Hidden Gems in West Tennessee

These "hidden gems" unfold the local, artistic talent of West Tennessee from savory and sweet options to antique and interactive art.

Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Museum - Camden

Have an interesting and captivating day at The Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Farm, the only freshwater pearl culturing farm in the U.S. Started in 1925, the farm began harvesting Tennessee's state gem. Go into the showroom to buy a pearl from the farm's collection, but also marvel at freshwater pearl jewelry from around the world. Visit the museum to learn about the harvesting process and then see it for yourself by taking a tour of the farm. A full tour package includes a presentation from a local diver, the farm manager and a barbecue luncheon.

The Outpost - Pickwick Dam

The Outpost in Pickwick Dam is a hidden gem with a lot to offer. The General Store and Grill is popular with locals and travelers for its must-taste-everything menu with burgers, sandwich melts, filling breakfasts and amazing pies and cakes. The Prospector Bed & Breakfast offers a comfortable night's sleep. Browse inside the market and other shops. See woodcarvers making art outside. Before you leave, take a peek at the new barn that's used for weddings. It's great for a photo-op. 

National Bird Dog Museum - Grand Junction

The National Bird Dog Museum in Grand Junction, Tennessee tells the history of bird dog, field trial and hunting traditions through exhibits and memorabilia. Art, photography, more than 40 breeds of bird dogs and trophies of important figures can be viewed inside the 30,000-square-foot facility. Also inside are the Field Trial Hall of Fame, Sporting Dog Hall of Fame, Retriever Hall of Fame and the Wildlife Heritage Center. Stroll the nature trail adjacent to the museum parking lot as well.

Sally Lane's Candy Farm – Paris

Since 1958, Sally Lane's has been a sweet and steady fixture in the Paris, Tennessee community. The shop has become a place where older generations reminisce while a new generation becomes introduced to the timeless treats. Known for its popular pink and white mints—which find themselves at parties, showers and weddings all over the region— Sally Lane's offers scrumptious chocolates and confections of all shapes, styles and flavors.

Discovery Park of America – Union City

Located in the middle of a field, Discovery Park of America in Union City consists of a 70,000 square-foot museum, gardens, and outdoor exhibition attraction seems to simply appear into sight. The area's natural history is told through a large aquarium, exhibits, and an interactive story of how an earthquake created Reelfoot Lake (feel the quake tremors yourself!). World history, from dinosaurs to cultural deities, is shown among the many rooms and turns of the museum. See aircraft from World War II, race cars and a knight's armor. Meander outside to walk through Japanese gardens, visit a century-old church and see the farm equipment from days gone by. 

Uncover even more unique things to do in West Tennessee that's fun for the whole family.