Mississippi is a state known for the crucial part it played in the American Civil War that is commemorated by historical landmarks in several cities. Mississippi Delta is considered the origin of blues, and Delta Blues Museum is dedicated to conserving this history and enlightening people on this music genre. Mississippi is also famous for its catfish farming. One of its top sights is Vicksburg National Military Park that is home to historical monuments preserved in honor of the Siege of Vicksburg. Biloxi Beach attracts tourists who visit to see the 19th-century Biloxi Lighthouse and indulge in seafood at various restaurants. To find out more about the Magnolia State, check out our list of the 10 best places to visit in Mississippi, the USA.
1. Jackson
Visit Jackson, the state’s capital, and the city with the highest population in Mississippi. Jackson is famed for its museums. Old Capitol Museum highlights the building’s history and its purpose. Mississippi Museum of Natural Science has nature trails and displays over 200 species in an aquarium and various animals in diverse habitats. Kids will have a blast at Mississippi Children’s Museum that features interactive exhibits focusing on building their interest in fields such as science and mathematics. Other attractions include Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Mississippi Museum of Art, Jackson Zoo, and Eudora Welty House & Garden.
2. Gulfport
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Gulfport boasts miles of beautiful unspoiled beaches. Put on your beach attire and apply some sunscreen for a day of basking in the sun on the soft, white sand, swimming in the shallow refreshing waters, or reading your favorite book under an umbrella as you marvel at the beach views. Watersports enthusiasts will love kayaking, paddle boarding, or hiring a fishing charter. Go on an excursion to Ship Island and see wildlife like dolphins and tour Fort Massachusetts. For a fun night out, visit Island View Casino Resort that offers accommodation, dining, and gaming options.
3. Canton
Canton is a historic city with many of its attractions listed under the National Register of Historic Places. The courthouse square was listed in 1982 and is home to the beautiful Greek Revival Courthouse. Aside from that, it also serves as a venue for the bi-annual Canton Flea Market where artisans worldwide go to display their artworks. Canton Cemetery has graves of confederate soldiers who died while seeking treatment in this city during the American Civil War. Outdoor enthusiasts can keep fit hiking at Natchez Trace Yockanookany Trailhead MS 43 which offers scenic hiking trails. History lovers will enjoy visiting Canton Museum of History and Madison County History Museum.
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4. Oxford
Oxford is a beautiful city snuggled in the forested North Central Hills area. It offers a rich history and culture scene as well as impeccable gastronomic delights. A popular attraction in this city is the picturesque town square known as The Square. It is home to the historic Lafayette County Courthouse that offers dining spots and shops, and Lyric Theater that hosts numerous live music performances. A short walking distance from this square is Rowan Oak where the American writer William Faulkner stayed. Other city highlights include The Grove and University of Mississippi Museum. Have fun exploring this city with a small-town feel.
5. Cleveland
Discover this small city with a rich and significant history in the growth of different music genres such as blues and rock ‘n’ roll. GRAMMY Museum Mississippi celebrates the history of the GRAMMY Awards that honors musicians’ accomplishments and legacies through exhibits and film. Take a stroll on the Mississippi Blues Trail and see markers such as Chrisman Street and Dockery Farms related to blues music’s evolution. Those who are crazy about trains can visit Martin & Sue King Railroad Heritage Museum to learn about railroad history and see the O-gauge railroad replica.
6. Biloxi
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this city attracts visitors who explore its sandy beaches and try their luck at gambling in its casinos. Soak up the Mississippi sun at Biloxi Beach and enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding in the Gulf Waters. The 19th-century Biloxi Lighthouse towers at 65 feet (20 meters) and offers unmatched views of the city. Satisfy your seafood cravings at one of the waterfront restaurants serving fresh and tasty seafood. Biloxi has 11 casinos, including the waterfront Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and IP Casino Resort & Spa with slot machines and table games.
7. Clarksdale
Found along the edge of Sunflower River, Clarksdale is a city known for being the venue of Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival that is held once every year. Clarksdale is amongst the cities that were significant in the growth of blues, and Riverside Hotel is one of the markers of Mississippi Blues Trail. Discover the history of blues at Delta Blues Museum and buy a souvenir from its gift shop. This city also has fertile soils, and agriculture is a common practice here. Other attractions include The Blues Crossroads and River Gator for those who want to enjoy paddling on Lower Mississippi River.
8. Bay St. Louis
Lying on Gulf Coast, Bay St. Louis is a picturesque city that offers a beach perfect for a fun day out basking in the sun. Alice Moseley Folk Art & Antique Museum shares insights on Alice Moseley’s life and displays her folk artworks and paintings. You can purchase memorabilia related to her work from the museum’s gift shop. 100 Men Hall is a historical landmark where you can learn about its history and enjoy great music and food in a fun atmosphere. Finally, marvel at the stunning water and city views as you walk on Bay St. Louis Bridge that was rebuilt after Hurricane Katrina.
9. Columbus
Have fun exploring this historic city that is the place of birth of popular people such as Henry Armstrong, Tennessee Williams, and Red Barber. Columbus boasts antebellum homes open to the public for tours, specialty shops with unique period pieces, and acres of beautiful recreational parks. Lake Lowndes State Park offers 150 acres (61 hectares) of land with disc golf, picnic areas, and camping sites, while the lake is perfect for fishing, boating, and waterskiing. Tours of historic homes such as Tennessee Williams Home & Welcome Center, Waverly Mansion, and Temple Heights Mansion are also a must-do while in this city.
10. Natchez (from USD 20.0)
Journey through Natchez’s (American Indians) history while in this historical city found along Mississippi River. It has numerous antebellum mansions featuring a unique architectural style. These include Monmouth Historic Inn & Garden, Longwood, Stanton Hall, and Melrose. Natchez National Historical Park educates on the history and culture of the Amerian Indians who called this area home. Structures of interest within the park include Melrose, Fort Rosalie, and William Johnson House. Grand Village of the Natchez Indians sheds more light on the culture of these people. Learn about history in a fun way while in this city.
City Sightseeing Natchez Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Duration: 50 minutes
Dive into the history and culture of Mississippi
Mississippi is a state that features monuments of historical significance that have been listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Travel back in time as you explore these cities that give you a mix of history and culture. Have fun in these best places to visit in Mississippi, the USA.
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