bigtravelbuzzThe Mississippi River is a major waterway that runs through the United States, stretching over 2,320 miles from its source at Lake Itasca in Minnesota to its mouth at the Gulf of Mexico. It passes through or forms the boundary of 10 US states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
In Minnesota, the Mississippi River flows through the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, offering numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The river is also a popular spot for sightseeing and photography, with many scenic vistas and historical landmarks along its banks.
Throughout its history, the Mississippi River has played a vital role in the development of the United States, serving as a major transportation route for goods and people. It has also been a source of inspiration for many writers, artists, and musicians, who have celebrated its beauty and significance in American culture.
Today, the Mississippi River continues to be an important resource for the communities along its banks, providing water for drinking, irrigation, and industry, as well as recreational opportunities and a connection to the natural world.
Places to Visit in Mississippi
Mississippi is a state located in the southern region of the United States, known for its rich history, music, and southern charm. Here are some of the top places to visit in Mississippi:
Natchez Trace Parkway: This scenic drive runs 444 miles through Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama, offering stunning views of the countryside and access to numerous historical and natural attractions.
Vicksburg National Military Park: This historic park commemorates the Battle of Vicksburg, a pivotal moment in the American Civil War. Visitors can explore the battlefield, museum, and historic homes in the area.
Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum: Located in Tupelo, this museum celebrates the life and legacy of the King of Rock and Roll, with exhibits and artifacts related to his childhood and early career.
Mississippi Gulf Coast: This region along the Gulf of Mexico offers beautiful beaches, seafood restaurants, and outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.
Oxford: This charming college town is home to the University of Mississippi, as well as numerous historic landmarks, museums, and literary attractions.
Jackson: The capital of Mississippi, Jackson is a cultural hub with a thriving arts scene, museums, and historical landmarks such as the Mississippi State Capitol and the Medgar Evers Home Museum.
Delta Blues Museum: Located in Clarksdale, this museum celebrates the history and influence of blues music in the Mississippi Delta, with exhibits and performances by local musicians.
Tishomingo State Park: This scenic park in northeastern Mississippi offers hiking, camping, and water activities such as swimming and canoeing, as well as stunning views of the natural beauty of the state.
These are just a few of the many attractions and destinations to explore in Mississippi. Whether you’re interested in history, music, or outdoor recreation, there’s something for everyone in this charming southern state.
Best Time To Visit Mississippi
The best time to visit Mississippi largely depends on your interests and preferences, as the state has a range of activities and events throughout the year. However, generally, the best time to visit Mississippi is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Mississippi, as the weather is mild with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. This is the season when the state’s many gardens and parks are in full bloom, making for beautiful scenery and great photo opportunities.
Fall (September to November) is also a great time to visit Mississippi, with cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and colorful foliage in many parts of the state. This season is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the many state parks.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid in Mississippi, with temperatures often reaching the 90s or higher. However, this season also offers numerous outdoor festivals and events, such as the Natchez Balloon Festival and the Mississippi Delta Blues and Heritage Festival.
Winter (December to February) is generally the least popular time to visit Mississippi, as the weather can be cold and damp. However, if you’re interested in holiday festivities and indoor attractions such as museums and galleries, this season can still offer plenty to see and do.
Overall, the best time to visit Mississippi depends on your interests and activities. Spring and fall are generally the most comfortable seasons, while summer and winter offer unique events and activities to enjoy.
Things to Do in Mississippi
Mississippi is a state with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top things to do in Mississippi:
Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park: This historic park commemorates the pivotal Battle of Vicksburg during the American Civil War, with a museum, battlefield, and historic homes.
Explore the Mississippi Delta: This region is known for its blues music, rich agricultural history, and unique culture. Visitors can explore the Delta Blues Museum, take a Blues Trail tour, or enjoy southern cuisine.
Enjoy outdoor recreation: Mississippi offers plenty of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and hunting. Popular parks include Tishomingo State Park, DeSoto National Forest, and Natchez Trace Parkway.
Discover the Gulf Coast: The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers beautiful beaches, seafood restaurants, casinos, and water activities such as fishing and boating.
Visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum: Located in Tupelo, this museum celebrates the life and legacy of the King of Rock and Roll, with exhibits and artifacts related to his childhood and early career.
Explore Oxford: This charming college town is home to the University of Mississippi, as well as numerous historic landmarks, museums, and literary attractions.
Experience Jackson: The capital of Mississippi, Jackson is a cultural hub with a thriving arts scene, museums, and historical landmarks such as the Mississippi State Capitol and the Medgar Evers Home Museum.
Visit Natchez: This historic town on the Mississippi River is known for its antebellum architecture, historic homes, and gardens.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Mississippi. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor recreation, or simply enjoying southern hospitality, Mississippi offers something for everyone.
How to get around in Mississippi
Getting around Mississippi largely depends on where you are and what mode of transportation you prefer. Here are some common ways to get around in Mississippi:
Car: If you have a car, it’s often the easiest and most convenient way to get around Mississippi. The state has several major highways, including Interstate 55, Interstate 20, and the Natchez Trace Parkway, as well as many rural roads and scenic byways. Car rentals are available at major airports and in larger cities.
Public Transportation: While public transportation is not as widespread in Mississippi as in larger cities, there are still options available. The state has several bus companies, such as Greyhound and Megabus, that provide intercity transportation. Some cities, such as Jackson and Biloxi, have local bus systems.
Air: If you need to travel long distances quickly, air travel is an option. Mississippi has several airports, including Jackson-Evers International Airport, Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, and Tupelo Regional Airport, with flights to major hubs across the country.
Train: Amtrak’s City of New Orleans train line stops in several cities in Mississippi, including Jackson and Greenwood, with connections to major cities in the region.
Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services: Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in larger cities, but may be less common in rural areas.
Overall, having a car is often the most convenient way to get around Mississippi, especially if you plan to explore the state’s scenic routes and rural areas. However, other transportation options are available depending on your needs and location.
Where to eat in Mississippi
Mississippi has a rich culinary tradition that reflects its southern heritage and agricultural bounty. Here are some of the top places to eat in Mississippi:
The Mayflower Café, Jackson: This iconic diner has been serving up classic southern fare since 1935, including seafood gumbo, fried catfish, and po’boys.
Ajax Diner, Oxford: Located near the University of Mississippi, Ajax Diner is a popular spot for comfort food, including meatloaf, fried chicken, and macaroni and cheese.
Mary Mahoney’s Old French House, Biloxi: This historic restaurant has been serving seafood and Creole cuisine since 1964, with specialties such as shrimp and crabmeat au gratin and crawfish etouffee.
The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint, Ocean Springs: This laid-back BBQ joint is known for its slow-cooked meats and live blues music, with signature dishes like BBQ brisket and smoked chicken wings.
Lusco’s, Greenwood: This restaurant has been a fixture in the Delta since 1933, serving up classic southern cuisine with a Creole twist, including seafood gumbo, stuffed shrimp, and filet mignon.
City Grocery, Oxford: This upscale restaurant in the heart of downtown Oxford serves innovative southern cuisine with global influences, such as shrimp and grits with tasso ham and Korean fried chicken.
Weidmann’s, Meridian: This historic restaurant has been a Meridian institution since 1870, serving up classic southern dishes such as fried catfish, chicken and dumplings, and peach cobbler.
The Crystal Grill, Greenwood: This casual diner is known for its breakfast dishes, including biscuits and gravy, pancakes, and omelets, as well as lunch specials like fried chicken and meatloaf.
These are just a few of the many great places to eat in Mississippi. Whether you’re looking for classic southern comfort food or innovative cuisine with global flavors, Mississippi has something to offer.
Famous street stalls in Mississippi
Street food culture is not as prevalent in Mississippi as in some other parts of the world, but there are still some notable street food vendors and food trucks serving up delicious bites. Here are a few famous street stalls and food trucks in Mississippi:
LurnyD’s Grille, Jackson: This food truck serves up burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches with a southern twist, including the popular “Lurny Burger” with bacon, cheese, and a fried egg.
2 for 7 Kitchen, Jackson: This food truck offers a rotating menu of international street food, from tacos and banh mi to curry and jerk chicken.
The Little Doobie Food Trailer, Tupelo: This food trailer is known for its creative grilled cheese sandwiches, such as the “Southern Comfort” with pimento cheese, bacon, and tomato.
The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen, Jackson: While not strictly a street stall, The Manship’s outdoor patio area serves up wood-fired pizzas and small plates in a lively, casual atmosphere.
The Mississippi Farmers Market, Jackson: While not a traditional street stall, the Mississippi Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal foods from local vendors.
These are just a few examples of the street food scene in Mississippi. While it may not be as ubiquitous as in some other places, there are still some great vendors and food trucks serving up delicious bites.
Where to stay in Mississippi
Luxury accommodation
Mississippi has a variety of luxury accommodations to choose from, ranging from historic hotels to modern resorts. Here are some of the top luxury hotels and resorts in Mississippi:
The White House Hotel, Biloxi: This historic hotel, built in 1895, offers luxurious rooms with views of the Gulf of Mexico, as well as a spa, pool, and fine dining restaurant.
The Alluvian, Greenwood: This boutique hotel offers stylish rooms and suites with high-end amenities, as well as a spa, art gallery, and fine dining restaurant.
The Peabody Memphis, Memphis (technically in Tennessee, but close to Mississippi): This iconic hotel, built in 1869, features opulent rooms, a rooftop bar, and the famous Peabody Ducks, who march through the lobby each day.
The Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, Biloxi: This modern resort offers luxurious rooms and suites with views of the Gulf of Mexico, as well as a casino, spa, and multiple dining and entertainment options.
The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Point Clear (also technically in Alabama, but close to Mississippi): This historic resort, built in 1847, offers luxurious rooms and suites, a private beach, golf course, spa, and multiple dining options.
These are just a few examples of the many luxury accommodations available in Mississippi. Whether you’re looking for a historic hotel with southern charm or a modern resort with all the amenities, Mississippi has plenty of options to choose from.
Where to stay in Mississippi
Budget accommodation
Mississippi offers a range of budget accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels and motels to guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. Here are some of the top budget accommodations in Mississippi:
Red Roof Inn, Jackson: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites at an affordable price, as well as free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast.
Super 8 by Wyndham, Tupelo: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean, basic rooms and suites at an affordable price, as well as free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast.
The Natchez Pearl, Natchez: This guesthouse offers affordable rooms and suites in a charming historic building, as well as a communal kitchen and dining area.
The Guest House at Gulfport Landing, Gulfport: This bed and breakfast offers affordable rooms and suites in a restored 1906 home, as well as a complimentary breakfast and afternoon tea.
The Maple Terrace Inn, Kosciusko: This bed and breakfast offers affordable rooms and suites in a charming historic home, as well as a complimentary breakfast.
These are just a few examples of the budget accommodations available in Mississippi. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel, guesthouse, or bed and breakfast, Mississippi has plenty of options to choose from.
Travel Tips Mississippi
If you’re planning a trip to Mississippi, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:
Plan your trip around the weather: Mississippi can experience hot, humid summers and mild winters, so plan your trip accordingly. Spring and fall are generally pleasant times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Rent a car: While there are public transportation options in Mississippi, renting a car is often the most convenient way to get around and explore the state’s many attractions.
Try the local cuisine: Mississippi is known for its southern comfort food, including dishes like fried chicken, BBQ, and seafood. Be sure to try some of the local specialties during your trip.
Visit the state’s historic sites: Mississippi has a rich history, including Civil War battlefields, historic homes, and museums dedicated to the state’s role in the Civil Rights movement.
Embrace the outdoors: Mississippi has plenty of natural beauty to explore, from the Gulf Coast beaches to the rolling hills of the north. Consider hiking, kayaking, or fishing during your visit.
Be prepared for mosquitoes: Mississippi can have a lot of mosquitoes, especially during the warmer months. Bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants if you plan to spend time outdoors.
Respect local customs and traditions: Mississippi has a unique culture and history, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions during your visit.
Overall, Mississippi is a welcoming and friendly state with plenty to see and do. By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your trip to the Magnolia State.