Welcome to the great Magnolia State, aka Mississippi, where Southern hospitality, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes await you at every turn. From the banks of the mighty Mississippi River to the rolling hills of the Natchez Trace, Mississippi offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and charm that will leave you in awe. In this video, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the best things to do in Mississippi, from exploring vibrant cities to soaking up the sun on white-sand beaches. So buckle up, and get ready to experience the hospitality and beauty of the Magnolia State like never before.
Viewcation Presents: The Best Things to do in Mississippi
Vicksburg National Military Park – The USS Cairo Museum
The Battle of Vicksburg, a significant event during the American Civil War in 1863, is commemorated by the Vicksburg National Military Park. The park spans over 20 miles of land where the battle took place for 47 days, resulting in the loss of nearly 5,000 lives. Today, the land remains marked by trenches, a sobering reminder of the historic conflict.
As one of Mississippi’s must-see historic attractions, the Vicksburg National Military Park offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the battle through its 1,325 historical markers, a 12.5-mile walking trail, a cemetery with almost 20,000 interments, and 144 canons on display.
The park also features the USS Cairo Museum, a fascinating part of the 1,852-acre site. The museum takes its name from the U.S.S. Cairo, a wooden and iron gunboat that was the first seafarubg vessel to be sunk by an electrically discharged torpedo.
Mississippi Petrified Forest
Despite its somewhat intimidating name, the Mississippi Petrified Forest is a privately-owned attraction that welcomes visitors with its serene beauty. This 36-million-year-old site, located in Flora, Mississippi, boasts stunning landscapes, walking trails, and a museum at the visitors center that’s worth exploring.
The highlight of the Mississippi Petrified Forest is undoubtedly the massive petrified logs, which are believed to have belonged to trees over 1000 years old and 100 feet tall. As you hike along the trails, you’ll come across some of the main attractions, including the Caveman’s Bench, which offers a glimpse into the past and makes for an excellent photo opportunity.
The Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum
The Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum is an essential stop for anyone visiting Mississippi, whether you’re a die-hard fan of the King of rock ‘n’ roll or simply interested in music history and American culture.
On the eighth of January, 1935, Elvis Presley was born in his parents’ modest two-room home in Tupelo, Mississippi. It’s a far cry from the opulent Graceland estate he would later call home, but it’s a fascinating glimpse into his humble beginnings.
Elvis lived in the house for just a few years before his family had to move due to financial struggles. Along with the house, visitors can also explore the nearby church where Elvis developed his passion for music and learned to play the guitar.
Tishomingo State Park
Tishomingo State Park may not be a national park, but it’s a stunning state park that offers an abundance of hiking opportunities for all levels of fitness. Nestled at the foot of the ancient Appalachian Mountains, the park has a fascinating Native American history and was named after the Chickasaw Nation leader.
The park boasts seven different trails with varying levels of difficulty. A few of the most popular are Flat Rock Trail, Saddlebrook Ridge Trail, and the Natchez Trace Trail.
Mississippi Museum of Art
If you’re someone who appreciates art and culture, make sure to visit the Mississippi Museum of Art, located in Jackson, Mississippi.
The museum hosts both ticketed and free exhibitions, so there’s something for everyone regardless of your budget. Their calendar highlights upcoming exhibitions, and visitors can enjoy the special ticketed exhibitions alongside the fantastic free exhibitions that are open to the public. This makes the museum an excellent choice for a free family activity that everyone can enjoy.
Biloxi Beach
Although Mississippi’s coastline is relatively short, Biloxi boasts one of the state’s most picturesque beaches. This charming beach town is the perfect place to unwind and soak up some sun.
Biloxi’s white sand beach is renowned for its soft texture and warm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming or building sandcastles. Visitors can also take advantage of fishing charters or sunset cruises for a unique seaside experience.
Mississippi Museum of Natural Sciences
The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is situated within the expansive 300-acre Bluff State Park, boasting 2.5 miles of trails and an amphitheater.
Established in 1993, the museum is the largest of its kind in Mississippi and offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Step inside the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, and you’ll be treated to an exciting array of exhibits and attractions that cater to nature, science, and history enthusiasts. Highlights include a 100,000-gallon tank featuring more than 200 aquatic animal species, a spacious greenhouse, a vast fossil wall displaying intriguing specimens, a discovery room for younger children, and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with the natural world in exciting new ways.
Biloxi Lighthouse
The Biloxi Lighthouse is an iconic landmark that has stood tall since its construction in 1848, becoming a symbol of the city’s resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the lighthouse holds a wealth of historical significance that’s well worth exploring.
As one of the earliest cast-iron lighthouses in the southern United States, the Biloxi Lighthouse was one of three lighthouses in the Mississippi Sound. It’s worth noting that the lighthouse was operated by many women during its civilian years. Today, the Biloxi Lighthouse offers walking tours to the public, providing visitors with a fascinating glimpse into its storied past.
Natchez Trace Parkway
Stretching for 444 miles from Natchez to Nashville, the Natchez Trace Parkway follows an ancient Native American trail and spans over 10,000 years of history. As you drive along this scenic route, you’ll soon discover why it’s considered one of the most beautiful drives in the US.
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a popular sightseeing route, offering an abundance of fascinating stops along the way. From prehistoric monuments and archaeological sites to stunning lookouts and picturesque views, the parkway has it all. Visitors can explore the Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site, enjoy a bike ride filled with photo opportunities, or venture into the stunning natural Cypress Swamp. No matter where you go, the Natchez Trace Parkway promises an unforgettable scenic experience.
Gulfport Beach
Located just 25 minutes or so from Biloxi, Gulfport is another fantastic spot to enjoy a beach day in Mississippi. Despite being the state’s second-largest city, Gulfport exudes a charming small-town vibe.
Gulfport Beach is celebrated for its pristine condition, safety, and relatively low crowds. It’s an excellent spot for sunbathing, fishing, or experiencing the thrill of jet skiing.
In addition to its beautiful beach, Gulfport is home to a plethora of seafood restaurants, live music venues, and local shops, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the area’s culture and charm.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Although Mississippi doesn’t have an official national park, the Gulf Islands National Seashore more than makes up for it. This protected area safeguards the barrier islands and natural resources along the Gulf of Mexico, offering visitors a range of exciting activities.
Whether you prefer to camp underneath the stars, explore historical forts, relax on the beach, or embark on a scenic nature walk, the Gulf Islands National Seashore has something for everyone.
One of the top must-visit spots is Ship Island, accessible only by boat. Here, you can take a refreshing swim while exploring the historic War of 1812 Fort Massachusetts, adding a unique touch to your beach day.
Gulf Islands Waterpark
No trip to Mississippi would be complete without a visit to Gulf Islands Waterpark, a thrilling attraction that promises fun for visitors of all ages.
Be sure to check out the famous Master Blaster, the Gulf Coast’s one and only water roller coaster. This exciting ride will take you on a 500-foot journey filled with twists, turns, and breathtaking drops.
But that’s not all the park has to offer. With a vast array of rides, waterslides, and pools, in addition to a lazy river and wave pool, Gulf Islands Waterpark is the perfect place to cool off on a blistering hot summer’s day. Younger children can splash around and play with water cannons in the Cat Island Catapult and Lil Pelican’s Bay, ensuring there’s something for everyone at this must-visit attraction.
Hattiesburg Zoo
Looking for a fun-filled day surrounded by furry friends from around the world? Look no further than the Hattiesburg Zoo, where you can explore 12 acres of animal habitats and exhibits spanning every continent.
From towering giraffes native to Africa to majestic Sumatran tigers hailing from Asia, the zoo boasts an impressive array of wildlife for visitors to enjoy. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the zoo also features an exhilarating ropes course that’s sure to burn off any remaining energy before heading home.
And let’s not forget the petting zoo, a favorite among kids and adults alike. What sets this petting zoo apart is that its animals hail from the far-off land of Australia, providing a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Beauvoir Estate
The Beauvoir Estate, located in Biloxi, Mississippi, is a historic attraction that served as the home of Jefferson Davis, the former President of the Confederate States of America. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the estate features 52 acres of lush greenery and walking trails that are open to the public.
Visitors can explore the museum and estate on guided tours, gaining fascinating insight into Davis’s life while he lived there. Although the property originally spanned 608 acres, there’s still plenty to see and experience today, making the Beauvoir Estate a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the area’s rich history.
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center is a child’s dream come true, but let’s face it, adults can’t help but smile and laugh along as well. With 15,000 square feet of play space, the center offers a wealth of hands-on exhibits for kids and their guardians to explore.
From creating music in the musical garden to playing in the whimsical treehouses, the discovery center boasts endless activities to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Whether you’re looking to spend quality time with your little ones or simply feel like a kid again yourself, the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center promises an unforgettable experience for all.
On that note, we’re going to go ahead and wrap this video up. In the comments let us know what you’re most excited to see and do on your upcoming trip to Mississippi. If you’ve already had the pleasure of visiting the Magnolia state before, what are a few of your favorite attractions? As always, thanks for watching and happy travels!