What Not To Miss In Mississippi

Did you know that the word ‘Mississippi’ simply means ‘Big River’ in the Ojibwe language? The Ojibwe people actually lived in Minnesota where the river begins its long journey south, but if they were to have described the Mississippi State, then it may have been ‘Missi-Ake” or ‘Big State’, as it does cover a deceptively large area.

Often grouped with other states in the area known as “The Deep South”, Mississippi can be too easily overlooked by travellers. However, whether you are history buff, music lover, or simply someone who enjoys a good plate of fresh seafood Gumbo, Mississippi has a little something for everyone.

• Welcome to Mississippi
• Northern Mississippi
• Mid-Mississippi
• Riverside Mississippi
• Gulf Coast Mississippi
• Don’t Miss Mississippi

Welcome to Mississippi

Stretching from the warm waters of the Gulf Coast up to its northern border with Tennessee, Mississippi should not solely be defined by the river that gave it its name. Marking its westerly border, the Mississippi River was the lifeblood to early residents, but over time the state has generated a rhythm and colour all of its own.

Known as the birthplace of the blues, Mississippi is celebrated for its vital role in shaping all American music. The state gave rise to music legends such as B.B. King and Muddy Waters, as well as famously being the birthplace of Elvis Presley.

Mississippi has also played a pivotal role in America’s, sometimes chequered, history. Within the state’s boundaries you can visit the sites of civil war battles, large mansion homes initially built on the profits of the slave trade, as well as museums highlighting the state’s significant role in the struggle for equality.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to embrace in Mississippi. The lush river delta region transcends into pine woodlands beyond the sandy shores of the Gulf Coast, each ecosystem providing habitats for an abundance of wildlife from aquatic birds to some of America’s larger land mammals.

Mississippi’s culinary traditions draw on numerous cultures with BBQ and seafood front and centre. Make sure you try fresh seafood Gumbo and Delta Tamales with flavours created in local kitchens. Of course, everyone should try a Mississippi Mud Pie, but don’t miss out on Pressed Po’boys or Fried Dill Pickles either.

Northern Mississippi

A trip across the northern reaches of Mississippi promises a blend of soulful music, literary landmarks and small-town charm. You might begin your journey in New Albany, a picturesque town, known as the gateway to the Tanglefoot Trail. This 44-mile scenic trail has been converted from an old railway line to create a peaceful pathway perfect for hiking and cycling. Once you have finished the trail you could sit back with a book by William Faulkner. The Nobel prize-winning author was born close to New Albany.

When it comes to famous birthplaces, then Tupelo claims the biggest. Just a short drive from New Albany this unassuming town saw the birth of Elvis Presley in 1935. In Tupelo you can visit the modest two-room house where Elvis was brought up and the neighbouring museum and park provides a fascinating glimpse into his humble beginnings. It is a significant contrast to his later home at Graceland in Memphis not too far away. For some authentic Mississippi dining in Tupelo, you may like to try Kermit’s Soul Kitchen, for some sweet tea fried chicken and southern cornbread.

Further west, and much like its namesake in England, Oxford is a university town. Home to the University of Mississippi, affectionately known as ‘Ole Miss’, Oxford has a historic downtown square at its heart, with boutique shops and high-quality restaurants surrounding it. The iconic ‘Square Books’ is a literary treasure trove, and hotel’s such as The Graduate are all facing Oxford’s Square. Fans of William Faulkner can continue their pilgrimage by visiting Rowan Oak, the author’s preserved home.

The music theme is continued further on in Clarksdale. This town in the epicentre of the Delta Blues, where music legends like Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters performed. It is possible to explore the Delta Blues Museum to receive an introduction into Mississippi music. However, to fully appreciate the blues, try to catch a live performance at the Ground Zero Blues Club, co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, before shopping for vinyl records at Cat Head Music.

Mid-Mississippi

Mississippi’s music heritage continues in the centre of the state, and the town of Indianola is a must-visit for fans of the Blues. Celebrating the life of one of the genre’s greatest icons, the B.B. King Museum offers an immersive journey through the life and legacy of the blues legend. Visitors will be rewarded with exhibits showcasing his music, personal artefacts and the social history of the Mississippi Delta Blues scene. Beyond the museum the town exudes a welcoming southern charm, with cosy eateries and boutique shops making it a delightful stop on your Mississippi journey.

Just a short drive from Indianola is the colourful town of Cleveland. The Grammy Museum stands out as the key attraction here, providing an engaging look at Mississippi’s influence on global music. Cleveland’s downtown area is lively, with shops and restaurants complimenting a burgeoning arts scene that adds to the town’s colourful image.

The Mississippi state capital is Jackson, a bustling hub that combines Mississippi cultural history with modern urban living. If you are only in Jackson for a short time, then the must visit attraction is the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. This poignant and powerful exhibition chronicles Mississippi’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, with heartfelt personal stories of historic persecution and resilience. To refresh after the museum, perhaps take a walk around LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. This oasis in the city is perfect for a hike and a picnic.

For a more challenging hike, then the colourful geological features of Red Bluff are definitely worth a visit. Near the town of Foxworth, this striking formation of vibrant clay and sand layers has been created by years of weathering and erosion. Hiking along the bluff itself provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Equally picturesque are Dunn’s Falls, a serene retreat near the town of Meridian. This beautiful waterfall was created by a historic man-made dam, and the lush surroundings are perfect for leisurely walk, a picnic, or even a swim in the pool. The site also includes a grist mill from the 1850s that offers a glimpse into the region’s industrial past.   

Riverside Mississippi

The shores of the Mississippi River run along the state’s western border and are steeped in history and culture. This iconic waterway has dramatically shaped the landscape and written the stories of the towns that line its banks.

The town of Vicksburg was known as the ‘Key to the South’ and the Vicksburg National Military Park preserves the site of one the most pivotal battles from the American Civil War. The maintained battlefields and monuments are complimented by the restored USS Cairo, an ironclad navy gunboat that once cruised up and down the Mississippi River. Beyond the park, the town of Vicksburg also offers other historical treasures. The Old Court House Museum details the story of this historic town, whilst the Coca-Cola Museum celebrates the town’s claim to be the very first place to bottle the world-famous beverage. During your stay be sure to head down to the riverside restaurants and enjoy some alfresco dining, Mississippi style.

Further south along the Mississippi River lies Natchez, a city synonymous with southern elegance and historic grandeur. Known for its preserved mansions, Natchez offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time. Two of the architectural gems include Longwood, an unfinished octagonal building, and Stanton Hall, a grand palatial Greek Revival-style mansion. By joining a guided tour of these, and other mansions, you can learn a great deal about the lives of the original inhabitants, how they gained their wealth, and how these homes were designed and built. To get an overview of the town and the river head up to Natchez Bluff Park, where the views are spectacular, particularly at sunset.

The Natchez Trace Parkway begins just outside of the town. This 444-mile historic route stretches from Natchez all the way to Nashville, Tennessee. Originally a Native American trail, it later became a vital path for early settlers, and then traders and soldiers. Today the parkway is a scenic driving route that provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting and other outdoor activities. You can also explore some of the well-marked ancient burial sites and trading posts that are dotted along the route.

Similar architecture to Natchez can also be found in Port Gibson. Many of its buildings survived the Civil War, including some historic churches, not found elsewhere in America. The Windsor Ruins are also a haunting reminder of a once-grand plantation home.

Gulf Coast Mississippi

Probably because the Mississippi River actually reaches the sea in Louisiana, people often forget that Mississippi actually has a coastline. However, the Mississippi Gulf Coast is a delightful blend of beachfront towns and natural offshore islands.

Begin at Bay St. Louis, a picturesque seaside town known for its artisan and artistic spirit. The historic old town district allows visitors to explore art galleries, boutique shops and cafés. The town celebrates its creative side with regular art themed guided walks and live music events. The beaches here are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while the nearby Bay St. Louis Bridge provides scenic views and a path popular for walking and cycling. The bay’s calm and protected waters are popular with water sports such as paddleboarding, whilst the harbour is home to many fishing charters.

The largest city on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast is Gulfport, a hub of activity with a downtown area hosting shops, restaurants and local micro-breweries. Its proximity to the beach means that during the holidays in particular, the streets are a hive of activity throughout the day. Gulfport’s large aquarium is great activity for families and displays different habitats from freshwater rivers (like the Mississippi) to coral reefs. The aquarium has an active research and conservation arm that visitors can participate in.

Further east lies Biloxi, a city renowned for its casinos and entertainment, with visitors attracted by gambling, live shows and fine dining. However, for a deeper connection to the area’s history, the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum highlights the region’s seafaring heritage, and the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art celebrates the unique ceramics of George Ohr, the self-proclaimed “Mad Potter of Biloxi.” Visitors can also take a trip to the Biloxi Lighthouse, a symbol of resilience that has stood since the mid-19th century.

The Gulf Islands National Seashore is a pristine stretch of protected coastline that extends into Mississippi’s coastal waters. The barrier islands, such as Ship Island, Cat Island and Horn Island, offer secluded beaches, nature trails, and historic landmarks like Fort Massachusetts. The clear waters are ideal for snorkelling, kayaking, and spotting dolphins, making this a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The islands are only accessible by boat, with private charters and a ferry to Ship Island, departing from Gulfport.

Don’t Miss Mississippi

Overshadowed by the river that shares its name, Mississippi remains a crucial member state of America’s Deep South, and whether you are interested in music, food, history or nature it has something to offer everyone.

Whether you are visiting the birthplaces of the music giants such as Elvis and B.B. King, discovering the history of the American Civil War and the fight for civil rights, or just want to enjoy a po’boy on the beach, don’t miss Mississippi.