Where better to get your fill of small-town charm than one of the best small towns in the country? Luckily, you won’t have to travel far. Natchez, Mississippi has been named as one of the best and among the most favorite small towns to visit by numerous A-List publications over the years, and it continues to top various lists. This stunning riverfront town has got a lot to offer, including historic sites, a lively downtown, fun festivals, and more.

According to Southern Living, Smithsonian Magazine, and other well-known travel publications, you’ve just got to visit Natchez!
James Case/Flickr
As soon as you enter the city, you can feel the history. Originally home to the Natchez Native American tribe, the city was officially founded in 1716, making it the oldest continuous settlement on the Mississippi River.
Between its rich history and abundance of small town charm, you'll agree that Natchez is a must-visit!
Visit Natchez/Facebook
At many of the cemeteries here, you’ll see the names of the families of some of its early founders, as well as those who made indelible marks on the town’s history over the years.
Located on the Mighty Mississippi, it’s been dubbed the “Jewel of the Mississippi.”
The City of Natchez, MS/Facebook
You may be (wonderfully) shocked to learn that Natchez is home to over 1,000 structures on the National Register of Historic Places!
Historic markers dotted throughout town provide insights into its early history.
Paul Brady/Flickr
There are numerous interesting facts about Natchez. For example, it was home to more millionaires per capita than any other city in the country prior to the Civil War.
Stunning historic homes are among the biggest draws to Natchez.
faungg's photos/Flickr
Among them is the Longwood Mansion, pictured here. The mansion is massive, encompassing an astounding 35,000 square feet!

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Religious sites like Temple B'Nai Israel, home to Mississippi's oldest Jewish congregation, are among the numerous historic structures in town.
Temple B'nai Israel Natchez, MS/Facebook
One of the best ways to grasp the flavor and flair of Natchez, as well as it's numerous historic structures, is to embark upon a city tour. The Hop-On Hop-Off varieties are particularly tourist friendly. Even folks living in Natchez are known to jump on for fun from time to time!
The town is also the starting point for the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile trek filled with historic sites as well as natural beauty.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Along it you will find a wealth of fascinating points of interest like the Windsor Ruins, historic memorial markers, Cypress Swamp Loop Trail, and the Gordon House Historic Site, just to name a few.
There are also several National Park sites in Natchez, including the Natchez National Historical Park and the Grand Village of the Natchez.
Bunmaster2014/TripAdvisor
The Grand Village of the Natchez is a 128-acre site featuring prehistoric Native American mounds, a nature trail, museum, and more.
Don’t assume Natchez is stuck in the past, though. It’s got lots of modern-day amenities, like a walkable downtown and great restaurants.
The Pig Out Inn BBQ/Facebook
Its small size makes it very walkable, so you can take in a lot in a single day.
And on top of all of its permanent perks, Natchez hosts a slew of festivals throughout the year.
Visit Natchez/Facebook
One of the most popular is the Natchez Balloon Festival. This three-day event draws folks from all over the state.

 

Have you ever been to Natchez? If so, what’d you think? Is it worthy of its recent accolade? Tell us about it in the comments and share your photos!

If you want to learn more about the Jewel of the Mississippi, check out the official Visit Natchez website. And make sure to follow Visit Natchez on Facebook to stay up-to-date on citywide happenings.

Natchez isn’t the only small town in Mississippi that belongs on your radar. Bay St. Louis has been called the most eccentric town in Mississippi.

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More to Explore

Natchez, Mississippi

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | September 26, 2022

Where can I find some good barbecue in Natchez?

Barbecue joints in Natchez, Mississippi are numerous, and everyone has their favorites. One of them is called the Pig Out Inn. A community favorite for over 20 years, its menu features amazing ribs (of course), and a unique smoked chicken BLT.

What can I do on the riverfront in Natchez?

The riverfront in Natchez is brimming with things to do. From steamboat tours to dining, shopping, and more, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. One of the most popular spots is the Bridge of Sighs, a pedestrian walkway named after an ancient bridge in Venice, Italy.

Are there any hiking spots in or near Natchez?

Absolutely! One might not think of hiking in a river town, but there are some really good ones in and around the area. One of the most popular is the Natchez Nature Trail. It is unique in that it meanders through various parts of the city, and dumps you out into the city’s Under-The-Hill historic district.

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Natchez, MS 39120, USA