10 Bizarre Sites In Mississippi That’ll Make You Do A Double Take

Every once in a while, Mississippi’s beautiful scenery includes something that, for whatever reason, stands out, makes us look twice, and, in some cases, leaves us scratching our heads. From quirky to just out of the norm, these 10 spots in Mississippi definitely fit that bill.

1. Dolphin Tree Carving, Biloxi

After being destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, a tree was transformed into this impressive sculpture by a chainsaw artist.

2. Po’ Monkey’s, Merigold

One of the only authentic juke joints still in operation today, Po’ Monkey’s, is located in the small town of Merigold. In 2009, the Mississippi Blues Commission recognized the significance of Po’ Monkey’s and designated it an official site on the Mississippi Blues Trail.

3. Mammy’s Cupboard, Natchez

Built in 1940, this larger-than-life mammy stands at 28’ tall. Aside from its appearance, the building is unique in another way – its architect was female. Designed by Annie Davis Bost, Mammy’s Cupboard is one of the few documented works by a female architect in Mississippi.

4. The Washington County Welcome Center, Greenville

One look at this welcome center and you’ll be asking yourself, "Is it a boat or a building?" Pond-bound, the welcome center, which is officially named the "River Road Queen," is shaped like an authentic paddle wheeler, and will definitely cause passers-by to do a double take.

5. Coffee Pot Inn, Brookhaven

Constructed by James J. Carruth in 1931, this coffee pot topped building originally served as a diner, Greyhound bus station, and the Carruth family’s home. Over the years, a portion of the building has been demolished; however, the giant coffee pot remains.

6. Native American Wood Carving, Tishomingo

Large wood carved Indians may be the last thing you’d expect to see out in the wilderness, but that’s exactly what you’ll find in Tishomingo State Park. The intricate carvings are scattered throughout the park and are impressive to say the least.

7. Elvis Statue, Tupelo

Elvis Presley may have left Tupelo long ago, but spend some time in the city and you just might run into him. As a tribute to the former Tupelo resident, this bronze statue in his likeness can be found in the city’s Fairpark.

8. Palestine Gardens, Lucedale

Constructed in 1960, this scaled model of the Holy Land has been attracting visitors for years now. The extremely detailed model features accurately represented topography and includes significant sites such as the Jordan River, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem, to name a few.

9. The Two-Faced Tree, Braxton

This picture was submitted by one of our readers. The tree shown appears to have two faces, which aren’t man-made.

10. World’s Largest Rocker, Gulfport

This gigantic rocking chair, which claims to be the "World’s Largest," can be found outside of Gulfport’s Dedeaux Clan Furniture.

What are some other attention-getting sites in the state?