The Best Experiences in Mississippi: Top 10 Must-Do Activities (Currently Open)
If you’re searching for authentic Southern charm, deep history, and unforgettable adventures, Mississippi is calling your name. From the rhythms of the blues echoing through the Delta to the gentle waves of the Gulf Coast, the Magnolia State offers experiences that touch every sense. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor beauty, cultural landmarks, or soul-soothing food and music, Mississippi’s variety ensures every traveler finds their story here.
Let’s dive into the top 10 must-do activities in Mississippi (currently open) — each one a window into the state’s spirit, heart, and history.
Explore the Blues Trail – Follow the Soundtrack of the South
There’s no better way to experience Mississippi’s soul than by traveling the Mississippi Blues Trail. This network of over 200 historical markers stretches from the cotton fields of the Delta to the coastal towns near the Gulf. Each stop tells the story of how the blues — one of America’s greatest art forms — was born.
Highlights along the way include:
The Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, where artifacts from legends like Muddy Waters and B.B. King come to life.
Ground Zero Blues Club, co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, offering nightly live performances.
Dockery Farms, often called the “birthplace of the blues,” where early musicians created a new sound that shaped modern music.
For music lovers, this trail isn’t just an activity — it’s a pilgrimage through Mississippi’s rhythm and roots.
Cruise the Natchez Trace Parkway – America’s Scenic Southern Drive
For road trip fans, few drives rival the beauty and serenity of the Natchez Trace Parkway. Stretching 444 miles through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, it follows a historic Native American trade route that dates back centuries.
When you cruise through the Mississippi section, you’ll find endless opportunities to stop and explore:
Rocky Springs Ghost Town, an abandoned 19th-century community.
Cypress Swamp, where wooden boardwalks lead through hauntingly beautiful wetland scenery.
Emerald Mound, a prehistoric Native American earthwork site.
Perfect for bikers, hikers, and photographers, the Natchez Trace Parkway invites travelers to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with nature — Mississippi-style.
Discover Vicksburg National Military Park – A Journey Through History
For history buffs, Vicksburg National Military Park offers a profound glimpse into the Civil War era. The park preserves the site of the pivotal Siege of Vicksburg (1863), where Union forces gained control of the Mississippi River — a turning point in the war.
Visitors can explore:
Over 1,300 monuments and markers, each telling part of the story.
The restored USS Cairo, a Civil War ironclad ship recovered from the Yazoo River.
Miles of scenic walking and driving trails that combine history with nature.
The park’s atmosphere is reverent and reflective, reminding visitors of the cost of freedom and the resilience of the human spirit.
Stroll the Historic Streets of Natchez – Old-South Charm on the River
The river town of Natchez is a Southern treasure, known for its antebellum mansions, historic charm, and picturesque views of the Mighty Mississippi River. Founded in 1716, Natchez boasts one of the largest collections of pre-Civil War homes in the United States.
Top experiences include:
Touring Longwood, the unfinished octagonal mansion that tells a fascinating story of interrupted dreams.
Exploring Rosalie Mansion and Stanton Hall, both architectural masterpieces.
Savoring sunset views from the Natchez Bluff Trail, a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection.
With its old-world elegance and vibrant festivals, Natchez offers one of the most immersive cultural experiences in the state.
Relax on the Gulf Coast – Sun, Seafood, and Small-Town Vibes
When you think of Mississippi, beaches might not be the first thing that comes to mind — but the Mississippi Gulf Coast will surprise you. Stretching over 60 miles, this scenic coastline blends coastal beauty with laid-back Southern living.
Popular coastal experiences include:
Biloxi Beach and Gulfport Beach, where white sand and warm waters invite relaxation.
Ship Island Excursions, ferry rides to a pristine barrier island that’s part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Visiting Coastal Mississippi’s casinos and resorts, like the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, for upscale dining and entertainment.
Whether you’re fishing, sailing, or savoring fresh Gulf shrimp, the coast delivers endless sunshine and coastal comfort.
Immerse Yourself in the B.B. King Museum – The Legacy of a Legend
Located in Indianola, the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center celebrates the life of one of Mississippi’s greatest musical icons. The museum traces King’s journey from humble beginnings in the Delta to becoming a global ambassador for the blues.
Interactive exhibits, rare recordings, and personal artifacts bring visitors face-to-face with the King of the Blues. You’ll also discover how Mississippi’s culture — its struggles and triumphs — inspired an art form that transcended borders.
The museum regularly hosts live music events and community celebrations, making it a living tribute to the enduring spirit of the blues.
Taste True Southern Flavor on a Culinary Tour
Mississippi’s cuisine is an experience in itself — rich, flavorful, and steeped in tradition. A culinary tour through the state will have you sampling everything from fried catfish to soulful barbecue and world-famous pies.
Must-try food stops include:
Mary Mahoney’s Old French House in Biloxi for elegant seafood in a 1700s setting.
Doe’s Eat Place in Greenville, famous for giant steaks and tamales.
Weidmann’s in Meridian, serving classic Southern dishes since 1870.
The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint in Ocean Springs, where smoky ribs meet live blues music.
No matter where you go, the flavors of Mississippi reflect its culture — bold, comforting, and unforgettable.
Visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace – Where the King Was Born
Music lovers from around the world flock to Tupelo, Mississippi, to visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum. This humble two-room house is where the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll was born in 1935.
The museum complex includes:
The original Presley home, preserved to reflect its early 20th-century simplicity.
The Assembly of God Church, where Elvis first sang gospel as a child.
A museum and chapel, chronicling his rise to fame.
The site offers an intimate look into Elvis’s early life and the small-town roots that shaped his iconic sound. It’s a must-see for any fan of American music history.
Experience the Magic of the Mississippi Delta – A Cultural Adventure
To truly feel Mississippi’s heartbeat, spend time exploring the Mississippi Delta. Known as “the most Southern place on Earth,” this region is where history, hardship, and creativity have blended into a cultural masterpiece.
Can’t-miss Delta experiences:
Stopping by Clarksdale, where live blues plays nightly at legendary venues like Red’s Lounge.
Touring Greenwood’s Viking Cooking School, where visitors can learn to prepare Southern dishes hands-on.
Visiting the Delta Center for Culture and Learning in Cleveland, which tells the story of the region’s music, food, and people.
The Delta is more than a destination — it’s a feeling. Every note, meal, and sunset tells a story that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Take a Nature Escape in Tishomingo State Park
For outdoor enthusiasts, Tishomingo State Park in northeast Mississippi offers some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the South. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the park is known for its rugged rock formations, clear creeks, and lush forests.
Visitors can enjoy:
Hiking trails that pass through ancient limestone outcroppings and fern-filled valleys.
Canoeing and kayaking on Bear Creek, one of the most scenic waterways in the region.
Rock climbing and picnicking surrounded by tranquil mountain views.
Whether you’re camping under the stars or exploring the park’s scenic trails, Tishomingo is a perfect spot to reconnect with nature and recharge.
Tour the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum – Stories of Courage and Change
Located in Jackson, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum offers a moving and powerful experience that honors the people who fought for equality and justice. Opened in 2017, this state-of-the-art museum tells the story of the Civil Rights Movement through immersive exhibits, artifacts, and personal testimonies.
Highlights include:
The “This Little Light of Mine” gallery, illuminated by glowing lights that symbolize the bravery of activists.
Interactive displays that document pivotal events in Mississippi’s struggle for civil rights.
Exhibits that celebrate progress and ongoing hope for a more just society.
A visit here is deeply emotional but essential — it connects Mississippi’s past with its ongoing story of resilience and change.
Conclusion: Discover the Spirit of Mississippi
From its delta blues to its riverfront towns, Mississippi is a state of stories, soul, and stunning beauty. The best experiences here aren’t just about sightseeing — they’re about feeling the rhythm of a place that helped shape America’s identity.
Whether you’re exploring historic mansions in Natchez, soaking up the blues in Clarksdale, or catching Gulf breezes in Biloxi, each corner of Mississippi reveals something magical.