Jackson: Your Summer Guide

Halfway between the blues of Memphis and the country music of Nashville lies Jackson, a charming city rich in music history. It’s the home of Carl Perkins, and it’s where country music and rock ’n’ roll collided to become rockabilly — the music that changed everything. There’s no better way to appreciate Jackson’s musical heritage than to revel in it yourself, so here are a few can’t-miss attractions to experience the music up close.

Things to do in Jackson, Tennessee

Amphitheater at the Market (AMP)

Discover local music at Jackson’s open-air music venue, Amphitheater at the Market during one of the 11 free concerts this season. AMP has been named runner-up Best Venue by the Jackson Sun Readers’ Choice Awards, and with a wide range of music from rock ‘n’ roll to rockabilly, it’s no wonder this summer concert series is popular with locals and tourists alike. Pack a picnic or grab a bite to eat at one of the food trucks nearby, then sit back and enjoy the music under the stars.

The Old Country Store at Casey Jones Village

You could easily spend an entire afternoon in Casey Jones Village, so come early to explore this historical hotspot. Visit the Shoppes and the Home & Railroad Museum that tells the story of the famous conductor Casey Jones, who once lived in Jackson and was immortalized in the traditional song “The Ballad of Casey Jones.” While you’re here, enjoy a tasty Southern meal at the Old Country Store. You might be even able to catch live music at the Casey Jones Amphitheatre, an outdoor venue which often hosts festivals, community events, concerts and more.

Legends of Tennessee Music Museum at The Carnegie

Stories say the first rock music was written and played in Jackson long before it was ever recorded in Memphis. Today, you can revisit those iconic music moments at the Legends of Tennessee Music Museum, originally opened as the first public library in Jackson in 1903 with partial funding from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The museum is carefully curated with priceless music memorabilia from Jackson icons like rockabilly pioneer Carl Perkins and Hard Rock Cafe founder Issac Tigrett, who made Jackson the home of the first Hard Rock Cafe in America.

Century Farm Winery

Enjoy the quiet ambiance of Century Farm Winery with an afternoon of wine tasting, enjoying the patio and a walk among the vines. Taste the award-winning wine made in Jackson 10 a.m. Mondays to Saturdays and noon Sundays. You can try a variety of wines including dry, semi-sweet, sweet, fruit, sparkling and ports. Try three for free or eight for $5. You can also enjoy mulled wine and wine slushies as well as domestic and craft beers.

Rusty's TV & Movie Car Museum

With over 50 iconic cars, trucks, motorcycles and movie props, Rusty's TV & Movie Car Museum is a must-see for the car and film enthusiast. This fun museum is full of cars that were used in your favorite shows and can only be seen here. From the Jurassic Park jeep to the Transformers Bumblebee Camaro and even Ecto 1 from Ghostbusters, you could spend hours admiring this extensive collection.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Jackson, Tennessee

Doe's Eat Place

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Doe's Eat Place, located in a converted Greyhound bus station in downtown Jackson. Not only is the place full of history, but you can enjoy delicious food from steaks to pasta, homemade seafood gumbo, hot tameles, dessert and kid-friendly options. The bar has an extensive menu of beers and cocktails. Enjoy live music and a gentle breeze thanks to the retractable garage doors, open when weather permits. 

Skillet Junction Restaurant

Start the day off right at Skillet Junction Restaurant. The brunch spot offers delicious pancakes, waffles, French toast (cognac cream Brulee French toast, anyone?), sliders, desserts and more. Try the chicken salad, shrimp & grits, country fried steak or one of their colorful salads. 

Peppermint Addie & Co.

Started by 14-year-old, Addison Richmond in 2021, Peppermint Addie & Co. is a sweet shop full of hand-dipped ice cream and other treats like homemade candy and cotton candy. Enjoy fun ice cream flavors like guava passionfruit, lemon poppy, pistachio and classic chocolate, vanilla and strawberry. 

Wherever you decide to stop, if you’re a music fan, you’ll find plenty to love in Jackson. In fact, Jackson and nearby cities in West Tennessee average around 40 live music events in a weekend. To make sure you don’t miss any of the action, check the calendar before you get there. Or, stay up to date by signing up for Jackson’s live music newsletter.