Northern Mississippi’s DeSoto County has a long history and a longer list of reasons for groups to add this destination to their itinerary
There’s something special about getting away from the daily grind, escaping our cares in the soothing peace of the open countryside. And yet, who has time to journey well into the wilderness to find such a getaway? The good news is that groups looking to get away from it all can do so – all within mere minutes of Memphis and its international airport, in DeSoto County.
Nestled along Mississippi’s northern border, DeSoto County and its communities (Hernando, Horn Lake, Nesbit, Olive Branch, Southaven and Walls) offer a warm Southern welcome to groups looking for a relaxing stay. There are lots of things to do, from enjoying the county’s famous restaurants to following the Mississippi Blues Trail to going on a shopping expedition.
Things to Do in DeSoto County
You can do serious hunting at Tanger Outlets in Southaven, where stores ranging from Michael Kors and Coach to Krispy Kreme guarantee a happy day spent in retail therapy. There’s also the open-air mall of Southaven Towne Center. For a unique shopping experience, Hernando’s Courthouse Square does double duty as a historic district and place to shop.
After shopping, what’s next? Given that this county takes its name from the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, you might want to absorb some of the region’s historical treasures. The aforementioned DeSoto County Courthouse, with its Mississippi River murals and spot on the National Register of Historic Places, is a convenient starting point. Also check out the DeSoto County Museum, which includes a restored log cabin from the 1840s.
Maybe a more active style of historical research is your group’s thing. DeSoto County has several stops along the Mississippi Blues Trail, Freedom Trail and Mississippi Mound Trail. You can also chart a course toward the home of Elvis Presley at Circle G Ranch.
If your group just wants to be outdoors, head to Arkabutla Lake, a 33,000-acre water playground with three beaches and opportunities for sailing, fishing, camping, hiking, biking and picnicking. Other parks offer green space as well, and the county maintains several championship-level golf courses.
Agritourism options include seeing the nation’s largest importer of fine bonsai (miniature living trees) at Brussel’s Bonsai Nursery, picking berries at Nesbit Blueberry Plantation and exploring the many activities offered by Cedar Hill Farm. Also check out the two farmers’ markets in Hernando and Olive Branch.
Dining in DeSoto County
BBQ (Memphis-style)
It won’t take long before hunger begins to gnaw at your group. Don’t worry; you’ll be well-served by a generous selection of restaurants. You’d expect to find traditional Southern fare, good old American faves, steak and seafood, and Memphis-style BBQ here, and you won’t be disappointed. But don’t forget the Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Italian and fusion restaurants, nor the local bakeries and ice cream shops for that sweet tooth.
Group-Friendly Places to Stay
There are a large number of global and national chain hotels waiting to host you, including Hilton and Marriott. But for a truly DeSoto experience, check out the local inns, which offer a perfectly comfortable finish to the day.
To start planning your visit to DeSoto County, visit www.visitdesotocounty.com. Looking for even more group travel inspiration for your next trip? Be sure to Subscribe for FREE to Leisure Group Travel.
