The Civil War may have been centuries ago, but tangible remnants of the historic fight can be found all over Mississippi – and this route will lead you straight to a few of them. Much more than battlefields, the 375-mile journey includes stops at parks, museums, historic homes, and more. Take a look:
Like we said, the route spans 375 miles. Though it can technically be driven in about 6-1/2 hours, the total trip time will vary depending on how long you spend at each stop. Click here to edit the map to suit your needs.
1. Natchez
Begin your journey in Natchez, where you’ll find more than 500 antebellum homes, churches, and public buildings. Prior to the Civil War, Natchez was home to more millionaires than New York City. The wealthy residents eventually filled the town with huge mansions. Today, more than a dozen of those palatial estates are open for year-round tours, with many more opening during the Spring and Fall Pilgrimages.
2. Port Gibson Walking Tour
In terms of Civil War history, the mention of Port Gibson brings one thing to mind – General Grant’s proclamation that the town was "too beautiful to burn." See for yourself exactly what he was referring to with a walking tour through Port Gibson’s historic district. Along the way, you’ll see several of the same antebellum homes and churches that so impressed General Grant. Begin your tour at the Port Gibson Visitor Center, where you’ll find information on the many historical and scenic areas in the town.
3. Windsor Ruins
While in Port Gibson, a visit to Windsor Ruins is a must. The mesmerizing ruins are all that remain of what was once Mississippi’s largest antebellum mansion. An informative marker tells the story behind the mansion, including its demise.
4. Grand Gulf Military Monument Park
This historic park is another Port Gibson must-see. The 400-acre landmark features a Civil War fort, cemetery, museum filled with Civil War artifacts, and several restored antebellum buildings. The grounds also include a campground, so you can catch some Zs before the second half of the road trip.
5. Old Courthouse Museum
Step back in time with a visit to this museum, which is brimming with antebellum and Civil War era artifacts. Historically significant all on its own, the museum was a major Union target during the Civil war; however, that changed when Union prisoners were moved into the building’s upstairs courtroom.
6. Vicksburg National Military Park
No Civil War road trip would be complete without a visit to the famed Vicksburg National Military Park. Spanning 1,800 acres, there’s plenty to see, including cannons, monuments, and a museum, which features the USS Cairo, an ironclad warship. Sunk by the Confederacy, the Union vessel was raised after more than a century under water.
7. Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center
Finish up your road trip with a visit to Corinth, the site of "the bloodiest battle in Mississippi history." The Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center provides a wealth of information on the battle through various displays, exhibits, and relics from the past.
So, ever been to any of the places mentioned above? Have a site to add? Tell us in the comments section.
Looking for another road trip for your bucket list? Check out "Take This Epic Road Trip To Experience Mississippi’s Great Outdoors."
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