Your Mississippi Road Trip Guide
Words by Ashley Locke
Mississippi is more than just a place on the map—it’s a feeling, a rhythm, a story that unfolds at every bend in the road. It’s where blues legends were born, where literary giants found their muse, and where history has been both made and reckoned with. It’s where towering live oaks shade antebellum mansions, where the Gulf breeze carries the scent of salt and seafood, and where roadside diners still serve up biscuits like your grandmother used to make.
Whether you’re drawn to the raw, unfiltered soul of the Delta, the coastal towns’ laid-back charm, or the history woven into every small-town square, Mississippi delivers in a way that’s as unexpected as it is unforgettable. Buckle up—this is your ultimate road trip guide through the Magnolia State.
Oxford
Why You Should Stop: This small college town packs a cultural punch. It’s home to Ole Miss, a literary legacy that includes William Faulkner and contemporary greats like Wright Thompson and Ace Atkins, and a lively music and bar scene that makes it feel like a much bigger city. Grab a book at Square Books, sip a cocktail on the City Grocery balcony, and get inspired by the creative energy.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: Take a tour of Rowan Oak, William Faulkner’s home, and wander through the very landscape that shaped his storytelling.
Jackson
Why You Should Stop: The capital city of Mississippi is where deep history meets modern energy. Jackson has a thriving arts scene, a growing foodie culture, and a soundtrack of live music nearly every night of the week. It’s a city with soul—literally, as it was home to Malaco Records, where legends like Bobby “Blue” Bland and Johnnie Taylor recorded.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: A visit to the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is a must. Its powerful exhibits tell the story of the Civil Rights Movement through interactive displays and deeply moving personal accounts.
Natchez
Why You Should Stop: Natchez is a postcard-perfect river town where history lingers in the air like the scent of magnolias. It’s the oldest city on the Mississippi River, home to breathtaking antebellum mansions and a scenic bluff that offers some of the best sunset views in the South. The town is an ideal stop for history lovers, architecture buffs, and anyone looking to slow down and get a first-hand look at a bygone era.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: Take a walking tour of Natchez’s historic homes—many of which are open for tours, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Old South. If you time your visit right, the Natchez Spring or Fall Pilgrimage lets you step inside some of the most well-preserved estates.
Tupelo
Why You Should Stop: Elvis Presley was born here. Do you really need another reason? Tupelo is a town that embraces its rock ‘n’ roll roots, but it’s also home to great local eats, a growing craft beer scene, and a charming downtown worth exploring.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: Stand on the front porch of Elvis Presley’s birthplace—the small, two-room house where the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll took his first breath.
Hattiesburg
Why You Should Stop: Hattiesburg is an under-the-radar gem filled with street art, craft beer, and quirky experiences. It’s home to the University of Southern Mississippi, so expect a fun, youthful energy.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: The Hattiesburg GeoTour is the first of its kind in Mississippi and one of only 106 official GeoTours in the world. It’s basically a high-tech scavenger hunt across town.
Clarksdale
Why You Should Stop: If you love music, you have to stop in Clarksdale. This is the birthplace of the blues, and the town still hums with its influence. Dive bars, juke joints, and blues clubs keep the music alive every night of the week. Oh, and Morgan Freeman owns a blues club here.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: Book a night at Ground Zero Blues Club, where you can listen to live, authentic Delta blues deep into the night.
Coastal Mississippi
Why You Should Stop: The Gulf Coast is a different kind of Mississippi—beachy, artsy, and full of fresh seafood. You’ll find charming waterfront towns, casinos, and thriving art communities in places like Ocean Springs and Bay St. Louis.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: Visit the Walter Anderson Museum in Ocean Springs to see the incredible work of the Gulf Coast’s most fascinating artist.
Canton
Why You Should Stop: This charming town is best known for its role in Hollywood films like My Dog Skip and O Brother, Where Art Thou?, but it’s also home to one of the South’s best flea markets.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: Plan your visit around the Canton Flea Market, a massive shopping event held twice a year in the historic square.
Ridgeland
Why You Should Stop: Outdoor lovers, this is your spot. Located on the banks of the Barnett Reservoir and along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, Ridgeland is all about getting outside, whether it’s biking, kayaking, or just enjoying the natural beauty.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: Rent a bike and cruise the Natchez Trace trails, one of the most scenic biking routes in the South.
Vicksburg
Why You Should Stop: This river city is steeped in history, particularly Civil War history. But beyond the battlefields, you’ll find riverboat casinos, historic hotels, and amazing Southern cuisine.
The One Thing You Can’t Miss: Visit the USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum, where you can walk the deck of an ironclad gunboat from the Civil War.
From the Delta to the Gulf, Mississippi is full of surprises. Whether you’re here for the music, the food, the history, or just the thrill of the open road, this road trip will show you the best of the Magnolia State. So pack your bags, cue up some blues on the playlist, and hit the road—Mississippi is waiting.