Mississippi Top 10 Attractions

Once you get to the Vicksburg National Military Park, the first thing that you need to do is to drop by the visitor center to plan out your entire day's visit. Watch a 20 minute orientation to learn more about the park's history then check out a fascinating outdoor exhibit that includes a Cannon Display, the Fortification Exhibit as well as Historic Monuments. After your visit you will have a greater appreciation for American History and for all the brave souls who fought during the civil war.

Located in Jackson, this 73,000-square foot complex introduces you to a world of exciting exhibits, nature trails and an open-air amphitheater. Here you will enjoy a series of life-size displays like the Monsters of the Deep exhibit as well as a 1,700-square foot gigantic greenhouse aptly called The Swamp. Children will enjoy their interactive aquarium where they can handle live marine creatures and learn more about how to conserve the environment.

You can take a ride through time at the Natchez Trace Parkway. The iconic 444-mile national parkway winds through the original Natchez Trace trail, which was first walked by prehistoric migrating animals. The two-lane road rolls through some of the most scenic parts of the southeastern U.S. You’ll roll through protected areas of Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi en route to some beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails. Natchez Trace is also home to many historic sites including the Meriwether Lewis Museum and Mount Locust. Today the parkway is one of the top attractions in Mississippi where you can explore challenging trails, go biking, horseback riding and even camping for an overnight stay or two.

Looking to soak up the sun? Look no further than the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It’s home to 62 miles of picture perfect shores and sandy beaches. While kicking back on the beach is the preferred method, there are many ways to experience the area. You can cure your wanderlust with an island excursion to West Ship Island. It’s renowned for being a go to spot to enjoy the Gulf Coast’s warm waters. Or you can try your hand at paddle boarding, kayaking, or canoeing. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is also known for having top-level restaurant and shopping experiences.

The Jackson Zoo is currently home to 776 animals from 120 different species. Take your children here so they can get up close and personal with their favorite exotic animals. Get on the replica steam train, which can take you around the park to observe the animals in their natural habitats. Let your kids join the Zoo Camp where they will learn more about the animals and what they can do to help conserve them.

This water park is one of the things that you definitely should not miss during your trip to Mississippi. Check out the Master Blaster which is the Gulf Coast's first and only water roller coaster. It will take you through an extremely thrilling 500 feet slide filled with breathtaking twists and turns. The Cat Island Catapult and the Lil Pelican's Bay are great for younger kids where they can splash around and play with fun water cannons.

If you have always been fascinated by the life of the musical genius Elvis Presley, then this is one place that you should not dare miss. The tour will take you through the "Walk Of Life" which is a concrete circle surrounding the house where the King was born. You will then visit the Elvis Presley Museum where you can observe some of the personal collections of Elvis's longtime friend Janelle McComb. End your tour at the Gift Shop where you can bring home with you some unique souvenirs from the tour.

The historic battle of Tupelo happened in 1864 when Union Forces marched into Tupelo and fought fiercely with the Disorganized Confederate soldiers. Today the park is home to a monument that includes two informational panels explaining the significance of the battle. If you have always been fascinated by American history, then this park should be on your must-visit list.

Discover an exciting and enchanting world under the sea as you visit the Marine Life Oceanarium at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies. Here, you will get to enjoy a hands-on learning experience and interact with unique sea creatures at the Discovery Room's touch pools. Enjoy watching different types of dolphins at the Dolphin Presentation and sign in for a one-of-a-kind Dolphin Encounter.

You can see a modern show in a historic setting at the Riley Center. Also known as the Grand Opera House, the Riley Center is a performing arts center located in a fully restored grand opera theater house. The theater originally opened in 1890. Today, it’s a 30,000 square foot facility with an exhibit hall, boardrooms, conference center, and meeting place. You can enjoy a show in either their expansive 950-seat opera house theater or the more intimate 200-seat studio theater. The Riley Center features legendary Romanesque and Victorian architecture and is renowned as one of the best places to see a show in the southeast.