Things to Do in Mississippi
One of the southernmost states in the United States, Mississippi borders the Gulf of Mexico, Alabama, and the River Mississippi. The Delta region of Mississippi is the birthplace of blues music. Visit the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, or visit Vicksburg National Military Park to see the site of a major Civil War battle. For even more Mississippi activities, check out our list of things to do in Mississippi.
Windsor Ruins
Near Port Gibson, Mississippi, you can find a historic site known as the Windsor Ruins. A ruins of a plantation mansion with 23 columns stands in a wooded clearing. These structures once belonged to a cotton planter named Smith Coffee Daniell II. It was built in 1861 using slave labor, and the interior was decorated with woodwork created by skilled carpenters from New England.
This historic site has been featured in movies and postcards for over a century. Hollywood has stopped here to film dark scenes, and wedding pictures have been taken in the haunted house. You can also see a ghost town, and visit the 1826 Bethel Presbyterian Church. The site is gated at night, so you won’t have to worry about getting lost. But make sure you check the address and the hours of operation.
The Windsor Ruins are open to the public during daylight hours. There is no admission fee, and you can explore this unique site without breaking the bank. Windsor has been around for 130 years, so there is a lot to discover! We recommend taking the time to read Janie’s review of her trip to the site. She describes the history of the site and her photos of the site. You won’t regret it!
The ruins are a prime example of antebellum architecture. They’ve inspired numerous myths and vivid images. While the site is still under construction, the state has made several strides to protect it. The state has installed a fence around the site and has begun a stabilization project. If the weather turns bad, a few volunteers will be working in the ruins every day to restore the ruined buildings.
Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge
Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge covers 48,000 acres in three counties. The sanctuary was created as a result of extensive damage to natural habitats caused by intensive farming. Today, this refuge serves as a resting place for migratory birds and protects forests from destruction. The refuge attracts over 150,000 visitors each year. You can also enjoy viewing the many neotropical bird species that inhabit the forests.
You can take a two-mile round-trip trail starting from the levee spillway at Bluff Lake. The trail winds through bottomland hardwood forest and provides good opportunities to observe wildlife. The trail is relatively level, except for the entrance, and follows Oktoc Creek, which travels from Bluff Lake to the Noxubee River. You can find wood duck nest boxes along the trail.
One of the trails in the Refuge is named after Dr. Ray Watson, a retired professor of botany at Mississippi State University. He taught dendrology and used the Refuge regularly for outdoor lab sessions. He enjoyed hunting and birding and was very active at the Refuge. You can even spend the day in his honor. And if you are a nature lover, there are plenty of things to do in Mississippi.
Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge has a four-mile trail that is maintained by the Starkville chapter of the Sierra Club. The trail skirts the Noxubee River and offers scenic views. You can spot many species of wildlife along the way. A signpost marks the trail’s end. The trail is not wheelchair-accessible. However, if you are able to walk along it, the trail is well-maintained.
Mississippi Petrified Forest
The Mississippi Petrified Forest is a privately owned park that is open for public visits. While you can’t go into the actual petrified trees themselves, you can explore the area. The forest features an abundance of fossils, which can be viewed in the visitor center. Other things to do in Mississippi Petrified Forest include hiking, rock climbing, and sightseeing. If you’re a history buff, you can check out some of the nearby museums.
The Mississippi Petrified Forest is a unique opportunity to explore fossils that were once a giant forest. This park also includes nature trails and an Earth Science Museum that explains the science behind petrification. You can see whale bones, dinosaur footprints, and even a cast of a prehistoric camel fossil. Even your kids will enjoy themselves here. It’s the perfect place for family outings!
For a unique way to see the incredible fossils that have been preserved, you can go gem-flaming in the park. The park has a gem fluming area where you can hunt for shimmering gems in the water. Gem-flaming is a great way to spend an afternoon, but you will have to purchase a bag for four dollars to participate. After a day of gem-flaming, you can purchase a souvenir from the gift shop that sells some unique items to take home with you.
If you’re not a history buff, you can enjoy a hike along the park’s nature trail. You’ll be surrounded by petrified logs as you walk along the trail. There’s something for everyone here, from families to nature lovers, and it’s a perfect day trip for the entire family. Just remember that it’s best to plan a day trip if you’re in the area.
Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
When you’re in Jackson, Mississippi, you shouldn’t miss the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. It’s the largest museum in the state and is one of the most popular attractions in the region. The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science has more than 200 exhibits from all over the world. Visitors can learn about the history of the state, its natural resources, and its diverse cultural heritage. And, since it’s free to enter, you can make a day of it.
The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is a statewide museum that focuses on the preservation of Mississippi’s living natural resources. Its staff of almost 30 members includes ten research biologists, and its main focus is the protection of endangered and rare species. Additionally, the museum administers federal grants to support its work. In addition to its collections, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science also manages a database of over 5,000 scientific records on Mississippi.
The museum’s history can be traced to Fannye Cook, who founded it in 1932. It was originally a part of the Game and Fish Commission, and its activities were centered around traveling exhibitions. Cook subsequently became the museum’s first director, and used her expertise at the Smithsonian to train employees to collect information about the natural habitats of Mississippi. While you’re here, don’t miss the Jo’s Diner for ’50s music and blue plate specials.
The museum is located in Jackson, Mississippi, in the historic LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. Its expanses of glass allow visitors to explore the natural landscape. Exhibits here include more than 200 species of animals, fossils, and endangered species. Also featured here are several bird watching stations. And if you like learning about different species, you can visit the museum’s aquarium. At the MDWFP Museum of Natural Science, you’ll discover the many fascinating facts about the local ecosystems.
Mississippi State Capitol
The interior of the Mississippi State Capitol is a colorful mix of wood, limestone, stucco, and stained glass windows. The building’s rotunda dome extends 94 feet above the first floor, and the octagonal dome of the Senate Chamber is crowned by a gilded eagle that stands 8 feet high. The state capitol once hosted all three branches of government in Mississippi. Today, it houses only the legislative branch.
The Mississippi State Capitol is located in downtown Jackson and is the state’s seat of government. It is a large building with six central columns and a gold-leaf-gilded eagle statue. The building replaced the Old Capitol Building, which is now a museum. The state legislature also meets in the capitol building to discuss state issues. The interior of the building is rich with stained glass windows, and it houses a rare replica of the Liberty Bell. It is also home to a monument honoring women of the Confederacy.
Before the construction of the new capitol, the old capitol building was used for state offices. By 1960, all state agencies had moved out. It was renovated to become the State Historical Museum. In 2005, hurricanes Rita and Katrina damaged the old capitol building, but repairs were completed in 2007 and 2009. The museum reopened in 2009 and is run by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. After the storms, the building was declared a National Historic Landmark in 2016.
The interior of the Mississippi State Capitol is rich with history and culture. Its interior features the former State Library, the Supreme Court chambers, and the offices of the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the speaker of the house. Visitors can view legislative sessions on a public viewing balcony. The building contains a replica of the Liberty Bell and battleship figurehead of the second U.S. Mississippi. It is the state’s capital city and is the center for legislative affairs.
The Best Sightseeing in Mississippi
If you’re traveling to the southern U.S., you should check out some of the best sightseeing in Mississippi. This southern state is bordered by the Mississippi River, Alabama, and the Gulf of Mexico. Many people consider the Delta region the birthplace of the blues. You can visit the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, or explore the Civil War battleground of Vicksburg. Whatever you decide to do while in the Magnolia State, you’re sure to have a memorable experience!
Coastal Mississippi
If you’re planning a vacation to the southern state, consider visiting Coastal Mississippi. Coastal Mississippi includes coastal towns along the Gulf of Mexico and Mississippi Sound. From Biloxi to Gulfport, coastal towns include Ocean Springs, Pass Christian, and Bay St. Louis. There are 29 things to do in Coastal Mississippi that are sure to please visitors of all ages.
Coastal Mississippi offers breathtaking natural beauty and fascinating historical sights. Visitors will appreciate the southern charm and hospitality of the Magnolia State. Coastal Mississippi is known as “The Hospitality State.” The state’s capital, Jackson, features a number of museums and American forests. Coastal Mississippi is also an excellent choice for a family vacation. Water activities, educational attractions, and a wide range of other activities will keep families and couples busy for hours.
While in Coastal Mississippi, don’t miss the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. This Frank Gehry-designed museum exhibits the work of renowned Mississippi Gulf Coast potter George E. Ohr. The museum also includes the Beau Rivage Gallery of African American art. A few blocks away, you’ll find the Shearwater Pottery. The pottery studio uses a method developed by Peter Anderson in 1928.
Historic cities
When visiting Mississippi, don’t miss historic cities. Each city is steeped in history and can take you back in time. Here are 10 Mississippi towns that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You might be surprised to find that you haven’t heard of all of them! Consider including these destinations on your travel plans. Read on for more information. Historic cities in Mississippi should be on your bucket list. You’ll be glad you did.
Natchez – The city’s traditional antebellum architecture makes it a must-visit. Many of the buildings are still in use today, and you can tour a museum in them. If you’re an antebellum fan, you’ll appreciate the picturesque backdrop of its antebellum-style structures, framed by the bright Mississippi sky. If you’d prefer some nature time, visit the nearby Natchez National Historic Park.
Ocean Springs – Located on the coast, this city was founded by the French in 1699. It was the first capital of French territory, and was inhabited by Native Americans prior to the arrival of the Europeans. The town is known as the “gem of the Gulf Coast,” with well-maintained historic architecture, thriving restaurants, and art and music scenes. There’s also a museum dedicated to the Mississippi Civil War.
Plantations
If you want to learn about the history of the state’s earliest settlers, a visit to a plantation may be in order. You can visit a plantation in a group tour, or go it alone. Plantations have a tangled history, and you should decide based on your interests. One plantation with a very gruesome history is the Auburn Plantation, built by Levi Weeks, a man who fled to New York when he was accused of murder. This plantation contains a beautifully preserved main house and a variety of outbuildings dating from as early as 1791.
Most plantations do not serve dinner, and many are closed during the week. It is advisable to plan your trip so that you have time to enjoy lunch and dinner at a plantation before heading back to your hotel. In addition, many plantations are not open seven days a week, so you should plan your trip accordingly. If you’re traveling alone, you can stay overnight at a plantation or a nearby motel.
Museums
If you’re looking for a different kind of sightseeing experience, the state’s museums are a great place to start. You can learn about the history of Mississippi, and take in the diverse displays and educational programs offered. There are also a number of award-winning annual events to enjoy. You can learn more about Mississippi’s culture by checking out the Mississippi Museum of Art or Mississippi Museum of History.
The Mississippi Petrified Forest is an incredible opportunity to see fossils. The museum has a beautiful natural setting, nature trails, and an Earth Science Museum with exhibits on petrification and the science behind it. There are dinosaur footprints, whale bones, and a cast of a prehistoric camel. If you have children, this is an especially cool place to visit because it’s educational and fun.
While Mississippi has many natural attractions, museums are some of the best options for sightseeing. The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is the state’s largest museum, and features fossils, a greenhouse, and a 100,000 gallon aquarium. If you want to see some art, Mississippi’s capital city, Jackson, is a great place to go. Also, you can visit the state’s capitol in Jackson, which is the center of government and politics in Mississippi. The Old Spanish Fort Museum is another great option.
Zoos
Visiting a zoo is a unique way to see Mississippi’s animal population. The state’s diverse wildlife is celebrated through zoological parks. These educational attractions are a favorite among both Mississippi residents and tourists. Visitors can interact with endangered animals and have up-close encounters with exotic animals. To plan your visit, consider visiting the following places:
A zoo is a must-do experience for a child’s birthday. Visiting a zoo lets them interact with wildlife and get to know its inhabitants. Zoos are great places to take your family, and they can help make your children’s life more enjoyable. However, if you’re visiting a zoo for the first time, you may want to check whether it’s closed for the day or requires advance reservations.
Another place to visit in Mississippi is the Mississippi Museum of Natural Sciences. It’s part of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife and features displays of local wildlife, tidal river marshes, fossils, and migratory birds. In addition to its exhibits, the museum features an aquarium network with more than 100,000 gallons of water, some of which are used to rotate exhibits. During the year, the museum also offers special events and tours for guests.
Beaches
While Mississippi is a southern state, you may not have thought of its beaches. This southern state offers great outdoor recreation opportunities, including swimming, water sports, and sightseeing. The state borders the Gulf of Mexico and the Mississippi Sound, which make for great beaches and water recreation opportunities. Highway 90 runs parallel to the coastline of Mississippi, providing easy access to beach attractions. Some may require advance reservations, while others may be closed temporarily. Be sure to check with local officials before heading to the beach to make sure it’s open.
If you’re looking for a beach with a lot of activities, consider visiting Lake Mars, a natural shoreline with low-profile dunes. The area has plenty of fun water activities for families, including swimming, fishing, and pier-going. Bay St. Louis Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Mississippi, and it is a 25-minute drive from New Orleans. It also features plenty of restaurants, accommodations, and activities for tourists.
Bay St. Louis is another beach in Mississippi that’s worth checking out. This town offers a calm, small beach with ample parking. This area is known for its crabbing and fishing, and is a popular beach for families with small children. In addition to relaxing, this area also offers volleyball courts and wildlife viewing. In addition, there are many vacation rentals on the shoreline for families and those looking for a romantic getaway.
Music
If you are planning a vacation to Mississippi, the music industry is one of the most important economic drivers in the state. Thousands of visitors flock to the state each year to experience the music scene and take part in Mississippi’s rich cultural history. The state’s iconic artists and musicians are celebrated at Mississippi’s Blues Trail, the Mississippi GRAMMY Museum, and the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience. Visitors can also catch live performances at Mississippi venues.
The Delta region is known as the birthplace of the blues, and you can visit the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale to learn more about this famous genre. Other genres of music performed in Mississippi include Christian, rap, and country music. Among the many concerts, you can enjoy the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra and the Delta Blues Museum. Whether you prefer gospel or country music, the Mississippi Delta Blues Trail is sure to impress.
If you’re looking to learn more about the history of the blues, you’ll find it at the Delta Blues Museum, which features the remains of Muddy Waters’ cabin. The museum recently received a $460,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, and plans to expand its exhibits. You can even see the original outfits worn by Grammy winners. Music sightseeing in Mississippi should be a priority for your trip to Mississippi.
Places to Visit in Mississippi
When considering a vacation to the southern U.S. state, consider visiting the places that are part of the Mississippi Delta. The Delta region is known as the birthplace of blues music, and visitors should check out the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale. The Vicksburg National Military Park is a historical battleground preserved in this state. You can also tour the historic state capitol building in Jackson. If you want to get a taste of what Mississippi has to offer, consider spending a day exploring the state’s historic cities and towns.
Beauvoir
The name Beauvoir means ‘beautiful view’ in French, and this historic estate overlooks the Mississippi Sound. Built in 1852, the estate was later home to Confederate president Jefferson Davis. After Davis’ death, the estate was a National Historic Landmark and a National Historical Site. The site’s staff works to interpret and preserve Davis’ legacy and the contributions of Southern soldiers during the Civil War. Thousands of people visit Beauvoir each year.
This is the site of the home of former Confederate president Jefferson Davis, who spent his last years here. The museum and the house were badly damaged during Hurricane Katrina, but they were reopened in 2008 under the Mississippi Division of Sons of Confederate Veterans. Visitors can still see the former president’s home and other artifacts, including a reconstructed library.
For a unique opportunity to see fossils, check out the Mississippi Petrified Forest. The site was once a lush forest, and is home to an Earth Science Museum where exhibits explain the science behind petrification. Among the fossils on display are dinosaur footprints, whale bones, and a cast of a prehistoric camel. Kids will love the exhibits, which are fascinating and educational.
Natchez
There are many things to do in Natchez, Mississippi. From shopping to eating to taking in the arts, there is no shortage of things to do in Natchez. From historic sites to cultural venues, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for something a little different, consider a bed and breakfast. Natchez is known for its bed and breakfasts, which are either old homes or AirBnB rentals. You can also find hotels in the city, including the Stone House Musical Bed and Breakfast.
Among the many places to visit in Natchez is the historic Windsor Mansion. There’s an incredible food scene in the city, including everything from beignets to fried catfish. Locals recommend eating at King’s Tavern, which is thought to be the oldest building in town. While you’re there, don’t miss the wood-fired flatbread, which are legendary in this town. The King’s Tavern is home to a ghost, so be sure to make reservations ahead of time.
Another great place to visit in Natchez is the Grand Village of the Nachez. This 128.1-acre site, also known as the Fatherland Site, was built by the prehistoric Plaquemine culture, and was inhabited by the Natchez people during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Grand Village features a museum, a replica of a typical Natchez home, a picnic pavilion, and a network of nature trails.
Red Bluff
Located about 1.5 miles northwest of Morgantown, Mississippi, Red Bluff is a geologic feature that was formed by erosion. The town was incorporated in 1890 and is home to a vibrant arts scene. Its distinctive sandstone cliffs are a prominent feature of the area. Red Bluff is a perfect place for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. This picturesque city is well worth the trip. Read on to learn more about the city’s history and what it has to offer.
The Red Bluff trail is steep, dirt-covered, and covered with roots. It ends at a railroad track, where you can hike down to the Pearl River. Climbing over large rocks and crossing the creek several times is common along the trail. Be prepared to deal with mud and loose dirt while hiking in Red Bluff. A visit to Red Bluff is worth it. Its history and natural beauty will take your breath away. There is no shortage of interesting facts about the town.
The Pearl River starts in Neshoba County, Mississippi, and winds its way 444 miles north. It also forms a 115-mile southern boundary between the states of Mississippi and Louisiana. This river also flows through the cities of Jackson and Marion. Red Bluff, Mississippi is located northwest of Morgantown, Miss. It’s a beautiful town that’s known as Mississippi’s Little Grand Canyon. Located off Highway 587, Red Bluff is the perfect place for a family vacation, a romantic weekend getaway, or a relaxing day out with friends.
Pascagoula
When planning your trip to Pascagoula, Mississippi, there are many places to visit. The city is located in Jackson County and is the principal city of the Pascagoula Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is part of the Gulfport-Biloxi-Pascagoula Combined Statistical Area, with a population of 22,392 as of the 2010 census. During the 2000 census, the population was 26,200.
When you plan your trip to Pascagoula, make sure to visit La Pointe-Krebs House, which dates back to 1757. This building is the oldest confirmed structure in the Mississippi Valley. It was constructed during the French colonial period, and is referred to as the Old Spanish Fort. The museum houses artifacts and historic photos that tell about the city’s past.
If you are interested in nature, you can spend time at the Pascagoula River Blueway, which is connected to the Historic Bike Route. You can also walk along the tidal marsh for spectacular views. You can even go bird watching! And if you like to go on walks, you can always try the beautiful trails and bicycle lanes around the city to enjoy some exercise.
St. Mary Basilica
This stunning church is the only basilica in Mississippi. It is a Catholic institution that is one of the oldest in the country. More than 600 students in grades K-12 are enrolled in its Cathedral School system. In addition, the basilica offers an excellent educational experience. While visiting the cathedral, you can also explore its surrounding historic buildings. If you’re planning a trip to Mississippi, you may want to consider St. Mary Basilica.
Another noteworthy religious attraction is St. Mary Basilica, once St. Mary’s Cathedral. The church is steeped in history and is truly beautiful. This church has captivated visitors from far and wide. The church still has a thriving congregation of approximately 2,000 people, and it’s located at 107 South Union Street. If you’re in the area, be sure to check out the schedule for the basilica’s mass service.
Stennis Space Center
The Stennis Space Center is located in Hancock County, Mississippi, east of Slidell. It is a $30 million, 72,000 square foot attraction and is expected to become a major Gulf Coast tourist attraction. The Stennis Space Center is similar to the Johnson Space Center, which is located near Houston, as both are state-owned and operate by NASA. Those interested in the history and development of space exploration can learn about the Stennis Space Center, which will also feature the StenniSphere and the new museum.
The Stennis Space Center has a rich history and is home to modern space pioneers. The space center is one of the nation’s ten NASA field centers. The center is the leading testing facility for rocket propulsion systems. Located near Gulfport, the facility is a popular tourist destination and is the perfect place to spend a day or two. When you’re in the area, make sure to check out the museum.
In addition to being home to a NASA rocket engine test site, Stennis Space Center is home to Special Boat Team 22 and the Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School. Additionally, the Stennis Space Center is home to several state and federal agencies as well as private high-tech companies, including Rolls-Royce. The U.S. Navy Meteorology and Oceanography Command is headquartered here as well. There is a perimeter buffer zone around the center and tours are available Monday through Saturday.
Old Spanish Fort Museum
LaPointe-Krebs House, a historic home, is also known as the Old French or Spanish Fort. It is located on land granted to French Canadian Joseph Simon dit La Pointe. Visitors can tour the LaPointe-Krebs house and learn about the French colonization of Mississippi. The museum contains artifacts and photographs of the period. Its interior is furnished with antique furniture.
LaPointe-Krebs House, also known as the Old Spanish Fort Museum, is a 1757 house located on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. It is the oldest standing structure in the state and predates the American Revolutionary War by nearly two decades. The museum is free to visit. Visitors can learn about the history of the area by walking through the house, which is surrounded by gardens and overlooks Krebs Lake.
Located in Pascagoula, Mississippi, the Old Spanish Fort is a historical site that is rich in history. It is also home to a museum dedicated to promoting education and research. The museum is supported by donations, ticket sales, and fundraisers. You can find food and drinks nearby as well. While visiting the Old Spanish Fort Museum, make sure to make time to visit the nearby restaurants and shops.
