There are plenty of places in Mississippi that are fit for a fairy tale. From gardens and chapels to castle-like structures, the Magnolia State is downright magical! And if you need proof, or simply want to explore some of the state’s most enchanting sites, you’re in the right place. We mapped out the perfect route, which will lead you straight to the state’s most fairy tale-like sites. So buckle up and get ready for the ride of a lifetime.
As you can see from the map, the route spans 834 miles and takes about 15 hours to complete. Of course, the trip will likely take longer since you’ll want to get out and explore each site. To alter the route, simply click on the link below the map.
1. The Lourdes Grotto
Located in Bay St Louis, the Lourdes Grotto is one of the state’s best kept secrets – it’s also one of the most enchanting. Built in 1938, the majestic site depicts the miraculous vision seen by a young girl named Bernadette in Lourdes, France in 1858.
Address: 199 Seminary Dr, Bay St Louis, MS 39520
2. Coastal Ridge Farm
There aren’t many things more magical than a sea of vibrant sunflowers, which is why Coastal Ridge Farm is a must-visit on this road trip. Boasting 15 acres, which are brimming with 10,000 colorful blooms, the farm is like something straight from a fairy tale. Coastal Ridge Farm is open to the public in the spring and fall, at which time visitors can meander around the farm’s u-pick field and search for the perfect blooms to take home.
Address: 27075 Rd 221, Picayune, MS 39466
3. Windsor Ruins
These hauntingly beautiful ruins are all that remain of what was once the largest antebellum home in all of Mississippi. Truly a sight to see, it’s not surprising that Windsor Ruins have repeatedly been deemed a must-visit and a hidden gem. Most recently, it was included in Insider.com’s list of the best hidden gems you can visit in every US state.
Address: Rodney Rd, Port Gibson, MS 39150
4. The Johnny Knight Treehouse
This magical tree house is hidden deep within a forest, surrounded by magnolias, maples, and white oak. The interior is just as rustic, complete with stair railings made out of branches and a dining table fashioned from a cypress. Available for overnight rentals, the treehouse is a great spot to stop for the night, while keeping with the theme of the road trip.
Address: 130 Johnny Brown Rd, Mendenhall, MS 39114
5. Amzi Love Home
Featured in Fodor's Travel Guide and The New York Times Travel Magazine, this historic home is a must visit. It’s open for tours all year, but it’s best to plan a visit in the spring time when the azaleas and wisteria are in bloom.
Address: 714 3rd Ave, Columbus, MS 39701
6. Chapel of Memories
Located on the campus of Mississippi State University, this chapel was built from bricks salvaged from the Old Main Dormitory that burned down in 1959. Aside from its sentimental value, the chapel boasts some stunning features, including vibrant stained glass windows, arched entryways, and intricately placed panes of colored glass, which when illuminated by the sun, give off a lovely glow.
Address: 135 Walker Rd, MS Starkville 39759
7. Wister Gardens
Described as the "fairyland of gardens," Wister Gardens is made up of 14 acres filled with colorful flowers, trees, and shrubbery. Pathways wind through the garden, making it easy to explore the enchanting site. The gorgeous gardens can be toured daily, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: 1440 MS-7, Belzoni, MS 39038
8. McCarty’s Pottery
A true Delta treasure, McCarty’s Pottery first opened in 1954. Over the years, the award-winning pottery studio has grown to include a restaurant and breathtaking gardens, which are filled with beautiful plants, trees, and flowers as well as several terraces, cypress fences, and fountains.
Address: 100 Sunflower St, Merigold, MS 38759
9. Ventress Hall
One of the most recognizable buildings on the Ole Miss campus, Ventress Hall is absolutely majestic in appearance. Boasting towering spires and Romanesque arches, the building looks more like a castle than the home of the College of Liberal Arts. The magnificence isn’t limited to the building’s exterior, though. Inside, there’s an authentic Tiffany stained glass window.
Address: Ventress Hall, Oxford, MS 38655
10. Tishomingo State Park
Tishomingo State Park has a truly unique landscape, which includes massive rock formations and fern-filled crevices that don’t exist anywhere else in the state. The park’s other notable attributes include an historic cabin that dates back to the 1800s, several sculptures of Native Americans, and a swinging bridge that’s as charming as they come.
Address: 105 Co Rd 90, Tishomingo, MS 38873
So, ever visited the magical places mentioned above? Have one to add to this list? Tell us in the comments section.
Looking for another road trip to occupy your time? Click here.
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