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.
2023 Michigan 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 2023 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.
• 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.