Top 15 Things to Do in Mississippi for an Unforgettable Experience

Are you looking for the things to do in Mississippi that will make your next trip both memorable and fun? You’ve arrived at the perfect guide. Mississippi, often called “The Magnolia State,” is home to lush landscapes, a storied past, and a vibrant music scene. From Civil War sites to blues festivals and tasty Southern fare, this destination offers something special for every traveler. In this article, we’ll explore 15 must-try activities that will bring you closer to the unique spirit of Mississippi. Plan ahead, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover one of the South’s most intriguing states.

Explore the Rich History of Mississippi

1. Visit Vicksburg National Military Park

Vicksburg National Military Park stands as one of the top things to do in Mississippi if you love history. The park preserves a major Civil War battleground where Union and Confederate forces clashed. You can drive the park’s 16-mile tour road and see over a thousand monuments that honor soldiers from both sides. A visitor center and a museum provide insights into the siege of Vicksburg, a turning point in the war.

• Highlights
  • Ironclad gunboat U.S.S. Cairo exhibit
  • Living history programs with uniformed reenactors on select weekends
  • Entrance fee around $20 per car (annual passes also available)
• Tip
  • Plan at least three hours to explore. Bring water, especially in summer’s intense heat

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2. Walk Through Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway follows a historic trading path that once connected Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee. Today, it’s a scenic drive with rolling hills, dense forests, and well-maintained pull-offs. If you love hiking or cycling, you’ll find dozens of trails and picnic areas. Along the way, you can spot wildlife, from deer to wild turkeys.

• Must-See Stops
  • Mount Locust Historic Inn (a restored 1780s “stand” or inn)
  • The Sunken Trace, a portion of the old trail worn down by travelers over centuries
• Fees
  • No entrance fee for the parkway. Enjoy the scenery for free
• Time Needed
  • Explore short segments for half a day, or drive the entire route if you have time

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3. Tour the Blues Trail

If you’re a music lover, add the Blues Trail to your list of things to do in Mississippi. The Blues Trail celebrates Mississippi’s deep influence on the blues genre. Markers spread across the state detail key artists, iconic studios, and legendary juke joints. Stop by places like the B.B. King Museum in Indianola or the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale. Each marker tells a story about pivotal moments in blues history.

• What to Expect
  • Outdoor signs in small towns and city corners, each telling local music tales
  • Some museums, like the B.B. King Museum, charge around $15 for adult admission
• Pro Tip
  • Plan your route in advance to hit a few markers each day, ending with a live blues performance at a local venue

Discover Outdoor Adventures in Mississippi

4. Cruise Along the Mississippi River

Few experiences define Mississippi more than a journey on the mighty river that bears its name. Riverboat tours in towns like Natchez and Vicksburg let you see scenic bluffs and wildlife from the water. If you prefer a more active outing, try kayaking tours that explore backwater swamps near Greenville or Bay St. Louis. River cruises often include commentary on local history and ecology.

• Costs
  • Steamboat tours typically run $25–$40 for a short trip
  • Kayak rentals around $20–$40 per half-day
• Why It’s Worth It
  • Unbeatable views of sunsets over the broad waters
  • A chance to spot egrets, alligators, or bald eagles

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5. Hike in the Mississippi Petrified Forest

Located near Flora, the Mississippi Petrified Forest offers a unique peek into prehistoric times. Ancient logs, turned to stone, line the forest floor, telling tales of what this region looked like millions of years ago. A short interpretive trail (less than a mile long) guides you through these fossilized giants, plus a small museum shows tree cross-sections and mineral displays.

• For Families
  • Children love the gem-mining area, where they can sift through bags for semi-precious stones (small fee)
• Admission
  • About $7 for adults, $5 for kids
• Tip
  • Visit the gift shop for geological souvenirs or local crafts

6. Relax on Biloxi Beach

Biloxi Beach, on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, suits families seeking soft sand and gentle waves. The stretch of shoreline includes piers for fishing, watercraft rentals, and spots for a casual beach picnic. Nearby, you’ll find casinos if the adults want a bit of nightlife. Kids can build sandcastles, splash in warm waters, or enjoy local seafood from nearby shacks.

• Activities
  • Jet ski rentals average $60–$80 per hour
  • Charter fishing for deeper Gulf waters, starting around $300 for a half-day trip
• Beach Access
  • Public beaches with free parking in certain areas. Some private lots charge $5–$10
• Bonus
  • The Biloxi Lighthouse stands as a local icon, offering short tours

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Immerse Yourself in Mississippi’s Art and Culture

7. Explore the Mississippi Museum of Art

In downtown Jackson, the Mississippi Museum of Art highlights a range of Southern and modern works. Rotating exhibits showcase everything from Civil Rights-era photography to contemporary paintings by local talents. The museum’s Art Garden, free to enter, offers sculptures and a calming green space.

• Exhibitions
  • Often incorporate local themes, bridging Mississippi’s historical narratives with modern expression
• Admission
  • Donation-based or around $15 for special exhibitions
• Events
  • Friday nights sometimes feature music, cocktails, and gallery talks

8. Visit Rowan Oak

Rowan Oak was home to Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner. Located in Oxford, the house preserves his study, complete with scribbled plot outlines on the walls. The property’s old oaks and magnolias evoke a tranquil atmosphere. If you’re a literature enthusiast, exploring Faulkner’s environment provides deeper insight into his novels, many set in fictional Yoknapatawpha County.

• Admission
  • $5 suggested donation
• Highlight
  • The original typewriter and notes remain on display
• Nearby
  • The University of Mississippi campus adds more historical buildings and a lovely setting

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9. Experience the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi

Located in Cleveland, the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi celebrates the state’s musical heritage in blues, gospel, and country. Interactive exhibits let kids mix tracks or explore the evolution of recording technology. The museum also hosts live performances and educational programs. If your family loves music, set aside a few hours here.

• Approximate Fees
  • $15 for adults, $10 for students, under 5 free
• Why It’s Cool
  • Audio booths, hands-on exhibits, and engaging stories about Mississippians who won GRAMMYs
• Schedule
  • Plan for about 2 hours. Check special event listings online

Savor the Flavors of Mississippi

10. Taste Fresh Seafood on the Gulf Coast

Mississippi’s Gulf Coast thrives on seafood. Crawfish boils, shrimp po’boys, and gumbo stand as local favorites. Places like Half Shell Oyster House or local crab shacks along the shore deliver fresh catches daily. Most lunches cost about $10–$20, while upscale dinner entrees can climb to $25–$35.

• Must-Try
  • Charbroiled oysters, blackened redfish, or boiled crawfish
• Kids’ Menus
  • Many restaurants adapt seasoning for younger palates. They might offer fish fingers or mild shrimp plates
• Tip
  • March to June is prime crawfish season, but availability can shift

11. Enjoy Authentic Southern BBQ

Mississippi barbecue is serious business. Pulled pork, smoky ribs, and tangy sauces show up across the state. Many spots use hickory or pecan wood, infusing a unique taste. In towns like Corinth, Tupelo, or Hattiesburg, you’ll discover hidden gems serving brisket or sausage plates with hush puppies on the side.

• Popular Joints
  • The Little Dooey (Starkville), The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint (Ocean Springs)
• Prices
  • Sandwich combos $8–$12, full platters $15–$25
• Local Tip
  • Some places hold pig-pickin’ events or weekend specials. Show up early—once they run out, they close

12. Attend a Crawfish Festival

Crawfish festivals appear in multiple Gulf Coast towns, often celebrating the small crustacean with cooking contests, live bands, and family-friendly rides. You’ll see giant pots boiling thousands of pounds of crawfish, spiced with peppers, onions, and secret blends. Kids can join carnival games, while parents sip sweet tea or local beer.

• Where to Find
  • Biloxi Crawfish Festival or similar events each spring
• Entry
  • Usually $5–$10 admission, plus food tickets sold onsite
• Vibe
  • Lively, with crawfish races, local crafts, and zesty music

Unforgettable Road Trips and Festivals

13. Drive the Scenic Natchez Trace Trails

We’ve touched on the Natchez Trace Parkway, but a full road trip here is a must. Stop at historical stands (inns) that served travelers centuries ago. The entire route covers 444 miles, entering Mississippi from Tennessee in the north. While many travelers do partial day trips, a multi-day drive reveals hidden waterfalls, ghost towns, and interpretive stops.

• Suggested Spots
  • Ross Barnett Reservoir for a lakeside picnic
  • Meriwether Lewis grave site near the TN border (famous explorer)
• Budget
  • Free to drive. Some attractions (like museums) have minimal fees
• Camping
  • Several campgrounds line the trace for $10–$20 a night

14. Attend the Mississippi Blues Marathon

Jackson hosts the Mississippi Blues Marathon annually, merging running with the state’s signature sound. Even if you’re not racing, the event’s festival atmosphere includes live blues music on the course and at the finish line. Families can enjoy a 5K fun run, watch the marathoners pass, or dance to local bands. Runners often receive a guitar-shaped medal, perfect for bragging rights.

• When
  • Usually in late January
• Costs
  • Marathon entry around $100, but spectating is free
• Fun for Kids
  • Some events host kids’ dashes or health expos with interactive exhibits

15. Explore Jackson’s Urban Scene

Jackson, the state capital, offers more than a legislative building. Downtown brims with museums, from the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum to the Museum of Natural Science. The Fondren District is trendy, boasting art galleries, coffee shops, and live music venues. You can easily spend a weekend sampling diverse restaurants (Creole, barbecue, soul food) and visiting sites like the Old Capitol Museum.

• Must-See
  • Mississippi Civil Rights Museum (about $15 admission)
  • LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, featuring fishing, hiking, and a playground
• Dining
  • Southern favorites like fried chicken, catfish, or collard greens at local diners
• Nightlife
  • Relaxed, but with pockets of jazz or blues clubs

FAQ Section

What is the number one attraction in Mississippi?
Vicksburg National Military Park often claims the top spot. Its well-preserved Civil War sites and thorough exhibits draw many history buffs.

What is Mississippi famous for?
Mississippi is known for its blues music roots, the winding Mississippi River, soul-stirring Southern food, and a deep Civil War history.

What part of Mississippi should I visit?
It depends on your interests. The Gulf Coast offers beaches and casinos, the Delta region boasts blues culture, and central Mississippi has historic towns like Jackson or Natchez.

What is Mississippi special for?
Mississippi is special for its authentic sense of Southern hospitality, diverse musical heritage (blues, gospel, country), and scenic landscapes—from riverbanks to coastal bays.

Conclusion

Category	Highlights	Why It’s Worth Visiting
Historic Sites	Civil War landmarks, Antebellum homes	Connect with Mississippi’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Natural Attractions	Mississippi River, Gulf Coast beaches	Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic beauty and tranquility.
Cultural Experiences	Music festivals, Art galleries	Dive into Mississippi’s vibrant culture and enjoy its lively festivals.
Family-Friendly Activities	Parks, Zoos, and Aquariums	Great for creating unforgettable memories with your family.
Culinary Delights	BBQ, Catfish, Gulf seafood	Savor the unique flavors of Mississippi’s renowned Southern-style cuisine.

These 15 things to do in Mississippi prove just how diverse and vibrant the Magnolia State can be. Whether you’re floating along the Mississippi River, touring Civil War sites, or devouring a plate of fresh shrimp and grits, you’ll discover a region brimming with culture and hospitality. Plan a thorough itinerary, balancing historical spots like Vicksburg or the Blues Trail with laid-back beach days in Biloxi. Savor local barbecue, join a rousing festival, and let Mississippi’s soulful tunes guide your travels.

Which activities call out to you the most? If you crave a fresh experience steeped in American history, natural beauty, and mouthwatering cuisine, set your sights on Mississippi in 2025. Book early if you aim for popular festivals or prime lodging near the coast. Then, prepare to build memories that linger well after the trip ends.

For updated travel advisories, attraction schedules, and local events, you can visit the official Visit Mississippi website directly. They post real-time updates on festivals, museum hours, and lodging recommendations, ensuring your Mississippi adventure goes smoothly.