Discovering Mississippi’s Hidden Gems
Welcome to the Magnolia State! This great state is a land filled with rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling cities to the serene countryside, there’s something for every traveler to explore and enjoy. And, I’m about to share with you 31 must-visit places across the Mississippi Magnolia State ranging from some of our iconic landmarks to some hidden gems.
- Civil Rights Museum – Jackson
- The Aquarium on the Gulf Coast – Gulfport
- Children’s Museum – Meridian
- The MAX – Meridian
- Mississippi Museum of Natural Science – Jackson
- Elvis Presley’s Birthplace – Tupelo
- Vicksburg National Military Park – Vicksburg
- Biloxi Lighthouse – Biloxi
- Natchez Trace Parkway
- Delta Blues Museum – Clarksdale
- Longwood – Natchez
- Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art – Biloxi
- Tishomingo State Park
- Walter Anderson Museum of Art – Ocean Springs
- Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum – Jackson
- Ship Island
- Walter Place – Holly Springs
- Mississippi River Basin Model – Jackson
- Mississippi Petrified Forest – Flora
- Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo
- Rowan Oak – Oxford
- Grand Village of the Natchez Indians
- Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum – Vicksburg
- Tunica River Park & Museum
- Winterville Mounds
- Mississippi Museum of Art – Jackson
- Geyser Falls Water Theme Park – Choctaw
- Nanih Waiya – Kemper County
- Kemper County Lake-Kemper County
- Okatibbee Lake – Lauderdale County
Civil Rights Museum – Jackson
Located in the capital city of Jackson, the Civil Rights Museum is my top pick of the 31 must-visit places in Mississippi. This Civil Rights Museum offers a poignant journey through the struggles and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement. Through interactive exhibits and powerful displays, visitors gain insight into Mississippi’s controversial role in the fight for equality.
The Aquarium on the Gulf Coast – Gulfport
Hold your breath and jump right into the wonders of marine life at the Aquarium on the Gulf Coast in Gulfport. This aquarium provides an up close and personal view of many of the marine animals that are native to Mississippi and some other areas. The Gulf Coast Aquarium tells Mississippi’s story though its aquatic resources.
Children’s Museum – Meridian:
It’s new to the downtown area of the Queen City, but it is just as fun! The Meridian Children’s Museum will spark creativity and imagination. With hands-on exhibits and engaging activities, kids can explore science, art, and culture in a fun-filled environment.
The MAX – Meridian:
Celebrating Mississippi’s rich cultural heritage, The MAX (Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience) in Meridian showcases the state’s contributions to music, literature, film, and more. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits and live performances.
Mississippi Museum of Natural Science – Jackson:
Another museum to make my list of 31 must-visit places in Mississippi is the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. It will allow you to discover the natural wonders of Mississippi. From indigenous wildlife to ancient fossils, this museum which is located in Jackson, Mississippi offers a fascinating glimpse into the state’s diverse ecosystems.
Elvis Presley’s Birthplace – Tupelo:
Let’s move a little further north to Tupelo. There you’ll get to visit the childhood home of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Explore the humble beginnings of Elvis Presley and see where his legendary journey began.
Vicksburg National Military Park – Vicksburg:
Mississippi is rich in history, and it played an important part in the Civil War. So, be sure to visit the Vicksburg National Military Park in Vicksburg. Commemorating one of the Civil War’s most important battles, Vicksburg National Military Park offers a glimpse into Mississippi’s past with its historic monuments, artillery displays, and reconstructed trenches.
Biloxi Lighthouse – Biloxi:
Standing as a symbol of resilience, the Biloxi Lighthouse has guided ships along the Mississippi Gulf Coast for over 150 years. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Natchez Trace Parkway:
If you like the great outdoors, this is the spot for you. Take a scenic drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway. This historic route traces the footsteps of Native Americans, pioneers, and traders. Along the way, explore hiking trails, historic sites, and picturesque overlooks.
Delta Blues Museum – Clarksdale:
Mississippi’s history has been one of triumph and struggle. And, one group of people knew this best…the African Americans of the region. Out of their joys and sorrows emerged a new form of music called “the blues”. The Mississippi Delta is considered the birthplace of “the blues”. This makes the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, Mississippi a must-see. From iconic musicians to vintage instruments, this museum pays homage to the roots of blues music.
Longwood – Natchez:
Marvel at the architectural marvel that is Longwood, an unfinished antebellum mansion in Natchez. Visitors can explore the elaborate Moorish-style interiors and learn about the fascinating history of this grand estate.
Gulf Islands National Seashore:
Experience the pristine beauty of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, a series of barrier islands along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or birdwatching, there’s endless outdoor adventure to be had.
Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art – Biloxi:
Discover the avant-garde creations of George Ohr, the self-proclaimed “Mad Potter of Biloxi,” at the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. This contemporary art museum showcases Ohr’s innovative pottery alongside works by other Southern artists.
Tishomingo State Park:
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, you won’t want to miss the Tishomingo State Park. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and canoeing amidst the park’s rugged terrain and scenic waterways.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art – Ocean Springs:
Step into the vibrant world of artist Walter Anderson at his namesake museum in Ocean Springs. From whimsical watercolors to intricate pottery, Anderson’s eclectic body of work reflects his deep connection to the Gulf Coast landscape.
Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum – Jackson:
Explore the agricultural heritage of Mississippi at the Agriculture & Forestry Museum in Jackson. Visitors can tour historic farmsteads, see vintage farm equipment, and learn about the state’s vital role in food production.
Ship Island:
Board a ferry to Ship Island and discover a pristine paradise just off the coast of Mississippi. With its sparkling waters and white sandy beaches, Ship Island is the perfect destination for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring historic Fort Massachusetts.
Walter Place – Holly Springs:
Step back in time at Walter Place, a historic mansion in Holly Springs that exemplifies Greek Revival architecture. Guided tours offer insight into the lives of the home’s former residents and the events that shaped its history.
Mississippi River Basin Model – Jackson:
Marvel at the engineering marvel that is the Mississippi River Basin Model in Jackson. This massive scale model was built in the 1940s, and it illustrates the intricate network of waterways that comprise the Mississippi River Basin.
Mississippi Petrified Forest – Flora:
Don’t get turned to stone while travel through these 31 must-visit places in Mississippi! Speaking of turning to stone, be sure to journey through time at the Mississippi Petrified Forest in Flora where ancient trees have been transformed into stone over millions of years. Visitors can hike scenic trails and marvel at petrified logs dating back over 36 million years.
Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo:
Get up close and personal with exotic wildlife at the Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo. From majestic buffalo to playful lemurs, this family-friendly attraction offers an unforgettable animal encounter experience.
Rowan Oak – Oxford:
You don’t need a pen or paper to visit Rowan Oak, the former home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner. Wander through the tranquil grounds that inspired Faulkner’s literary masterpieces and gain insight into his life and legacy.
Grand Village of the Natchez Indians:
Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Natchez Indians at the Grand Village, a historic site in Natchez. Visitors can tour ceremonial mounds, replica dwellings, and a museum showcasing artifacts from the ancient Mississippian civilization.
Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum – Vicksburg:
Quench your thirst for nostalgia at the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum in Vicksburg. Housed in a historic Coca-Cola bottling plant, this museum traces the history of the iconic beverage and its impact on American culture.
Tunica River Park & Museum:
Experience the natural and cultural history of the Mississippi Delta at the Tunica RiverPark & Museum. From interactive exhibits to scenic overlooks of the mighty Mississippi River, this museum offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Winterville Mounds:
Step back in time at Winterville Mounds, an ancient Native American ceremonial site near Greenville. Explore the towering earthworks and learn about the rituals and traditions of the prehistoric people who inhabited the region.
Mississippi Museum of Art – Jackson:
Immerse yourself in the world of visual arts at the Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson. With its impressive collection of American artwork and rotating exhibitions, this museum showcases the talent and creativity of Mississippi’s artists.
Geyser Falls Water Theme Park – Choctaw:
If you know anything about Mississippi, you know it gets pretty hot in the summer. So, cool off from the Mississippi heat at Geyser Falls Water Theme Park in Choctaw. From thrilling water slides to lazy rivers, this expansive water park offers endless fun for the whole family.
Nanih Waiya – Kemper County:
Journey to the sacred site of Nanih Waiya in Kemper County, an ancient mound steeped in Native American legend and lore. Believed to be the place of emergence for the Choctaw people, this historic site offers a glimpse into Mississippi’s indigenous heritage.
Kemper County Lake:
Escape to the tranquil shores of Kemper County Lake, a hidden gem nestled amidst the rolling hills of eastern Mississippi. And, best of all this beautiful lake is located on a few miles from my home. Whether you’re fishing, boating, or simply enjoying a picnic by the water, this scenic lake provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor recreation.
No only is Kemper Lake is in the top 3 of my favorite 31 must-visit places in Mississippi, but it is also a great place to take pictures. (Did I mention that I am also a photographer?) It provides a unique backdrop for senior pictures, fall family pictures, and even wedding pictures.
Okatibbee Lake – Lauderdale County:
Discover the beauty of Okatibbee Lake in Lauderdale County, a sprawling reservoir surrounded by lush forests and pristine wilderness. With its clear waters and abundant wildlife, this recreational paradise offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
These additional destinations showcase the diverse natural and cultural heritage of Mississippi, from ancient Native American sites to picturesque lakeside retreats. Explore these hidden gems and enrich your journey through the Magnolia State with their unique stories and landscapes.
