Mississippi Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Mississippi with our travel guide. Learn about its cultural and natural attractions, best things to do, food scenes, and more.


Introduction to Mississippi

Mississippi, often referred to as the ‘Magnolia State,’ is located in the southern region of the United States, bordering Tennessee to the north, Louisiana to the south, Alabama to the east, and Arkansas to the west. With its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty, Mississippi is a destination worth exploring.

List of Places to Visit in Mississippi

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, Mississippi has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit places in Mississippi:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Vicksburg National Military Park: This park commemorates the Battle of Vicksburg, one of the most important battles of the American Civil War.
  • Mississippi Civil Rights Museum: Located in Jackson, this museum features exhibits that chronicle the state’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Mississippi Museum of Art: This museum houses over 4,000 works of art, including pieces by regional and national artists.

Natural Attractions of Mississippi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Natchez Trace Parkway: This 444-mile scenic highway follows the historic Natchez Trace trading route through three states and offers impressive views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Tishomingo State Park: This park is located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and canoeing.
  • Gulf Islands National Seashore: This national park stretches along the Gulf of Mexico and includes beautiful white-sand beaches, historic forts, and nature trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mississippi

  • Tanglefoot Trail: This 43.6-mile trail follows an old railway line and offers scenic views of the countryside.
  • Meridian Homestead Trail: This 10-mile trail is located in Homochitto National Forest and is perfect for hiking and biking.
  • Black Creek Trail: This 40-mile trail follows Black Creek and offers scenic views of the surrounding forest and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Mississippi: Activities and Tours

  • Delta Blues Tour: This tour takes visitors through the heart of the Mississippi Delta and explores the birthplace of blues music.
  • Cathead Distillery Tour: Located in Jackson, this distillery offers tours of its facility and tastings of its award-winning vodka and gin.
  • Mississippi Riverboat Cruise: Take a scenic cruise down the mighty Mississippi River and enjoy the beautiful scenery from the water.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mississippi

Day 1-2: Explore Gulfport and Biloxi Day 3-4: Visit historic Natchez Day 5-6: Experience outdoor adventures in Tishomingo State Park Day 7: Tour the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson

Food and Drink Scene of Mississippi

Mississippi’s food scene is a delicious blend of Southern comfort food and seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Catfish: A Southern staple, fried catfish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
  • Gumbo: This hearty stew is made with shrimp, sausage, and vegetables, and is flavored with a blend of herbs and spices.
  • Pecan Pie: A sweet and nutty pie made with Mississippi’s famous pecans.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: This Southern favorite is sweetened with sugar and served over ice.
  • Cherry Limeade: This refreshing drink is made with fresh lime juice and sweet cherry syrup.
  • Mississippi Mud: A decadent chocolate drink made with ice cream, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream.

Where to Stay in Mississippi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, Mississippi has accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. Here are a few options:

  • The Alluvian Hotel (Greenwood): This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Greenwood and features luxurious rooms, a spa, and an award-winning restaurant.
  • The Natchez Eola Hotel (Natchez): This historic hotel dates back to 1927 and features elegant rooms and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the Mississippi River.
  • The Hostel in the Forest (Brunswick): This unique hostel is located on a 133-acre property and features treehouses, a communal kitchen, and yoga classes.

What to Buy in Mississippi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mississippi is known for its unique crafts and locally made products. Here are a few souvenirs that you should consider bringing home:

  • Mississippi-made pottery: Handmade ceramics are a local specialty in Mississippi.
  • Barbecue sauce: Mississippi is known for its barbecue, and there are a variety of sauces and rubs to choose from.
  • Mississippi River Blues CD: Take home a piece of Mississippi’s musical heritage with a blues CD featuring regional artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Mississippi

Mississippi has a rich cultural heritage, and its residents are known for their Southern hospitality. Here are a few customs to keep in mind when visiting Mississippi:

  • Greeting: It’s customary to greet people with a smile and a friendly “hello” or “howdy.”
  • Manners: Southern manners and politeness are highly valued in Mississippi.
  • Church: Religion plays an important role in Mississippi’s culture, and attending church is a common Sunday morning activity.

Best Time to Visit Mississippi

The best time to visit Mississippi is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mississippi

Do:

  • Enjoy the Southern hospitality and charm.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Take in the natural beauty of the state.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the state’s rich history and culture.
  • Forget your manners and politeness.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mississippi

Mississippi is generally a safe state, but as with any destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Here are a few tips for staying safe in Mississippi:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in some areas of major cities.
  • Lock your car doors and keep valuables out of sight.
  • Practice safe driving habits on rural roads, which can be narrow and winding.

Health in Mississippi

Mississippi has a high rate of obesity and other health problems, so visitors should be mindful of their diets and exercise routines. It’s also important to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile Virus and Zika, which are prevalent in some areas.

Getting to Mississippi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mississippi

  • Jackson-Evers International Airport (JAN)
  • Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT)
  • Tupelo Regional Airport (TUP)

Bus Stations Near Mississippi

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Megabus

Other Options

  • Amtrak
  • Car rental

How to Get Around in Mississippi

The best way to get around Mississippi is by car, as public transportation options are limited. Rental cars and taxis are available at most airports and major cities.

Where to Go Next from Mississippi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Memphis, Tennessee
  • Mobile, Alabama
  • Little Rock, Arkansas

Conclusion

Mississippi offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From historic landmarks and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and delicious food, Mississippi has something for everyone. Come explore the Magnolia State and discover its hidden gems for yourself.



    Gulf Coast
    Mississippi Capital-River
    Mississippi Delta
    Mississippi Hills
    Mississippi Pines