Overview

Mississippi is a state of deep roots and soulful rhythms, where Southern hospitality, rich history, and natural beauty come together. Known as the Birthplace of the Blues, Mississippi invites visitors to explore its river towns, delta landscapes, cultural landmarks, and culinary delights. From Civil Rights history to coastal getaways, it’s a journey through the heart of the American South.

  • Capital: Jackson
  • Largest Cities: Jackson, Gulfport, Southaven, Hattiesburg, Biloxi
  • Population: ~2.9 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC−6) / CDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Humid subtropical — long, hot summers and mild winters

Top Destinations in Mississippi

Jackson

The capital city offers museums, music heritage, and Civil Rights history, along with Southern food and culture.

Natchez

A scenic bluffside town with antebellum homes, river views, and a rich history dating back to the 1700s.

Oxford

A charming college town home to the University of Mississippi and a thriving literary and food scene.

Biloxi & Gulfport

Gulf Coast cities with casinos, seafood, white-sand beaches, and maritime attractions.

Clarksdale

A must-visit for blues lovers, with live music venues and the legendary Crossroads of the Delta.

Must-See Attractions

  • Mississippi Civil Rights Museum (Jackson) – A powerful look at the struggle for justice
  • Vicksburg National Military Park – Key Civil War site with monuments and battlefield tours
  • B.B. King Museum (Indianola) – Celebrating the life of the blues legend
  • Gulf Islands National Seashore (Ocean Springs) – Beaches, trails, and coastal wildlife
  • Rowan Oak (Oxford) – Home of writer William Faulkner

Things to Do

  • Listen to live blues music in Clarksdale or along the Mississippi Blues Trail
  • Tour antebellum mansions in Natchez or Vicksburg
  • Relax on the beach or take a boat tour on the Gulf Coast
  • Explore museums and historic sites dedicated to Civil Rights and Southern culture
  • Attend food and music festivals across the state

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Jackson–Medgar Wiley Evers International (JAN), Gulfport–Biloxi International (GPT), Tupelo Regional (TUP)

Transport

  • Rental cars are recommended for exploring small towns and rural regions
  • Amtrak serves Jackson and other cities via the City of New Orleans route
  • Coast Transit Authority operates in the Gulf Coast area

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Mar–May): Mild temperatures and blooming gardens
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Festivals and beach season (hot and humid)
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Comfortable weather and cultural events
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet and mild, great for exploring indoors and outdoors

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Soul food, Delta staples, and Gulf Coast seafood
  • Specialties: Fried catfish, tamales, shrimp and grits, comeback sauce, barbecue, pecan pie
  • Drinks: Sweet tea, local beers, and Southern-style cocktails
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Delta Blues & Heritage Festival (Greenville)
  • Natchez Spring Pilgrimage
  • Cruisin’ the Coast (Gulf Coast)
  • Oxford Film Festival
  • Mississippi State Fair (Jackson)

Souvenirs from Mississippi

  • Blues memorabilia or vinyl records
  • Locally made hot sauce or barbecue rub
  • Delta tamales or pecan products
  • Books by Mississippi authors (Faulkner, Welty, Wright)
  • Handcrafted art or pottery from local galleries

Fun Facts

  • Mississippi is the birthplace of blues music, with legends like B.B. King and Robert Johnson
  • Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi
  • It’s home to the first public university for women in the U.S. (MUW)
  • The Mississippi River forms the entire western border of the state
  • The state capitol building in Jackson is over 100 years old and still in use

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Blues & History Trail

  • Day 1: Jackson – Civil Rights Museum and historic downtown
  • Day 2: Clarksdale – Delta Blues Museum and live music
  • Day 3: Oxford – Rowan Oak and town square shopping

5-Day Southern Charm & Coast Trip

  • Day 1: Natchez – mansion tours and river sunset
  • Day 2: Vicksburg – battlefield park and history museums
  • Day 3: Jackson – cultural sites and Southern dining
  • Day 4: Biloxi – beach time and fresh seafood
  • Day 5: Ocean Springs – arts district and Gulf Islands trails

Cities

  • Jackson