Mississippi Holidays

This region of America's Deep South has grand mansions and vast swathes of farmland which – in some ways – feels completely untouched by time. While much of Mississippi is made up of hills, plains, prairies and pine woods, the state's eponymous river has several towns and cities on its banks. Natchez tends to be the most popular place to visit on a Mississippi holiday, as the city has more than 600 antebellum homes – each one as grand as the last. Visit in spring or autumn for the chance to peek inside these huge ex-plantation mansions.

While Natchez offers a history lesson on Mississippi's antebellum era, Vicksburg is all about the Civil War which brought it to an end. It was here in July 1863 that the Confederation Army surrendered, which ultimately put the North in control of America's mightiest waterway. Work your way along the state-wide Mississippi Freedom Trail, or visit Jackson’s Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum – two interconnected museums where Mississippians tell their own stories through eye-popping artefacts, photos, videos and interactive exhibits.

Fancy some downtime during your trip? Make tracks for the sugar-white sands and sparkling waters of the Gulf Coast, where you can relax and unwind.

Often called the “Birthplace of America's music”, Mississippi offers music fans all sorts of exciting things to see and do. Some of the world’s most renowned blues musicians hail from the Magnolia State – including Sam Cooke and B. B. King – and their legacy can still be felt in the vibrant music scene that still exist today. Check out the BB King Museum and Delta Interpretive Centre – a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the life and music of its namesake, as well as the land that inspired his sound.

You can look forward to all sorts of live performances in Mississippi’s music bars. But, if you want to learn about the heritage of the blues, spend some time exploring the world-famous Mississippi Blues Trail. This dazzling trail through the roots of popular music takes you to a number of key birthplaces and gravesites, plus childhood homes and venues which launched the careers of some major blues stars. 

And remember to find your way to the Elvis Presley Birthplace in Tupelo. Once you step inside the actual birthplace of 'The King', you’ll fully understand his background in a tiny house in a small, rural town. A statue commemorating his 1956 Homecoming concert stands in Tupelo's Fairpark District. Plus, you can go on a driving tour which highlights 11 significant places in Elvis' childhood.

Climb aboard an iconic steamboat and discover a slice of American history on a Mississippi River cruise. Offering a unique on-the-water perspective, these journeys are ideal for nature- and history-lovers alike. As the second-longest river in North America, the Mississippi divides several states – so get ready to enjoy a fascinating journey through both the past and present.  

You can sail aboard a luxurious paddle-wheeler or steamboat, each of which boast beautiful staterooms and suites, top-notch restaurants, and spacious decks for watching the river sights go by. While onboard, you can play cards and sip cocktails like a 1900s maverick. Or step onto the Mississippi’s banks to explore farmlands and elegant mansions. This journey through the heart of the USA is a truly unique experience, and a must-do during your Mississippi holiday.

Prefer to stay on dry land? The RiverPark and Museum in Tunica tells the story of the Mississippi River. A pathway winds nearly two miles through a wetland forest and, from the observation deck, you can look out over the mighty river and marvel at its size, power and romantic appeal.

Mississippi holidays are best enjoyed during spring, when the warm weather gives you the perfect opportunity to admire the state’s famous magnolia trees in bloom. Temperatures hover between 22°C and 25°C in March and April, so you can explore both the cities and the countryside in comfort.

Although Mississippi summers are hot and humid, this is also a great time to enjoy open-air festivals and concerts, while the beaches are ideal for sunbathing, swimming and watersports.

Summer temperatures tend to remain in the low-thirties, but it can get even hotter, particularly during July and August. Autumn, meanwhile, offers the perfect blend of warm and chilly, with temperatures ranging between 16°C and 25°C – so you can roll down those windows and enjoy a scenic drive through the fiery fall foliage.