Tourism
The MidSouth Development District serves as the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for our region’s rural communities, promoting the cultural, historic, and natural assets that make the MidSouth a place like no other. Through our newly rebranded initiative and the launch of BluesBackRoads.com, we are driving new energy and visibility for rural destinations—encouraging visitors to explore the back roads, discover authentic experiences, and support local businesses.
To guide this work, MDD convenes the Tourism Advisory Board, a collaborative group of local leaders, tourism professionals, and community stakeholders who provide direction and oversight. By aligning regional voices and strategies, the advisory board ensures that our tourism efforts are inclusive, sustainable, and impactful.
By showcasing music, food, history, and outdoor recreation, we connect travelers to the heart of our region while strengthening tourism as an economic driver. This work not only brings visitors to our rural areas but also supports community pride, small business growth, and long-term development across the MidSouth.
Blues Backroads
NEED COPY. Our region is full of adventures. Find one that’s right for you. Whether you’re looking for a soothing afternoon in nature or a weekend of farmers market shopping and museum-going, the MidSouth has it all. Travel a few hours – or a few minutes – and find friendly towns, rustic landscapes and history-changing cultural landmarks.
Tourism Advisory Board
REGENA BEARDEN, Memphis Tourism (Chair)
MILTON HOWERY III, DMC (Vice-Chair)
SHIRLEY DAVIS CONNER, Metro Memphis Attractions Association
MENDI DONNELLY, Town of Somerville
JON FROST, Visit DeSoto County
RACHEL GREAR, Lauderdale County
RICHARD GRIFFIN, Alex Haley Museum and Interpretive Center
LEXIE GRISANTI, Lifestyle Homes
TONIA HOWELL, Arlington Chamber
JEFF KOLLATH, Sultana Disaster Museum
ZACH LEDBETTER, TDTD
KATHERINE MARKLEY, Tipton Co. Museum
GIA MATHENY, City of Hernando
SHERRI MCCARTER, TN Tourism
MEGAN POPE, City of Munford
KARA TAPP, UT Martin Somerville Center
ANASA TROUTMAN, The Big We
SUSAN WORLDS, Lauderdale Chamber