Nestled in the northwest corner of Tennessee near the banks of Reelfoot Lake and the Mississippi River, Tiptonville is home to Tennessee's only large natural lake created by massive earthquakes in 1811 and 1812. See Freedom Silo, a 90' tall concrete grain silo painted with American flag and bald eagle which celebrates the patriotic spirit of our area which is home to over 90 eagle nests. Check out the Dairy Queen which is Tennessee's oldest and serving old traditional favorites. Boyette's Dining Room has been serving traditional catfish dinners since 1921. The Strand Theatre is Tennessee's oldest active movie theatre featuring currently released movies. Lake Isom Natural Wildlife Refuge is the oldest wildlife refuge in Tennessee being established in 1938. Reelfoot Lake is known as a premier fishing and waterfowl hunting lake.

Grandad Bluff has become not only a destination point for thousands, but also a symbol of this great Coulee Region. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse.

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Morning
Begin at Grandad Bluff (La Crosse) for sweeping valley views.
Drive to Kinstone (Fountain City) and explore the megalithic stone circle and labyrinth.
Midday
Continue north along the WI side to Maiden Rock Bluff (Stockholm), known for eagle sightings and stunning cliffs.
Turn back south and cross into Minnesota in Nelson, then head to Winona to see Sugar Loaf Bluff.
Afternoon
Head to Great River Bluffs State Park for an afternoon hike and overlook.
Evening
Optional: Take a short detour and cruise the Apple Blossom Scenic Drive in La Crescent, MN for even more beautiful views – this is especially recommended if you are visiting the area during early to mid-May when the apple trees are fully in bloom.
Return south and finish with dinner in La Crosse.
Catch the sunset at Grandad Bluff while overlooking the city and river valley.
Photo Credit: Scott Schaub Photography

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My best place to mini vacation is the Isle Casino in Davenport it's right on the river and also the walking path which is many miles and also the river taxi is there to take you to Illinois.

Fascinating collection of "Blues" memorabilia in Tunica, MS. The Mississippi Delta flat lands were home to the likes of B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Robert Johnson, Sonny Boy Williamson and many others.

Celebrate America 250 at Discovery Park of America

Discovery Park of America in Union City, Tenn., is joining communities across the state in commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence. Supported in part by a Tennessee America 250 Grant, Discovery Park will offer a year of exhibits and programming that highlight the people and stories that helped shape Tennessee and the nation.

Special Exhibition

David Wright: Patriots to Pioneers — The First Tennessee Volunteers
June 30, 2026 – Feb. 1, 2027

This exhibition showcases original paintings and prints by historical artist David Wright, including new works created with the Tennessee Daughters of the American Revolution. The collection honors more than 370 men, women and children whose service during the American Revolution helped lay the foundations of Tennessee.

Independence Weekend Celebration

July 3–4, 2026
10 a.m.–4 p.m. (extended hours until 7 p.m.)
$10 General Admission

Discovery Park’s largest patriotic celebration features:

Live music, including a July 3 performance by country artist Mo Pitney (included with admission)

Living history demonstrations and reenactors throughout the heritage park

Craftspeople, storytellers and family activities

The season finale of Rhythm on the Rails on Friday night

About Mo Pitney

Mo Pitney is known for his neotraditional country sound and songs rooted in faith, family and authenticity. His style connects with audiences of all ages and adds a powerful musical highlight to the Independence Weekend festivities.

Music Videos:

Boy & a Girl Thing

Old Home Place

Country

Ain’t Bad for a Good Ol’ Boy

Add the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) at Discovery Park in Muscatine, Iowa to your bucket list. Here’s why:
1. It is completely FREE to enjoy and open daily to the public! Hours are Mon-Fri from 8:00 am -4:30 pm; Sat -Sun from noon – 4:00 pm. Closed most holidays.
2. View and learn about live animals up-close, you may even get the chance to hold one on your visit! Snakes, turtles, fish, raptors, and more!
3. The ELC features over 100 animal mounts so you can see the size, color, and features of common Iowa wildlife who thrive along the Mississippi River!
4. The ELC is located within the 100-acre Discovery Park. Also located in the park is the Muscatine Arboretum, the Old Barn, two stocked ponds for fishing, and a few miles of hard-surfaced trails for walking, biking, or stroller pushing.

Mississippi River headwaters at Lake Itasca State Park in Minnesota. It’s either your begin or end of the Great River Road national route.