Memphis, Tennessee, is a city steeped in rich history, vibrant music culture, and a love for the open road. With its central location and scenic surroundings, Memphis offers car enthusiasts plenty of exciting destinations for a thrilling day trip. From iconic driving routes to automotive museums and racing experiences, there’s something for every motorhead. Whether you’re looking to cruise along historic byways or experience high-octane adventures, these top day trips from Memphis will fuel your passion for cars.
1. Tupelo Automobile Museum
Address: 1 Otis Blvd, Tupelo, MS 38804
A must-visit for classic car lovers, the Tupelo Automobile Museum houses an impressive collection of over 100 rare and vintage cars, including classics from the early 1900s to muscle cars from the 1960s and beyond. This museum offers a fascinating look at automotive history and is well worth the drive from Memphis.
2. Barber Motorsports Park
Address: 6040 Barber Motorsports Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35094
For those who love high-performance vehicles and racing, Barber Motorsports Park is a dream destination. Home to the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, this track hosts various motorsports events, including IndyCar and vintage motorcycle races. Take a tour of the museum, which boasts the world’s largest motorcycle collection, or watch a live race for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
3. Natchez Trace Parkway Scenic Drive
Start Point: Milepost 1 (Natchez, MS)
For those who enjoy the beauty of the open road, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a breathtaking scenic drive stretching 444 miles from Natchez, MS, to Nashville, TN. While you don’t need to drive the entire route, a portion of this historic trail makes for an unforgettable road trip with rolling landscapes, historic sites, and smooth, winding roads perfect for a relaxed yet engaging drive.
4. Tunica Roadhouse Casino & Car Museum
Address: 1107 Casino Center Dr, Tunica, MS 38664
For a shorter getaway, head to Tunica, where you’ll find not only gaming entertainment but also the Tunica Car Museum, featuring a unique collection of vintage and luxury vehicles. Spend a day admiring classic cars before testing your luck at the casino.
5. Manual Driving Academy
If you or someone you know has always wanted to master the art of driving a stick shift, a session at Manual Driving Academy in Memphis is the perfect experience. The expert instructors provide one-on-one lessons tailored to help drivers gain confidence and skill behind the wheel of a manual transmission vehicle. Gift certificates are available and never expire, making this an excellent gift for any car enthusiast looking to enhance their driving abilities.
6. Corvette Museum & Motorsports Park
Address: 350 Corvette Dr, Bowling Green, KY 42101
A paradise for sports car lovers, the Corvette Museum showcases the history of America’s most iconic sports car. Adjacent to the museum is the Motorsports Park, where visitors can take a Corvette for a spin on the track. If you love high-performance vehicles, this trip is worth every mile.
Conclusion
From thrilling motorsports experiences to scenic drives and immersive automotive museums, these day trips from Memphis offer incredible adventures for car enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to explore vintage car collections, race on professional tracks, or learn to drive a manual transmission, there’s a trip for every auto aficionado.
Looking to enhance your driving skills or surprise a car lover with a unique experience? Book a lesson with Manual Driving Academy in Memphis today!
