Southern Charms & Hidden Gems: Top 10 Things to Do in Mississippi (That’ll Make You Fall in Love with the South)

Hey, y’all! Planning a trip to Mississippi? If you think Mississippi is just blues music and catfish, buckle up — because I’ve found some of the coolest attractions, hidden spots, and cozy stays that’ll turn your getaway into a Southern legend. And yes — I’m hooking you up with affiliate discounts on rentals, tickets, and hotels so you can stretch those dollars and book it all with ease.

Melissa Ridge

5/22/20252 min read

white and black boat on river during daytime

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend things I genuinely dig and would use myself!

Hey, y’all! Planning a trip to Mississippi?

If you think Mississippi is just blues music and catfish, buckle up — because I’ve found some of the coolest attractions, hidden spots, and cozy stays that’ll turn your getaway into a Southern legend. And yes — I’m hooking you up with affiliate discounts on rentals, tickets, and hotels so you can stretch those dollars and book it all with ease.

Top 10 Things to Do in Mississippi

1. Natchez Trace Parkway

A scenic drive that’s basically a rolling history lesson with jaw-dropping nature views. Perfect for a romantic road trip or peaceful solo cruise.
Pro Tip: Rent a convertible and soak in the breeze!
Get your rental car here

2. Vicksburg National Military Park

History buffs, rejoice! Tour the battlefields and monuments from the Civil War, plus the USS Cairo Museum.
Snag skip-the-line tickets here

3. Biloxi Beach

White sand beaches and casinos galore. Take a sunset boat ride, or test your luck on the slots.
Book private transfers from the airport to Biloxi

4. Rowan Oak, Oxford

Visit William Faulkner’s preserved home surrounded by ancient oaks. Literary nerd heaven.
Stay Nearby: Find deals at top Oxford hotels

5. Mississippi Petrified Forest (Hidden Gem!)

A prehistoric forest turned to stone? Yup — and it’s one of only two in the U.S.
Book a taxi ride to this hidden spot

6. Elvis Presley Birthplace, Tupelo

Before Graceland, there was a tiny 2-room house. Get all shook up exploring where the King was born.
Reserve skip-the-line tickets

7. Gulf Islands National Seashore

Pristine beaches, clear waters, and dolphin sightings. Perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, or a picnic.
Rent your water sports gear in advance

8. Delta Blues Museum, Clarksdale

The birthplace of blues deserves a visit. Catch a live jam at Ground Zero Blues Club too.
Plan your trip with car hire

9. Windsor Ruins (Hidden Gem!)

Creepy, beautiful, and totally Insta-worthy. 23 columns of an old plantation house stand eerily in the woods.
Use WayAway for flight deals to Mississippi airports

10. Old Capitol Museum, Jackson

Mississippi’s original state capitol is now a free museum packed with fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
Grab city tour tickets

Where to Stay in Mississippi

Ready to Plan Your Mississippi Adventure?

Book flights, hotels, and travel gear now and start living that Southern charm life.

Looking for other U.S. travel inspo?
Check out my guide on Top Things to Do in Idaho and Top Things to Do in Maine — link back for easy SEO juice!

Don’t Miss a Thing!

Final Thought:

Mississippi isn’t just fried catfish and football — it’s history, beaches, ghostly ruins, and music that’ll steal your soul (in the best way). Book your trip now, and thank me later.

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