Things to Do, Places to Go, and People to See in Jackson, TN

Jackson and the surrounding area offer a rich tapestry of family history, vibrant culture, and a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages. As the home of Lane College, Jackson holds a significant place in the educational history of the region. Founded in 1882 by one of the nation’s early Black church denominations—originally named the Colored Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church in America, now known as the Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church—the college was established to provide educational opportunities to newly freed individuals after the Civil War.

Jackson has shaped the lives of many influential individuals. Gil Scott-Heron, renowned musician, author, and poet, spent his formative years in the city and was among the first African American students to integrate Tigrett Middle School. In recognition of his legacy, a mural was recently unveiled in downtown Jackson. Other notable Jacksonians include:

· Football Players: Too Tall Jones, Fred Brown Lane, Jr, Al Wilson, Sylvester Hicks, Jabarri Greer, Jacoby Rashi'd Jones, Edward Williams, Trey Smith

· Thomas Harris: Author of the bestseller The Silence of the Lambs, born in Jackson

· Joe Hunter: Pianist and member of The Funk Brothers studio band, who contributed to many Motown hits in the 1960s

· Luther Ingram: Singer

· Van Jones: Environmental advocate, civil rights activist, and lawyer, born in Jackson

· Denise LaSalle: Blues singer and recognized as the Queen of the Blues, resident and business owner in Jackson

· Wink Martindale: Game show host

· Carl Perkins: Singer and longtime Jackson resident; the Civic Center bears his name

· Isaac Burton Tigrett: Co-founder of the Hard Rock Cafe chain of restaurants

· John Lee Curtis Williamson: Blues harmonica player, widely known as Sonny Boy Williamson, born in Jackson

Jackson hosts several annual events that celebrate its diverse heritage and vibrant community spirit. The 36th Annual African Street Festival is a highlight, bringing together residents and visitors over Labor Day weekend from September 4 to September 6 at the T.R. White Sportsplex (304 North Hays Avenue). Organized by The Society for African American Cultural Awareness (SAACA), the festival features live music, arts and crafts for sale, and delicious food from local vendors. Admission is free, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities.

Another popular event is the Hub City Flea Market,held at Fairgrounds Park (800 S Highland Avenue), just a mile south of downtown on Highway 45. The market is open to visitors on Friday (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM), Saturday (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM), and Sunday (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM), offering a weekend full of shopping and exploration.

Jackson and its surroundings boast unique historic sites and museums for those interested in local history and culture. At the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center in Brownsville, TN (121 Sunny Hill Cv), visitors can learn about Tina Turner’s roots, explore her childhood schoolhouse, and view memorabilia, costumes, and gold records. A notable feature is the 10-foot bronze statue of Tina Turner, unveiled at Heritage Park near Carver High School on September 27, 2025. The statue captures Turner mid-performance, complete with her iconic hairstyle and microphone.

The Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum (30 Casey Jones Lane, Jackson) honors the legendary railroad engineer. Guests can watch a short film about Casey Jones, tour his historic home, and take photos with a 35-ton locomotive modeled after engine 382. Children are welcome to climb aboard and ring the bell. The museum operates Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday, 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Admission is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors (60+), $8 for children ages 4–10, and free for children 3 and under. Field trips are $6 per child, and group rates are $10 per ticket, with group reservations recommended for parties of 20 or more. Discounts are available for school and senior groups with proper identification, and tickets are sold at the entrance during operating hours. The Old Country Store restaurant is conveniently located on site for dining.

The Alex Haley Museum (535 Haley Avenue, Henning, TN) welcomes visitors Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last tour offered at 3:30 PM. Group tours for 15 or more are available by arrangement on Sundays, subject to staff availability. The museum is closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. General admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors (60+), and $8 for children. For groups of 15 or more, rates are $9 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $7 for children.

Families will find plenty of engaging activities in Jackson. Safari Park (618 Conley Road, Alamo, TN) offers an interactive adventure for all ages, open Monday through Saturday (gates open at 10:00 AM, last car admitted at 4:00 PM, closing at 5:00 PM) and Sunday (gates open at 12:00 PM, last car admitted at 4:00 PM, closing at 5:00 PM). Admission is $24 for adults, $16 for children ages 2–12, and free for children 1 and under. Feed cups are sold for $3 each or four for $10. Prices include tax, parking is free, and both cash and major credit cards are accepted (with a 3.75% surcharge for credit card payments). Tickets must be purchased on site, as online sales are not available.

For more indoor fun, the Jackson Bowling and Fun Center(59 Bowling Dr., Jackson, TN) offers bowling, skating, go-karts, mini-golf, and an arcade, making it a favorite spot for families.

Jackson’s local breweries and distilleries provide unique experiences for adults. 

Hub City Brewing (250 W Main Street, Jackson) is the city’s first local brewery, housed in a historic building. Visitors can enjoy handcrafted brews and a spacious 14,000 square foot play area with bowling, cornhole, darts, giant beer pong, video games, beach volleyball, live music, comfortable couches, and board games—making it a lively local gathering spot.

Samuel T Bryant Distillery, located half a mile off Exit 74 on I-40 in Jackson, offers over 20 products, including moonshine, whiskey, agave spirit, vodka, rum, grappa, brandy, cream liquors, and gin. Guests aged 21 and over can enjoy four complimentary spirit samples. The distillery also grows CBD hemp on-site and sells its flowers, gummies, and more.

Century Farm Winery (1548 Lower Brownsville Road, Jackson, TN) is a family-owned business with more than 150 years of history. The winery boasts a broad selection of wines, including dry reds, semi-sweet reds, whites, blushes, and fruit wines. Guests can try seasonal specialties such as mulled wine and sangria slushes. Operating hours are Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Sunday, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Crown Winery, established in 2009 at 3638 E Mitchell Street, Humboldt, TN, features a welcoming tasting room where visitors can sample a variety of wines in a beautiful setting.

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