Belted by the robust Mississippi River, Mississippi is a place of many faces. Travel through the state, and you’ll discover everything from regal mansions to rural simplicity, white sandy beaches to dense woodland, and simple mom-and-pop stores to mighty shopping emporiums.
Often misunderstood, Mississippi is home to some of the most important history in the US. Take your time as you travel throughout the state, and you’ll learn more from the personal stories, thought-provoking artwork, raw novels, and heart-wrenching music here than you ever could from a textbook.
From the birthplaces of famous characters who have changed the world and sprawling forest-covered state parks to friendly towns that date back centuries and lively festivals the whole family can join in with, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Mississippi. With a huge range of indoor attractions, outdoor nature-based activities, and epic road trips, Mississippi is an excellent place to visit at any time of year.
With so many fantastic things to do, it can be tricky to know where to begin. To get you started, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Mississippi. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Mississippi bucket list, and you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time exploring the Magnolia State!
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25 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Mississippi
1. Marvel At The Mississippi Petrified Forest
One of the most fascinating Mississippi attractions is the Mississippi Petrified Forest. Inviting you on a journey 36 million years back in time, the natural phenomenon is home to a beguiling collection of ancient trees that have since turned to stone with time.
The place has an otherworldly feel that you won’t find in any other forest on the planet. Follow one of the several nature trails, and you’ll have the chance to admire the millennia-old logs, as well as surround yourself with the wonderful smells of honeysuckle vines, wildflowers, cedar, and pine.
To find out more about how the Mississippi Petrified Forest came to be this way, spend some time exploring the Earth Science Museum. Here you’ll find a number of exhibits that explain the science behind the region. The museum also includes displays that cover the evolution of plants, plus fascinating artifacts, such as prehistoric fossils, dinosaur footprints, and whale bones.
2. Get Back To Nature At The Gulf Islands National Seashore
The Gulf Islands National Seashore is a captivating natural wonderland that stretches from Cat Island in Mississippi all the way to the eastern tip of Santa Rosa Island in Florida. An excellent place to visit whether you’re in need of relaxation or excitement, this small piece of paradise provides you with everything you could ever need to break out of your typical routine.
Although most of the seashore is hidden away underwater, the barrier islands boast intrepid coastal marshes, Instagrammable sandy beaches, and dense maritime forests that provide you with countless adventures.
The Bayou Davis area is one of the best spots in this part of the state. Located close to Ocean Springs, it features a well-equipped camping area, visitor’s center, and picnic areas, as well as countless hiking trails, kayaking opportunities, lookout points, and snorkeling spots.
3. Stand Before The Eerie Windsor Ruins
For some of the best sights in Mississippi, spend the day at the Windsor Ruins. One of the most unique Mississippi attractions, these ruins are made up of a collection of balustrades and columns that once formed a grandiose complex.
The complex included a mansion and plantation that was built between 1859 and 1861. It survived the destruction of the Civil War when the complex was used as an observation post and hospital. But in 1890, it was completely destroyed following an unattended cigar that caused the entire place to burn to the ground.
While there’s very little left of the mansion and plantation, the ruins that remain are interesting to see. There’s a distinct sense of mystery that surrounds the place. If you’re into creepy, abandoned spots, you’ll be able to take loads of cool photos to show off here! Plus, one of the best things about the Windsor Ruins is that there’s no entrance fee.
4. Tour The Mississippi State Capitol
The Mississippi State Capitol in Jackson is one of the most popular attractions in the state. As well as being the center for Mississippi government affairs, it’s also a place that you can visit to admire many pieces of incredible artwork, beautiful stained glass windows, and monuments dedicated to important people throughout history.
Free guided tours are organized several times every weekday. If you prefer to do your own thing, you can take yourself on a self-guided tour and explore the State Capitol in your own time. Some of the highlights include the replica of the Liberty Bell and the Women of the Confederacy monument, dedicated to the mothers, sisters, daughters, and wives of soldiers who fought on the side of the Confederacy.
If you’re in a rush and haven’t got time to venture inside, the outside of the building is worthy enough of a visit on its own. The stately construction is instantly recognizable thanks to its dome-shaped roof and elegant façade that was built in 1903.
5. Hike In Tishomingo State Park
When you need a break from the ordinary attractions, one of the best things to do in Mississippi is to spend a day at Tishomingo State Park. This colossal park covers 1,530 acres in the northeast corner of the state and boasts spectacular landscapes that you won’t find anywhere else in Mississippi.
A fantastic place for nature lovers, the park is home to a considerable number of walking and hiking trails that take you past everything from colorful wildflowers to remarkable rock formations and incredible crevices. Just a few hours here will leave you feeling relaxed and connected to nature.
When you’re finished hiking, you can relax and enjoy the many secret birdwatching spots or cool off in the swimming pool.
Tishomingo State Park is also a great place if you’re interested in ancient history. Archaeologists have found evidence of Paleo Indians here, with artifacts that date as far back as 7000 BCE!
6. Check Out The Restored USS Cairo
To see something truly spectacular, spend the day at the Vicksburg National Military Park. An enthralling museum that thoroughly covers the Siege of Vicksburg, the park is most proud of the USS Cairo.
This incredible ship was sunk the very same year it was commissioned. It remained hidden, sunk deep within the mud for almost a full century, until the pilothouse and cannon were discovered and brought to the surface. Shortly after, a full salvage effort was underway, and the complete ship was recovered.
You can now see the dramatic and fully-restored ship on display within the museum, along with thousands of recovered artifacts.
While many people consider the USS Cairo to be the highlight of the museum, Here Brothers Fought is also definitely worth checking out. This compelling theater presentation follows the Siege of Vicksburg, one of the most important aspects of the Civil War.
7. Treat Your Sweet Tooth To Mississippi Mud Pie
When you’re in the mood for something sweet and indulgent, one of the most fun things to do in Mississippi is to treat yourself to a Mississippi mud pie. The iconic dessert got its name because it looks like the muddy Mississippi River tributaries following a rainstorm. But believe us, it tastes so much better!
The base of the dessert is made from crushed chocolate cookies. This is topped with thick, creamy layers of dense, flourless chocolate cake and decadent, velvet-smooth chocolate pudding. It has a wonderfully intense chocolate flavor, and, even though it’s incredibly rich, you’ll want to eat the entire thing every time.
You don’t have to eat an actual pie to get your Mississippi mud fix. Because the dessert is so popular, it’s been transformed into all sorts of sweet treats, from cakes and sundaes to ice cream cakes and cocktails.
The Chimneys in Gulfport is one of our favorite places for this iconic dish. Here it oozes with a decadent marshmallow and chocolate sauce, making it even more rich and indulgent.
8. Unleash Your Inner Artist At Ocean Springs
Spending a day at Ocean Springs is like visiting a completely different world. Even though it’s located just a couple of miles east of Biloxi, the town has a laid-back bohemian vibe that will sweep you away with it.
A thriving hotspot for craftspeople and artists, Ocean Springs is bursting with creative studios, art galleries, and independent boutiques selling all kinds of cool and quirky things you won’t find anywhere else. Thanks to the number of historic buildings that date back to the 1800s, even the streets of the town boast an unprecedented beauty.
Although a lot of Ocean Springs was devastated by Hurricane Katrina, a huge effort was made to restore the town to its former glory. While it’s not finished just yet, most of the town has been put back together and is even more stunning than it was before the natural disaster.
9. Stop Off At The BB King Museum
For one of the coolest things to do in Mississippi, plan a trip to the BB King Museum in Indianola! This fascinating museum highlights the life and work of one of the most influential blues artists who ever lived. BB King was born and raised along the Mississippi Delta, and this museum gives you the chance to gain a greater understanding of the history of the blues and BB King’s influence.
The exhibits are clearly and chronologically laid out, starting with the Mississippi Delta in the 1930s and BB King’s time as a farmer. The museum then goes on to follow BB King as he moved to Memphis and transformed himself into the Beale Street Boy. There are fantastic displays of his first radio performance, as well as his rise up through the 1960s when he became a world-famous icon.
If you’re a major BB King fan, you’ll love the gift shop. Here you’ll find a huge collection of blues and BB King memorabilia!
10. Celebrate The Start Of The Fishing Season With The Blessing Of The Fleet
The Blessing of the Fleet is one of the oldest festivals in Mississippi, dating all the way back to 1929. It began in Biloxi as a way to celebrate the beginning of the shrimping season, one of the biggest industries on the Gulf Coast. While it’s still centered on this theme today, it has expanded hugely over the past century.
The annual festival starts with the blessing of the ships, which is meant to guarantee a safe and prosperous fishing season. For this event, several ships are decorated from top to bottom with colorful flags. After the blessing, they head out to sea and catch all the delicious shrimp they can!
As well as the blessing, the exciting event includes loads of other fun activities and attractions. There’s a drool-worthy seafood cook-off, vibrant street party, Shrimp Queen pageant, and even the coronation of the Shrimp King and Queen.
11. Swim With Dolphins At The Institute For Marine Mammal Studies
You’ll find one of the most unique things to do in Mississippi at the Institute For Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport. This huge rehabilitation and research center is home to one of the very few dolphin rescue facilities in the area.
While it’s great fun to watch these intelligent aquatic mammals play with their trainers and other dolphins, it’s much better to sign up for a dolphin interaction program and get close to the magnificent creatures yourself. You can choose to meet one of the dolphins and receive a special kiss – or take things to the next level and get in the pool for the chance to swim with them, pet them, and feed them!
There are plenty of other opportunities to interact with animals, too. Check out the Discovery Room, where you’ll find touch pools that allow you to get close to sharks, stingrays, starfish, and other small marine life. You can also sign up for encounters with sea lions and stingrays or shadow one of the facility’s workers for a day.
12. Take A Southern Cooking Class
The food in Mississippi is so amazing that you’ll want to carry on eating the delicious dishes when you get home. If you’re a whiz in the kitchen, one of the best ways of recreating your favorite Southern eats at home is to take a cooking class. It’s a great opportunity to embrace Southern culture while also learning some tasty recipes you can enjoy at home.
Southern Biscuit Class in Natchez is one of our absolute favorites. Led by chef Regina Charboneau, the Queen of Biscuits, this class will teach you how to make the very best biscuits you’ve ever had. They’re incredibly buttery, flaky, and surprisingly easy to make.
The Farmer’s Table cooking class in Livingston is also fantastic. This cooking class focuses on local ingredients and encourages you to meet the people behind the protein and produce. It’s a great way to make friends with other foodies, and wine is included in the price!
13. Admire The 100,000-Gallon Aquarium At The Museum Of Natural Science
If the weather takes a turn for the worse, one of the best things to do in Mississippi is to head to the Museum of Natural Science in Jackson. This captivating attraction is where you’ll find one of the largest aquariums in the US. Filled with 100,000 gallons of water, this colossal aquarium is home to more than 200 aquatic species that are native to Mississippi.
There are tons of other incredible things to explore within the museum, too. If you’ve got little ones, you’ve got to check out the Dinosaur Trail. This outdoor forest walk passes by six large-scale 3D dinosaur models and offers detailed information about each dinosaur.
You’ll find plenty of other nature trails to explore, too. Each one shows you a different side of the park and gives you the chance to see the local wildlife and get involved with interactive displays. Most of the trails are really short, so you can follow multiple walks in a single visit.
14. Try Every Kind Of Blue Crab There Is
Are you a fan of seafood? Then you’ve absolutely got to try blue crab while you’re in Mississippi. The delicate, sweet meat of blue crab is hugely popular throughout the state, so much so that you’ll find it as a topping on all kinds of different dishes.
One of our favorite ways to enjoy it is as part of a salad appetizer. It’s often served in delicious flakes, marinated in a rich Italian dressing, and tucked into crunchy iceberg lettuce cups. The simplicity of the flavors and contrast of the textures work remarkably well together.
If you’re not much of a salad person, you can also try deep-fried blue crab claws and blue crab claws sautéed in garlic butter. These delicacies are really easy to find and taste as good as they sound!
Mary Mahoney’s is one of the best places for blue crab in Biloxi. Here you’ll find a number of hearty salads topped with crab meat, as well as tempting seafood platters that highlight the seafood.
15. See Countless Elvises Perform At The Elvis Festival
Elvis was born in Tupelo, and every year, the city throws the phenomenal Elvis Festival in his honor. Definitely one of the best Mississippi activities, this annual festival is made up of a staggering number of Elvis impersonators who take to the stage and recreate the King’s famous performances.
Artists from all over the country travel to Tupelo for the chance to show off their remarkable talents. As well as individuals, the festival also attracts gospel choirs that mesmerize and enchant the audience with their singing.
While the music is certainly the highlight of the event, there’s a lot of other stuff going on during the Elvis Festival, too. There are countless food vendors selling all kinds of delicious eats, exciting carnival rides to enjoy, a cute pet parade to watch, a dramatic beauty pageant to witness, and a 5K run to get involved with.
16. Visit The Spot Where Elvis Was Born
If the Elvis Festival left you wanting more, hang around in Tupelo and visit the tiny two-room house where the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll was born. Elvis’ father built the family’s modest home in 1934 with just $180 worth of materials. The following year, the famous singer that would become the world-renowned Elvis Presley was born there!
The family only lived in the home for three years. After that, they were evicted, and the home was repossessed because they couldn’t pay back the $180 loan taken out to build the house.
A huge effort has been made to restore the house, so it looks just like it did when Elvis lived there. Today, fans from all over the world visit for the chance to see trinkets and everyday items from Elvis’ childhood.
As well as the family home, it’s also worth checking out Elvis’ childhood church and the Fountain of Life which represents his time in Tupelo and Memphis.
17. Take It Easy At Biloxi Beach
When you need a break from all the Mississippi sightseeing, spend a few hours relaxing on Biloxi Beach. One of the most stunning parts of the state’s coastline, this small, sandy beach is the perfect place to chill out and forget about your to-do list for a little while.
The beach is known for its 19th-century lighthouse and wooden pier, which is home to a number of shacks selling freshly caught fish and seafood. The beach and surrounding area have a quaint coastal village vibe that you’ll miss as soon as you leave!
The sand here is super soft, and the water is reliably calm and warm – even in spring and fall. This makes it an excellent location, whether you want to doze in the sunshine or cool off with a swim. If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, there are also several fishing charters and sunset cruises available.
18. Drive The 444-Mile-Long Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway is the best road trip in Mississippi, and it’s packed with amazing things to see and do along the way! The extensive route follows the path once used by Native Americans, starting in Natchez, Mississippi, and ending 444 miles later in Nashville, Tennessee.
Some of the most popular places to stop off at include archaeological sites, prehistoric mounds, historical points of interest (like the town of Tupelo and the Brices Cross Roads battlefields), and gorgeous lookout points that will leave you snapping away with your camera.
If you want to feel closer to nature, there are plenty of opportunities to ditch your car and explore along the way. Be on the lookout for signposts pointing to cycling trails, hiking routes, horseback riding, and campsites. You’ll also find picnic spots dotted along the route so you can enjoy a casual outdoor lunch surrounded by nature.
19. Have A Drink At The Centuries-Old Under-The-Hill Saloon
Ordering a drink at the Under-The-Hill Saloon is one of the must-do things in Mississippi. This iconic bar dates all the way back to the 1800s and once had a terrible reputation for boozing and brawling. Today, the bar has cleaned up its act and is now a hugely popular tourist attraction.
The Under-The-Hill Saloon got its name due to its location in Natchez, and it boasts spectacular views of the Mississippi. Today you can still relax in the rocking chairs on the saloon’s front porch and soak up the dramatic vista.
Inside the centuries-old bar, you’ll find countless original black and white photographs, along with historical memorabilia reminiscent of a time gone by. The structure is entirely genuine, and a lot of the dark wooden furniture is also from the 1800s when the bar first opened.
Don’t forget to look at the ceiling during your visit. It’s traditional for drinkers to fold a quarter and a thumbtack into a dollar bill and toss it high, so it sticks in the ceiling!
20. Pick Up A Unique Memento At The Market Street Festival
If you’re planning to visit Columbus, Mississippi, in May, you’ve got to check out the Market Street Festival. This giant two-day festival has been going on for decades and attracts around 40,000 people each year, all keen to snap up some one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs they can’t find anywhere else.
Here you’ll find vendors selling all sorts of arts and crafts, from cute printed t-shirts and handmade jewelry to restored furniture and even upcycled birdhouses. With so much to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find just what you’re looking for.
Despite the name, the Market Street Festival isn’t just about shopping. The popular event also includes an excellent entertainment lineup, with live music performances, tons of children’s activities, fun runs, karaoke, car shows, and more. And don’t worry about getting hungry. Every year there’s an excellent choice of food trucks to hop between.
21. Dig Into Authentic Barbecue
When you’re feeling hungry, one of the top things to do in Mississippi is to enjoy a traditional local barbecue. Although the enormous feast wasn’t invented in the state, many Mississippi locals believe it was perfected there – and we sure aren’t going to argue!
An authentic Mississippi barbecue is made up of all sorts of delectable grilled dishes, such as BBQ chicken, smoky ribs, and pulled pork. Hearty sides like corn on the cob, baked beans, and coleslaw finish the feast off and make it one of the most comforting, fulfilling, and satisfying things you’ll ever eat.
There’s an almost never-ending list of places that serve barbecue in Mississippi. Little Dooey in Starkville is one of our absolute favorites. This iconic eatery dishes up all kinds of incredible barbecue dishes, such as a Little Dooey Sundae (pulled pork layered with baked beans, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce) and huge barbecue platters with ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and brisket.
22. See Many Endangered Species At Jackson Zoo
If you’ve got a day to spare, Jackson Zoo is an excellent place to spend it. This sprawling attraction is home to 250 animals that represent 150 species from all around the world. Here you can see all kinds of endangered species, including southern white rhinos, Sumatran tigers, reticulated giraffes, pygmy hippos, red wolves, and red-ruffled lemurs.
In addition to the resident mammals, Jackson Zoo is also home to a huge population of fascinating birds, including kookaburras and ostriches, as well as a staggering collection of reptiles which includes Madagascan hissing cockroaches and giant anacondas.
If you’re visiting the zoo with little ones, seek out the traditional carousel. Kids always love it, and if you’re in the mood for some nostalgia, it can be great fun for adults, too.
Plan your trip for a Tuesday, and you’ll save a small fortune. Each Tuesday, Jackson Zoo offers $2 entry tickets for everyone!
23. Explore The United States’ Biggest Bonsai Nursery
You’ll find some of the best things to see in Mississippi inside Brussel’s Bonsai. Just a 15-minute drive away from Memphis, this hidden gem in the town of Olive Branch provides a serene escape whenever you need a little peace and quiet.
The largest bonsai nursery in the US, Brussel’s Bonsai is a state-of-the-art facility, boasting more than 175,000 square feet of remarkable greenhouse space teeming with beautiful miniature trees. The attraction was created by Brussel Martin in 1975, who was fascinated by bonsai trees as a child.
If you thought there was only one kind of bonsai tree, this place is definitely going to prove you wrong. Here you’ll find row after row of greenhouses brimming with diverse and distinctly different bonsai trees. Some of them have price tags on – you’ll be shocked to see how expensive they can be!
Although the trees may be pricey, Brussel’s Bonsai is completely free to enjoy.
24. Step Back In Time In Natchez
Mississippi is bursting with fascinating towns to visit, and Natchez should be at the top of your list. This quaint, welcoming town was founded in 1716 and is best known for its gorgeous antebellum homes, top-quality shopping, and excellent dining scene.
If you want to keep things casual, you’ll have a wonderful time simply strolling around town and soaking up the atmosphere. This place is full of incredible photo opportunities, and there are plenty of cute cafes to pop into when you need a break.
For a more structured visit, plan to check out some of the town’s highlights. The most famous landmark in the city is Stanton Hall, also known as Belfast House. This mansion was built by a plantation owner in 1857 and still contains authentic period pieces and furniture.
The Longwood Estate and the Rosalie Mansion are also worth visiting. Here you can see how the wealthy lived centuries ago and admire the possessions they filled their homes with.
25. See Where Kermit The Frog Was Created
You may know that Elvis was born in Mississippi, but did you know Kermit the Frog was also born in the state? Jim Henson, the famous mind behind the puppet, was born in Greenville in 1936 and spent his childhood playing around the swamplands of Leland. Today, the small town has a permanent exhibit dedicated to Jim Henson and Kermit the Frog!
Despite its modest size, the museum boasts a considerable collection of puppets and memorabilia in honor of Kermit the Frog. Some of the original puppets had to be returned to the Jim Henson Company, but you can still see the original Kermit the Frog puppet, which was donated by Jim Henson’s wife, Jane.
There’s also a great gift shop where you can pick up all sorts of Kermit-related trinkets, as well as a giant stuffed Kermit you can take a selfie with!
There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Mississippi. What’s your favorite thing to do in the Magnolia State?
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