The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Mississippi
Ever asked yourself, “What is there to do in Mississippi?” Well, we’ve got news for you; Mississippi is home to a ton of wonderful sites and attractions. From zip-lining through the treetops and sailing away to a tropical island to shopping at one of the state’s most massive flea markets and swimming in a hidden lagoon, here are 11 of the very best day trips in Mississippi.
Encompassing thousands of acres, this nature sanctuary is brimming with natural beauty and lots to see and do, making it one of the best day trips from Holly Springs. Explore the grounds and you’ll find an Antebellum home, 15 miles of walking trails, wildlife viewing areas, a hummingbird garden, fields of wildflowers, and much more.
Address: 285 Plains Road, Holly Springs, MS, 38635
This "aerial adventure park" is made up of a series of treetop courses, which include plenty of challenges, obstacles, and zip lines. Aside from adrenaline-pumping fun, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views as you zip between the treetops and directly over Red Creek.
At only 12 acres, this zoo may be on the small side, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in fun. Aside from more than 80 species of animals from around the world, the zoo also includes a splash pad, the Asbury Discover Center, which is described as a "room of wonders and oddities," and the High Ropes Adventure Course. Open Friday through Sunday, the course is four-stories high and packed with obstacles…and fun.
Address: 107 S 17th Avenue, Hattiesburg, MS, 39401
At this "oasis of hospitality," you’ll find a mouthwatering restaurant, charming general store, bakery, gift shop, and gardening center. Grab a bite in the restaurant and then spend some time perusing the shelves at the general store and gift shop, where you can stock up on jams, jellies, homemade sweets, Mississippi pottery, and more.
Far from a typical forest, this one is filled with ancient trees that have been transformed into stone. Nature trails and lots of informative signage make exploring the area a breeze. There’s also an onsite museum, where you’ll find examples of petrified wood from all over the country.
With over 75,000 square feet of merchandise, you’ll definitely want to devote an entire day to this flea market. Open every Saturday and Sunday, The Flea Market features numerous vendors, selling everything from furniture and antiques to video games and pottery.
The perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day, Ship Island is a tropical paradise, complete with gorgeous white beaches and beautiful blue water. Ship Island Excursions offers daily transportation to the island; tickets can be purchased in advance or at the small crafts harbor in Gulfport, which is where the boat departs.
Aside from crystal clear water and a stretch of gorgeous white sand, this hidden gem includes a playground, fishing pier, picnic tables, grills, and volleyball court, making it a great spot for some fun in the sun.
Address: Highway 4 and Prentiss County Road 3501, New Site, MS, 38859
This Tupelo park is home to nearly 300 animals, and the best way to see them all is a guided tour, which will get you up-close and personal with buffalo, camels, zebras, giraffes, and more. There’s also a petting zoo, pony rides, and numerous exhibits.
Located inside Biloxi’s Kroc Center, this indoor water park is a great place to spend a summer day – rain or shine. Perfect for all ages, it includes a water slide, splash pad, lazy river, and pool.
The next time you’re searching for great getaway ideas in and around Mississippi, look no further than Paradise Ranch and Resort. A hidden gem worth seeking out, it features a 105-acre campground, stocked lake, and lagoon. The man-made lagoon, which is known as Blue Lagoon, is fed by an artesian well and surrounded by a white sand beach, creating one of the best swimming holes in the state.
Address: 660 MS-48 W, Tylertown, MS, 39667
Ever been to any of the places listed above? Have another idea for an awesome day trip destination in Mississippi? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
Looking for the best day trips to take one tank of gas? Click here.
What is there to do on a rainy day in Mississippi?
A rainy day doesn’t have to be a boring day, especially here in the Magnolia State. There are a ton of things to do in Mississippi when it’s raining outside. For one, the state is full of museums – and not just any museums. In addition to typical museums, like history and science-based museums, Mississippi has several specialty museums, like the world’s only apron museum or the Birthplace of Kermit the Frog Museum, that are definitely worth a visit. Aside from museums, Mississippi is home to several indoor play centers and an indoor water park, which is located at the Kroc Center in Biloxi.
What do you do with kids In Mississippi?
There are plenty of things to keep kids entertained in Mississippi. Any one of Mississippi’s 21 state parks would make a great day-trip destination. There are also plenty of city-operated parks, like Merit Water Park and Dunn’s Falls Water Park, that are perfect for a day of fun with kids. In addition to outdoor fun, the state has several children’s museums, including Health Works in Tupelo and the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center in Gulfport.
What do you do with kids In Mississippi without spending money?
The best part about a day out with kids in Mississippi is that it doesn’t have to cost you a dime. That’s right; there are a lot of options for free fun in the Magnolia State. Several of the state’s museums, including the Armed Forces Museum at Camp Shelby, are free to visit. Just about any attraction along the Natchez Trace Parkway can be visited for no charge. A few notable sites include the historic Windsor Ruins, Native American sites, the Cypress Swamp Trail, and the abandoned town of Rocky Springs.
Even though she was born in New York, Daniella has lived in the south pretty much her entire life. The self-proclaimed southerner graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2011. Since graduation, she has worked as a freelance writer for several websites and opened a clothing consignment shop in her town of Picayune, MS.
Love Mississippi?
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
