Posted in Mississippi
November 24, 2015
The Ultimate And Definitive Bucket List For Everyone In Mississippi
Forget planning an out-of-state vacation; there’s plenty to do right here in Mississippi! And just in case you don’t know where to start, we put together this list of the absolute must-see, must-do things in Mississippi. So, whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong resident, these 26 things should definitely be on your bucket list.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Now a historic landmark, the modest home where Elvis Presley was born is available for touring.
Thanks to the numerous exhibits, the U.S.S. Cairo Museum, and a very informative Visitor Center, history comes to life at this military park, making it one of the top attractions in the state.
Established in 1716, Natchez is the oldest settlement on the Mississippi River and, as such, the town is filled with gorgeous antebellum homes that are open for touring.
Considered one of Mississippi’s “most beautiful outdoor treasures,” the Clark Creek Nature Area encompasses more than 700 acres and features approximately 50 waterfalls, which range in size from 10’ to more than 30’ in height.
Located on the Chunky River, Dunn’s Falls features a 65’ waterfall, an 1857 grist mill, and access to a ton of outdoor activities such as primitive camping, cabin stays, fishing, swimming, paddle-boating, picnicking, and hiking.
The only one of its kind in this part of the country, Flora’s Petrified Forest has been 36 million years in the making, and offers visitors the chance to view amazing fossils that exhibit perfectly preserved details.
Established in 1986, this museum is intended to preserve and interpret the maritime history and heritage of the Gulf Coast through historic photos and objects, and by offering exhibits on a variety of topics, such as shrimping, oystering, recreational fishing, netmaking, and more.
The two-room exhibit, located within Leland’s Chamber of Commerce, features numerous exhibits, a plethora of memorabilia, a gift shop, and, for those die-hard fans, a library filled with “pages upon pages” of Muppet facts.
Please note, the Tupelo Automobile Museum has permanently closed.
With over one hundred rare and collectible vehicles on display, the 120,000 square foot facility contains one of the largest privately-owned collections in the entire country.
With over one hundred rare and collectible vehicles on display, the 120,000 square foot facility contains one of the largest privately-owned collections in the entire country.
Founded in 1865, Borroum’s is the oldest drug store that has been in continuous operation in the state and is known for having one of the best slugburgers around - which means a visit to this classic eatery is a must.
Located in Jackson, this museum offers a ton of amazing exhibits including the Heritage Center, which explains the means used by farmers to transport goods, and Small Town Mississippi, a life-size replica of a small southern town in the 1800’s.
The home of William Faulkner and his family for over 40 years, Rowan Oak is open for touring year-round.
Serving as the last home of Jefferson Davis, Beauvoir has been preserved at the request of Davis’ widow, Varina. Today, the home is open seven days a week for touring and features artifacts connected to the daily life of Confederate soldiers, such as weapons and clothing as well as a gallery filled with fine art from the era.
Considered one of the most unique restaurants in the south, Mary Mahoney’s offers fine dining in an upscale atmosphere. The legendary cuisine, which has been enjoyed by presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries, is something you’ll definitely want to experience for yourself.
Located in Lorman, the Old Country Store features an all-you-can-eat buffet filled with southern comfort food, including “Mr. D’s Heavenly Fried Chicken.” Boasted as some of the best fried chicken around, Mr. D’s fried chicken has been featured on several television shows and attracts diners from all over.
In the Mississippi Delta, food staples include catfish, barbecue, and hot tamales. That’s right; hot tamales. The local specialty is so popular, in fact, that there is an entire trail dedicated to the cuisine. Follow the Tamale Trail, which runs along historic Highway 61, and indulge in the dozens of different types of tamales the Delta has to offer.
Take a drive through history on this 444-mile parkway, which offers exceptional scenery in addition to activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping.
There’s no better place to learn about the blues than the Mississippi Blues Trail. The unforgettable journey includes numerous stops throughout the state as well as markers filled with interesting facts, guaranteeing to give visitors a new appreciation for America’s music.
Built in the mid 1800s, the Windsor Plantation once encompassed a whopping 2,600 acres! The stunning mansion survived the Civil War practically unscathed; however, in 1890, a houseguest accidentally left a lit cigar on the balcony and the mansion burned to the ground, leaving behind only the columns, balustrades, and iron stairs.
Located at the Shiloh National Military Park, this museum tells the story of the city of Corinth during the Civil War through two video presentations, interactive interpretive exhibits, and detailed bronze work.
Just a short boat ride from the Gulf Coast, Ship Island is a tropical paradise, complete with gorgeous white beaches and beautiful blue water.
Known as “Mississippi’s Giant House Party,” the Neshoba County Fair attracts thousands of people from across the country. The week-long event is filled with socializing, great food, exhibits, rides, races, including the fair’s signature chair race, a car parade, rodeo, and more.
Open since 2008, this museum honors the life and music of the legendary B.B. King, all while celebrating the Delta’s rich musical heritage. Through music, art, artifacts, educational programs, exhibits, and video presentations, visitors are completely immersed in the local culture.
Referred to as “Mississippi’s Little Grand Canyon,” Red Bluff is a geologic formation that has been created by the natural erosion of the nearby Pearl River. The amazing sight has become an extremely popular tourist attraction over the years.
Serving Meridian since 1870, this historic restaurant has become known for its southern cuisine and comfortable, cozy atmosphere. Over the years, Weidmann’s has been featured in numerous books, magazines, cookbooks and television shows.
Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Tishomingo offers a breathtaking landscape made up of massive rock formations and fern-filled crevices that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.
This is just a portion of what Mississippi has to offer. What would you add to the list?
