7 Serene Towns In Mississippi For A Weekend Retreat
Mississippi's varied geography provides unique natural attractions that are perfect for an outdoor weekend retreat. Attractions like casinos, fine dining, and vintage homes also exist. While there are plenty of options for a two-day retreat, these six towns all have something different to offer, making them perfect for a quick getaway. The Delta Blues were born in this state, and much of American history is soaked into the small towns that make them memorable. Whether you are looking for a coastal retreat, a blues-filled weekend, or something in between, these serene towns have it all.
Natchez
Natchez has been popularized in pop culture by several John Grisham legal thrillers, a Mississippi native. The town is on the Mississippi River and is renowned for its antebellum mansions. One such mansion is the unfinished, octagonal-shaped, Greek Revival Melrose estate in the Natchez National Historical Park.
The Natchez Trace Parkway, spanning 10,000 years of history, is a 430-mile trail that winds up to Nashville, Tennessee. Natchez's cultural history and southern hospitality define it. The Rosalie Mansion and Gardens and Longwood are the only two historic homes here. Book a stay at the historic Choctaw Hall bed and breakfast on Wall Street to complete your weekend.
Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs is an aptly named cottage town on the banks of the Gulf of Mexico. Known as the "city of discovery," this coastal town is a collage of small-town charm and cultural flair. Museums like the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and the Mary C O'Keefe Cultural Center of Arts and Education showcase cultural significance. Over 200 shops and eateries blended with walkable white sand beaches make for a perfect weekend retreat.
There are three distinct eating districts where patrons can leave the establishments with go-cups. Natural attractions include the first French settlement, Fort Maruepas State Park, and the Davis Bayou Area, a part of the National Seashore. Ocean Springs has enough natural attractions and sites to fill a weekend itinerary.
Port Gibson
Port Gibson is a serene town that played a big role in the American Civil War. The town is near the Grand Gulf Military Park, where the Union beat the Confederates, resulting in the fall of Vicksburg. The third oldest town in Mississippi, many Civil War buildings still exist because General Grant considered Port Gibson "too pretty to burn."
The town is as attractive today, with the added benefit of having many historic buildings to explore. A popular site to visit is the Windsor Ruins, a mansion built in 1850 and ten miles south of Port Gibson. It was left abandoned after the original order died within a few weeks of living there. The mansion burned down in 1890 due to an errant cigar. Port Gibson has beautiful, historical bed and breakfast inns like the Isabella for a charming, relaxing weekend getaway.
Clarksdale
The small town of Clarksdale is notable as being the home of the Delta Blues. As the birthplace to such legends as Sam Cooke and Muddy Waters, Clarksdale celebrates the music 365 days a year. There is also the Delta Blues Museum, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of this unique form of American music.
There is also a historical downtown area to explore, such as the Hooker Grocer and Eatery, which, of course, hosts live Blues acts, and the Bluesberry Cafe. The town is also the home to the intersection of Highway 61 and 49, the famous Crossroads Robert Johnson sang about. This town is a Mecca for music lovers, and it is easy to get lost in the Blues vibes over a weekend stay.
Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis is a serene coastal town on the Gulf Coast. Along with its history, Bay St. Louis is a popular attraction for gamblers at the Hollywood Casino and Resort and the Silver Slipper. Two historic sites include the Historic L&N Train Depot and the Bay St. Louis Little Theatre, a live performance theatre. The town is also a popular antiquing destination with the Antique Maisson LLC downtown. This mall hosts many different antique dealers offering various antiques and artifacts. There is much to do in Bay St. Louis, like haunted tours of a historic cemetery, strolling through the quaint downtown, or relaxing on the white sand beach.
Ridgeland
Ridgeland is a historic town near the capital, founded in 1896 by real estate developers. There is much to do, whether outdoors, like Friendship Park and Old Trace Park, or The Township at Colony Park, which offers bountiful shopping opportunities. There is also an amusement center, Enter/Locked Rooms, which offers five unique immersive experiences for guests.
The town is also home to the Antique Mall of the South, a popular destination for residents and visitors. The Renaissance at Colony Park is another popular shopping area, with cobblestone streets surrounding many shops and restaurants. Whether you are looking for a shopping retreat or a quiet weekend with nature, Ridgeland has it all.
Hattiesburg
Hattiesburg is a big town with amenities like the Hattiesburg Zoo and the Saenger Theatre. There are also many museums, such as the African American Military History Museum and the Pocket Museum. The African American Military History Museum started as a USO club in 1942, while the Pocket is the smallest art gallery in Mississippi, designed. Hence, the art gets full attention and provides a better viewing experience.
There is a nice mix of adventurous sports, quiet dining, and museums. The Alley Cats Axe Throwing Company promises an adventurous weekend, and there are biking trails like Longleaf Trace for those seeking an outdoor retreat. Hattiesburg also has numerous lodging options and top pubs and restaurants, such as Colludium Brewing Company, to wind down at the end of the day.
Mississippi has a long and storied history and beautiful scenery. Bay St. Louis is ideal for a quiet beach weekend, while Clarksdale is the place for music lovers. Bigger towns like Hattiesburg offer excellent outdoor opportunities with great dining and shopping options. Natchez offers a glimpse into the past with its Antebellum mansions and centuries-old oak trees with hanging Spanish moss. Small towns like Port Gibson have military significance, and most buildings have survived, providing a fascinating look into the past. Between the varying topography, historical importance, and quirky attractions, Mississippi's serene towns are perfect for a weekend retreat.
