Southaven, MS

About the City
Geography
Climate and Weather
Landmarks and Attractions
Transport
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Museums
Sport and Sporting Legends
Universities and Academic Institutions
Healthcare Institutions

Southaven is a vibrant and rapidly growing city in Mississippi, serving as the largest suburb of Memphis and offering a welcoming blend of Southern charm, family-friendly amenities, and convenient urban access.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Full Official Name: Southaven (English).
Administrative Role: Southaven is a principal city in the Memphis metropolitan area, though it is not a capital. It is the largest city in DeSoto County and serves as its primary commercial and residential hub .
Country and Region: The city is located in the United States, within the state of Mississippi. The state is known for its deep Southern heritage, as the birthplace of American blues music, and for its rich literary tradition .

Historical Names and Nicknames

Southaven is known by a couple of notable nicknames that reflect its location and state pride :

"The Top of Mississippi": This is the most common nickname, emphasizing its geographical position at the northernmost point of the state, right on the border with Tennessee.
"The Tip of the 'Sip": A more informal and playful version of "The Top of Mississippi," using a shorthand for "Mississippi."

Date of Foundation and Age

Southaven was officially incorporated on April 15, 1980 . Founded by renowned Memphis homebuilder Kemmons Wilson, who also started the Holiday Inn chain, the city began as a residential subdivision for workers just across the state line . As of 2026, Southaven is 46 years old.

Geographical Position and Coordinates

Geographic Coordinates: 34°58′08″N 90°00′40″W / 34.96889°N 90.01111°W .
Location: Southaven is situated in the northernmost part of Mississippi, directly bordering the city of Memphis, Tennessee. It lies on the flat plains of the Mississippi Delta region, approximately 14 miles (23 km) south of downtown Memphis and just 6 miles (10 km) southwest of Memphis International Airport . The area's hydrology is significantly influenced by the nearby Mississippi River .
Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 322 feet (98 m) above sea level .
Geographical Type: Southaven is a suburban city, characterized by residential neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and significant green spaces.

City Type and Economic Specialization

Southaven is primarily a residential suburb and a growing regional commercial center. Its economy is diversified, with key specializations including :

Retail and Commerce: The city is a major retail destination for northern Mississippi, anchored by large shopping centers like Tanger Outlets Southaven and Southaven Towne Center .
Healthcare: The Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto is one of the city's largest employers and a major healthcare provider for the region .
Logistics and Distribution: Due to its proximity to Memphis, a global logistics hub, and major interstates (I-55/I-69), Southaven is home to large distribution centers, including those for Amazon .
Entertainment and Tourism: The city attracts visitors with venues like the Landers Center (for concerts and events), the BankPlus Amphitheater, and its numerous parks, serving as a more affordable and family-friendly base for exploring the greater Memphis area .

Population and Demographics

Population: As of the 2020 census, Southaven had a population of 54,648 . Recent estimates suggest it continues to grow, surpassing 56,000 and making it the third-most populous city in Mississippi and the largest suburb of Memphis .
City Class: It is a mid-sized city and a principal city within its metropolitan area.
Demographic Features: Southaven is one of the fastest-growing cities in the southeastern United States, having tripled its population since incorporation . It is characterized by a mix of families and individuals, with a diverse and increasingly multicultural population .

"Visiting Card" of the City (In Brief)

Southaven is the welcoming "Top of Mississippi," offering the charm and hospitality of the South with the convenience and amenities of a major metropolitan area. Visitors are drawn to its excellent shopping, family-friendly parks, diverse culinary scene, and its strategic location as a peaceful, budget-friendly gateway to the excitement of nearby Memphis and the cultural riches of the Mississippi Delta .

Geography

Mountains and Ranges

The terrain in and around Southaven is generally flat, characteristic of the Mississippi Delta and the Gulf Coastal Plain. There are no mountains within the city limits. The closest significant elevation changes are found in the bluff lands east of Memphis, but Southaven itself is known for its level terrain, which is ideal for the walking and biking trails found in its parks .

Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)

Mississippi River: While not directly bordering the city, the mighty Mississippi River is the dominant hydrological feature of the region, located just a few miles to the west. It provides a vital water source and shapes the alluvial plain on which Southaven sits .
Arkabutla Lake: Located about 20 minutes west of Southaven, this reservoir is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it offers excellent opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife watching along its gentle, family-friendly trails .
City Park Lakes: Several of Southaven's parks, including Central Park and Snowden Grove Park, feature small lakes that are popular for catch-and-release fishing and adding to the scenic beauty .

Beaches and Coasts

As an inland city, Southaven has no natural coastline or ocean beaches. However, the "beach" experience is recreated in local parks with features like the splash pad at Saucier Park and the sandy shores of Arkabutla Lake provide a local alternative for water fun .

Deserts, Canyons, and Unique Landscapes

Southaven is not located near any deserts or canyons. The landscape is distinctly green, dominated by the flat, fertile farmlands and forests of the Mississippi Delta region.

National and Natural Parks

Arkabutla Lake (USACE Project): While not a National Park, this large reservoir and its surrounding lands offer many of the same recreational benefits, including camping, hiking, and water sports .
Mississippi River Trail (MRT): A segment of this long-distance biking and hiking trail passes through Southaven, offering scenic routes that connect to Memphis's more extensive trail network. It provides a unique way to experience the region's flat, open landscape .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Southaven has a humid subtropical climate, characteristic of the southeastern United States . This means the city experiences long, hot, and muggy summers, and mild to cool winters with occasional cold snaps. Precipitation is abundant and well-distributed throughout the year .

Average Temperatures by Month

Temperatures vary significantly between seasons .

Hottest Month: July, with an average high of 91°F (33°C) and an average low of 74°F (23°C) .
Coldest Month: January, with an average high of 49°F (9°C) and an average low of 31°F (-1°C) .
Seasonal Averages:
- Spring (Mar-May): Highs from 63°F to 81°F (17°C - 27°C)
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Highs from 88°F to 92°F (31°C - 33°C)
- Fall (Sep-Nov): Highs from 84°F down to 62°F (29°C - 17°C)
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Highs from 52°F to 55°F (11°C - 13°C)
Extreme Records: The record high temperature is 108°F (42°C), and the record low is -13°F (-25°C) .

Precipitation and Humidity

Average Annual Precipitation: Approximately 55 inches (1,400 mm), which is quite high .
Wettest Month: April, averaging 5.79 inches (147 mm) .
Driest Month: August, averaging around 2.3-3.0 inches (76 mm) .
Humidity: Summers are notably muggy, with average humidity levels often exceeding 80% .

Sunny Days and UV Index

Southaven enjoys a fair amount of sunshine, especially in late summer and early fall when skies are clearest . The UV index in summer can reach high levels, making sun protection necessary for outdoor activities.

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Southaven for pleasant weather are mid-to-late spring (late April to early June) and early fall (late August to mid-October) . During these periods, temperatures are mild, and humidity is lower, perfect for enjoying the city's extensive park system and outdoor attractions .

Spring (April-May): Ideal for seeing wildflowers, visiting Arkabutla Lake, and enjoying festivals. Daytime temperatures are comfortable, but this is also the wettest time of year .
Summer (June-August): Very hot and humid. Activities are best scheduled for the morning or evening, with afternoons best spent indoors at museums, shopping malls, or the Landers Center .
Fall (September-October): Another perfect window with crisp, sunny days. Excellent for hiking, biking on the Mississippi River Trail, and enjoying outdoor concerts .
Winter (November-February): Cool and can be windy. While some days are mild, it's the least predictable time for outdoor activities, though it's a good season to experience local indoor attractions and dining .

Landmarks and Attractions

Snowden Grove Park

This expansive park is the crown jewel of Southaven's park system. It is best known for its 17 baseball and softball fields, making it a premier destination for regional and national tournaments . Beyond sports, the park features :

BankPlus Amphitheater: A large outdoor venue hosting major concerts and community events.
Walking Trails: Paved trails perfect for jogging, walking, and cycling.
Snowden Grove Lake: A scenic lake popular for catch-and-release fishing.
Green Spaces: Expansive open lawns ideal for picnics and casual games.

Tanger Outlets Southaven

Opened in 2015, this is a major shopping destination for the region . Located near the intersection of I-55 and Church Road, it features over 70 brand-name outlet stores and several restaurants. Its presence has cemented Southaven's status as a retail hub, drawing shoppers from across the mid-South .

Landers Center

This multi-purpose arena and convention center is the heart of entertainment in Southaven. It hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, including :

Major concerts by national touring acts.
Family shows like Disney on Ice and monster truck rallies.
Sporting events.
Conventions and trade shows.
Community gatherings and expos.

Central Park

A 95-acre community park that serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike . Its main attractions include:

A scenic lake with a beautiful, illuminated fountain that puts on a show hourly in the evenings.
Walking paths and ample green space.
A popular playground and sports facilities. Its location away from the brightest city lights also makes it a surprisingly decent spot for stargazing on clear nights .

DeSoto County Museum

Located in nearby Hernando, this museum is a must-visit for those interested in the rich history of the region. It offers a deep dive into the area's past, from its Native American inhabitants through the Civil War era to its modern development as a Memphis suburb. The museum features interactive exhibits that are engaging for both adults and children .

Transport

Main Airports

Southaven is uniquely positioned for air travel, being just minutes from Memphis International Airport .

Memphis International Airport (MEM): Located only about 7-12 km (4-7 miles) north of Southaven's city limits, this is the primary airport for the region. It is a major hub for Delta Air Lines and offers extensive domestic and limited international flights .
- Distance: Approximately 6 miles (10 km) from Southaven's center .
- Access: Easily reachable via I-55 and Getwell Road. Many local hotels, like the Courtyard by Marriott, offer free shuttle service to and from the airport .

Other Airports

West Memphis Municipal Airport: A smaller airport in Arkansas, about 45 km (28 miles) west, primarily serving general aviation .

Main Railway Stations

While there is no passenger train station directly in Southaven, Amtrak serves the region via Memphis .

Memphis Central Station: Located about 23 km (14 miles) north in downtown Memphis, this historic station is served by Amtrak's City of New Orleans line, which runs between Chicago and New Orleans.

Sea and River Ports

Port of Memphis: One of the busiest inland ports in the United States, located on the Mississippi River in Memphis. It is a massive hub for cargo and barges but does not offer regular scheduled passenger service .

Public Transport System

Public transportation within Southaven is limited, and the city is largely car-dependent .

Ridesharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available in Southaven, offering a convenient way to get around town or to and from the airport. Uber even allows for rides to be scheduled up to 90 days in advance .
Car Rentals: Renting a car is the most common and practical way for visitors to explore Southaven and the surrounding region. Numerous rental agencies are available at Memphis International Airport and throughout the city .
Biking: Southaven has segments of the Mississippi River Trail, and its parks offer good routes for cycling, but a bike is not a primary means of transportation for covering longer distances across the city .

Main Highways and Roads

Southaven's growth and development are intrinsically linked to its excellent highway access .

Interstate 55 (I-55) / Interstate 69 (I-69): This major north-south interstate corridor is the city's main artery. It runs directly through Southaven, providing seamless connectivity to Memphis to the north and Jackson, Mississippi, to the south. I-69 was co-signed with I-55 in Southaven in 2007 .
Goodman Road (MS-302): This is the primary east-west commercial thoroughfare in Southaven, lined with shopping centers, restaurants, and businesses.
Getwell Road: Another key north-south road that connects Southaven to the Memphis International Airport and the city of Memphis.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Memphis-Style Barbecue

While Southaven has its own culinary gems, it is situated just across the state line from Memphis, Tennessee, a world-renowned capital of barbecue. The dominant local tradition is, without a doubt, Memphis-style BBQ, and Southaven offers some outstanding places to experience it . This style is characterized by slow-cooked, hickory-smoked pork, often served as pulled pork shoulder or fall-off-the-bone ribs. A distinctive local tradition is the pulled pork sandwich, typically topped with a tangy, mustard-based coleslaw directly on the meat, all served on a simple white bun .

One of the most iconic spots to experience this is Interstate Barbecue, founded by James L. Neely in Southaven. This restaurant was even named by USA Today as the best place in America for a pulled pork barbecue sandwich . The meat is cooked low and slow over hickory wood for about five hours and slathered with the family's famous secret sauce . For a true taste, try the "sample platter," which includes tender pork, beef ribs, sausage, brisket, and even barbecue spaghetti .

Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken is another must-try establishment. While not barbecue, it represents another pillar of Southern cooking. Backed by over 60 years of experience, Gus's serves simple, no-frills fried chicken that is a longtime local favorite. The exact recipe is a closely guarded family secret, but the result is chicken that's tender and juicy on the inside with a crispy, spicy golden-brown crust .

Southern Comfort Food and Seafood

The culinary scene in Southaven is deeply rooted in hearty Southern and Cajun-inspired cooking.

Dale's Restaurant: Established in 1966, Dale's is an institution serving generous, homemade All-American cuisine. It's the place to go for classic dishes like Lillie's famous fried green tomatoes or the Elysian Southaven hamburger, sautéed with onions, green peppers, and mushrooms .
The Boiling Point: Open since 2000, this restaurant specializes in seafood with a spicy Cajun and Creole twist. Chef Lee Mitchell prepares unique appetizers like Cajun alligator tail and mains like Southern fried catfish, sourced from the local Pride of the Pond fishery . Their signature oysters, stuffed with lobster and crab meat under a creamy cheese sauce, are a standout .

Unique Dining Concepts

Southaven also offers eclectic dining experiences that add to its culinary diversity.

The Lost Pizza Company: This spot describes its experience as a full sensory attack, offering house-made crusts and sauces with creative toppings. It's a fun, casual place to enjoy a cold beer and unique pizza combinations .
Maria's Cantina: For "Mexican with a twist," Maria's serves traditional Mexican cuisine that explores alternative flavors and new fusions. Try the lime-tequila chicken nachos or the Veracruz-style mahi mahi, and pair it with one of their eight signature margaritas .
Haru: This contemporary Japanese restaurant brings high-quality sushi and traditional hibachi-grilled dishes to the suburbs. The atmosphere is sleek, with an open kitchen and an extensive list of wines, sakes, and creative cocktails .

Fine Dining and Local Specialties

For a more upscale experience, Wadford's Grill and Bar is a standout. Located in an elegant neighborhood, it serves fresh steaks and seafood in a setting of industrial elegance with high ceilings and exposed ductwork. It's known for its famous crab cakes and is unique as the only remaining cigar bar in Mississippi, featuring a relaxing cigar room .

Mesquite Chop House derives its name from the mesquite wood it burns to grill its steaks and chops, imparting a unique, delicious flavor. Sides like sautéed asparagus and crispy sweet potato fries complement the meal perfectly, all within a cozy Southern ambiance .

Museums

Museums in Neighboring Memphis

Southaven itself has a local museum, Direct MS, which showcases the rich history and culture of the region through exhibits on local art, history, and community stories . However, for world-class museums, residents and visitors alike look to nearby Memphis, Tennessee, just a short drive away. Memphis is a true "museum city," particularly renowned for its deep connections to music and American history .

Graceland: The sprawling campus dedicated to Elvis Presley is a must-visit. The main attraction is Elvis's home, with its wildly decorated interior, but the complex also includes exhibits like "Dressed to Rock," featuring his iconic jumpsuits, and a memorial garden where Elvis and his family are laid to rest .
The National Civil Rights Museum: Built around the historic Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, this museum powerfully chronicles the struggle for civil rights in America. Visitors can see a replica of Rosa Parks' bus and even peek into the actual room where Dr. King stayed .
Sun Studio: Known as the "Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll," this small but legendary studio is where icons like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King recorded. A live guide takes you through the building, and you can stand on the very spot where music history was made .
Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Built on the site of the original Stax Records studio, this terrific museum tells the story of the legendary label. Highlights include Isaac Hayes' gold-trimmed Cadillac, a recreation of Studio A with original instruments, and a fun, interactive dance floor .
Memphis Rock 'N Soul Museum: Located near Beale Street, this museum offers a comprehensive overview of Memphis' musical legacy, from rural country to 70s rock. The audio tour and numerous listening stations make for an engaging experience .

Sport and Sporting Legends

A Hub for Youth and Amateur Sports

Southaven and the surrounding DeSoto County have positioned themselves as a premier destination for youth sports, featuring several large, well-maintained complexes .

Snowden Grove Park: The centerpiece of Southaven's sports scene, this park boasts 17 state-of-the-art baseball fields and hosts major events like the Dizzy Dean Baseball World Series and Perfect Game tournaments each summer. Beyond baseball, the park also features tennis and pickleball courts, seven full-size soccer fields, a miniature golf course, fishing ponds, and walking trails .
Greenbrook Park: Also in Southaven, this park is specifically developed for youth and travel softball tournaments. With eight pristine fields and indoor practice facilities, it hosts the Dizzy Dean Softball World Series .

Major Sporting Venues Nearby

For professional and large-scale collegiate sports, residents head to Memphis. The city is home to the Memphis Grizzlies of the NBA, who play at the FedExForum . This arena, located in the heart of the entertainment district, is a versatile venue capable of seating 18,500 for basketball games, concerts, and other events .

Baseball fans enjoy the AutoZone Park, consistently named one of the "best ballparks in the Minors." Home to the Memphis Redbirds, the stadium offers a classic downtown ballpark experience . Memphis is also a stop on the PGA Tour, hosting the annual FedEx St. Jude Championship, the first event of the FedExCup Playoffs .

The Landers Center

Just 15 miles south of downtown Memphis, the Landers Center in Southaven is a major multi-purpose arena. It is the home of the Mississippi RiverKings of the Southern Professional Hockey League. With a capacity of 10,000, the arena also hosts concerts, family shows, and other sporting events like basketball, rodeos, and wrestling. The complex also includes a grand convention hall and a 400-seat theater .

Universities and Academic Institutions

The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)

Southaven is home to the DeSoto Regional Campus of the University of Mississippi . This campus extends the reach of Mississippi's flagship university, providing higher education opportunities directly to the residents of North Mississippi. It offers a variety of degree programs and courses, making it a key educational hub in the region.

Higher Education in Neighboring Memphis

Being part of a major metropolitan area, Southaven is also close to the diverse higher education landscape of Memphis.

Rhodes College: A prestigious private liberal arts college founded in 1848, Rhodes is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus, featuring Collegiate Gothic architecture. It offers over 50 majors, minors, and interdisciplinary programs .
University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC): While not an undergraduate institution, UTHSC is a major academic health center in Memphis. It is affiliated with several major hospitals in the city, including Methodist University Hospital, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, and the Memphis VA Medical Center, serving as a primary teaching site for its medical, dental, nursing, and pharmacy students .

Healthcare Institutions

Baptist Memorial Hospital – DeSoto

The primary healthcare facility in Southaven is Baptist Memorial Hospital – DeSoto. It is a 339-bed short-term acute care hospital and is part of the larger Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation . Located at 7601 Southcrest Parkway, the hospital offers a full range of services to the community, including an emergency department, inpatient and outpatient surgery, a coronary care unit, neonatal nursery, obstetrics, and physical therapy, among many others .

Major Medical Centers in Memphis

For highly specialized care, including advanced trauma and pediatric services, residents of Southaven have access to the extensive medical resources of nearby Memphis.

Regional One Health: Established in 1829, it is the oldest health system in Tennessee and serves as the only Level 1 trauma center in the region. It also has the region's only accredited burn center .
Le Bonheur Children's Hospital: A teaching affiliate of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Le Bonheur is consistently ranked as one of the nation's "Best Children's Hospitals" by U.S. News & World Report. It is the only Level 1 pediatric trauma center in the Mid-South .
Methodist University Hospital: A 617-bed facility, it is the principal adult private teaching hospital for the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and is known for its large solid organ transplant program .
Baptist Memorial Hospital – Memphis: The flagship hospital of the same system that runs the Southaven hospital, this facility is a major tertiary care referral center. It was a transplant pioneer in the region, performing the first open-heart surgery in 1960 and the first local heart transplant in 1985. It is also home to the Baptist Heart Institute .
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: While not listed in the search results, it is impossible to mention Memphis healthcare without noting St. Jude, a world-renowned pediatric treatment and research facility focused on catastrophic childhood diseases. Its presence further cements Memphis as a global healthcare destination.