Mississippi

General Visiting

Green Swamp MississippiThe State of Mississippi is bordered by Tennessee to the north, Alabama to the east, and in the west by Arkansas and Louisiana. Most of its western border is defined by the Mississippi River.

Much of Mississippi is part of the East Gulf Coastal Plain, which is composed of low hills and occasional higher elevations. The areas along the Mississippi River and the southern coast itself are lower lying and offer fine aquatic experiences to locals and tourists alike. There are lots of lakes and reservoirs too, providing opportunities for fishing and birding alike.

The prevailing climate of the state is warm and humid with long hot summers and shorter mild winters. Mississippi is a true nature lover's paradise. About 55% of the land is covered by forests of indigenous trees that are the home of white-tailed deer, beavers, opossums and more. During the winter, huge flocks of ducks, egrets, herons and terns nest on the Horn and Petit Bois Islands, while the rivers and lakes are alive with many different kinds of fish.

Mississippi State Capitol JacksonMississippi welcomes tourists and there are many fascinating things to see and do when visiting the Magnolia State:

Jackson Jackson is the capital city of Mississippi and has much to offer in the way of fine hotels and restaurants, great theme parks, historic sites, battlefield museums and more. It is a good place to visit first, as it introduces the state, and sets the theme for your journey, too.

Casinos There are a number of fine casinos including those at Biloxi, Gulfport and Natchez, all of which have much more than roulette tables to offer, including fabulous over-night facilities, fine dining opportunities and many outdoor activities for children. The state government and casino operators both remind you to gamble wisely – expect to have your identity checked several times if you are of a youthful appearance, and make sure you carry formal identity such as a passport or driver’s license with you at all times to avoid being embarrassed or even asked to leave.

Vicksburg National Military Park MississippiVicksburg: National Military Park This is a fascinating place to visit and you can cover the entire area on a single day if you have a car or bicycle with you. The entry fee is a mere $8, which is incredible given that the ironclad Cairo Battleship Exhibit can keep you busy for up to three hours alone. The nearby Vicksburg National Cemetery extends over 116 acres, which hold the remains of 17,000 civil war union soldiers. Tourist pamphlets are available in English, Spanish, German, French and Japanese.

Clarksdale: Blues Museum Mississippi is the true home of the Blues and it is fitting that it holds the nation's monument to the popular music movement and the fine artists who perpetuated it. Other fascinating nearby places include the Riverside Hotel where the death of Bessie Smith in an auto accident was officially marked, and “The Crossroads” – the intersection of Highway 49 and Highway 61 where it is said that Robert Johnson gave away his soul to the devil in exchange for his musical genius.

Natchez: Pre-War Houses Natchez has a fine selection of houses dating to the pre-Civil War area, which provide fascinating insights into the grand livings enjoyed in those peaceful times. The tours are popular and it is a good idea to book them in advance by contacting the Natchez Visitor Center. Every year in mid-October, Natchez hosts the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, which is a three-day event featuring balloon races, great food and truly fine music. Remember to bring a chair or blanket with you, as seats are not provided.

Natchez Trace Parkway MississippiNatchez Trace Parkway The Natchez Trace Parkway allows a great experience for those who appreciate nature. Along the way between Natchez and Nashville, you will share the road with walkers, cyclists and cars. If you are driving, be sure to keep to the fifty miles per hour speed limit as the US Park Police enforce this strictly in the interest of hikers and cyclists, not to mention wild animals such as turkeys and deer that suddenly decide to see what it is like on the other side of the road. Be careful after dark too, as there are no streetlights. On the upside, commercial vehicles are not permitted and you will have a light and easy ride.

Mississippi Theme Parks No matter how serious your journey is, you should also take time out for adrenalin rushes at some of the state's exciting theme parks. Some of the better-known parks include:

Rapids on the Reservoir Water Park, Choctaw: A huge man-made attraction that aims to bring out the wild side in you through aquatic amusements covering seven acres.

Gulf Islands Waterpark, Gulfport: It offers uphill waterslides that lead to a lazy river where you can enjoy a day's pleasure in the sun.

Geyser Falls Water Theme Park, Choctaw: It gives you an idea of what life would be like if the world were flooded again.

International Ballet Competition in Jackson Those with more genteel tastes will enjoy the annual International Ballet Competition at the Thalia Mara Hall on Pearl Street in downtown Jackson. It attracts some of the best ballet dancers in the world, and can produce a thrill that you will carry with you the rest of your life.

Mississippi is a truly great place to visit. You will need to allow at least a week to get to know the land of the blues – and even then, you will need to come back time and again.