Southaven, Mississippi offers families plenty of ways to have fun and make memories together. From outdoor adventures and sports to cultural attractions and entertainment, there is something for everyone in this northern Mississippi city. Families can enjoy many affordable activities as well that allow for quality bonding time.
The highlights in this 3820-word article include a dozen of the most popular and highly rated family-friendly activities and destinations within the area. A mix of parks, splash pads, mini-golf options, restaurants, museums, a zoo, and more make up this family bucket list for Southaven. All locations and venues discussed are kid-approved and parent-approved based on consistent 5-star ratings and reviews.
Each section provides details on what makes the activity or destination well-suited and enjoyable for all ages as well as specifics such as pricing, seasonal hours, age ranges accommodation, and what to expect. Photos, historical facts, and tips for getting the most out of the visit are also included throughout the article.
1. Snowden Grove Park and Amphitheater
One of the most popular outdoor attractions for families is Snowden Grove Park and Amphitheater located on Tomlinson Way. This expansive green space stretches over 9 acres and provides plenty of room for kids to burn off energy. From playgrounds to a splash pad and walking trails that wind through the trees, fresh air and exercise come easy here.
The playground features a variety of equipment perfect for all ages from toddlers to older kids. Climbing structures scaled to size for little ones and more daring larger playscapes thrill the big kids. For adults, it’s an opportune spot to relax on one of the many park benches while watching the youngsters romp and play while getting some energy out.
When Southaven heats up in the summer months, the Splash Pad provides hours of entertainment for kids who want to cool off. This zero-depth water park has fountains squirting streams of water straight up from the ground as well as buckets that fill and dump chilled water on those playing below. There’s plenty of space for the whole family to join in on the soaking fun to beat the summer swelter. It’s budget-friendly family entertainment at just $3 per person for a full day of access. Season passes are also available.
In addition to the playground and splash pad fun, the park also has a .6-mile walking trail that winds through lush shade trees, perfect for leisurely family strolls. Bring the stroller for little ones, scooters for kids with wheels, or just enjoy a walk and talk together.
The park’s amphitheater plays host to many family-centric events throughout spring and summer like kids camps, concerts, outdoor movies, athletic events, church gatherings, and more. It’s a great spot to lay out a picnic blanket or set up lawn chairs and enjoy everything from youth chorus performances to holiday celebrations.
With so much fun to be had, Snowden Grove Park and Amphitheater is definitely a must-stop for families visiting Southaven.
2. Southaven Skateland Roller Rink
For some good old-fashioned family fun, Southaven Skateland can’t be beat. This traditional roller skating rink has been providing smiles and memories for over 28 years. Families flock here to enjoy time together gliding across the smooth wooden rink. It’s also a great spot for birthday parties and group gatherings.
Southaven Skateland has hours dedicated to family fun times as well as adults only skates, giving families plenty of flexibility to find time that suits their schedule. Rental skates are very affordable, ranging from $2.50 for kids sizes to just $4 for adults. Helmets and other protective gear are also available to keep little daredevils safe.
In addition to open skating sessions, Southaven Skateland offers skating lessons for kids as well as adults. Trained professionals teach beginners how to keep their balance and feel comfortable rolling across the floor. Lessons run just $5 each for kids and $7 per session for adults. Family package deals are also available, making it economical to get the whole gang up to speed on wheels.
When a break is needed from all the skating fun, Southaven’s arcade area has lots of hands-on entertainment options. Kids of all ages enjoy trying their hand at claw machines, racing games, virtual experiences, and shooting basketballs. The arcade makes for great family bonding too since multiple people can join in together at many of the games.
Affordable prices make Southaven Skateland especially popular for birthday parties. Various packages come complete with invitations and snacks at per person rates averaging $9-$11 per guest. The staff takes care of setup, serving food and cake, plus party favors so parents can focus solely on celebrating their child.
With so much to keep people of all ages entertained for a few hours, Southaven Skateland is a fantastic option for family fun together. Half priced admission on Wednesdays makes it even more budget-friendly.
3. BankPlus Amphitheater
Nestled next to the Landers Center, the BankPlus Amphitheater can seat over 7,000 people for concerts, performances, graduations, and other community events. While most notably used for musical entertainment, many family friendly shows also happen at this popular Southaven venue.
Free movie nights allow families to grab a spot on the expansive lawn area to enjoy films on the large screen. Concessions stands with traditional treats like popcorn, candy, and soda make it feel just like going to the cinema. Previous family movie selections have included The Incredibles, Moana, Sing, and more.
Other kid favorites like Paw Patrol and Disney princesses also take the stage periodically for afternoon shows. Families can sing and dance along with the costumed characters during high energy musical performances. Ticket prices are typically $10-30.
Since it shares grounds with the Landers Center, the BankPlus Amphitheater works jointly with them on some promotions like kids eat free deals when tickets for certain shows are purchased by parents. For families watching their budgets, this perk makes live entertainment more manageable.
With plenty of overflow grass seating available beyond the reserved chairs, families can easily stake out space for blanket and chair setups. Kids are able to roam a bit more freely than in stuffy indoor theaters. Plus the outdoor atmosphere and large crowds lend to a festive environment families love.
By offering family programming among its diverse lineup of acts, the BankPlus Amphitheater provides engaging entertainment options perfect for parents and kids.
4. Flip Flip Ding Roller Skating Rink
For rolling good times, Flip Flip Ding is a must-do for families visiting Southaven. As one of the premier roller skating rinks in DeSoto County, Flip Flip Ding has been serving up smiles to kids and adults alike since the 1970’s.
Their modern, roomy wooden rink floor is a perfect surface for gliding along on skates smoothly and safely. The full service rink provides a range of affordable skate rentals options to get the whole family outfitted to participate. Protective gear like helmets, knee pads, and wrist guards are also available for rent or purchase.
Fun lights, music choices ranging from pop tunes to classic skating songs, arcade games and even laser tag make Flip Flip Ding an exciting destination. Parents can enjoy a reprieve while kids zip around under twinkling disco balls at Friday kids skate nights. Food and drink concessions like pizza, corn dogs, and slushies complete the experience.
Flip Flip Ding offers skating lessons for both kids and adults. Professional trainers teach beginners how to balance and feel comfortable rolling along starting at just $5 per session. Families can schedule lessons together to gain confidence as a crew.
Birthday celebrations are a specialty at Flip Flip Ding with various packages that include invitations, skate rentals, private party room, food, and cake at affordable group rates. Staff handles coordinating festivities from start to finish so parents can simply have fun celebrating their child in style.
With so many kids-approved elements like disco lights, arcade games and brisk exercise from rolling around the rink, parents are sure to get a thumbs up from youngsters on visits to Flip Flip Ding. Affordable skating, lessons, and birthday parties make it a frequent destination for families seeking active fun together indoors.
5. Landers Center and Shops of DeSoto County Mall
For indoor recreation and entertainment options, families can stay close together at the Landers Center and Shops of DeSoto County facilities. Adjacent to one another, these two locations provide adjoining family fun with dining, arcades, soft playgrounds and interactive events all under one roof.
The Landers Center operates as both a sports and entertainment complex with courts, turf fields, meeting halls and a full service ice rink. Their Ice Plex is a shining star attraction with public skates, skating lessons, hockey games, figure skating and indoor snow play space. Family discounts apply to skate rentals with kids 12 years old and under just $3 per session. Adult skate rentals ring up at $4 each. Helmets and other protective gear are also available.
Open skating times allow parents to guide newbies on developing balance gliding on ice skates while more daring kids zip freely about the rink solo. Lessons provide skills training for all ages and ability levels too. For those wanting a front row seat to expert skaters, the Memphis Figure Skating Club and the Memphis Hockey Association’s RiverKings team also call Landers Center Ice Plex home. Exciting competitions and games happen regularly that families can enjoy observing.
Beyond the icy fun, active kids find more to do inside the Landers Center Game Room arcade area with games, claw machines, billiards, air hockey, hoops and more. This Adventurer’s Attic arcade zone overlooked by parents sipping lattes at the adjacent Jitterbean Coffee Shop. Kids can enjoy supervised play while parents have some chill time before meeting back up to head home.
Next door at the Shops of DeSoto County Mall, the soft play areas cater to younger kids with a two-story jungle gym play place as well as Kiddie Copter Rides circling above for just 50 cents a spin. Interactive mall events like Stories with Santa at Christmas, Bunny photo ops during spring, Disney Princess Meet-and-Greets and hands-on STEM workshops also aim to entertain families with young children through thoughtful programming.
With adjoining access between both venues and complimentary family entertainment offerings, the Landers Center and Shops of DeSoto keep kids of all ages occupied so the whole family can share time together.
6. Snow Lake Shores Splash Pad
One of the best places for families to chill out on hot Southaven days is Snow Lake Shores Splash Pad. This wet and wild zero entry spray park gives kids room to soak up some summer fun. Crystal clear water jets skyward from pops of ground spouts to the delight of youngsters laughing and dancing through the spurts.
A sizable splash zone stretches over 5,000 square feet, providing ample space for lots of families to gather. Kids can splash freely while parents pull up a seat poolside on provided picnic tables and benches, making it an ideal gathering locale for play dates with friends or family reunions. In addition to plenty of seating, permanent shade structures and restroom facilities allow for comfortable full day outings. After working up thirsts from all the water play, convenient vending machines dispense beverage options as well.
Free to access and open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day annually, the Snow Lake Shores Splash Pad is very popular with families for beating summer’s heat affordably. Hours of operation range from 10am – 7pm at various points of the summer making it suitable for mornings and afternoons full of family fun.
With a mixture of spray jets, dumping buckets, mushrooms, and colorful pipes all activated at ground level, this splash pad is suitable for all ages and abilities. Toddlers enjoy wading through the shallow water while older kids seek to dodge or dive under dumping buckets swamping the zone periodically. Even parents can’t resist cooling off by getting in on the action! With so much laughter and fun to be had, Snow Lake Shores Splash Pad is a must do to bond with the family.
7. Snowden House Museum and Carriage House Gardens
History buffs rejoice! Families can take a trip back in time together at the Snowden House Museum and Carriage House Gardens located within Burkle Estate Park. As one of the oldest remaining homes in DeSoto County, it provides visitors with an immersive glimpse into 1800’s life in the gently restored residence the Snowden family once called home.
Friendly tour guides escort small groups through the charming two-story abode room by room. Antique furnishings, clothing displays, and various artifacts on display convey what day-to-day living was like on site during the residence’s early days. The Snowden family’s history and legacy comes alive through photos, recorded oral histories, documents and family possessions on exhibition as well. Kids gain insight on life’s simplicities before modern technologies existed while reminiscing grandparents note ways life parallels their own childhoods.
Adjacent to the stately Snowden House lies the whimsical Carriage House Gardens that families also delight in exploring. Blooming flowers, butterflies fluttering about, garden sculptures and benches tucked under oak canopies make it an idyllic setting. natural backdrop. The interactive vegetable garden plots provide hands-on learning experiences for children as well. Mini workshops happen on occasion where kids assist with garden planting and harvesting that they find engaging.
With no admission fees and special seasonal events like genealogy seminars and gardening lectures to pique various interests within families, the Snowden House Museum and Carriage House Gardens make for an educational and entertaining time together. Regular tour hours run Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm annually minus holidays.
8. Tanger Outlets Southaven
When families need some retail therapy together, Tanger Outlets Southaven delivers go-to savings on all the top name brands. As the largest outlet mall in Mississippi, over 120 stores reside under its open-air covered promenades making it ideal for one-stop shop excursions.
From Nike to Coach and Gap to J.Crew, all the premium labels families love are offered at deep discounts ranging from 30%-70% below regular retail pricing. Trendy fashions for teens and adults along with playful styles for kids as well as footwear, accessories, housewares and electronics satisfy a wide range of wants and needs with unbeatable outlet bargains.
Kids can check items off their wish lists like Jerusalem sandals, Vans skate shoes, Justice girls leggings or Adidas track pants without the premium price tags. Parents find fantastic savings on essentials like jeans, T-shirts, athletic sneakers and more wardrobe basics. With almost every store catering to men, women, teens, kids and babies, the whole family can update their closets affordably.
When shoppers need a break from browsing and bargains, on site food options range from Auntie Anne’s pretzels and Cinnabon treats to full service dining at restaurants like Ruby Tuesday’s and Primos Cafe. For quick bites, the Food Court offers many kid favorites like Chick-Fil-A nuggets, Sbarro pizza and Carvel ice cream to satiate appetites.
With discounted prices already appealing to savvy shoppers, Tanger Outlets Southaven sweetens the deal further by offering coupon books good for extra store discounts shoppers can stack for even deeper value. Between the major savings compared to regular mall prices and handy coupons to maximize deals picked up in stores, Southaven Tanger Outlets is a coveted destination for families wanting to balance budgets with needs and wants.
Open 7 days a week and often until 9pm on weekends, Tanger has long hours suitable for families to stop in before or after other area activities.
9. Snowden Grove Mini Golf Course
For classic family fun, Snowden Grove Mini Golf course packs big entertainment. Winding water features, challenging holes, whimsical décor and affordable rates entice families to play rounds on this creative 18-hole course.
Snowden Grove keeps things fresh by periodically changing up the theme and components built into holes. Visitors may encounter pirate ships, unicorns, sprinkle donuts bumpers or other silly elements mixed into the layout on return trips. Novel sights mixed into the bright neon putting greens lined with festive florals keep youngsters eagerly moving from hole to hole with delight.
Various obstacles like sloped inclines, bank shots off pipes, and accuracy maneuvers through tight spaces make for friendly competition. Kids tend to favor maze-like holes filled with twists and turns before landing a putt while teens and parents take on more precision based hurdles. Everyone plays to their abilities Enjoying laughs together and creative hole designs makes for a fun family atmosphere overall.
Pricing is structured to accommodate groups or pairs with hour-long play times averaging just $7 per person. Club and ball rentals are included so families simply show up ready to play. Young children can putt for free with paying adults making this an affordable kid-centric activity for parents watching vacation budgets.
The welcoming staff exude positivity and gladly provide pointers to novices learning the mini golf ropes. Kids celebrating birthdays receive a free round too with proof of their special day making Snowden Grove an ideal locale for milestone celebrations with friends.
With engaging themed courses, affordable rates and playful kid-centered environment, Snowden Grove earns rave reviews as a beloved local classic for family memory making through mini golf.
10. Toby Tubby’s Tubing and Water Park
Cool off with excitement at Toby Tubby’s tubing and water park. This summer hot spot offers families thrilling slides plus a lazy river all set across lush wooded acreage. Parents can laze alongside toddlers in tubes drifting gently around the manmade waterway while daring kids hit the slides solo for safe supervised fun. With options accommodating all ages and swim abilities, Toby Tubby’s strikes the right balance for parent and kid preferences.
In addition to tubing adventures, kiddie splash pad features like mini slides, wading pools and popping water jets allow young visitors to romp in shallow play areas securely. For bigger kids and adults, longer steep flumes like Bullet Bowl, Black Thunder and Aloha Falls provide slippery dips into plunge pools at exhilarating speeds. Riders must be 48 inches or above to take on these wilder attractions solo.
10. Toby Tubby’s Tubing and Water Park
Lifeguards remain vigilant across all pool zones to assure safety remains top priority. Parents can truly relax knowing kids can unleash adventure across various elements suitable for their swim skills under watchful supervision.
When hunger calls after hours of splashing fun, Toby Tubby’s grill dishes up classics like hot dogs, pizza, nachos and funnel cake to maintain energy levels into the afternoon. Draft beer and cocktails at The Big Kahuna swim-up bar take the edge off for parents while kids nosh corn dogs and fries poolside.
Among indoor venues, Toby Tubby’s ranks high for affordability too. Discounted rates for early arrival, evening sessions, groups and season passes accommodate families seeking budget vacations without forgoing thrill seeking adventures. General day passes run $24 for kids under 48 inches tall and $26 for adults during peak months between Memorial and Labor Days.
With strategic planning around optimal times, parents can gain real bang for buck by taking advantage of lower early bird or late night rates to maximize family fun time. Off season visits between September and May also come in gentler on wallets at just $15 per person at lowest. Family four packs and other combo deals offer ways to experience full facilities without breaking budgets.
Fun facilities, dynamic aquatic offerings, food and amenities make Toby Tubby’s a value-packed vacation voucher for families. Definitely worth a splash whether visiting Southaven solo or seeking water park thrills while on road trips passing through northern Mississippi.
11. Memphis Zoo
Animals take the spotlight over at the Memphis Zoo just 25 minutes west of Southaven. As one of the foremost zoological parks in the United States, this expansive attraction is home to over 3,500 exotic creatures from around the globe. This makes for an epic adventure when touring the naturalistic habitats and informative exhibits as a family.
From furry red pandas munching bamboo to giraffes grazing trees and lions napping on rocky outcrops, kids go gaga observing wildlife up close they’ve previously only seen on TV. Walking trails winding over 70 acres mean sights unfold steadily with new discoveries around each bend. If little legs tire out, the Zoo tram bus ride narrates key highlights during a lift to further flung points of interest across grounds.
Indoor venues provide refuge on rainy or steamy hot days too for enjoying displays spotlighting everything from nocturnal creatures to a butterfly aviary fluttering with winged beauties. Special touring options like behind the scenes tours, SAFARI camps for kids and even sleepovers offer families memorable chances to gain interact with habitats after hours.
With single day tickets just $11-15 per person, Memphis Zoo offers an affordable family experience akin to far pricier major city zoos but without overwhelming crowds. Trip planning tips like Free Tuesdays for Shelby County residents, discount combo deals with children’s museums and coupons available online help families hedge costs further. Arriving early and avoiding peak weekends assure families maximize time without parking hassles or long food lines too.
For an epic adventure sure to please every generation’s inner animal lover, Memphis Zoo makes for awesome family memories in the making just a short drive from Southaven. After a full day interacting with amazing creatures, kids sleep soundly after tuckered out from discovering favorite new furry and feathered friends.
12. Main Event Entertainment
When families need a break from Southaven’s great outdoors, Main Event Entertainment indoor complex serves up hours of activity under one very cool roof. This modern family fun zone packs everything from bowling to gravity ropes courses, arcade games to mini golf adventures plus a sports bar restaurant to restore energy on marathon play days.
Lit up lanes with bumpin’ music make bowling a blast for all ages. Bumpers pop up keeping gutter balls at bay for wee ones as well as adults who haven’t picked up pins and balls for awhile. Colorful sports balls instead of standard black passes time between turns creatively too. Points challenges and games between frames build suspense during longer plays.
In addition to ten pin bowling with friends, Main Event’s multi-level ropes course presents an exhilarating challenge. SkyTrail® by Ropes Courses Inc. is an elaborate web of obstacles dangling two stories high perfect for daredevils with a head for heights. Nets below assure safety for brave souls traversing wiggly bridges, tight ropes and dizzying aerial crossings. Kids under 48 inches can access their own dedicated lower ropes zone built to size.
When kids need to blow off steam below ground level, the huge arcade zone delivers fun by the game. Everything from virtual experiences and simulator racers to carnival style hammer games and hoops keep them busy aiming for jackpot tickets to trade for quirky prizes. Light Zapper shooting contests make friendly showdowns with teens and parents lively in this action packed arena.
Main Event rounds out amenities with billiards tables for casual family games plus sports viewing TVs when families want to catch a tournament together over some wings and waffle fries. Affordable combos make it easy to enjoy hours of play here without draining wallets. Their Funday package deals cover multiple attractions at discounted group rates suitable for bonding across generations affordably.
With energizing activities guaranteed to engage family members of all ages and interests scattered across 50,000 square feet indoors, Main Event Entertainment provides refuge from weather worries so the fun never ends. It’s the perfect spot for year-round family fun in Southaven.
Conclusion
Southaven, Mississippi bursts with family-friendly destinations that allow parents and kids to connect while creating lasting memories together. This roundup of a dozen beloved local attractions just skims the surface of all the amusement found regionally.
From adventurous water parks to cultural explorations, parents can provide their children with interactive entertainment that educates as it thrills. Historic sites, hands-on museums and zoos with exotic creatures bring school lessons to life outside rigid classroom confines.
Affordable pricing provides accessibility too for families aiming to balance budgets without sacrificing bonds built through shared new experiences. Group rates, seasonal deals and budget conscious programming at highlighted venues allow families to gain bang for buck from trips with insider savings strategies.
With such an array of family-focused activities, Southaven offers quick weekend getaways stuffed with amusement. Just as suitable for visiting relatives as resident outings, these highlighted destinations promise joy across generations time and again. Parents re-experience the world anew through the innocence and awe in their children’s eyes while relishing laughter filled moments together.
So whether seeking high energy thrills or laid back jaunts, Southaven delivers dynamic options to show the kids a good time while reminiscing fondly upon adventures shared as a family for years to come.