Hub City 101: Where to Eat, Play & Hang Out Off-Campus
There’s a reason Jackson is known as the Hub City of West Tennessee. Whether you’re new to town, looking for a study break, or trying to figure out where to take your friends after class, Jackson has plenty of places to eat, explore, and make memories.
From coffee shops perfect for catching up on assignments to local restaurants, unique hangouts, and weekend adventures, this guide has everything you need to experience the best of Jackson beyond campus.
Grab your friends, save this list, and let’s dive into your student guide to exploring Jackson!
First Up: Start Your Morning Off Right
Whether you have an early morning class, a busy day ahead, or you’re looking for the perfect weekend brunch spot, these Jackson favorites are ready to help you start your day:
Green Frog Coffee and Grill | 1410 Union University Drive
Umphy’s Chicken and Biscuits | 745 Old Hickory Blvd.
Jackson’s Kitchen and Catering | 203 E. Lafayette St.
Lunch Break? Skip the Dining Hall.
When you need a break between classes, want to catch up with friends, or just need something better than another campus meal, check out these local favorites:
ComeUnity Café | 218 E. Main St.
Hub City Deli | 2062 Pleasant Plains Ext.
Taichi Bubble Tea | 8 Stonebridge Blvd., Ste. M
Pro Tip: Looking for even more local favorites? Check out Visit Jackson’s dining guide for more places to eat around the Hub City.
Dinner Plans?
After a full day of classes, studying, and campus life, treat yourself to a great meal. Grab your roommate or your friend group and check out these local favorites:
Takos Borukas | 319 Vann Dr.
Tulum | 1319 Union University Drive
Rock’n Dough | 16 Jackson Walk Plaza
Need a Caffeine Fix?
Whether you need a quiet place to study, a spot to meet friends, or just a good cup of coffee before your next class, Jackson has plenty of places to recharge:
Turntable Coffee Counter | 300 E. Main St.
The Roasted Bean | 21 Meridian Springs Dr.
Perch and Pour | 2100 Pleasant Plains Ext., Suite G
Coffee + Something Sweet = The Perfect Study Break
Let’s be honest, long study sessions are better with a little reward. Whether you’re craving a pastry, dessert, or something sweet after class, add these stops to your list:
Woodstock Coffee & Bakeshop | 80 Innsdale Cv., #A
Glyden Bake House | 215 N. Liberty St.
Happy Ice Cream | 621 Old Hickory Blvd., Ste. K & 3189 N. Highland Ave., #D
Evening Hangouts & Weekend Favorites
College life is about more than classes. When the books are closed and you’re ready to spend time with friends, Jackson has plenty of ways to relax, explore, and make memories off-campus.
Caddies Sports Club | 601 Vann Dr., Unit B
Hub City Brewing | 250 W. Main St.
Middle Fork Bottoms State Park | 111 Sanders Bluff Rd. (Three-Way)
Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park | 460 Ozier Rd. (Pinson)
Explore Beyond Campus
Whether you’re new to Jackson or just looking for something different than your usual routine, there’s always something new to discover.
From locally owned restaurants and coffee shops to outdoor adventures, entertainment, and weekend escapes, Jackson makes it easy to feel at home.