, Mississippi, USA
There's something for everyone to explore in the Magnolia State. Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Mississippi:
Explore the Blues in Clarksdale: Clarksdale is known as the heart of the Mississippi Delta, the birthplace of the blues. Visit the Delta Blues Museum, explore historic Highway 61, and soak in the authentic blues atmosphere.
Natchez Trace Parkway: This scenic byway stretches for over 400 miles through Mississippi and offers beautiful views, hiking trails, and opportunities for bird-watching and picnicking.
Vicksburg National Military Park: Learn about the Civil War history of Mississippi at this park. Explore the battlefield, visit the USS Cairo Museum, and take in the breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.
Oxford: Home to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), Oxford is a charming college town with a vibrant arts scene, historic Square, and the famous Square Books. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll.
Tupelo: Visit the birthplace of Elvis Presley and explore the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum. You can also check out Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo or enjoy the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway nearby.
Gulfport and Biloxi: These coastal cities offer beautiful beaches, casinos, and fresh seafood. You can also visit the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies and go fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.
Mississippi River: Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River for a unique perspective of the state. Several companies offer tours with live music and great food.
Jackson: Mississippi's capital city has several attractions, including the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, the Mississippi Museum of Art, and the Old Capitol Museum. Don't forget to try some local BBQ while you're here.
Mississippi Petrified Forest: Located in Flora, this unique forest features ancient trees turned to stone. You can take a guided tour and even purchase petrified wood souvenirs.
Tishomingo State Park: This park in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains offers hiking, picnicking, and rock climbing. The Bear Creek Canyon and CCC-built swinging bridge are highlights.
Delta Hot Tamale Festival: If you're visiting in October, don't miss this event in Greenville. It celebrates the Delta's unique hot tamale culture with food, music, and fun.
Natchez: Known for its well-preserved antebellum homes and gardens, Natchez is a charming town on the Mississippi River. Take a tour of historic mansions like Longwood and Stanton Hall.
Mississippi Museum of Civil Rights: Located in Jackson, this museum tells the story of Mississippi's Civil Rights struggle and is a powerful and educational experience.
Grenada Lake: A popular spot for boating, fishing, and camping, Grenada Lake is a great place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
Hattiesburg: Visit the Hattiesburg Zoo, take a stroll through the All-American Rose Garden, or explore the city's vibrant arts scene.
Tupelo Automobile Museum: Car enthusiasts will appreciate this extensive collection of vintage automobiles from the late 19th century to the 1990s.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art: Located in Ocean Springs, this museum celebrates the work of Walter Inglis Anderson, a renowned Mississippi artist known for his nature-inspired creations.
Catfish Row Art Park: Located in Vicksburg, this park features sculptures and art installations, making it a great place for a leisurely walk and cultural exploration.
Buccaneer State Park: Located near Waveland, this park offers camping, swimming, and hiking opportunities along the Gulf Coast.
Mississippi Agricultural & Forestry Museum: Located in Jackson, this museum showcases the state's rich agricultural and forestry history with exhibits, antique tractors, and farm animals.
LeFleur's Bluff State Park: Situated in Jackson, this park offers outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and even a golf course.
Windsor Ruins: Near Port Gibson, you can explore the hauntingly beautiful remains of the Windsor Plantation, which was burned during the Civil War.
Tanglefoot Trail: This 43.6-mile-long rail-to-trail conversion is perfect for biking, walking, or horseback riding, offering picturesque views of rural Mississippi.
Gulf Islands National Seashore: Located near Ocean Springs, this national park includes barrier islands with beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife.
Mississippi State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the State Capitol building in Jackson, a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture.
Mississippi Craft Center: Located in Ridgeland, this center showcases the work of Mississippi artisans, from pottery to jewelry.
Sample Southern Cuisine: No visit to Mississippi is complete without trying some classic Southern dishes. Look for local favorites like fried catfish, biscuits and gravy, and gumbo.
Mississippi River Basin Model: Located in Clinton, this fascinating model of the entire Mississippi River Basin was used by the Army Corps of Engineers to study flood control.
Delta Blues Trail: Follow this trail to discover the rich musical history of the Delta, with markers and sites related to legendary blues musicians.
Biloxi Lighthouse: Climb to the top of this historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the Gulf Coast.
Visit Mississippi, USA
Discover the people who lived there, the places they visited and the stories they shared.