Southaven

Just a couple of miles south of the Tennessee state line, Southaven is known as the "Top of Mississippi."

But this nickname is based on more than mere geography. Southaven is a special place. Excellent schools, active churches, superb public services and an amazing sense of community embrace Southaven in a world removed from metropolitan hassles.
    
Whenever Southaven residents feel the need to leave their relaxed neighborhoods, though, the big-city amenities of Memphis are minutes away.
    
Follow your ears to the hopping blues clubs, and in no time you'll be on Beale Street. While your toes are tapping, stop by Graceland and tour Elvis Presley's famed mansion.
Art, scientific and historical museums, as well as cultural events, are easy to come by. And Memphis is revered far and wide for its fine Southern - and cosmopolitan - cuisine.
    
When you're really ready to live it up, it's less than a half-hour drive to the casinos in Tunica County, Mississippi. > Blackjack, roulette, slots - they've got it all. You can also enjoy delicious dining and great shows including the likes of Jay Leno, Johnny Cash and Ray Charles.
    
This isn't to say you can't have a blast in Southaven. Recognized as one of the top 20 events in the Southeast, the annual Springfest brings upwards of 90,000 fun-seekers to town. A parade, midway rides, live music and the biggest barbecue cook-off in Mississippi keep the party going for three solid days.
    
Lakeview, a well-stocked oxbow lake, keeps fishermen happy. Arkabutla Lake is known for its three-pound crappie, and sportsmen hunt its wildlife management area for deer, wild turkey, duck, quail and rabbit. Arkabutla also has plenty of camping and hiking, not to mention the best sailing winds south of Chicago.
    
Northwest Community College and the University of Mississippi both maintain campuses in Southaven - providing excellent continuing education opportunities.

Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto is one of the region's best medical facilities. And a well-supported police force has become a national role model, reassuring the peaceful sense of security felt in Southaven.

Read what people like yourself have to say about Southaven:

When retirement rolled around, Chuck and Louise Williams left Denver for Southaven.

Mississippi Living: Why Southaven?

The Williams: We were both born in Mississippi, so we were already fond of the state. But whenever we came back to visit family, the genuine friendliness of the people here impressed us even more. Being so close to Memphis, Southaven seemed like the perfect spot to enjoy the charms of small-town life and the convenience of a big city.

Mississippi Living: What do you like most about Southaven?

The Williams: Of course, the people are terrific. We've really made some great friends. There are also plenty of great stores and shops in the area, so we like to get groups together and go on shopping sprees.

Mississippi Living: What's new in Southaven?

The Williams: A lot of growth. The whole county is booming right now. We've also got some first-class medical facilities, so we'll be in tip-top shape to tackle all the great new restaurants and stores that keep popping up.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Sherry Bennett
City of Southaven Senior Services
3335 Pine Tar Alley
Southaven, MS 38672
Phone: 662-895-1138
877-867-6367
Website: www.southaven.org
Email: sbennet@southaven.org