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Need a charming getaway steeped in Southern history? Head to Natchez! Perched on the Mississippi River, Natchez dazzles with antebellum mansions, romantic views, and a rich cultural legacy. Whether you're craving historic tours, riverfront sunsets, or soulful cuisine, Natchez is where Southern hospitality meets timeless elegance.

Natchez, MS Highlights:

  • For History Buffs: Tour historic homes like Longwood and Stanton Hall – Step back in time at opulent antebellum estates with guided tours and gardens.
  • For Nature Lovers: Walk the Natchez Bluff Trail – Enjoy sweeping river views, historic markers, and scenic photo ops.
  • For Shoppers: Explore downtown boutiques and antique stores – Find vintage treasures, local art, and handmade Southern goods.
  • For Couples: Sip cocktails at a rooftop bar during sunset – Romantic river views pair perfectly with drinks and live jazz downtown.
  • For Families: Ride bikes or picnic at Natchez State Park – Enjoy fishing, trails, and peaceful outdoor space just outside the city.

Best Time to Visit Natchez, MS

The best time to visit Natchez is in spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). Spring brings blooming azaleas and the famous Pilgrimage Tours, while fall offers pleasant weather and outdoor festivals.

How to Get to Natchez, MS

  • If you are traveling by car: Natchez is accessible via U.S. Highways 84, 61, and the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway. It’s about 90 minutes from Jackson, MS.
  • By Plane: Fly into Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN), then rent a car for the drive to Natchez.
  • By Riverboat: Some Mississippi River cruises make stops in Natchez as part of historic tours.

Where to Stay in Natchez, MS

  • Recommended for Families: Natchez Grand Hotel – Riverfront lodging with spacious rooms and walking access to downtown attractions.
  • For Couples: Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens – A romantic antebellum mansion turned luxury inn with fine dining and gardens.
  • For a Boutique Hotel Stay: The Guest House Historic Mansion – Elegant rooms, Southern breakfasts, and classic architecture in the heart of Natchez.

Best Things to Do in Natchez, MS

1. Auburn Museum & Historic Home


Explore elegant rooms and admire antiques on an easy history trip.

Auburn Museum & Historic Home

© Courtesy of eugenesergeev - Fotolia.com

  • What is the Auburn Museum & Historic Home?
  • When was Auburn Museum & Historic Home built?
    • The mansion was designed and built in 1812 by Levi Weeks.
  • What architectural style does Auburn follow?
    • The building was constructed in the Greek Revival order and was the first significant building in Natchez to follow an actual architectural plan.
  • What are some notable architectural features of Auburn?
    • The mansion showcases several stunning architectural elements, including:
      • A prominent two-story Greek portico with a pedimented gable.
      • A magnificent unsupported geometrical spiral staircase connecting the first and second floors.
      • A central core with flanking symmetrical wings.
  • What can visitors see inside the mansion?
    • The interiors feature several antiques and period pieces on display.
  • Are guided tours available?
    • Yes, guests can explore the mansion on guided tours.
  • Does the museum have a gift shop?
    • Yes, visitors can browse a gift shop on site.

400 Duncan Avenue, Natchez, MS 39120, Phone: 601-442-5981

2. Biscuits & Blues


Savor Southern food and enjoy live music on a fun weekend.

Biscuits & Blues

© Biscuits & Blues

  • What is Biscuits & Blues?
    • Biscuits & Blues is a casual tavern set within a beautifully restored historical building. It offers classic Southern fare, drinks, and live entertainment.
  • What is the ambiance like at Biscuits & Blues?
    • The tavern features dark wood and brass accents, creating a charming pub-style atmosphere.
  • What type of food does Biscuits & Blues serve?
    • The eatery specializes in local takes on comfort foods, including:
      • Crab-stuffed jalapenos
      • Tiny muffuletta sandwiches
      • Fully dressed po'boys
      • Smoked ribs
      • Fried oysters
  • Does Biscuits & Blues have live entertainment?
    • Yes, the venue hosts live music performances every evening.
  • Is Biscuits & Blues a popular destination in Natchez?
    • Yes, it is considered one of Natchez’s hot spots for dining and live entertainment.

3461, 315 Main St, Natchez, MS 39120, Phone: 601-446-9922

3. Downtown Karla Brown


Browse unique finds and discover affordable gifts in this local shop.

Downtown Karla Brown

© Downtown Karla Brown

  • What is Downtown Karla Brown?
  • What types of tours are available?
    • Visitors can choose from five different tours, including:
      • Natchez History Tour – Explores antebellum homes, a trading post, a local winery, and a local eatery.
      • Vicksburg Civil War Tour – Includes stops at the Windsor Ruins and the Emerald Mound, along with a narrated tour of the Vicksburg National Military Park.
      • Scenic Bicycle Tour – A 3-day, 2-night ride along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway.
      • Ghostly Getaway – A 2-hour tour discovering local haunts and legends.
      • Literary Book Tour – Explores locations featured in Greg Iles' novels.

512 Franklin St, Natchez, MS 39120, Phone: 907-540-0001

4. Emerald Mound Site


Walk along ancient earthworks and see unusual Native history.

Emerald Mound Site

© Courtesy of Zack Frank - Fotolia.com

  • What is the Emerald Mound Site?
    • Emerald Mound Site is an ancient archaeological site dating back to the Plaquemine culture of the Mississippian period.
  • What is another name for Emerald Mound?
    • The site is also known as the Selsertown site.
  • Where is Emerald Mound located?
    • The mound is located on the Natchez Trace Parkway, near Stanton.
  • How old is Emerald Mound?
    • The site dates back to between 1200 and 1730 AD.
  • How large is Emerald Mound?
    • The mound covers 8 acres and measures:
      • 770 feet by 435 feet at the base.
      • 35 feet in height.
  • What are the key features of Emerald Mound?
    • The mound has a flat top with two smaller secondary mounds at each end.
  • How significant is Emerald Mound?
    • It is the second largest earthwork from the Pre-Columbian period in the United States.
  • Is Emerald Mound open to the public?
    • Yes, the site is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for exploration.

Emerald Mound Rd, Natchez, MS 39120

5. Fat Mama's Tamales


Savor spicy tamales and enjoy a cheap, flavorful meal.

Fat Mama's Tamales

© Fat Mama's Tamales

  • What is Fat Mama's Tamales?
    • Fat Mama's Tamales is a casual Mexican eatery located on Canal Street in Natchez, known for its homemade tamales and fresh margaritas.
  • What is the ambiance like at Fat Mama's Tamales?
    • The restaurant has a bright and vibrant interior set inside a quaint house, offering a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
  • What type of cuisine does Fat Mama's Tamales serve?
    • The menu includes a variety of mouthwatering Mexican dishes, such as:
      • Homemade chili
      • Taco salads
      • Mexican cornbread
      • Casseroles
      • Nachos and salsa
      • Boudin
      • Fire-and-ice pickles
  • What beverages are available?
    • Fat Mama's Tamales serves a selection of drinks, including:
      • “Knock-you-naked” margaritas
      • Craft beers
      • Sodas
      • Wine
  • What are the restaurant's operating hours?
    • Fat Mama's Tamales is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week.

303 S Canal St, Natchez, MS 39120, Phone: 601-442-4548

Recommended Attractions

6. Grand Village of the Natchez


Discover historic mounds and explore cultural attractions with kids.

Grand Village of the Natchez

© Courtesy of Tammy J Kelly - Fotolia.com

  • What is the Grand Village of the Natchez?
  • What is another name for the Grand Village of the Natchez?
    • The site is also known as the Fatherland Site.
  • When was the Grand Village of the Natchez built?
    • The village complex dates back to approximately 1200 AD, when it was constructed by the prehistoric Plaquemine culture.
  • Who used the Grand Village after its construction?
    • The site was later used by the Natchez people during the 17th and 18th centuries.
    • The Natchez added the historic mounds in the early 18th century.
  • What is the historical significance of the site?
    • The Grand Village of the Natchez is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
  • What attractions can visitors find at the site?
    • Visitors can explore:
      • A museum with artifacts excavated from the site.
      • A picnic pavilion for outdoor gatherings.
      • A network of nature trails for scenic walks.

400 Jeff Davis Blvd, Natchez, MS 39120, Phone: 601-446-6502

7. Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens


Admire lush gardens and stay overnight in a romantic Southern inn.

Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens

© Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens

  • What is Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens?
  • Where is Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens located?
    • The inn is situated on John A. Quitman Boulevard in Natchez.
  • How large is the estate?
    • The property spans 26 acres of manicured gardens and grounds.
  • When was Monmouth built and renovated?
    • The mansion was originally built in 1818 by John Hankinson.
    • It was later renovated in 1853 by John A. Quitman.
  • What architectural style is Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens?
    • The mansion is one of Natchez’s grandest Greek Revival mansions.
  • What amenities does the hotel offer?
    • The boutique hotel features:
      • 30 rooms and suites
      • A fine dining restaurant
      • An elegant lounge
  • Is Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens a National Historic Landmark?
    • Yes, the mansion is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
  • Are tours of the estate available?
    • Yes, tours of the estate and gardens are offered daily.
  • Is there a gift shop on-site?
    • Yes, a gift shop is open to the public all week.

1358 John A Quitman Blvd, Natchez, MS 39120, Phone: 601-442-5852

If you are interested in local events:

  • For History Fans: Natchez Spring & Fall Pilgrimage – Guided tours of private homes, historical reenactments, and costumed hosts.
  • For Music and Food Lovers: Natchez Food & Wine Festival (July) – Tastings, chef demos, and regional cuisine in a festive setting.
  • For Arts Enthusiasts: Natchez Festival of Music (May) – A month-long celebration of opera, Broadway, and classical music performances.

Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Natchez, MS:

  • For Plantations and Gardens: Frogmore Plantation (25–30 min) – Tour a working cotton plantation and learn about plantation-era history.
  • For History Buffs: Emerald Mound (20–25 min) – Visit one of the largest Native American mounds in the U.S., just off the Natchez Trace.
  • For Nature Lovers: Homochitto National Forest (30 min) – Hike, fish, or picnic among pine-covered hills and scenic trails.
  • For River Explorers: Vidalia Riverfront (5–10 min, Louisiana side) – Stroll the Mississippi levee path and enjoy opposite-side views of Natchez.
  • For Quiet Escapes: Natchez State Park (15–20 min) – Fish on the lake, hike nature trails, or rent a cabin in the woods.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Question: Where is Natchez located?
    Answer: Natchez is a riverside city set on the Mississippi River.
  • Question: What is Natchez known for?
    Answer: Natchez is renowned for its beautifully restored antebellum mansions, historic house museums, cultural sites, and recreational and scenic parks.
  • Question: What can visitors see at the Grand Village of the Natchez?
    Answer: The Grand Village of the Natchez is home to a reconstructed Natchez house and three ceremonial mounds.
  • Question: Which antebellum homes and historic house museums can visitors explore in Natchez?
    Answer: Visitors can explore magnificent antebellum homes and historic house museums such as the Auburn Museum & Historic Home, Magnolia Hall, Rosalie Mansion, and the William Johnson House.

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