These Towns in Mississippi Have Rich Cultural Heritage
The picture of the USA's "Deep South" is inevitably filled with images of the bayous of Louisiana, the fertile fields of Georgia, the spectacular Lowcountry coastline of South Carolina…. and the magnificent river after which the state of Mississippi is named. Known as the "Magnolia State" after its official flowering tree, Mississippi is home to a sizable collection of fun-to-explore small towns that epitomize the uniqueness of the American South.
From the historic battlefields of Vicksburg to the storied streets of Oxford and the birthplace of the Blues in Clarksdale, these seven towns are chock-full of fascinating tales and traditions that define this soulful region of the United States.
Natchez
Perched on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, Natchez offers a glimpse into the history of the South through its many well-preserved historical buildings. Its over 1,000 antebellum structures quite rightly get the lion's share of attention and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The most famous, Stanton Hall, is a palatial mansion built in the 1850s known for its grandeur and opulence. Guided tours of the home's lavish interiors are a must; so, too, are Rosalie Mansion and Longwood, two additional antebellum homes available for tourists to visit.
The Natchez Pilgrimage sees even more of these classic pre-Civil War homes opened to the public each spring, many private residences. Other popular attractions include Natchez National Historical Park, the Melrose Estate, the William Johnson House, and the 444-mile-long Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic route that follows an ancient Native American trail. The town's location on the Mississippi River adds charm, with riverboat cruises rounding off the list of fun things to do in Natchez.
Vicksburg
Vicksburg is another town that's deeply rooted in American history. Also situated along the Mississippi River, this attractive town's star attraction is the Vicksburg National Military Park, which commemorates the site of the Battle of Vicksburg, a crucial turning point in the Civil War. It has over 1,800 acres and features over 1,340 monuments, a restored ironclad gunboat, the USS Cairo, and the Vicksburg National Cemetery. Take a self-guided tour along the 16-mile road through the park.
Another of the top attractions in Vicksburg is the Old Courthouse Museum, a magnificent example of antebellum architecture that houses artifacts from the Civil War era and exhibits relating to the town's history. The Lower Mississippi River Museum is another must-see and delves into the river's role in shaping Vicksburg.
Oxford
Oxford is well-known as the "Cultural Mecca of the South." Its handy location, just 90-minute drive south of Memphis, makes it an easy day trip for those wanting to cross from Tennessee into Mississippi. The town's appeal stems from its unique blend of historic charm and the intellectual and creative energy that comes from its home to the University of Mississippi; affectionately known as "Ole Miss," a major draw for visitors and scholars alike. The campus's grand Greek Revival architecture and lush grounds offer plenty of sightseeing opportunities like the University of Mississippi Museum and its Historic Houses attractions.
Rowan Oak, the former home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner, is another big draw. Now a museum set on over 29 acres of land, this stately antebellum house was where Faulkner wrote many of his works and is fun to explore as the grounds and home are preserved much as he left them. Be sure to wander Oxford's charming town square; surrounded by historic buildings, it's lined with bookstores, boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, all just begging to be visited. The town also hosts several cultural events, including the Oxford Film Festival and the Double Decker Arts Festival, which showcase local and regional music, arts, and food.
Clarksdale
Clarksdale is in the heart of the Mississippi Delta and is deeply connected to music. Internationally recognized as the birthplace of the blues, the most iconic landmark here is the Crossroads, a famous intersection of Highways 61 and 49 that's immortalized in blues folklore as the site where legendary bluesman Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his extraordinary guitar skills. A striking guitar sign marks this legendary spot.
The Delta Blues Museum, set in the historic Clarksdale freight depot, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of blues music and is home to a vast collection of memorabilia, including instruments, costumes, and recordings from famous Delta blues artists like Muddy Waters and B.B. King. For a taste of live blues, the Ground Zero Blues Club, co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, replicates an authentic juke joint atmosphere, as does the annual Juke Joint Festival with its roster of live music, street performances, and local cuisine. The Sunflower River Blues and Gospel Festival is also highly recommended.
Bay St. Louis
For those who enjoy a dash of culture with their beach time, Bay St. Louis is the place to be. Located on the Gulf of Mexico's shores, it's known for its beautiful beaches and artistic vibe, especially in the Old Town district. Here, among the boutique shops and cafés, you'll find the Historic L&N Train Depot. Built in the 1920s, this historic building now houses the Bay St. Louis Mardi Gras Museum and the Hancock County Tourism Development Bureau.
Another of the town's top attractions is the Bay St. Louis Bridge, a striking structure that can be walked or cycled and boasts scenic views of the bay and the Gulf, which are especially dramatic at sunset. The town also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the OLG Crab Festival and the Arts Alive Festival.
Greenwood
About 100 miles north of the state capital of Jackson lies Greenwood, a small town that punches well above its weight in terms of cultural significance. Highlights include the Greenwood Blues Heritage Museum and Gallery, a fascinating attraction that allows a deep dive into blues, a genre rooted in the Mississippi Delta. Highlights of a visit include artifacts, instruments, and interactive exhibits that narrate the story of the blues and its impact on American music.
The Emmett Till Historic Intrepid Center (ETHIC) is another must-visit and tells the harrowing story of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American boy whose brutal murder in 1955 galvanized the civil rights movement. The center serves as an educational and commemorative space, highlighting the region's civil rights struggles and triumphs. Greenwood is also known for its association with the film The Help, with many scenes shot in and around the city, and movie fans can visit various filming locations. Finally, no visit to Greenwood is complete without stopping at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta, with its regional history, art, and archaeology exhibits, including Native American artifacts.
Columbus
Columbus is known as "The Friendly City," not just for its Southern charm but for the warm welcome the townsfolk roll out for tourists. Established in 1821 on the Tombigbee River, it started as a Native American trading post and settlement known as "Possum Town" in the days before the arrival of the first Europeans in 1540. These days, Columbus is popular among day trippers for its antebellum architecture and cultural heritage. Highlights include the Amzi Love Home, Rosewood Manor, and Waverley Mansion. These structures are superbly preserved antebellum homes that provide a glimpse into the opulent life of the South before the Civil War.
Columbus Historic District is a must-visit and features numerous heritage buildings and churches showcasing a variety of architectural styles. The Tennessee Williams Home and Welcome Center is another must-visit and allows one to explore the birthplace of America's most famous playwright. Now a welcome center and museum, it provides insights into the writer's early life and the influence of Columbus on his writing. No trip is complete without exploring the Columbus Riverwalk, a beautifully landscaped pathway along the Tombigbee River featuring scenic views.
Each of these small towns in Mississippi offers a dose of that famous American South hospitality and the region's rich cultural heritage. From Natchez's antebellum splendor to Oxford's literary legacy, Vicksburg's war-torn past to Clarksdale's deep blues roots, these towns provide a fascinating journey through the rich history and culture of the Magnolia State, showcasing its diversity and soulful depth of character.
