A railroad hub since the 1800s, Jackson is a classic Southern town with country cooking, moonshine distilleries and a Rockabilly Hall of Fame. From railroad memorabilia to wine tastings and famous cars, there’s never a dull moment in Jackson.

Things to do

Jackson is host to Rusty’s TV and Movie Car Museum, where films buffs love discovering actual vehicles from blockbusters such as “Batman”, “Blues Brothers”, “Back to the Future” and “Ghostbusters”. Head over to the International Rockabilly Hall of Fame to hear live rockabilly music and browse signed photographs from Elvis and Carl Perkins.

The N.C. and St. L. Depot and Railroad Museum features rail cars, a working model train track and an old caboose where you can have lunch. Explore Casey Jones Village, a tribute to the legendary railroad engineer. Check out the century-old barn and cotton gin, then get in a game of miniature golf before tucking into fried chicken at the Southern buffet.

Stroll the boardwalk at Cypress Grove Nature Park and visit the bird sanctuary to observe eagles, hawks and owls. In the downtown area, you can pick up some vintage treasures and antiques at The Vintage Market on Church Street.

Spend an afternoon tasting wine at Century Farm Winery or get a taste of small-batch blueberry and coconut moonshine at Samuel T. Bryant Distillery. Save your appetite for cheeseburgers at the iconic Little Rebel Drive-In before hitting The Tap Bar & Grill for live music, pool tables and 20 beers on tap.

Getting around

Local rental car agencies operate out of McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport, about a 10-minute drive from the city centre. You can also use city buses and taxis to get around.