Selmer TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Selmer, Tennessee.
1. Rockabilly Murals
MUSICAL HERITAGE ON DISPLAY
The Rockabilly Murals are a famous attraction located in downtown Selmer that celebrate the area's rich musical heritage. These vibrant artworks on the town square showcase the influence of rockabilly music in the region and serve as a popular photo opportunity for visitors. The murals are part of Tennessee's Music Pathways program that highlights the state's diverse music genres.
2. McNairy County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The McNairy County Museum showcases the town's history and heritage through various exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore collections that tell the story of Selmer's development from a small farming community to the thriving county seat it is today. The museum provides insight into local culture, historical events, and notable residents who have shaped the region.
3. The Latta
ARTS AND CULTURE CENTER
The Latta, also known as the McNairy County Visitors and Cultural Center, is a local landmark building in downtown Selmer. This cultural hub boasts a 200-seat theater, meeting spaces, art gallery, and state-of-the-art lighting and sound system for performances and events. The Latta serves as the home of Arts in McNairy since 2012, hosting various arts programs and cultural activities for the community.
4. McNairy County Courthouse
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The McNairy County Courthouse stands as a stunning example of neoclassical architecture built in 1907. Located in Selmer's historic downtown area, this impressive building serves as the center of local government and a testament to the town's history. The courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and continues to be one of the most recognizable landmarks in the county.
5. Selmer Historic District
PRESERVED TOWN HERITAGE
The Selmer Historic District features several beautifully restored 19th-century buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can stroll along sidewalks lined with quaint storefronts, admiring the architecture and experiencing the town's nostalgic atmosphere. The historic district represents Selmer's evolution from its early days as a railroad town to the charming community it is today.
6. Selmer Golf & Country Club
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
The Selmer Golf & Country Club offers a relaxing golf experience in a picturesque setting. This local course provides both challenging play for experienced golfers and a welcoming atmosphere for beginners looking to improve their game. The club serves as a social hub for the community while providing quality recreation in McNairy County.
7. Smokey Joe's BBQ
AUTHENTIC TENNESSEE BARBECUE
Smokey Joe's BBQ is a beloved dining establishment offering authentic Tennessee barbecue to locals and visitors alike. The restaurant specializes in slow-smoked meats prepared in traditional Southern style, earning positive reviews for its flavorful dishes and friendly service. Smokey Joe's represents the rich barbecue heritage that Tennessee is famous for throughout the region.
8. Pappy John's Original Barbecue
LOCAL BARBECUE FAVORITE
Pappy John's Original Barbecue is a popular dining spot serving up delicious American-style barbecue in a casual setting. Known for its affordable prices and authentic flavor, this restaurant has become a favorite among both residents and travelers passing through Selmer. Pappy John's embodies the Southern barbecue tradition that makes West Tennessee a destination for food enthusiasts.
9. The Rockabilly Cafe
MUSIC-THEMED DINING EXPERIENCE
The Rockabilly Cafe offers a unique dining experience themed around the musical heritage that Selmer is known for. This charming eatery serves classic American fare in a nostalgic atmosphere that celebrates the rockabilly music that once flourished in the region. Visitors can enjoy good food while immersing themselves in the cultural history that makes Selmer special.
10. Tennessee Law Enforcement Memorial
HONORING FALLEN OFFICERS
The Tennessee Law Enforcement Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to officers who have fallen in the line of duty. This memorial site connects to the legacy of Sheriff Buford Pusser, a legendary local law enforcement figure who gained national recognition. The memorial serves as an important place of reflection and remembrance for the community and visitors interested in law enforcement history.
11. Trail of Music Legends
MUSICAL HERITAGE TOUR
The Trail of Music Legends guides visitors through sites celebrating McNairy County's rich musical history. This self-guided tour connects various locations that highlight local musicians and their contributions to Tennessee's diverse music scene. The trail is part of the broader Tennessee Music Pathways program that showcases the state's important role in American music history.
12. Broomcorn Festival
ANNUAL CULTURAL CELEBRATION
The Broomcorn Festival is a cherished annual event that celebrates local heritage and craftsmanship in Selmer. This community gathering features traditional demonstrations, music performances, local food, and artisan crafts that highlight the region's cultural traditions. The festival brings together residents and visitors to experience the unique character and hospitality of McNairy County.
13. Shiloh National Military Park
CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD
Shiloh National Military Park preserves the site of the Civil War's first major battle in the Western Theater, located near Selmer. This historic battleground offers visitors a chance to explore well-preserved grounds, monuments, and a national cemetery while learning about this pivotal moment in American history. The park's interpretive center provides educational exhibits and programs that bring the battle's significance to life for modern visitors.
14. Los Aztecas Mexican Restaurant
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
Los Aztecas Mexican Restaurant brings authentic Mexican flavors to the heart of Selmer. This affordable dining establishment offers a diverse menu of traditional dishes in a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to families and casual diners. Los Aztecas provides a taste of international cuisine that complements the Southern fare more commonly found throughout the region.
15. Pat's Cafe
CLASSIC AMERICAN DINER
Pat's Cafe embodies the classic American diner experience in downtown Selmer. This local establishment serves hearty breakfast and lunch options in a nostalgic setting that reflects small-town charm and hospitality. Pat's has become a gathering spot for locals and a discovery for visitors seeking an authentic taste of daily life in this Tennessee community.