9 Incredible Vacation Spots In Mississippi
The definition of the ideal vacation varies from person to person. Some enjoy a quiet rural paradise, others love shopping in a bustling city, and some prefer adrenaline-pumping adventures in the wilderness. Mississippi has it all in this expansive, scenic Southern state. From all things Elvis Presley in Tupelo to Vicksburg, loaded with Civil War heritage and the culinary delights of Hattiesburg. There is a town or city in Mississippi suited to every interest and desire.
Oxford
Home to the University Of Mississippi, Oxford is a stunning college town thriving with culture. Book a tour to visit the University Of Mississippi and wander one of the most majestic campuses in the State. Breathe in the fresh scent of nature and take in the surrounding acres filled with over 3,000 trees. While at the campus, browse student works at Gallery 130 or catch a live performance at the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts. Be enthralled by shows like the Catalyst Quartet and The Simon & Garfunkel Story. Commence the winter by checking out the Oxford Film Festival, held at the end of February each year. Show independent filmmakers the support they deserve.
Oxford is a hotspot for gathering art enthusiasts seeking a vacation. From local works to international masterpieces, see the collection of works at the SouthSide Gallery. Featured in renowned publications such as Mississippi Today and The Daily Journal, the Oxford Treehouse Gallery is a must-see. Creatively located in a residential home surrounded by lush greenery, check out a variety of sculptures, metal works, ceramics, and paintings. For an accommodation as artsy and unique as Oxford, book a stay at Graduate by Hilton. The boutique hotel is elegantly decorated with a mix of eclectic art pieces while adding vintage and elements of modern luxury. It's truly a unique stay.
Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis is an endearing coastal retreat, and the city is ideal for beachgoers. Grab some friends and book a cruise through Cruisin Tikis. Have a tiki party on the water with refreshing beverages and watch one of many magical Bay St. Louis sunsets. Venture further into the deep blue waters with a Mississippi Gulf Coast Boat Tour. Kick back with a complimentary mimosa and soak in the views during a perfect mid-morning sail. After a long day of water excursions, sprawl out in the pristine sands on Bay St. Louis Beach. Catch some rays and bask in that vital Vitamin D. Bring the furry friends along to this pet-friendly gorgeous paradise in Mississippi.
Being a waterfront community, Bay St. Louis is naturally flourishing with fresh catch to satisfy your appetite. Have a feast for lunch or dinner at Cuz's. Dig into one of their seafood platters featuring a mix of fried shrimp, oysters, and catfish. Indulge in fine eats at the Thorny Oyster. The Bouillabaisse, Almondine, or Tuna Tostada are known to be palette pleasers. Savor waterfront dining at The Blind Tiger. Relax on the outdoor patio, grab an order of Mahi-Mahi Tacos, and relish the coastal lifestyle of Bay St. Louis.
Vicksburg
Located east of the legendary Mississippi River, Vicksburg is a historical masterpiece with many Civil War roots. Step back to the 19th century at the Vicksburg Civil War Museum. Walk through exhibits of vintage guns, ammunition, and cannons as you learn about Vicksburg's wartime past. Afterward, pay your respects to the fallen soldiers at Vicksburg National Cemetery. The grounds have around 17,000 Civil War soldiers that have been laid to rest. Constructed in 1858, The Old Court House Museum is one of Vicksburg’s oldest buildings. Today, the building serves as a museum and contains many artifacts showcasing Vicksburg's heritage. See everything from old portraits, toys, fine china, and a massive collection of Civil War items.
Steeped in Civil War origins, Vicksburg boasts impressive accommodations that elegantly blend its heritage with captivating charm. Formerly a Civil War hospital, the Duff Green Mansion is now a cozy Bed and Breakfast. Complete with classic antique decor, a three-course breakfast, and possible ghost sightings, savor the fine luxury and Southern hospitality that Duff Green Mansion has to offer. Although hit by cannons during the Civil War, The Inn at Cedar Grove still stands proudly today. Stay in a luxurious river view suite and be greeted daily by the Mississippi River. Discover the unique Mansion Rooms. Each guestroom is distinct and flourishing, with timeless antiques and historical elegance.
Hattiesburg
For a prosperous dining scene, Hattiesburg takes the crown. Choose from over 500 restaurants to satisfy every possible craving. George's Coney Island Cafe has stolen hearts in Hattiesburg since 1923. Savor classic American fare like hot dogs and hamburgers at this local favorite. Relish in a taste of New Orleans at Half Shell Oyster House. The restaurant is ideal for a romantic evening paired with the finest Gulf oysters and fresh seafood. Jutamas is another Hattiesburg gem featuring a delicious menu of Thai selections. Try the honey pork, or go for the classic Pad Thai.
Due to mild weather throughout the year, Hattiesburg is perfect for grabbing the clubs and putting the day away. Spend the day amongst the beautiful pine trees while playing a round at Shadow Ridge Golf Club. The course is open to the public. Designed by a PGA Tour professional, Timberton Golf Club is another 18-hole scenic masterpiece amongst the lush greenery. Regular Hattiesburg visitors should consider becoming a member of Canebrake Country Club, a golfer's paradise. Bask in the natural surroundings of lakes, sand bunkers, and Mississippi plant life.
Tupelo
Pay homage to the king in Tupelo, the birthplace of Elvis Presley. Grab a picture next to the man himself, or the next best thing, on Troy Street at the Elvis Homecoming Statue. See where it all began at the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum. Tour the 1934 home and discover the Presley's humble beginnings. From the family's replica Plymouth sedan to Elvis' childhood church, the museum is a wonderful experience for fans of The King of Rock ’n’ Roll. For more Elvis action, take a self-guided Elvis Tupelo Driving Tour. Explore the area at a leisurely pace and discover 14 iconic landmarks that shaped Elvis' life. The addresses for the landmarks are on the Tupelo.net webpage.
Bring the family along to all-ages-friendly fun in Tupelo. Pack a bag of snacks and view over 260 animals at the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo. Cruise through a safari, let the kids enjoy the petting zoo, and see where the buffalo roam. Event Zona is another incredible choice with fun for the whole gang. Challenge the family to a round of bowling or a thrilling game at the arcade. Let the kids release their energy at the trampoline park and kick back with a pizza afterward.
Natchez
The surrounding wilderness and panoramic beauty of Natchez draw in nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Take the scenic route by driving down the Natchez Trace Parkway. The stretch of road provides ample opportunities for open-air thrills such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and birdwatching. Pitch a tent and stay the night in Natchez State Park. Nothing beats sleeping under the stars in the gorgeous Mississippi landscape. Catch one of many striking sunsets at Bluff Park, running alongside the Mississippi River.
Venture through history and tour the area's elegant Antebellum Mansions. Since 1823, Rosealie's Mansion has been a notable Natchez icon. Walk through the stunning estate filled with original furnishings and antique decor. Experience the luxury firsthand at Monmouth Historic Inn, an early 19th-century masterpiece. The guestrooms and suites are beautifully embellished with antebellum-style decor but still contain modern amenities like in-room Keurigs and Wi-Fi. A fine example of preservation is The House on Ellicott’s Hill, one of Natchez's oldest structures. It is best to plan ahead to explore the house. Tours are exclusive and available only Friday through Sunday at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
Clarksdale
Music lovers flock to Clarksdale, the starting point for blues and rock n roll music. The Delta Blues Museum is an essential stop to see the roots of blues music in Clarksdale. Exhibits are fascinating for lovers of all genres, and they include artifacts such as old Stella guitars, music photography, and vintage records. Experience the music firsthand with an incredible night at the Ground Zero Blues Club. The establishment successfully combines live acts while serving up some good old Southern eats. Live music lights up the night at the Ground Zero Blues Club every Wednesday to Saturday. Finish off the blues tour by heading to The Crossroads, a famous intersection by Highway 49 and Highway 61. According to the legend, musician Robert Johnson allegedly sold his soul to the devil in exchange for extraordinary musical talent.
Have a feast in Clarksdale and fill up on hearty Southern cuisine and other area specialties. Visit Levon's Bar and Grill for delectable New Orleans-inspired culinary creations. Try the blackened catfish or gumbo, or go for classic shrimp and grits. For traditional American fare, head over to Abe's Bar-B-Q. Nothing hits the spot quite like a simple chili cheese dog or barbeque beef, and the eatery is right by the famous Crossroads landmark.
Biloxi
Biloxi is an effortless blend of a strong coastal heritage and a pristine stretch of beach. See farm-to-table in action by booking a tour through Biloxi Shrimping Trip. The tour demonstrates the process of oyster farming and seafood harvesting and how it ultimately becomes a delicious meal. Get a direct experience by visiting Biloxi in September for the annual Seafood Festival and celebrate the locally sourced and fresh cuisine. For a more in-depth look at Biloxi's marine legacy, head to the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum.
The Biloxi lighthouse, a significant landmark built in 1848, marks the area's coastal heritage. Tour this magnificent structure and soak in those incredible waterfront views. Since Hurricane Katrina's devastating destruction back in 2005, Biloxi Beach has been beautifully restored over time. Dip into the warm sands and cool off with a swim or snorkel in the crystal clear waters. Complete with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, Biloxi Beach is a treasured Mississippi utopia.
Biloxi is home to some top-rated and stunning resorts for a comfortable and luxurious stay. Beau Rivage Resort & Casino is a renowned accommodation featuring exquisite suites facing the rushing gulf waters. From seafood to steak, enjoy the finest dining before heading to a night of excitement at the casino. Another top option is the award-winning Palace Casino Resort. Rejuvenate at the Palace Spa, have a scenic round at the champion-designed golf course, and immerse in the comfortable guestrooms. Breathe in the clean air at Biloxi’s only smoke-free casino.
Cleveland
Cleveland boasts a lively calendar of events throughout the year for non-stop excitement. Join the locals during the holiday season at 50 Nights of Lights and watch the downtown area illuminate with over 1,000 bright lights. Celebrate the Queen of Pop's legacy and journey at Taylor Swift Through the Eras in the Grammy Museum. Commemorate the autumn season with the fun-loving festivities at OctoberFest. Enjoy a weekend of delectable Southern food, art, crafts, music, and entertainment for all ages. Appreciate Cleveland's local culture in April at the Crosstie Arts & Jazz Festival. The lineup showcases work from regional artists and authors exhibiting everything from furniture to pottery and fabric art.
Cleveland is a hotspot for unique shopping and eclectic boutiques. Pick up an eccentric collectible or quirky oddity at Moonstruck Antique Flea Market. The market has the largest vinyl record collection in the Delta to find the latest new favorite tune. Continue the hunt for antiques at Neysa's Fireside Shop with a stunning collection of fine China, crystal, and silk flowers. Browse consignment items at Tammy's Treasures and create a loving home for second-hand jewelry or home decor. H Squared Ladies Wear and Sippi Gyrlz Boutique are phenomenal shops that help you create a stylish new wardrobe. Splurge on a new dress, top, handbag, or shoes.
Mississippi: A Destination for Every Traveler
Mississippi is a Southern wonder filled with many towns and cities, which is perfect for a rewarding vacation. Biloxi and Bay St. Louis are coastal paradises with the freshest seafood. Immerse and rejuvenate in nature in Natchez or explore the birthplace of blues in Clarksdale. Fill up on Southern comfort food in the culinary giant of Hattiesburg or discover the rich history of the Civil War in Vicksburg. Visit Cleveland for intriguing year-round events, enjoy family fun in Tupelo, or indulge in arts and culture in the college town of Oxford. Mississippi has an amazing list of destinations for every type of traveler.
