Unforgettable Places to Visit in Mississippi: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Mississippi—a mosaic of vibrant culture, rich history, and soul-stirring music—is calling, and your answer is far from the ordinary. Whether you’re revving up for a historic trek along the mighty Mississippi River or craving the eclectic experiences that line the state’s byways, there’s a city, a story, and a dish that beckons you. Embark on a road trip through these unforgettable places to visit in Mississippi, each with its own flavor, spirit, and charm that will enrich your travelogue.

Here’s your guide to the must-see destinations in the Magnolia State in alphabetical order:

Bay St. Louis: The Enduring Allure of the American South

Bay St. Louis beckons, with its beautiful beaches, historic homes, and artistic heart on full display, making it a destination straight out of a Southern storybook. What beckons in Bay St. Louis?

• Beach Bliss: With its white sands and clear waters, Bay St. Louis offers the perfect mix of relaxation and recreation.
• Old-Fashioned Ambiance: Embark on a coastal cruise through historic neighborhoods and preserved storefronts that evoke a sense of timelessness and tranquility.
• Buttercup on Second St: Step into Buttercup on Second St. for a handpicked selection of home decor, gifts, and antiques as unique as the town.
• Mockingbird Cafe: Indulge in slow dining at Mockingbird Cafe, where the coffee and breakfasts are supreme.

Biloxi Bliss: Island Adventure with a Cultural Twist

Biloxi, the crown jewel of the Gulf Coast, offers a royal blend of high-stakes entertainment and low-key relaxation, all against the backdrop of glittering waters. Discover:

• Biloxi Lighthouse: Ascend the iconic Biloxi Lighthouse for panoramic views of the azure horizon and a snapshot-worthy experience.
• Beau Rivage: Take a gamble or indulge in luxury at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, where opulence and entertainment reign supreme. This is one primo property!
• Beauvoir: Reflect on the indelible legacy of the Confederacy and the life of Jefferson Davis at Beauvoir, his last home turned museum.
• Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art: Marvel at the architectural dreamscape and pottery masterpieces of ‘The Mad Potter’ at the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, a testament to Biloxi’s artistic revival.

Bucolic Brandon: Serenity in the Suburbs

Brandon, a tranquil suburb of Jackson, is an oasis of calm where community spirit and a commitment to the countryside thrive. Discover:

• Brandon Amphitheater: Immerse yourself in melodic throes at the Brandon Amphitheater, where performances under the stars from top-billed acts are the soundtrack to your serenity, and every seat is good.
• Holiday Lights Drive Thru:  Delight in the magic of the season as you cruise through the Magic of Lights display, where the festive spirit illuminates the December skies.
• The Cleaners by Pizza Shack: Dine at The Cleaners by Pizza Shack, a local legend where the flavors are as bold as the clever pizza creations they deliver. Kudos for the self-serve soda fountain.
• Southern Sweetness: Treat yourself to a visual and culinary smorgasbord at Southern Sweetness, where the owner whips up masterpieces that are almost too pretty to eat.
• Shaggy’s on the Rez: Sip, savor, and soak in the scenery at Shaggy’s on the Rez, where the laid-back atmosphere and delicious dishes set the tone for relaxation.

Cleveland: The Soul of Mississippi in High Definition

Cleveland—soulful, spirited, and the undisputed birthplace of the blues, is where the tapestry of Mississippi’s music unfurls its deepest colors. Groove to the following tunes:

• Grammy Museum Mississippi: Celebrate the legends and legacies of music at the Grammy Museum Mississippi, a harmonious fusion of technology and tradition. Cleveland has several spots and markers along the Mississippi Blues Trail, one of which can be found here.
• Dockery Farms: Pay homage to Charley Patton and the roots of the Delta Blues at Dockery Farms, the cradle of the musical genre that reshaped the world’s soundscape.
• Cotton House: Unwind in the plush comfort of the Cotton House Hotel (a Tribute Portfolio property), where opulence meets down-home charm and the spirit of the South is echoed in every detail and design.
• Delta Meat Market: Sate your hunger at the Delta Meat Market, where crafted meats and local produce are combined to create culinary art by a James Beard-nominated chef.

Cultural Clinton: Where Community and History Converge

Clinton, a charming city with a big heart, is a testament to Mississippi’s sense of community and a fusion of past, present, and promise. Experience:

• Meme’s Brick Street Bakery: Satisfy your sweet tooth with confections as delightful as the memories they conjure at Meme’s, where each bite is a taste of tradition. The cookies and petit fours can’t be beat.
• Wyatt Waters Gallery: Immerse yourself in the artwork of renowned watercolorist Wyatt Waters and witness the picturesque South through his eyes.
• Lion’s Club Park: Set the kids loose at Lion’s Club Park for an afternoon of unbridled fun and adventure in a setting steeped in natural beauty.
• 303 Jefferson: Feast like royalty on a variety of delectable dishes at 303 Jefferson.
• Olde Towne: Step back in time and wander the historic brick-lined streets of Olde Towne, a haven of local charm and timeless treasures, with some lovely murals and art installments sprinkled in.

Greenwood Greatness: Milestones in Mississippi’s Musical Journey

Greenwood, a cradle of culture and convergence, is where the stories of Mississippi intertwine with the strings of a blues guitarist’s guitar. Explore the following in Greenwood:

• MS Blues Trail: Follow the Mississippi Blues Trail to the Robert Johnson marker and serenade your soul in the shadows of the blues’ most mysterious legend.
• The Alluvian: Rest your head and elevate your experience at The Alluvian, a luxury hotel and spa that pampers the senses and delights the soul.
• Viking Cooking School: Unleash your inner chef at the Viking Cooking School, where culinary curiosity meets masterful skill in a delicious duet. These are some of my favorite cooking classes in the country.
• BB King Museum & Delta Interpretive Center: Pay homage to the king of blues at the BB King Museum & Delta Interpretive Center, where each exhibit is a testament to the music’s enduring legacy.
• Tallahatchie River Tours: Sail the waters that inspired countless songs down the Tallahatchie River, a liquid ode to the heart of Mississippi’s melody.
• Crystal Grill: Savor Southern comfort creatively concocted at the Crystal Grill, where every meal celebrates Mississippi’s savory history. The pies are world-famous; save room. 

Gulfport Gladness: A Sea of Sights and Sounds

Gulfport, a coastal cove of consummate beauty and burgeoning excitement, is as splendid as the sea that cradles its shores. Here, the waves of experience await:

• Lynn Meadows Discovery Center: Spark the imagination and intellect of your little ones at the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, where hands-on exhibits make learning a lighthearted affair. This is our favorite MS children’s museum.
• Gulfport Premium Outlets: Unleash the shopper in you at the Gulfport Premium Outlets, where designer labels and delightfully low prices make every purchase a victory.
• The Casinos: Roll the dice and revel in the razzle-dazzle of the coast’s numerous casinos, where entertainment, excitement, and the chance to win big awaits.
• Mississippi Aquarium: Plunge into the depths of marine magnificence at the Mississippi Aquarium, where the wonders of the water world are never out of reach. You’ll find a lot of surprises at this family attraction —we love it!
• Fishbone Alley: Stroll through the open-air gallery of Fishbone Alley, where the art of the coast is as enriching as the salt in the air and the sand near your feet.
• Felix’s Oysters: Savor the juiciness of the sea at Felix’s Oysters, where the salty goodness of the Gulf takes center stage in every dish. Go for the Royal Reds! 

Hattiesburg Harmony: Where Past and Present Paint a Pretty Picture

Hattiesburg is a city that hums with harmony, where past and present paint a pretty picture of community and creativity. Explore the Gallivant in:

• Pocket Museum: Get whimsical at the Pocket Museum, where rotating exhibits and a brick alley are dedicated to art delights and intrigue at every turn.
• Murals & Music: Set off on a quest to discover Hattiesburg’s more than 50 murals and street art that serve as the backdrop for the city’s melodic nature.
• Hattiesburg Zoo: Spend a day at the Hattiesburg Zoo, an adventure for all ages where the wild and wonderful world of animals comes alive. And then there’s the splash pad, ropes course, and the list goes on and on.
• Longleaf Trace: Cycle down the Longleaf Trace, a tree-lined, 41-mile path that’s part biking trail, nature-lovers paradise, and part portrait of the piney woods far and wide.
• African American Military History Museum: Pay homage to unsung heroes at the African American Military History Museum, where exhibits honor the contributions of Hattiesburg service members.
• The Lucky Rabbit: Lucky for you, The Lucky Rabbit is a shopping utopia where you can hop from one delight to the next.

Check out this post for suggestions on where to eat in Hattiesburg, one of our favorite MS-eating cities.

Jackson Jive: Just Jazzed About the Capital City

Welcome to Jackson, where the jive is contagious, and the rhythm of life sets a beat all its own. Connect with the capital at:

• Capital Complex & Governor’s Mansion: Explore the grandeur of the Capital Complex and the stately Governor’s Mansion, where the state’s business meets the pastoral splendor of its surroundings.
• LeFleur’s Bluff State Park: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature at LeFleur’s Bluff State
• Fondren Food & Fun: Indulge in Fondren’s eclectic eats and artistic atmosphere, where a stroll could lead to rooster-fueled feasts at Rooster’s or the flavors and fusions of Saltine.
• Mississippi State Fair: Time it right, and you can join the revelry of the Mississippi State Fair, where the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes make for a quintessential experience. I don’t know which I love most…the food, animals, rides, or concerts.

Read more about the best restaurants in Jackson in this post.

Magical Meridian: In the Heart of Mississippi’s Artistic Pulse

Welcome to Meridian, a city as dynamic as the music that fills its streets. Steeped in history and bursting with creativity, it’s a place where every corner echoes the enchanting rhythm of Mississippi. Here’s what to tick off your list in Meridian:

• Dentzel Carousel: Step into a whimsical world straight out of a child’s dream at Highland Park’s century-old Dentzel Carousel, where laughter and nostalgia whirl around.
• Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX): A cultural odyssey awaits at The Max, an immersive center where Mississippi’s artistic legacy comes to life in larger-than-life exhibits and hands-on experiences. You will be surprised to see famous people who hail from the state.
• Mississippi Children’s Museum: Ignite young imaginations and join the playful learning pursuits at this wonderland tailored for children.
• Weidmann’s: Savor Southern hospitality at Weidmann’s, Mississippi’s oldest restaurant. Classic dishes meet contemporary cuisine in a setting that feels like home. Come for Sunday brunch, a real treat. 
• Merrehope: Don’t miss the spectacular Trees of Christmas, when lights, tinsel, and ornaments artistically transform Merrehope into a winter wonderland, casting a spell of holiday magic.

Natchez Nostalgia: Southern Splendor in Full Refrain

Natchez, the city of whispers and wonders, where Southern splendor takes center stage and the art of living is on grand display. Absorb the air of Natchez by:

• Longwood: Stand in awe of Longwood, the octagonal mansion that is a testament to the interrupted rise of the South and a captivating relic of time gone awry.
• Fat Mama’s Tamales: Savor the spice and spirit of the South at Fat Mama’s Tamales, where each bite is a taste of Natchez’s musical and culinary fusion. Don’t miss the margaritas. 
• Mammy’s Cupboard: Visit Mammy’s Cupboard, the restaurant shaped like a Southern matriarch’s skirt that’s become an icon of Natchez’s quirky charm. The food is spectacular, and the hospitality matches. 
• Rosalie Mansion & Gardens: Tour the resplendent Rosalie Mansion & Gardens, a jewel of antebellum architecture complemented by verdant landscapes and views that are a photographer’s delight. 
•  Downtown Delights: Explore the historic downtown, where boutiques and specialty shops offer a delightful diversion for every incline of interest.

Ocean Springs Oasis: Nature’s Palette at Your Doorstep

Journey to Ocean Springs, where the essence of Coastal Mississippi life is etched into its sandy shores and towering pines. Explore:

• Walter Anderson Museum of Art: Surrender to the spell of Walter Anderson’s visionary art and mystic connection to the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
• Coastal Magpie: Feather your nests with treasures from Coastal Magpie, a haven of eclectic finds and southern hospitality.
• MS Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge: Commune with nature and witness the grace of the majestic sandhill cranes in their natural habitat.
• Tato Nut: Treat yourself to the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Tato Nut’s iconic donuts, a locals’ favorite for over 50 years.

Oxford Opulence: Where Literature, Leisure, and Love of the Game Meet

Welcome to Oxford, the intellectual epicenter of Mississippi, where the pages of history are as lively as the streets they inspire. Oh, and we must remember that Oxford offers the swankiest football tailgating in the nation. Find yourself lost and found in:

• Rowan Oak: Immerse yourself in the world of William Faulkner at Rowan Oak, his lovingly preserved home that invites you to step into the mind of a literary giant. His gravesite is at St. Peter’s Cemetery, just a short distance away.
• The Square: Meander the paths of The Square and discover a hive of creativity and commerce, where each nook and cranny conceals a local treasure.
• Square Books: Indulge your inner bibliophile at Square Books, the heartbeat of Oxford’s literary community and a haven for readers and writers alike. It is easily one of the nation’s best independent bookshops. 
• Bottletree Bakery: Treat yourself to delectable pastries, where each bite is a nod to Southern sweetness.
• Big Bad Breakfast: Commence your day the Mississippi way with a Big Bad Breakfast that will satiate your hunger and Instagram feed. By the way, this is the OG location. 

Ridgeland Riches: Gems on the Natchez Trace

Ridgeland, a bustling city along the Natchez Trace Parkway, is a hub of adventure and allure where natural beauty meets modern convenience. Your gems in Ridgeland await:

• Renaissance at Colony Park: Revel in a retail revival at Renaissance at Colony Park, where landmark locales and luxe labels converge for a shopping spree with a touch of Southern class.
• Natchez Trace Parkway: Journey through time and terrain on the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile trail brimming with natural wonders and historical markers that narrate America’s story.
• Local 463: Feast on contemporary Southern cuisine at Local 463, where the emphasis on farm-to-table fare ensures a fresh and flavorful meal. Don’t miss the fried avocado.
• The Rez: Navigate the waters of The Rez by kayak or boat and discover the serenity of a rippling adventure on a southern flood control lake.
• Dogmud Tavern: Eat, drink, and game at Dogmud Tavern, where the fusion of good food and great drinks presents the perfect end to a well-done day.

Storied Starkville: Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow

Starkville, home to Mississippi State University (Go Bulldogs!), is a melting pot of wisdom and whimsy, where visions of the future harmonize with the echoes of the past. Here’s your Starkville preview:

• Ulysses S Grant Presidential Library: Delve into the history of one of America’s most renowned generals and presidents at MSU’s treasured Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library.
• Harveys: Tantalize your taste buds with fresh flavors at Harveys, a culinary institution where every dish is a tapestry of local ingredients and global inspiration.
• Wade Davis Stadium: Join the sea of maroon and white for an electrifying game at the hallowed Wade Davis Stadium—a must-visit Mecca for die-hard Bulldog fans.
• Shop Downtown: Discover hidden gems and local treats at downtown boutiques, where the art of shopping transforms into a cultural hunt. Be sure to catch the Johnny Cash mural. 

Tunica Trepidation: Gaming and Grooving in the Delta

Tunica, Mississippi’s gaming center, is a trove of action and adventure where the luck of the draw meets the legend of the blues. Dabble in the dice and more:

• Sam’s Town: Enter the doors of Sam’s Town and be transported to a world of scenic surprises, gaming extravaganzas, and good times for all.
• Gold Strike: Luxe lives here at Gold Strike, where the game’s thrill and the winnings sprinkle pair perfectly with opulent accommodations.
• Horseshoe and Hollywood Casino: Take your pick or visit them all—Horseshoe and Hollywood Casino offer endless pursuit of your perfect gaming pleasure.
• Gateway to the Blues Museum: Feel the rhythm and the soul of Mississippi’s most celebrated music form at the Gateway to the Blues Museum.
• Graceland: A short drive allows you to visit the hallowed halls of rock ‘n’ roll royalty at The King’s Memphis mansion—Graceland.

Vicksburg Valor: A City of Proud Past and Picturesque Present

Vicksburg, known for the battle that changed the course of the American Civil War, is blossoming at the confluence of history and hope. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Engage with Vicksburg’s legacy and life:

• Vicksburg National Military Park: Wander the hallowed grounds of Vicksburg National Military Park, where the echoes of history offer a profound perspective on the American Civil War.
• Old Court House Museum: Traverse time at the Old Court House Museum, where artifacts and anecdotes paint a vivid picture of life during the war and Vicksburg’s resilience.
• Riverfront Murals: Admire the massive murals that adorn the riverfront, where vibrant depictions of local lore bring the city’s story to life.
• Old Depot Museum: Embark on an exhibit-rich adventure at the Old Depot Museum, a treasure trove of tales from the rails that once defined the Delta.
• Key City Brewery: Raise a glass to Vicksburg’s vibrant present at Key City Brewery, where local libations and lively conversation set the tone for a memorable evening.
• Ameristar Casino: Bet on an evening of entertainment at the Ameristar Casino, where the lights, sounds, and allure of winning are woven into its elegant ambiance.

Endless Possibilities in Mississippi

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do, see, and experience in Mississippi’s diverse cities. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, this state has something for everyone. So come down and explore all Mississippi offers—we promise you won’t be disappointed!