Ever asked yourself, “What are the best things 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 Mississippi day trips.

1. Strawberry Plains Audubon Center
Strawberry Plains Audubon Center, 285 Plains Rd, Holly Springs, MS 38635, USA
Strawberry Plains Audubon Center/Facebook




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.
2. Elevate
Elevate Red Creek Cabins, 5106-A Vestry Rd, Perkinston, MS 39573, USA
Elevate Red Creek/Facebook
Please note, Elevate Red Creek no longer has an aerial obstacle course.

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.
3. Hattiesburg Zoo
Hattiesburg Zoo, 107 S 17th Ave, Hattiesburg, MS 39401, USA
Facebook/Hattiesburg Zoo
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.
4. Shady Acres Village
Shady Acres Village, 624 US 49, Seminary, MS 39479, USA
shadyacresvillage.com
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.
5. Petrified Forest
Mississippi Petrified Forest, 124 Forest Park Rd, Flora, MS 39071, USA
DM/Flickr
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.

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6. The Flea Market
1325 Flowood Dr, Flowood, MS 39232, USA
The Flea Market, Mississippi's Trade Place/Facebook
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.
7. Ship Island
1040 23rd Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501, USA
Facebook/Ship Island Excursions
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.
8. Old Bridge Beach
Old Bridge Beach, Mississippi 38859, USA
Doug Whaley/Facebook
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.
9. Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo
2272 Coley Rd, Tupelo, MS 38801, USA
Visit Mississippi/Flickr



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.
10. Aquatics Department at the Kroc Center
The Salvation Army Kroc Center MS Gulf Coast, 575 Division St, Biloxi, MS 39530, USA
Facebook/Kroc Center MS Gulf Coast
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.

Address: 575 Division Street, Biloxi, MS, 39530
11. Paradise Ranch and Resort
Paradise Ranch and Retreat, 2701 Bedwell Rd, Springfield, TN 37172, USA
Paradise Ranch and Resort/Facebook




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 awesome day trips in Mississippi? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

If you’re still googling “day trips near me,” take a look at this road trip in Mississippi that you can do on one tank of gas.

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