MAIN Travel USA Mississippi

Throughout its history it was claimed at various points (and often simultaneously) by the French, Spanish and British. Long before that, Indian tribes claimed Mississippi as their own.

Fun Fact: According to Native American folklore the name derives from the Chippewa Indian words "mici zibi" meaning "great river."

Today, Mississippi offers visitors a host of historical landmarks, scenic tours, as well as Gulf shore attractions throughout the travel season.

Mississippi is a treasure trove of Civil War memorabilia starting with the Vicksburg Civil War Museum.

Missississippi Gulf Coast beaches and gambling casinos that line the shore are as popular as ever -- even after its recovery from Hurricane Katrina, one of the costliest storms in American history.

Meanwhile, history is also alive and well at Civil War battle memorials in Vicksburg and Tupelo (also famous for the Elvis Presley birthplace).

A step further back in time can be had with scenic drives along the Natchez Trace Parkway -- including stops at Chickasaw Village in Tupelo, part of a complete itinerary of ancient Indian mounds stretching from north to south along the historic 300-mile trail.

The state's No. 1 kid-friendly attraction: Geyser Falls Water Theme Park in Choctaw County.

Kid-friendly Mississippi

For top family-friendly attractions, the center of the state holds the state's No. 1 summer destination, Geyser Falls Water Theme Park in Choctaw County featuring spectacular water rides, live entertainment, and special events throughout the season.

Heading south to Jackson, year-round fun awaits at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science offering a half-dozen nature trails, aquarium exhibits, and hands-on interactive activities for kids of all ages.

While in Jackson, also don't miss a trip to the Jackson Zoo, one of the state's top-rated, for up-close views of more than 800 animals from around the world.

2024 Mississippi special events and festivals

Tupelo’s annual celebration of its favorite native son celebrates with live music, an Elvis tribute artist competition, and lots more.

Just up ahead, check out our 2024 Miississippi travel calender featuring memorable events and major festivals happening on the Gulf Coast and throughout the state with dates, locations and official links for more information.

Happy travels!

March 16, 2024 -- Grillin on the Green Biloxi - Come one, come all to the BBQ cookoff plus art & craft vendors, a kids' play area, and live entertainment all day.

April 19 - April 21, 2024 -- Crawfish Music Festival Biloxi - Live performances by big name country stars at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum along with plenty of crawfish and carnival rides.

May 10 - May 12, 2024 -- Gumtree Art and Wine Festival Tupelo - Enjoy Mother's Day weekend with a juried fine arts festival, live music, kids activities, as well as wine tastings and expert tips on wine pairing.

May 11, 2024 -- Mississippi Makers Fest Jackson - Head to the Entergy Plaza green to browse the work of local and regional artisans, along with live music performances, make-and-take activities, food trucks, and more.

May 17 - May 18, 2024 -- Pirate Day in the Bay Bay St. Louis - Don't miss the cardboard boat races along with pirate parades, costume contests, and the big fireworks spectacular.

also see -> This Christmas in Mississippi

Native son: Elvis Presley

DID YOU KNOW? Mississippi Travel Fun Facts

• Mississippi is the state that first gave us Coca Cola, Pine Sol cleaner, the soft toilet seat cover, and the Flexible Flyer sled.

• Famous people born in Mississippi include Elvis Presley, James Earl Jones, Oprah Winfrey, Faith Hill, B.B. King, Charlie Pride, and Brett Favre.

• The Rock & Blues Heritage Museum in Clarksdale spans decades of music history from the blues to R&B to rock 'n roll and soul.

• Vicksburg National Cemetery is the second largest cemetery in the nation after Arlington in Washington, DC. It is the final resting place of Conferderate soldiers who lost their lives during the Civil War, the most of any state.

More about Mississippi tourist attractions around the Web:

Visit Mississippi - Top attractions, news of recent reopenings, hotel, casino & restaurant listings, city guides, pictures, video gallery, Mississippi trivia.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast - The complete guide including family fun, casino attractions, fishing & boating, tours & excursions, museums & historic sites, beach information & weather reports.