Need a meaningful Tennessee getaway steeped in American history? Head to Shiloh! Located in southwestern Tennessee along the Tennessee River, Shiloh is famous for its Civil War battlefield, peaceful natural surroundings, and quiet small-town charm. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, walking along scenic riverbanks, or reflecting at memorials, Shiloh offers a deeply moving and educational experience.
Shiloh, TN Highlights:
- For Families: Visit Shiloh National Military Park – Explore one of the best-preserved Civil War battlefields with self-guided driving tours, monuments, and interpretive exhibits.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Walk the Shiloh Indian Mounds – Discover an ancient Native American village site within the military park, featuring ceremonial mounds and river views.
- For Kids: Explore the Shiloh Battlefield Visitor Center – Watch engaging films, view historic artifacts, and pick up Junior Ranger materials for younger visitors.
- For an Adventure: Kayak or fish on the Tennessee River – Launch from nearby boat ramps and enjoy peaceful paddling or fishing along scenic waters.
- For Shoppers: Visit nearby Savannah, TN – Browse charming small-town shops, antique stores, and local restaurants just a short drive from Shiloh.
Best Time to Visit Shiloh, TN
The best time to visit Shiloh is in spring or fall (March–May, September–November), when mild temperatures make it pleasant for outdoor walking tours and the landscape is especially beautiful. Summers can be warm but still manageable, while winters are quiet with fewer visitors and a peaceful atmosphere.
How to Get to Shiloh, TN
- If you are traveling by car: Shiloh is located off TN Highway 22, about 2 hours east of Memphis and 2.5 hours south of Nashville.
- By Air: The nearest major airports are Memphis International Airport (MEM) and Nashville International Airport (BNA), each about a 2–2.5 hour drive away.
Where to Stay in or near Shiloh, TN
- Shiloh Chennault Bed & Breakfast – A charming B&B near the battlefield offering historical charm, cozy rooms, and Southern hospitality.
- Quality Inn Savannah – Comfortable, budget-friendly accommodations located about 20 minutes away in Savannah, TN.
- Pickwick Landing State Park Inn – Stay at a lakeside inn within the state park, offering cabins, a marina, and beautiful river views about 25 minutes from Shiloh.
Best Things to Do in Shiloh, TN
⮕ Walk Hallowed Ground at Shiloh National Military Park
Battlefields, monuments, and preserved landscapes where the Civil War’s history echoes through every step
Shiloh National Military Park was established to preserves the American Civil War battlefields in Shiloh and Corinth. The main part of the park is located in the town of Shiloh, about nine miles from Savannah, Tennessee. The Battle of Shiloh was one of the first battles in the Western Theater of the American Civil War. The two-day battle, on April 6 and April 7, 1862, resulted in almost 24,000 soldiers killed, wounded, and missing. The main park landmarks are Iowa Monument, The Sunken Road, Confederate Memorial ad Shiloh National Cemetery. The visitor center offers exhibitions, films and a self-guided tours.
1055 Pittsburg Landing Rd, Shiloh, TN 38376, Phone: 731-689-5696
⮕ Honor the Fallen at Shiloh National Cemetery
A peaceful, poignant resting place overlooking the Tennessee River and lives forever remembered
Shiloh National Cemetery is located in the northeast corner of the Shiloh National Military Park in Shiloh, Tennessee, next to the visitor center and bookstore. The cemetery honors those who died in the Civil War battle between Union general Ulysses S. Grant and Confederate general A.S. Johnson in April 1862. The 20.09-acre cemetery is the final resting place for 3584 Union dead (2357 are unknown). They were re-interred in the cemetery, which was created in 1866, after the war. There are also two Confederate dead soldiers interred in the cemetery. There are mass graves in the park where an unknown number of Confederate dead are buried.
1055 Pittsburg Landing Rd, Shiloh, TN 38376, Phone: 731-689-5696
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Learn the Stories Behind the Stones with Shiloh Civil War Tours
Guided insight and firsthand narratives bring the battles and bravery vividly to life
Visiting Shiloh offers great opportunity to visit the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the American Civil War, and to learn great deal about this important event in the nation’s history. Guided Tour of Shiloh National Military Park ensures that you visit all the main points and learn relevant historic details, through your guide, a historian David Stewart. The basic tour of Shiloh National Military Park talks about the key decision-makers of both the Confederate and the Union armies, the major sites of the battle in Shiloh, and the dramatic result of the battle. For the serious historian, Peter offers a Macro Tour, which lasts an entire day at Shiloh, as well as a number of other options.
Shiloh, Tennessee
⮕ Feast on Tradition at the Catfish Hotel Restaurant
Southern comfort food with riverfront views and a reputation that’s been reeling folks in for generations
Catfish Hotel started its life as a rough log cabin on Henry Hagy’s farm on the banks of Tennessee River. Henry’s son built a cabin to accommodate friends who used to spend the night after fishing with him. The ‘hotel’ was used by Union soldiers during the battle of Shiloh. In 1938 Henry and his son added a restaurant, which burnt in 1975 and was replaced by the building we have today, on the same site. With the wonderful location on the river and great menu of local fish, shrimp and other Southern classics, Catfish is not one of the oldest restaurants in Tennessee, but one of the most popular as well.
1140 Hagy Ln, Shiloh, TN 38376, Phone: 731-689-3327
Where to Eat near Shiloh, TN
- Hagy’s Catfish Hotel – Historic riverside restaurant known for Southern-style catfish, hush puppies, and hearty comfort food, just minutes from the park.
- The Sawmeal Restaurant – Casual, down-home cooking in nearby Pickwick, perfect for post-hike meals.
- The Fish Hut – Local favorite in Savannah, TN, serving fried catfish and classic Southern sides in a laid-back setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- Shiloh Anniversary Battle Reenactments (April) – Commemorate the battle’s anniversary with living history events, reenactments, and special programs.
- Savannah Bluegrass Festival (September) – Enjoy lively bluegrass music, food vendors, and family-friendly fun in nearby Savannah, TN.
- Pickwick Landing Fall Festival (October) – Celebrate fall with crafts, food, and seasonal activities at Pickwick Landing State Park.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Shiloh, Tennessee:
- Corinth, Mississippi (30 min) – Visit Civil War interpretive centers, historic downtown, and charming Southern shops.
- Pickwick Landing State Park (25–30 min) – Spend a day boating, fishing, or hiking at this beautiful Tennessee River recreation area.
- Savannah, Tennessee (20–25 min) – Explore historic homes, quaint shops, and local eateries in this nearby riverside town.
- Cherry Mansion (25 min) – Tour the historic home that served as General Grant’s headquarters during the Battle of Shiloh.
- Buford Pusser Home and Museum (40–45 min) – Learn about the legendary sheriff and his life at this museum in Adamsville, TN.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is Shiloh known for?
- Shiloh, a small town in Tennessee, is a living history museum and the site where nearly 24,000 soldiers died in a bloody battle during the American Civil War.
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What historical site can visitors explore in Shiloh?
- The battlefield is part of the Shiloh National Military Park and is one of the best-preserved battlefields in the country.
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How can visitors learn more about the history of Shiloh?
- Take a tour of the battlefields with a historian to learn more about the country’s past.
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What other activities can visitors enjoy in Shiloh?
- Enjoy a scenic trip on the Tennessee River and taste some catfish at the Catfish Hotel, the oldest restaurant in Tennessee.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Shiloh Chennault Bed & Breakfast – A historic and elegant stay near the battlefield.
Visit Shiloh National Military Park – Walk through historic battlefields with stunning spring scenery.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for exploring history and nature.
The Generals’ Quarters Inn – A charming stay with Southern hospitality.
Take a Scenic Drive Along the Tennessee River – Enjoy peaceful river views and historical landmarks.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful fall foliage.
Hampton Inn Corinth (Nearby in Mississippi) – A comfortable and convenient option.
Explore Pickwick Landing State Park – Experience vibrant fall colors and outdoor recreation.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful, perfect for a reflective visit.
Stonebrook Inn Counce – A warm and inviting winter retreat.
Visit the Shiloh National Cemetery – A solemn and historic site, even more peaceful in winter.
Plan Your Trip
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