15 Best Things to Do in Jackson, MS

Jackson, Mississippi is a fun weekend destination for couples and families, home to historic buildings, fascinating museums and great restaurants. Visit the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, the Mississippi Museum of Art and the Old Capitol Museum. Tour a historic landmark like the Mississippi Governor's Mansion, the Eudora Welty House, or the Oaks. Best things to do in Jackson, Mississippi with kids include the Russell C Davis Planetarium and the Mississippi Children’s Museum. Photo: SeanPavonePhoto/Fotolia

The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is a 70,000 square foot complex teeming with history and educational installations that provide information about the state's natural landscapes and its inhabitants. Be sure to visit the wildlife exhibits and the aquarium, which contains over 200 species.

This museum cares immensely about the preservation of Mississippi's nature, so it is only natural they have an outdoor center as well. The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is one of the best things to do in Jackson MS. Taking a stroll down the nature trails and breathing in the fresh air is the perfect way to end your trip.

2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-576-6000 Photo: jonnysek/Fotolia

The Old Capitol Museum is housed in one of the most historic buildings in the state, and a trip here will surely take you back in time on an informative and exhilarating journey.

This National Historic Landmark is home to some of the most meaningful moments for both Mississippi and the entire nation. It was at this very location in which the 1839 Married Women’s Property Act was passed, and the 1868 and 1890 constitutions were drawn up here as well. Furthermore, Mississippi officially seceded from the Union here in 1861.

There are several multimedia exhibits that portray and explain the roles the legislation and the high court play in governmental processes. This museum has been beautifully restored, and to this day, it maintains its authentic grandeur.

100 S State St, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-576-6920 Photo: Henryk Sadura/Fotolia.com

The Mississippi Museum of Art is housed in an beautiful building with sleek and modern aesthetics. There are many windows, allowing natural light to illuminate the inside. Arthur B. Davies, Robert Henri, Reginald Marsh, and Thomas Sully are just a few American painters whose works are featured at this museum.

The museum also displays stunning prints of several photographers along with the works of acclaimed sculptors. These are just a few of the permanent collections you will find at this fine museum. After your visit, spend some time relaxing on the patio and terrace.

You will find that you have developed a much greater appreciation for American art after a trip to the Mississippi Museum of Art.

380 South Lamar Street, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-960-1515 Photo: Mississippi Museum of Art

More: Things to do in Mississippi, Places to Visit in Mississippi, Best Mississippi resorts, Things to Do in Natchez MS, Mississippi lakes

A National Historic Landmark, the Eudora Welty House was the home of internationally acclaimed author Eudora Welty. She wrote much of her work in this house until she passed away in 2001.

Upon entering, you will find yourself transported back to 1986, when Eudora Welty bequeathed the house to Mississippi along with many of the items inside. Her home is adorned with paintings, linens, furniture, rugs, and photographs, just to name a few of the things you will see on your visit. Visitors are particularly interested in her impressive collection of books, of which there are thousands. She was, not surprisingly, an avid reader of great literature.

Before beginning the tour of her home and the beautiful gardens, visitors will watch a film to give them some important background information. After, they are welcome to wander through the museum and admire the many exhibits.

1119 Pinehurst Street, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-353-7762 Photo: sayanphayom/Fotolia

More: Cheap romantic vacations for couples, Things to Do in Hudson, Things to Do in Alaska, Things to Do in Fargo ND, Weekend Getaway in the Midwest, Weekend Getaway in Michigan, Day trips from London, Carlsbad restaurants, Things to Do in West Virginia, Things to Do in Washington State, Things to Do in Memphis

The Mississippi Governor's Mansion is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture from the 1840's. This stunning building is the second oldest continuously occupied governor’s residence in the country, and a National Historic Landmark.

Governor Tilghman Tucker and his family were not able to move into the residence until a few years after its construction due to the depression caused by the Panic of 1837.

Today, this landmark stands tall and represents one of the most exquisite examples of Greek Revival architecture in the nation, designed by architect William Nichols.

300 E Capitol St, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-576-6850 Photo: amadeustx/Fotolia

More: MS breweries, MS vacation, Largest Cities in Mississippi, Gulfport, MS Beaches, Things to Do in Gulfport MS

Babalu Tapas & Tacos serves a diverse selection of appetizers, sandwiches, salads, tacos, tapas, desserts and cocktails. Chef Austin Lee of Babalu Tacos has certainly earned his rank in the restaurant business. His career is impressive by anyone’s standards, and he has been working in the restaurant industry since he was 14 years old.

Lee first started out as a dishwasher before moving on to the position of sous chef. Soon after, he assumed the role of executive chef at this unique restaurant. Chef Lee serves up incredibly tasty dishes, and he insists upon using only the freshest ingredients and local produce. Try one of their many types of tacos, share a variety of tapas with your friends, or treat yourself to one of their sinfully sweet desserts.

622 Duling Ave, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-366-5757 Photo: Babalu

More: Italian restaurants NYC, Manhattan wedding venues, Things to Do in Chelsea, Best time to visit New York, Things to Do in Queens NY, Day trips from NYC

The Russell C Davis Planetarium is one the top planetariums in the South. The dome features a digital cinema that provides viewers with a full dome visual experience.

You can learn all about astronomy, celestial navigation, and voyages through space. This is one of the largest facilities of its type in the country, and it is equipped with the most sophisticated and innovative gadgets and accessories.

If you are looking for fun things to do in Jackson, Mississippi with kids, this is a great place to visit. The planetarium plays host to other events such as film screenings, festivals, and fashion shows. The cinema screens films that are both educational and entertaining – examples include films about marine life or dinosaurs.

201 E. Pascagoula Street, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-960-1552 Photo: Reinhold Wittich/Fotolia

The Mississippi Children's Museum, one of the top attractions in Jackson, consists of over 50,000 square feet of fascinating and educational exhibits. Stop by and spend an exciting day looking at the displays and getting some hands-on learning experiences with the interactive exhibits.

Visitors have the opportunity to learn about health and nutrition, discover the fields of science and technology, and even delve into culture and the arts at this comprehensive museum. Since the establishment is located in Mississippi, it’s only natural for the museum to include exhibits and displays related to the culture and heritage of the state, as well as its history and geography.

The Mississippi Children’s Museum provides its visitors with a memorable and informative educational experience.

2145 Museum Boulevard, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-981-5469 Photo: Mississippi Children's Museum

If you’re curious about trying a surprising and delectable fusion of Mediterranean and Southern cuisine, the Manship Wood Fired Kitchen is the restaurant for you. The charming, chic atmosphere will take you out of Jackson for a while, and their authentic European ingredients will delight even the pickiest of eaters.

Their fresh produce and flavorful ingredients are what make their cuisine so positively delicious. If you just want to stop by for a drink or two, you can definitely do so; the first-rate bar staff will serve up a memorable cocktail. Alternatively, enjoy a pleasant glass of wine from their fine selection, which consists of vintages chosen by one of the restaurant's owners, who just so happens to be a sommelier.

1200 North State St., Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-398-4562 Photo: The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen

The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum is sure to attract any and all sports enthusiasts. This museum houses a prestigious collection of impressive sports memorabilia specific to Mississippi.

Remember, the state of Mississippi boasts the leading scorer and receiver in NFL history, Jerry Rice, as well as the leading passer in NFL history, Brett Favre. Mississippi can even brag about its ties to Archie Manning, the patriarch of the first family of football.

The state has several Super Bowl MVP trophies, a nice collection of Olympic gold medals, and even titles from NBA Championships and the World Series. Come see the compelling memorabilia of the various sports and their players, which can be found all throughout the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.

1152 Lakeland Dr, Jackson, MS, Phone: 601-982-8264 Photo: Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

Located in the heart of downtown, Parlor Market is a seasonal restaurant inspired by the South. Before serving its scrumptious dishes to restaurant patrons, Parlor Market was exactly what the name says: a market. Since undergoing its transformation, this eatery has come a long way with its cuisine. The décor, however, has not changed a bit.

The atmosphere takes you back to the late 1800s, and the building’s compelling history comes to life in every nook and cranny. The restaurant prides itself on using regionally sourced produce in its fresh and flavorful dishes, all of which pay homage to the late owner's Southern roots. While you will certainly find some classic Southern favorites here, many of the dishes have a surprising twist, giving you an unforgettable dining experience. Things to Do in Mississippi

115 W Capitol St, Jackson, MS, Phone: 601-360-0090 Photo: Parlor Market

The Mississippi Agriculture Museum has a bold mission of creating a society that values the agricultural lifestyle and appreciates both agricultural practices and the people involved in them. They cultivate an appreciation for Mississippi's agriculture by displaying artifacts of this trade and providing educational resources.

The museum focuses on methods of transportation as they play important roles in the ways in which farmers and foresters transport their goods. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits at the museum, including the main transportation sections of Water, Railroad, and Road.

Each transportation division explains the relationship it has with agriculture and forestry. If you have children, the carousel and the train ride will definitely appeal to them. There is something for everyone at the Mississippi Agricultural & Forestry Museum.

1150 Lakeland Dr, Jackson, MS, Phone: 601-432-4500 Photo: Mississippi Agricultural & Forestry Museum

On the list for the National Register of Historic Places and a Mississippi landmark, The Oaks is the oldest residence in the city of Jackson. This magnificent example of Greek Revival architecture sits on four acres of land near the center of the capital city.

Built in 1853, The Oaks is also known as the Boyd House, since the Boyd family resided here for three generations. The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America acquired the Oaks in 1960.

823 North Jefferson Street, Jackson, MS, Phone: 601-353-9339

More places to visit: 25 Beautiful Weekend Getaways in Mississippi. Photo: duvan/Fotolia

The chefs at Saltine Oyster Bar have four different preparations for oysters, and diners keep coming back for more of this delectable treat. In addition to expertly prepared oysters, Saltine Restaurant also serves unique oxtail gravy fries and their Butcher Cut, a hearty hanger steak with onion jam and hop demi.

Their craft beers on tap and refreshing signature cocktails are not to be missed as well.

622 Duling Ave, Jackson, MS, Phone: 601-982-2899 Photo: Saltine Restaurant

At McAlister’s Deli, you will find plenty of flavorful options, including potatoes, hearty soups, huge sandwiches, and light and healthy salads. Known for their attention to detail in creating their handcrafted sandwiches and other dishes, McAlister’s insists on using only the freshest ingredients.

It isn’t at all surprising that this popular sandwich chain has spread across the nation. They are famous for their massive 13-layer McAllister sandwich, which includes heaps of various meats and veggies stacked on their famous fresh bread. Be sure to try McAlister's famous and fresh sweet tea, the perfect complement to your meal.

220 E Amite St, 601-985-9108; Maywood Shopping Center, 1240 E Northside Dr., Jackson, MS, Phone: 601-982-3883 Photo: McAlister's Deli