Southern charm, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes are some of the reasons why so many people want to visit Mississippi.
Moreover, the Magnolia State has a rich and complicated history, plenty of interesting stories, and amazing outdoor areas to explore. From white sand beaches to rolling hills, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you love hiking, fishing, or just taking in the scenery, you won’t be disappointed.
Now, let’s talk about the food. Mississippi is known for its Southern cuisine, and you’ll definitely find some real treats. Mouth-watering barbecue, fresh seafood, and homemade biscuits are but a few of the dishes that will ensnare your taste buds.
In today’s article, we’ll talk about what to visit while in Mississippi and where to find authentic Southern cuisine specific to the area. So, if you’re planning a trip to Mississippi in the near future, it’s time to start packing!
On Vacation to Mississippi? Here Are 5 Amazing Things to Do There
Even though Mississippi is not one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, it makes for a great vacation destination, whether you travel alone or with friends. So why not have a look at the things you can do and see while there?
Here are a few ideas:
1. Visit the Vicksburg National Military ParkÂ
This park is a significant historical landmark that honors the American Civil War Battle of Vicksburg. Spread across 1,800 acres, the park is home to over 1,300 historical monuments, a restored ironclad gunboat, and a national cemetery.
Visitors can take guided tours, hike, or bike through the park to experience the rich history of the area.
2. Explore the Mississippi Blues Trail
The blues is a music genre that took wings from the Mississippi Delta region and became a worldwide phenomenon due to its popularity and talented musicians. But, the genre emerged as a way for African Americans to express their hardships and emotions through music, often accompanied by simple instruments like the guitar or harmonica.
Many early blues musicians, such as Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, and B.B. King was born and raised in Mississippi and drew inspiration from their experiences in the rural South. Therefore, today’s Mississippi Blues Trail is a collection of over 200 historical markers that commemorate the birthplaces, homes, and graves of legendary blues musicians.
The trail takes visitors through small towns and cities across the state, allowing them to explore the history and influence of blues music on Mississippi and the world. Plus, you can enjoy the sounds of Mississippi’s local musicians in various venues along the way.
3. Relax at the Gulf Islands National SeashoreÂ
If you like sand and beaches, you can’t miss the Gulf Islands National Seashore! This is a beautiful stretch of white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and pristine natural beauty.
And, when you get bored of basking in the sun, you can do some swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and even camping. The seashore is home to plenty of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and pelicans, so you may be fortunate enough to observe them in their natural habitat.
4. Visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace and MuseumÂ
Located in Tupelo, the Elvis Presley Museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll. So, if you want to know how a musical genius was born, you can’t ignore this very important attraction.
You can explore the small two-room house where he was born, see exhibits of his childhood and career, and even stand on the spot where he first performed in public. The museum also has a gift shop and a statue of Elvis, in case you want to take something to remind you of this journey.
5. Take a scenic drive on the Natchez Trace Parkway
If you like biking, hiking, or even driving on a beautiful road, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a must-see and explore.
This is a scenic road that runs through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, following the path of the historic Natchez Trace, a trail used by Native Americans and early settlers. The road is known for its beautiful views of rolling hills, forests, and streams.
Plus, there are various historical sites and landmarks along the way, so you can learn a bit more about Mississippi’s history and culture.
Restaurants You’ll Fall in Love With
Most tips for smart travelers will advise you against visiting a fine-dining establishment while traveling. However, this is solely dependent on your budget and the type of experience you want to have.
If you’re visiting Mississippi, you have to try the local cuisine. However, you should also visit a few restaurants since many are family-owned businesses dating back a century.
Here are a few locals to add to your list of Mississippi attractions:
- Lusco’s in Greenwood: This historic restaurant has been serving up Southern cuisine since 1933 and has become a beloved institution in the Greenwood community. The menu features classic dishes like seafood gumbo, shrimp étouffée, and chicken livers with gravy.
- City Grocery in Oxford: This restaurant has been a staple in the Oxford community for over 25 years and is known for its elevated Southern cuisine. The menu features dishes like fried oysters with remoulade, braised pork shoulder, and cornmeal fried catfish.
- Ajax Diner in Oxford: Another great spot in Oxford, Ajax Diner is a local favorite for Southern comfort food. Here, you can enjoy delicious dishes like fried chicken and waffles, pimento cheeseburgers, red beans and rice.
- The Pig & Pint in Jackson: If you’re looking for some delicious barbecue, look no further than The Pig & Pint. This casual eatery serves up a variety of smoked meats and Southern sides, like pulled pork sandwiches, smoked wings, and collard greens.
- Cock of the Walk in Ridgeland: For classic Southern cooking, Cock of the Walk is a must-visit. This restaurant serves up traditional dishes like fried catfish, hushpuppies, and chicken-fried steak in a cozy, rustic setting.
Wrap Up
Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, history, or comfort food, Mississippi has it all. Plus, there are many venues where you can listen to high-quality live music, so why not give it a try?
