With a rich civil rights history, nature trails and the birthplace of Elvis Presley, this often overlooked Southern state may surprise you. There's something for everyone in Mississippi...
Known for its Southern charm, Mississippi may be a tricky one to spell, but an exciting land to explore. Home of many nature experiences, historic sites, and blues music, we've highlighted some of the top activities to do and places to see when visiting this diverse state.
Paddling on the Mississippi (John Ruskey)
Named after one of the local Indian tribes, Quapaw Outfitters’ main operation is in Clarksdale but has two other outposts on the Lower Mississippi River. This outfitter organises bespoke paddling/canoeing expeditions. They sell and rent canoes, accessories and most related equipment. Owner John Ruskey is renowned for his artwork, apprentice programme, charitable activities and school trips on the river.
The Craft Center is located next to Natchez Trace Trail (Shutterstock)
Located in Ridgeland, right next to the old Natchez Trace Trail, the home and museum for the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi opened in 1973 and was the creation of Governor William Waller. The Center works to preserve and promote regional crafts as well as supporting craft makers.
Tupelo, where Elvis was born (Shutterstock)
In the north-east of the state, Tupelo is famous for being the birthplace of Elvis. The Presleys’ two-room ‘shotgun’ home where he grew up is here plus the chapel he used to attend. Stop by Johnnie’s Drive In where it is reported Elvis used to enjoy an RC Cola. Kermit’s Soul Kitchen in the town centre serves up a mean St Louis ribs as well as pulled chicken and cornbread.
Rowan Oak (Shutterstock)
In Oxford, Mississippi, is the primitive two-story Greek Revival home of novelist William Faulkner. Though a run-down property, the four acres of red cedar, magnolia and cypress trees were the sweetener that convinced the Faulkners to buy it, with Faulkner himself doing most of the renovation. Apparently, the writer felt that the dense forest of Rowan Oak helped develop his sense of multi-layered time, where the “past is never dead. It isn’t even past.”
Natchez Trace Parkway bridge (Shutterstock)
Required to be kept free of commercialisation, this 715km long scenic byway follows the path of the old Natchez Trace Trail. The Parkway is actually an extensive national park with campgrounds, points of historic interest and facilities all along its route.
Red's Lounge is one of the last remaining juke joints (Alamy)
In Clarksdale, Mississippi, you can find one of the last remaining juke joints – a place where entertainment, music, gambling and drinking take place and is primarily operated by African Americans. Red’s Lounge may be small and even slightly ramshackle but its authentic vibe is infectious. Red, the owner, can be found most nights sitting in the corner watching old Westerns on a big screen TV. It is located just around the corner from Ground Zero, a blues club founded by Morgan Freeman in 2001.
Outside the Delta Blues Museum (Shutterstock)
Another highlight of Clarksdale is the Delta Blues Museum. You will find an incredible number of artefacts of Delta musicians here, including guitars, clothing and other musical instruments such as harmonicas. The cabin that Muddy Waters grew up in on the nearby Stovall Plantation is here. Yes, the entire building.
Tishomingo State (Shutterstock)
Located in the foothills of the Appalachians, Tishomingo State Park takes its name from the leader of the Chickasaw nation, Chief Tishomingo. The Natchez Trace Parkway runs directly through the park, where excavations have confirmed the presence of Paleo Indians. Explore massive rock formations and boulders as well as fern-filled crevices and wildflower border trails. There is an RV campground, primitive camping, cabins and also a cottage available.
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