Discover Mississippi's Top Attractions

Mississippi boasts a rich tapestry of attractions, from the bustling city of Jackson, with its Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, to the quaint city of Tupelo, birthplace of Elvis Presley. History buffs will find the Vicksburg National Military Park particularly compelling, while the Natchez Trace Parkway offers scenic drives and historic sites. Mississippi's coastline is also a hidden gem, featuring the only dolphin rescue center in the region.

For a comprehensive guide to the state's must-see destinations, visit our list of top attractions and things to do in Mississippi.

1. Gulf Islands National Seashore

Stretching from Mississippi to Florida, the Gulf Islands National Seashore offers pristine beaches, marshes, and forests. Davis Bayou, on the mainland, provides hiking, camping, and water activities. Visitor centers like Fort Pickens offer ranger-led programs and historical insights.

Official site: www.nps.gov/guis

2. Tupelo Automobile Museum

The Tupelo Automobile Museum, Mississippi's official auto museum, showcases 150 vehicles, including an 1886 Benz and a 1994 Dodge Viper. The collection also features a Lincoln owned by Elvis Presley.

Official site: www.tupeloautomuseum.com

3. USS Cairo Museum at Vicksburg National Military Park

The USS Cairo, a Civil War ironclad, is displayed at Vicksburg National Military Park alongside thousands of artifacts. The park also houses the Vicksburg National Cemetery.

4. B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center

This museum honors blues legend B.B. King and the genre's Mississippi Delta roots. Exhibits trace King's journey from a farmer to a global icon.

Official site: www.bbkingmuseum.org

5. The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies

This research and rehabilitation center features an interactive museum and dolphin encounters. The Discovery Room offers touch pools with marine life.

Official site: www.imms.org

6. Tour Beauvoir

Beauvoir, the estate of Jefferson Davis, includes a Confederate Presidential Library and Museum, showcasing Civil War artifacts and Davis' personal items.

Official site: www.visitbeauvoir.org

7. Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

Located in LeFleur's Bluff State Park, this museum features a 100,000-gallon aquarium and exhibits on Mississippi's wildlife and habitats.

Official site: www.mdwfp.com/museum

8. Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum

Elvis Presley's childhood home is preserved for fans, along with a museum and the family's original church.

Official site: www.elvispresleybirthplace.com

9. Grammy Museum Mississippi

The Grammy Museum celebrates American music history with interactive exhibits and memorabilia from iconic artists.

Official site: www.grammymuseumms.org

10. Drive the Natchez Trace Parkway

This historic 444-mile route offers scenic drives and access to numerous historic and prehistoric sites.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/natr/index.htm

11. Jackson Zoological Park

Home to 250 animals, the Jackson Zoo offers educational activities and special events.

Official site: www.jacksonzoo.org

12. Visit Antebellum Mansions in Natchez

Natchez is renowned for its historic antebellum homes like Stanton Hall and Longwood, offering a glimpse into the pre-Civil War South.

13. Old Capitol Museum

The former state capitol building in Jackson now serves as a museum detailing Mississippi's government history.

Official site: www.mdah.ms.gov/oldcap

14. Ocean Springs

Known for its art community, Ocean Springs features galleries, historic churches, and the Walter Anderson Museum of Art.

Official site: http://ci.ocean-springs.ms.us/

15. Mississippi Petrified Forest

Explore the trails of the Mississippi Petrified Forest and learn about ancient flora at the Earth Science Museum.

Official site: www.mspetrifiedforest.com