11 Unforgettable Places In Mississippi That Everyone Must Visit This Winter

The cold weather that comes along with the winter season may have you wanting to stay snuggled up at home, but with everything Mississippi has going on this time of the year, that would be a waste. Winter in Mississippi is a downright magical time and you should take full advantage of it while the season lasts. From attractions that are open year-round to limited time seasonal events, a trip to any of these beautiful places this winter won’t soon be forgotten.

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Each Christmas season the "City of Lights" lives up to its nickname as the Historic Courthouse Square is adorned with out-of-this-world decorations and over 200,000 dazzling lights. The Yuletide fun continues with a ton of events – all of which take place under the luminous blanket of Christmas lights. Nothing makes a normal town feel special like the sparkle of Christmas lights twinkling overhead in the chilly darkness of the early winter. Don't forget your camera! You're going to want to remember this experience.

Lewis Lights and Crafts/Facebook

In the works for over two decades, the Lewis Light Display has garnered quite the reputation, attracting visitors from as far away as Canada, Europe, and even Asia. The larger-than-life display, which is open until the end of the year, is made up of over 200,000 sparkling lights and several pieces of original art. The installation is updated and changed every year so you can come time and time again without getting bored. Many visitors come back multiple times in a season to take everything in.

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Facebook / Kansas City Southern

The Kansas City Southern Holiday Express is a magical holiday experience that brings Santa Claus and his elves from state to state spreading holiday cheer. The six car holiday train is packed with festive installations for the whole family to enjoy. Best of all, the train ride acts as a fundraiser for the Salvation Army. This year the train is stopping in Mississippi at three different locations to spread as much cheer as possible.

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Referred to as an "architectural wonder," Longwood is an amazing sight year-round but the plantation is especially stunning during the holidays when it is set aglow by thousands of Christmas lights. After absorbing the beautiful exterior, be sure to head inside for a full tour of the historically significant mansion. Somehow the holiday season makes learning local history all the more entrancing. Not to mention, it's a great excuse to put on your fanciest holiday outfit.

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Rated one of the top state parks in the nation, Tishomingo attracts visitors from all over the country, and the winter months are no exception. Aside from the swimming pool, the park’s facilities are open year-round, which means the cooler weather is a great time to enjoy all that Tishomingo has to offer. Take a hike, do some camping, scout winter wildlife, and birdwatch all on these beautiful grounds.

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The Richardson Light Show has been in the business of getting Madison in the Christmas spirit for over ten years now, a feat that has earned it third place on USA Today’s list of the best private light displays in the country. The incredible display includes over 200 inflatables, over 100,000 LED lights, hundreds of lighted wireframe characters and messages, a 23-foot animated tree, and much more. It's best not to think too much about the electric bill when you're enjoying this comprehensive display.

Facebook / City of Bay Springs, MS

Located in Jasper County, the picturesque small town of Bay Springs looks even more perfect during the winter months thanks to city-wide Christmas displays. The lights all over the town shine even brighter once you learn that citizens are encouraged to put them up as a reminder of the true meaning of the season. More than just aesthetically pleasing, Bay Springs offers an abundance of hunting and fishing opportunities, especially during the winter season. Seeing all the lights strung up is a reminder of the beautiful sense of community that can be found here.

Mid-South Ice House/Facebook

Even though Mid-South Ice House is open year-round, the winter season is the perfect time to spend a day on the ice, especially for the young ones who are out of school. And just to keep things from getting boring, Mid-South Ice House has a ton of holiday events planned, including a visit from the Grinch himself. It's the largest ice skating rink in the state, and the most festive! Whether you're going on a romantic ice skating date, watching theater on ice, or learning to curl, the Mid-South Ice House is an experience you won't forget.

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Facebook / Hattiesburg Zoo

You can spot a wide spectrum of wild animals at the Hattiesburg Zoo, but during the holiday season you can also spot Grinches roaming the grounds. We recommend you don't feed them, but feel free to take as many pictures as you like!

Mississippi Children’s Museum/Facebook

Winter means many things, and at the Mississippi Children’s Museum it means it’s time for the annual Holiday Spectacular. The festivities last for the entire month of December and include everything from presentations to holiday-themed activities and crafts. It's fun for the whole family during the cozy, holiday season. No judgement if you show up in adorable, matching holiday pajamas.

Facebook / City of Meridian-Government

In the midst of its "Merry Meridian" campaign, it’s safe to say that Christmas is a big deal in this Mississippi city. The month-long celebration began with the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree and will continue until the end of the year via holiday-themed performances, Trees of Christmas tours, and more. As you can see from this elaborate parade float, the town takes its holidays very seriously. Come prepared to be joyful and bright.

What are some places in Mississippi you like to visit during the winter season? Tell us in the comments section below!