Vicksburg National Military Park, located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, commemorates one of the most pivotal battles of the American Civil War—the Siege of Vicksburg. The park spans over 1,800 acres and includes a 16-mile tour road that guides visitors through key locations of the siege. It features over 1,300 monuments, markers, and tablets, which honor the soldiers and units that participated in the battle. The USS Cairo Museum, which houses a restored Civil War-era ironclad gunboat, offers a unique glimpse into naval warfare of the period. Visitors can also explore the Vicksburg National Cemetery, where over 17,000 Union soldiers are buried.
The Illinois Memorial in Vicksburg, Mississippi, is a significant historical monument located within the Vicksburg National Military Park. Dedicated in 1906, it honors the soldiers from Illinois who fought in the Battle of Vicksburg during the American Civil War. The memorial is designed in the style of a Roman temple, featuring a grand rotunda with 47 steps leading up to it, representing each day of the siege.
The Elvis Presley Birthplace in Tupelo, Mississippi, is a historic site dedicated to the early life of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. This modest two-room house, built by Elvis' father, Vernon Presley, is where Elvis was born on January 8, 1935. The birthplace complex includes a museum, a chapel, and a park, offering visitors a glimpse into Elvis' humble beginnings and his journey to stardom.
The Mississippi Museum of Art, located in Jackson, Mississippi, is a prominent cultural institution that showcases a diverse range of artworks, with a particular focus on pieces that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the American South. The museum's collection includes American art from the 19th and 20th centuries, contemporary art, and works by regional artists. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibitions, educational programs, and community events designed to engage and inspire audiences of all ages.
The Mississippi State Capitol, located in Jackson, Mississippi, is an iconic building that serves as the seat of the state government. Completed in 1903, the Beaux Arts-style structure was designed by architect Theodore Link. The Capitol features a prominent dome, which rises 180 feet above the ground, topped with a golden eagle. Inside, the building houses the Mississippi Legislature, including the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as the offices of the Governor and other key officials. The interior is adorned with marble, stained glass, and intricate mosaics, reflecting the grandeur and historical significance of the structure.
The Mississippi Governor's Mansion, located in Jackson, Mississippi, serves as the official residence of the state's governor. Completed in 1842, it is the second oldest continuously occupied governor's residence in the United States. This Greek Revival-style mansion is a National Historic Landmark, recognized for its architectural significance and historical importance. The mansion features grand columns, expansive gardens, and elegant interiors, reflecting the antebellum era's aesthetic.
The Lamar Life Building, located in Jackson, Mississippi, is a notable example of early 20th-century Gothic Revival architecture. Completed in 1924, it was the first skyscraper in Mississippi and remains one of the most iconic structures in the state. The building features ornate stonework, intricate detailing, and a distinctive clock tower, making it a striking landmark in downtown Jackson.
Tishomingo State Park in Mississippi is a picturesque natural area renowned for its stunning rock formations, rich Native American history, and diverse recreational opportunities. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the park features scenic hiking trails that wind through lush forests, past sparkling streams, and over ancient rock outcroppings. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing, canoeing, and rock climbing, as well as explore historic sites such as the Bear Creek Mound, a Native American ceremonial structure.
The Jefferson Davis Presidential Library and Museum is located in Biloxi, Mississippi, and serves as a memorial to Jefferson Davis, the President of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War. The facility is situated at Beauvoir, the historic post-war home of Davis, which is a significant site for those interested in Civil War history and Southern heritage. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that explore Davis's life, his role in the Confederacy, and the broader context of the Civil War era. Visitors can tour the restored Beauvoir mansion, the Presidential Library, and the meticulously maintained grounds, which also feature gardens and a Confederate cemetery.
The Biloxi Lighthouse, located in Biloxi, Mississippi, is an iconic coastal beacon with a rich history dating back to 1848. Constructed of cast iron, it stands 65 feet tall and is one of the few remaining lighthouses along the Gulf Coast. The lighthouse has weathered numerous hurricanes, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which severely damaged the surrounding area but left the lighthouse standing. Notably, the Biloxi Lighthouse was operated by female keepers for much of its history, a rare occurrence in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Beauvoir in Biloxi, Mississippi, USA, is a historic estate that served as the post-war home of Jefferson Davis, the former President of the Confederate States of America. The property includes a mansion, built in the mid-19th century, as well as several other historic structures and a cemetery. Beauvoir is now a museum and library dedicated to the life and legacy of Jefferson Davis, featuring exhibits on the Civil War, the Confederacy, and the history of the Southern United States.
The Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, located in Biloxi, Mississippi, is a distinctive cultural institution dedicated to the works of innovative ceramic artist George E. Ohr, known as the "Mad Potter of Biloxi." The museum's striking architecture, designed by Frank Gehry, features a series of pod-like structures that harmonize with the natural landscape. The museum's collection includes an impressive array of Ohr's distinctive pottery, as well as diverse exhibitions of contemporary art, African American art, and local history.
The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, located in Jackson, Mississippi, provides a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the civil rights struggle in the state. Opened in December 2017, the museum is dedicated to showcasing the significant events, people, and movements that played crucial roles in the fight for equality and justice from the end of the Civil War through the late 20th century. Visitors can engage with powerful exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that highlight the courage and resilience of those who fought against racial discrimination and injustice.
The Walter Anderson Museum of Art, located in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, celebrates the life and work of American artist Walter Inglis Anderson. Known for his vibrant and imaginative depictions of the Gulf Coast's flora, fauna, and landscapes, Anderson's art is deeply rooted in the natural world. The museum houses an extensive collection of his paintings, drawings, and ceramics, as well as work by his brothers, Peter Anderson and James McConnell Anderson, who were also accomplished artists. Visitors can explore a diverse array of exhibitions and installations, including re-creations of Anderson's private workspace, which offer insight into his creative process and unique artistic vision.
The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science in Jackson, Mississippi, is a premier destination for those interested in the natural world. Located within LeFleur's Bluff State Park, the museum features extensive exhibits that showcase the state's diverse ecosystems, flora, and fauna. Highlights include a 100,000-gallon aquarium system, a greenhouse, and a network of nature trails.
The Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, Mississippi, is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of blues music, particularly that of the Mississippi Delta region. Established in 1979, it is the state's oldest music museum and offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia presentations that celebrate the lives and legacies of legendary blues musicians such as Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and John Lee Hooker.
Longwood in Natchez, Mississippi, is a historic antebellum mansion known for its distinctive octagonal shape and its unfinished interior. Construction began in 1860 but was halted in 1861 due to the outbreak of the Civil War, leaving the upper floors incomplete. The mansion was designed by Philadelphia architect Samuel Sloan for cotton planter Dr. Haller Nutt and his family.
Windsor Ruins in Mississippi, USA, are the remnants of what was once the largest antebellum Greek Revival mansion in the state. Built between 1859 and 1861, the mansion stood as a symbol of Southern grandeur and opulence. However, it was destroyed by fire in 1890, leaving behind only 23 of the original 29 massive Corinthian columns and a few pieces of ironwork.
De Soto National Forest in Mississippi, USA, is a sprawling expanse of over 500,000 acres of richly diverse landscapes. Named after the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, this national forest offers a mix of pine forests, swamps, and streams, providing a habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy numerous recreational activities such as hiking, camping, kayaking, and horseback riding.
The B.B. King Museum in Indianola, Mississippi, USA, is a dedicated space celebrating the life and legacy of blues legend B.B. King. The museum offers a comprehensive look at King's extraordinary career, his influence on music, and his impact on American culture. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring his guitars, costumes, awards, and personal items, along with multimedia displays that bring his story to life. The museum also emphasizes the history of the Mississippi Delta and its role in the development of the blues. Through interactive experiences and educational programs, the B.B. King Museum aims to inspire and educate visitors about the rich cultural heritage of the region and the enduring legacy of B.B.
Stanton Hall, located in Natchez, Mississippi, is an exquisite example of Greek Revival architecture. Constructed in 1857 for Frederick Stanton, a wealthy cotton broker, this antebellum mansion spans an entire city block. The grand mansion features elaborate plasterwork, marble fireplaces, and stunning period furnishings, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Southern elite before the Civil War.
Monmouth in Natchez, Mississippi, is a historic antebellum mansion that dates back to 1818. This grand estate is renowned for its Greek Revival architecture and beautifully manicured gardens. Once the home of General John A. Quitman, a former governor of Mississippi and a prominent figure in the Mexican-American War, Monmouth now operates as a luxurious inn and a premier event venue. Visitors to Monmouth can enjoy guided tours of the mansion, which is furnished with period antiques and offers a glimpse into the elegance of Southern life in the 19th century.
Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport, Mississippi, USA, is a premier marine life facility that offers visitors an immersive experience into the aquatic world. Opened in 2020, the aquarium spans over 5.8 acres and features both indoor and outdoor exhibits. It is home to a diverse array of marine and freshwater species, including dolphins, sharks, stingrays, and river otters. The facility also includes touch pools, interactive displays, and educational programs aimed at promoting conservation and awareness of aquatic ecosystems.
The Grammy Museum Mississippi, located in Cleveland, Mississippi, is a dynamic and interactive museum dedicated to celebrating the history and cultural significance of the Grammy Awards and the rich musical heritage of the region. Opened in 2016, the museum features a wide array of exhibits, including multimedia presentations, artifacts, and memorabilia from Grammy-winning artists. Visitors can explore the evolution of American music, learn about the recording process, and experience hands-on exhibits that engage and educate.
Planning a trip?