When it comes to places to visit, Mississippi is one of the most diverse states in the United States. Not only that, it’s always so much bigger than you’d expect. Reaching from the Gulf Shores to the border with Memphis in Tennessee, there is so much to see and do – with the best places in Mississippi to visit all across the state.
Even if you’re travelling through some of the best spots in the south of the United States, you’ll still be able to visit a fair few incredible places in Mississippi. It’s an incredible state to explore.
So, to help you maximise your time in Mississippi, I’m sharing the top spots you don’t want to miss. You’re going to have an amazing trip visiting Mississippi – it really is fantastic.
1.) Gulf Islands National Seashore
The Gulf Islands National Seashore extends from the eastern tip of Santa Rosa Island, Florida, to Cat Island, Mississippi. It’s one of the most gorgeous parts of Mississippi’s coastline, with some gems to discover.
We absolutely love the Davis Bayou Area, which is a perfect place to visit just across the border from Alabama. Once here, you can head on the trails around the William M. Colmer Visitor Center or park up at the Davis Bayou Campground if you plan to spend a few days here.
Also, don’t forget about Cat Island and Horn Island. Both are stunning, and their shorelines are absolutely beautiful. Just be aware that there are no facilities in places like Cat Island, so you must ensure you’re prepared before landfall. Now, no specific ferries run to places like Cat Island, but lots of local companies rent boats or will take you across if you fancy a visit.
Read more: Best things to do in Jackson
2.) Tupelo
Nestled on the northeastern fringes of Mississippi, Tupelo is a great city to visit for an overnight stay whilst travelling across the state. In fact, it’s one of the best places in Mississippi to visit if you’re travelling between Memphis (in Tennesee) and Birmingham in Alabama via Highway 22.
Once you’re here, make sure to visit Elvis Presley’s Birthplace and Museum. Here, you’ll get to explore the Life of Elvis Presley, which, after visiting Graceland, was a must-see for me.
You see, Elvis was born in this two-room house constructed by his father on January 8, 1935. It still has a feel of what the home would have looked like around 90 years ago. It’s so surreal.
Afterwards, take a trip over to nearby Elvis Presley Lake. It’s a gorgeous area, quite close to the city and the perfect place for a stroll.
For a bite to eat, head on over to Aunt B’s Soul Food Restaurant. It’s a casual spot for lunch, and their catfish is the best in the city.
Read more: Best things to do in Jackson
3.) Vicksburg National Military Park
Close to the state border with Louisiana, the USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum is an incredible place to visit if you’re interested in military history.
After the massive recovery effort to salvage the USS Cairo, the USS Cairo Museum has become a must-visit place to see a Civil War-era gunship. It’s quite incredible to think about and learn more about the history of the Civil War. From an international perspective, it was eye-opening.
Afterwards, head over to Rusty’s Riverfront Grill for fried pickles and grouper. So good.
Read more: Best things to do in Jackson
4.) Indianola
Indianola is a relatively small city, but still one of the best places in Mississippi to visit for a few hours trip. You see, it’s got some great spots to whisk away a morning trip, especially the B.B. King Museum.
The B.B. King Museum shows you everything you need to know about one of the most iconic blues artists of all time. Which, of course, is B.B. King.
Afterwards, if you’re driving to the state border with Louisiana, make sure to stop at Greenville (a 30-minute drive away from Indianola). Specifically, you’re going to stop for Doe’s Eat Place, that’s been going since the 1940s. Their porterhouse and ribeye steaks are some of the best in the state!
Read more: Best things to do in Jackson
5.) Biloxi
Just on the coastline, north of Cat Island is Biloxi. It’s a coastal city that’s got so much charm (and humidity at times) that’s great for a few days trip. Plus, you can partner up for a trip with Biloxi and the wider Gulf Islands area. It’s so beautiful.
While here, make sure to visit the Beauvoir Mansion and the Jefferson Davis Presidential Library. The estate has a rich history of being sold and transferred; today, it is a timestamp to the only Confederate president, Jefferson Davis, and Confederate soldiers.
Afterwards, head over to Biloxi Beach for a day in the surf. Its white sandy shoreline is beautiful and the perfect place for a beach day whilst in Biloxi.
Read more: Best things to do in Jackson
6.) Natchez Trace Parkway
If you’re on a road trip through Mississippi, you should definitely drive part of the Natchez Trace Parkway. It’s over 400 miles in length and is an incredible way to explore the state’s wider history.
As you venture north beyond Mississippi, you’ll be able to stop at many places. The route here has been used, in some capacity, for thousands of years, and it’s a stunning drive.
Just make sure you plan your stops wisely and figure out hotels. Some areas are rural, so organising lodgings before you depart is best.
7.) Ocean Springs
Just shy of Biloxi, Ocean Springs is another stunning little city to visit whilst driving the Gulf route around southern Mississippi.
The town of Ocean Springs, with its many art studios and shops, is a safe haven for craftspeople and artists – or just those wanting a quieter little city for a day trip
Also, if you’ve got time, make sure to explore Ocean Springs Beach. It’s much quieter than some of Mississipi’s popular beaches and just as beautiful.
Read more: Best things to do in Jackson
8.) Mississippi Petrified Forest
A 30-minute drive from Jackson, the Mississippi Petrified Forest is one of the best places in Mississippi to visit if you’re interested in geological and natural history. The petrified forest dates back many millions of years.
Once here, you can explore the area via the nature trails and visit the museum that tells the turbulent history of present-day Mississippi. It’s pretty eye-opening.
Afterwards, visit the nearby town of Flora for lunch at Bill’s Creole and Steak Depot. Their jambalaya is incredible.
9.) Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
Just on the outskirts of Jackson, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is a great place to visit with the whole family. Here, you’ll be able to learn more about the natural world (from dinosaurs to dodos) with the help of detailed exhibits that also change seasonally.
Not only that, you can partner a trip here with a wider visit around LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. Here, you can head on some of the trails around Mayes Lake. It’s lovely.
10.) Natchez
Perched right on the banks of the Mississippi River, Natchez is a small city that’s big on charm.
Once here, make sure to visit Rosalie Mansion and Gardens to explore the wider history of western Mississippi. Oh, and be sure to visit Stanton Hall, which dates back to the 1800s. You’ll be able to head inside and explore the hall and all its period furniture and history. It’s incredible.
Staying a little longer? Head out for a stroll along the Natchez Bluff Walking Trail. It’s a great way to explore the riverbanks and stop off at Magnolia Grill for their famous pan-fried redfish.
Read more: Best things to do in Jackson
11.) Jackson
Right in the heartland of the state, Jackson is, for me, one of the best places in Mississippi to visit for a city break. You see, you can easily spend 2-3 days here and still not explore it all. There is heaps to do.
After arriving in Jackson, make sure to visit the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. It’s sombre and harrowing, and its history is absolutely essential for us all to remember. You can easily spend a few hours learning all about the struggles for rights.
Also, don’t forget to stroll around Jackson, see the Governor’s Mansion, and pop into the Mississippi Museum of Art. The latter is a great place to see the work of international artists and local artists, who change seasonally throughout the year.
Fancy a bite to eat? Head over to Stamps Super Burgers. Their super burger is so good, especially with added jalapenos.
Read more: Best things to do in Jackson
12.) Gulfport
Adjacent to the city of Biloxi, Gulf Port is the wider, westerly stretch of coastline in Mississippi. It’s actually beautiful and the beaches here are some of the best in all of Mississippi. Though, during the holidays, they can get a little busy – so be prepared for a few crowds.
Heading to Gulf Port with kids? Then pop into the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. The treehouses and exhibits are so much fun for younger children and you can easily spend a few hours here.
Hungry? Head over to Ben’s Deli for their delicious Po’Boy. It’s so good and totally delicious. Just be aware, we found that they didn’t take cards when we arrived, so make sure to take some cash with you.
Read more: Best things to do in Jackson
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