Fancy a holiday to the birthplace of Mississippi? The city of Natchez, located in Adams County, is a true Southern gem waiting to be discovered. Come visit the city and be awed by its unique historical architecture, of which there are more than 600 examples - a number that exceeds that of other cities in the South. It is a quaint town overlooking the Mississippi River that is brought to life not only by its Native Indian, African, French, and Spanish heritage, but also by its bustling culture scene, striking natural features and accommodating locals. Get a true taste of the South at this beautiful town and check out the top things to do in Natchez, Mississippi, listed below.
1. Tour around the gardens of Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens (from USD 235)
Try the unique experience of staying in an antebellum mansion from the 19th century and a National Historic Landmark. Now, this inn features period furnishings and accents from the antebellum era, guaranteeing to take you back in time. There are luxurious accommodations that will show guests the best of Southern hospitality. Some rooms come with a fireplace and spa tub. Plus, there’s an acclaimed restaurant that you should check out. However, if you’re not staying, you can enjoy a rejuvenating tour around the property’s restored garden that is always brimming with life. Enter through the cedar-lined and oak entrance, and explore the Courtyard with its pansies and marigolds. Don’t miss out on the Herb Garden from which mint, among other herbs, are grown for the inn’s signature mint julep drink. See other attractions such as a fountain, a pond stocked with ducks, and a palladium temple-styled sanctuary.
Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens
Address: 1358 John A Quitman Blvd, Natchez, MS 39120-5077
Website: Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens
Monmouth Historic Inn
Address: 1358 John A. Quitman Blvd
2.62 km (1.7 mi) from Longwood
2. Rent a kayak and paddle along the lake with Quapaw Canoe Company Natchez Outpost
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Quapaw Canoe Company is a veteran team that provides adventure enthusiasts with exciting and safe day or week trips through the Lower Mississippi River. Traverse through a slice of America’s great wilderness at the river by canoe or kayak. Be warned, though. With its unpredictable character and weather, there’s a chance this river adventure might get extreme. However, Quapaw Canoe Company is experienced and equipped with first-aid kits, US Coast Guard-approved Type III life jackets, marine radio, and more, to ensure your trip goes smoothly. As for pricing, a full package includes a basic fee, meals, and shuttle fees. Take note that the more people there are in your group, the cheaper it will be.
Quapaw Canoe Company: Natchez Outpost
Address: Natchez, MS, USA
Website: Quapaw Canoe Company Natchez Outpost
Price: From 85 USD per person (for a group of 6 and more)
3. Hunt for vintage treasures along the antique alley of Franklin Street
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Nothing makes for a more unique shopping experience than hunting for vintage and antique finds - you never know what you’re going to get. Looking for clothes, trinkets, or furniture? Located along Franklin Street in Natchez is a row of shops selling quality antique finds. You’ll spot Mississippi Antique Trail member shops such as Lower Lodge Antiques, Lower Lodge Conservation & Museum Services, and Mrs. Holder’s Antiques. You can also discover Ole Man River Antiques and the ever-reliable Franklin Street Antique Mall. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to cover a lot of ground for that great one-of-a-kind vintage find.
Franklin Street
Address: Natchez, MS 39120, USA
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4. Delve into the history of African Americans in the South at Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture
Stop by Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture for an engaging lesson about the history of African Americans in the South. Through several exhibits, you’ll gain insight into this facet of African American history that’s unique in Natchez. Learn about important events such as the Rhythm Nightclub Fire, which caused the deaths of more than 200 African American Natchez citizens. Get to know about the works of author and Natchez native Richard Nathaniel Wright. Though relatively small, the wealth of knowledge presented in the materials and the staff who conduct the tours are sure to leave you impressed.
Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture
Address: 301 Main St, Natchez, MS 39120, United States
Website: Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4:30pm; Sat: 10am - 2pm (closed on Sun)
5. Sip on the finest muscadine wines at Old South Winery
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re a wine lover, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy sampling the different kinds of wine at Old South Winery. Family-run and established in 1979, Old South Winery is a quaint little place to enjoy muscadine wines in a casual atmosphere. This special drink is made from muscadine grapes that are native to Southeastern USA, and this winery happens to have the largest selection of this kind. Apart from a tour and tasting session, you can also bring home a bottle of your favorite variety.
Old South Winery
Address: 65 S Concord Ave, Natchez, MS 39120, United States
Website: Old South Winery
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 5 USD per tasting/tour
6. Visit the oldest building in the city, King's Tavern
King’s Tavern, the oldest standing building in the city, has had a colorful past. Built in 1798 as a watering hole, it hosted many weary travelers. At one point, it was even thought to be haunted. To this day, you might hear about a few ghost stories centered on the place. However, these days, King’s Tavern is a bustling scene that features a restaurant, bar and distillery, and store. It was purchased and revamped in 2013 by the Charboneaus who have built upon its rustic antique charm. Head down to enjoy a delicious meal or a nightcap and admire the historic building that’s been a sanctuary to many travelers before you.
King's Tavern
Address: 613 Jefferson St, Natchez, MS 39120, United States
Website: King’s Tavern
Opening hours: Thu - Fri: 5pm - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 10pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
7. Learn to make biscuits over brunch (from USD 90.0)
Who better to learn Southern cooking from than a Southern-bred top chef? Renowned for her Southern-style cuisine, Chef Regina Charboneau has met success in her restaurants in San Francisco and hometown of Natchez, including the restaurant at the restored King’s Tavern. During this lesson, she’ll let you in on tips and tricks for crafting a terrific brunch. Learn how to make the perfect biscuits from the Queen of Biscuits herself. Then, try your hand at making other brunch treats such as shrimp and grits. Morning libations are offered as well.
Natchez Mississippi Saturday Biscuit and Brunch Class
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
8. Spend a day exploring the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians
The Grand Village of the Natchez Indians is a sprawling park and museum that spans 128 ac (52 ha) and makes a great first stop for your Natchez exploration. It features three ceremonial Native American mounds - the Great Sun’s Mound, the Temple Mound, and the Abandoned Mound. These mounds have been mostly excavated, or otherwise preserved, to give visitors an insight into the period when this place served as the Natchez Indians’ primary ceremonial site. Featuring a reconstructed Natchez Indian home, a visitors’ center, and a nature trail, this site offers an all-in-one experience that’s perfect for those who want to delve deeper into this city’s Natchez Indian roots.
The Grand Village of the Natchez Indians
Address: 400 Jeff Davis Blvd, Natchez, MS 39120, United States
Website: The Grand Village of the Natchez Indians
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 1:30pm - 5pm
Price: Free
9. Bike along Natchez Trace and enjoy scenic views
The Natchez Trace Parkway is an incredible stretch of road that runs through three states. It approximately follows the path of the original Natchez Trace, also called Old Natchez Trace, which used to be a travel corridor. With a total of 714.5 km (444 mi), the parkway not only offers scenic drives, but also opportunities for camping, hiking, and more. The southern part of the parkway crosses the state of Mississippi. It is a designated cycling path and even features bicycle-only campgrounds.
The Natchez Trace Parkway
Website: The Natchez Trace Parkway
10. Sample a variety of delicious rums at Charboneau Distillery
Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed.
Run by father-and-son tandem, Doug and Jean-Luc Charboneau, Charboneau Distillery is based in the previous bar area of King’s Tavern. It bears the distinction of being the first legally distilled rum made in Mississippi and promises a wide range of selections including Charboneau White Rum, Gold Rum, Rouge Rum, and Black Rum. There’s a Craft Liquor store on site where you can choose and take home your favorite variety.
Charboneau Distillery
Address: 617 Jefferson St, Natchez, MS 39120, United States
Website: Charboneau Distillery
Opening hours: Fri: 12pm - 6pm; Sat: 5pm - 7pm (closed from Sun - Thu)
Walk in the footsteps of history in Natchez
There’s bound to be diverse options in a city as unique as Natchez, where history permeates nearly every building and every nature trail. Hopefully, this list of the top things to do will help you build your itinerary. Make the most of your Natchez trip, and come to a deeper appreciation for this historic hub in Mississipi.
History
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