Civil War battlegrounds; to the birth of Rock & Roll to elegantly preserved Victorian mansions, this region provides a wide array of historical and cultural venues.
Musical Heritage
Few places in the world have contributed as much to as many musical genres as the Mid-South. From gospel, soul and blues, to jazz, country and popular music, there are numerous venues for discovering, sampling, and experiencing the music of the Mid-South.
Elvis Presley Birthplace - Tupelo, MS
State Parks
The Mid-South area offers unique outdoor recreational opportunities. State Parks are an excellent way to explore the natural and historical attractions of the region..
ALABAMA
ARKANSAS
ILLINOIS
KENTUCKY
MISSISSIPPI
MISSIOURI
TENNESSEE STATE PARKS
National Parks, Forests & Wildlife
The Bartlett/Mid-South is a multi-state region offering a wide assortment of national public lands that provides all types of outdoor activities.
Sporting opportunities
Local Team, Club, and Action Sports
Professional & College Sports
Southern Heritage Classic (Jackson State and Tennessee State)
Weekend Getaways
Wilderness Areas
In addition to the many national public lands, there are smaller designated wilderness areas—some are public while others operate on private trusts. Some of the more outstanding ones can be found at these locations.
