Are you itching to get outside and explore Mississippi? With so many incredible cities, state parks, and historic sites, it can be a bit overwhelming. We've put together some of our favorite tourist attractions in Mississippi that never disappoint. Of course, this list doesn't even come close to encapsulating all of the best things to do in Mississippi...but you have to start somewhere! Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, be sure to check out these tourist attractions in Mississippi:

1. Ship Island

Just off the coast of Mississippi, Ship Island is a unique little island that will make you feel like you’ve drifted off to the Caribbean. Not only is Ship Island one of the best beaches in Mississippi, but this little slice of paradise will appeal to history buffs too. Visitors can explore Fort Massachusetts in between beach bumming and soak in all of the history of this abandoned fort.

2. Dunn’s Falls

The Magnolia State isn’t known for waterfalls, but that just means that the ones we do have are all the more special. Dunn’s Falls is located in Enterprise, Mississippi, along the Chunky River. The history of Dunn’s Falls is just as captivating as the waterfall itself, and you’ll learn all about it during your visit. The park is also a nature preserve, where you’ll find a few nature trails and picnic tables to enjoy. You can even make a splash in the falls!

3. Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo

The Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo is the largest zoo in Mississippi, and it’s worth a road trip from any corner of the state. The 210-acre zoo is home to more than 250 animals, including a large buffalo population. You can take a safari drive (with your own vehicle) and feed them from your car, or go on a zoo walk and pet and feed some of the other animals, too.

4. Drive the Natchez Trace Parkway

Beginning in Natchez and ending just south of Nashville, the Natchez Trace Parkway covers 444 miles of the south’s most historic areas. While you don’t have to take on the whole 444 miles in one go, it certainly makes for an epic road trip. Don't forget the road trip snacks!

5. Tishomingo State Park

Sitting pretty at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Tishomingo State Park boasts 1,530 acres of some of Mississippi’s most unique landscape to explore. The incredible rock formations are one of the biggest attractions of Tishomingo State Park, and folks flock here to go rock climbing. You will need a permit if that’s your plan but don’t worry, you’ll find plenty to do here without a harness. There are seven hiking trails to explore, and each one is more scenic than the next.

The Natchez Trace Parkway runs directly through the park, so you can kill two birds with one stone!

If you do plan on exploring Tishomingo State Park, be sure to check All Trails beforehand so you can get detailed trail maps and more.

If you're interested in exploring Mississippi's small towns, we've got you covered. Check out some of our favorite small towns in Mississippi and start planning your epic adventure today. Of course, if you'd rather stick to the big cities, we've covered things to do in Oxford, Jackson, and many others.

Here's the perfect weekend itinerary for exploring Oxford:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/mississippi/weekend-itinerary-oxford-ms/