Places to Visit in Mississippi
Mississippi is a state rich in history, music, and Southern charm, offering a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. From blues-filled towns and historic landmarks to scenic river views and coastal getaways, Mississippi has plenty of places to visit and things to do that make it a unique destination.
I’ve walked through historic streets where the past comes alive, listened to live music that captures the heart of the South, and discovered peaceful landscapes perfect for relaxing and exploring. Whether you’re planning a cultural journey, a family trip, or a quiet retreat, Mississippi has experiences that will leave a lasting impression. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Rhythm and Roots in Jackson
When I think about the best places to visit in Mississippi, Jackson always comes to mind because it offers such a vibrant mix of history, culture, and hidden gems. Just being near the heart of the state, it feels like the perfect starting point for any Southern adventure.
I loved wandering through the Mississippi Museum of Art, which is one of my favorite cultural stops. It’s right in downtown Jackson and showcases an amazing collection of regional art that made me feel so connected to the local spirit.
One of the coolest experiences was visiting the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. This exceptional space near the State Capitol tells powerful stories, and I honestly felt like it was one of the most meaningful and unforgettable stops on my trip.
When I wanted something joyful and light, I found the LeFleur’s Bluff State Park to be a spectacular escape. Just minutes from downtown, it’s an underrated gem where I could picnic, hike, and even take in peaceful views along the Pearl River.
For an exciting food experience, I tried some of the best soul food at local diners scattered around Fondren, Jackson’s coolest neighborhood. The colorful murals, vintage shops, and eclectic cafés gave it such a fun and unique atmosphere.
One evening, I stumbled upon live blues music at a tucked-away club, and it turned into my favorite memory. Jackson truly feels like the absolute best mix of culture, music, and history wrapped up in one weekend getaway.
I have to say that some downtown streets felt quieter than I expected in the evenings, and we had to plan our stops carefully since not every spot stayed open late.
Check prices at the Westin Jackson ($160) and Old Capitol Inn
2. Sunlight and Sea Breeze in Biloxi
We drove along the Gulf Coast from New Orleans to Biloxi, about an hour and a half east.
When I made my way to Biloxi on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I immediately felt the magic of the seaside vibe. The city is right along the Gulf of Mexico, and it’s one of the absolute best places for a joyful, beach-filled weekend getaway.
One of my favorite experiences was relaxing on Biloxi Beach itself. The soft white sand and gentle waves made it such an underrated gem for swimming, sunbathing, and just soaking in the Gulf breeze.
I also loved exploring the Biloxi Lighthouse, which sits right near Highway 90. Climbing to the top gave me a spectacular view of the coastline, and it felt like stepping into one of the most iconic landmarks in Mississippi.
For something cool and unusual, I spent time at the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. This unique Frank Gehry-designed space was filled with vibrant exhibits, and it quickly became one of my favorite cultural finds in the city.
The casinos were another exciting part of the trip. I don’t always gamble, but the atmosphere was electric, and many of the resorts offered romantic dining options, spa experiences, and entertainment, making it feel like a complete getaway.
One evening, I took a sunset cruise near Deer Island. Watching dolphins play in the Gulf waters was the most unforgettable, peaceful experience. For me, Biloxi is a dream destination that blends affordable fun, spectacular views, and the coolest mix of history, beaches, and Southern charm.
I have to say that the beaches were beautiful but narrow in spots. Weekend crowds meant parking filled quickly along the Seawall.
Check prices at Beau Rivage Resort and White House Hotel
3. Soft Shores and Simple Pleasures in Gulfport
We drove just twenty minutes west from Biloxi along Highway 90, the shoreline always in view, until we reached Gulfport.
When I visited Gulfport, I immediately felt the exciting energy of this coastal city. Nestled right on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, it’s one of the best destinations for a family-friendly getaway or a romantic weekend by the water.
My favorite part of Gulfport was its spectacular beaches. The soft sand and calm Gulf waters made it the perfect spot to relax, and I found it a hidden gem compared to more crowded coastal towns.
I had such a joyful time exploring the Mississippi Aquarium, which is located near the harbor downtown. It’s one of the coolest attractions in the state, and walking through the vibrant exhibits of sea life was an amazing experience.
For something unique and unusual, I hopped on a ferry to Ship Island, which is just off the coast of Gulfport. The clear waters, untouched beaches, and historic Fort Massachusetts made it feel like a dream escape that was both adventurous and peaceful.
I also loved wandering around Jones Park, right near the harbor. With its marina, green spaces, and scenic walking paths, it felt like an underrated gem where locals and visitors come together to enjoy the Gulfport vibe.
In the evening, I treated myself to some of the best fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant. Watching the sun set over the Gulf while savoring shrimp and oysters was the absolute best way to end the day. Gulfport truly combines cool attractions, affordable fun, and spectacular coastal charm.
I noticed that the beaches were pleasant but narrow compared to Florida’s wide stretches. The water often carried more silt than sparkle.
Check prices at Courtyard by Marriott Gulfport Beachfront
4. Southern Literature and Slow Afternoons in Oxford
We drove about an hour and a half south from Memphis into northern Mississippi.
When I visited Oxford, Mississippi, I was struck by its vibrant mix of Southern charm, literary history, and cool small-town energy. Tucked in the northern part of the state, it’s one of the absolute best weekend getaways in Mississippi.
My favorite spot was the historic Oxford Square, which is the beating heart of the town. Surrounded by colorful boutiques, cozy cafés, and unique local restaurants, it felt like an underrated gem where I could spend hours just exploring.
I absolutely loved stepping into Square Books, one of the coolest independent bookstores I’ve ever visited. With shelves stacked high with new releases and Southern classics, it was a dream for any book lover like me.
For a joyful cultural experience, I visited Rowan Oak, the former home of William Faulkner. Nestled in a quiet grove near the university, it felt both peaceful and inspiring—a spectacular piece of literary history right in Oxford.
The University of Mississippi campus, known as Ole Miss, was another highlight. Walking through its tree-lined paths and seeing the Grove, one of the most famous tailgating spots in the country, was such an exciting and unique experience.
One evening, I found myself enjoying live music and delicious Southern food at a cozy restaurant just off the Square. The combination of vibrant nightlife and laid-back charm made Oxford one of my favorite places in the state—an exceptional mix of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Keep in mind that parking around the square is tricky.
Check prices at Graduate by Hilton Oxford, The Oliver Hotel, Oxford
5. River Elegance and Echoes of the Past in Natchez
We drove down from Jackson, about two and a half hours southwest, the road winding through pine groves and open fields before dropping us into Natchez.
When I made my way to Natchez, right along the Mississippi River in the southwest corner of the state, I felt like I had stepped into a dream. This city is one of the absolute best destinations for history, romance, and Southern charm all wrapped together.
My favorite experience was touring the grand antebellum mansions. Places like Longwood and Stanton Hall felt like hidden gems where time stood still, and I was amazed at the spectacular architecture and stories they held.
I also loved walking along the Natchez Bluff Trail. With sweeping views of the Mississippi River, it was one of the most joyful and peaceful moments of my trip, especially at sunset—it truly felt magical.
For something unique, I explored the Natchez Trace Parkway, which begins near the city. Driving this historic route was such a cool and unusual experience, and I discovered some of the most underrated scenic spots in the state.
Downtown Natchez quickly became one of my favorite areas. The brick-lined streets, vibrant shops, and inviting cafés gave it such an exciting, small-town vibe that was both welcoming and interesting.
One evening, I took a riverboat-style dinner cruise, and it was the most romantic way to end the day. Watching the lights reflect on the Mississippi River while enjoying live music and delicious food felt like the absolute best experience. Natchez is truly a spectacular Mississippi gem I’ll never forget.
Check prices at Dunleith Historic Inn, Natchez Grand Hotel
6. Coastal Calm and Artful Corners in Bay St. Louis
We drove west along Highway 90 from Gulfport, barely thirty minutes before the coastline curved into Bay St. Louis.
When I visited Bay St. Louis, tucked along the Mississippi Gulf Coast just west of Gulfport, I was instantly charmed by its laid-back, coastal vibe. It’s one of the most underrated gems in the state and felt like the perfect blend of small-town warmth and Gulf-side beauty.
My favorite part of Bay St. Louis was Old Town, a vibrant area filled with unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés. Every corner had something interesting to discover, and I loved how colorful and welcoming it felt.
I also spent time at the Bay St. Louis Beach, which was such a joyful spot to relax. The soft sand and calm Gulf waters made it ideal for swimming or just strolling along the shoreline—it felt like a hidden treasure.
For something unusual and exciting, I checked out the Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum near the historic train depot. The quirky, colorful pieces gave me a glimpse into the joyful, creative spirit of the town, and it quickly became one of my favorite finds.
Another spectacular highlight was walking across the Bay St. Louis Bridge. The pedestrian path offered amazing views of the bay, and I thought it was one of the coolest ways to experience the water up close.
In the evening, I enjoyed fresh Gulf seafood at a waterfront restaurant while watching the sunset paint the sky with brilliant colors. Bay St. Louis truly felt like a dream coastal getaway—affordable, romantic, and unforgettable.
I have to say that the town was peaceful, but options for evening entertainment were limited once the sun went down, perfect if you wanted quiet, less so if you hoped for nightlife.
Why Mississippi Stays With You
Looking back on my travels through Mississippi, I realize how many spectacular and underrated gems this state has to offer. From the vibrant cultural scene in Jackson to the dreamy beaches of Biloxi and Gulfport, every stop gave me a new favorite memory. Oxford’s literary charm, Natchez’s romantic river views, and Bay St. Louis’s cool coastal energy all blended into an unforgettable journey that felt both unique and joyful.
What I love most is how Mississippi combines history, culture, food, and natural beauty in such an exceptional way. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family-friendly weekend, or just an affordable getaway filled with hidden treasures, you’ll always find something special here. For me, Mississippi is more than just a place to visit—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
If you love Mississippi, check out these Southern places:
Booking Checklist
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4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
