Weekend Getaway in Mississippi

Visit Canton for a taste of the state's best festivals. Come in July for the Mississippi Championship Hot Air Balloon Race, or in December to experience the Christmas Festival. Art enthusiasts can't miss coming in May or October to enjoy the Canton Flea Market Arts & Crafts show. Explore the Canton Multicultural Center and Museum for a look into the city's history.

The capital of Mississippi, Jackson is another great choice for a getaway with its diverse range of attractions. It features the Jackson Zoo, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, and the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. Take in a performance by the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, or get outdoors on the trails in LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. For a little adult fun, take a tour of the Cathead Distillery, Mississippi's oldest producer of fine liquor.

Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, Natchez is famous as a quaint destination alive with history. Head to the Natchez National Historical Park for its historic buildings and beautiful gardens. A visit to the Grand Village of the Natchez is centered on three ceremonial mounds constructed by the native people that give the city its name. Spectacular views of the area await on the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Hattiesburg abounds with plenty of options for fun and leisure. Stroll through the Hattiesburg Zoo for a close encounter with exotic animals, or kick back with your favorite beer on the patio of Southern Prohibition Brewing. Get wet and wild at Pep’s Point Water Park, or educate yourself on local history at numerous museums like the African American Military History Museum.

If soaking up some sun is the main goal for your vacation, Gulfport delivers. This city on the Gulf of Mexico is popular for its Ship Island and long beaches. Wander leisurely around Jones Park with its waterfront promenade, or take a boat ride out into open water to experience dolphins leaping in and out of the water. If you're traveling with kids, don’t miss the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center with its interactive science displays.

The Mississippi River has a wealth of endless kayaking and canoeing opportunities, with many accessible launch points. Put your paddling abilities to test in the river’s uppermost stretches. For beginners, there's guided canoeing tours to help you discover aquatic wildlife and the intriguing human history along the river. Popular kayaking spots include the Chunky River, Black Creek, Leaf River, and Bear Creek.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is home to a wide variety of birds. If birding is your thing, there's few better places to visit. If you’re here in the spring or fall, you'll spot species such as the Mississippi kite, surf scoter, and brown pelicans migrating through the vibrant coastal environment. Top birding spots include the Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Mississippi has some hidden gems in its bike trails, with plenty for avid cyclists to explore. Grab your bike and pedal down the Columbus Riverwalk, and enjoy views of the fields and river as you meander through the hardwoods. This course is well-lit, smooth, and wide. Or head to the Longleaf Trace and power down its well-maintained surfaces. Pedestrians and inline skaters also ply this route between Hattiesburg and Prentiss.

Whether you're into freshwater or saltwater fishing, Mississippi has something for the avid angler. Go on a guided tour for the best fishing spots around local wrecks and reefs. Spend a day going for some red snapper, cobia, or amberjack. For flounder, speckled trout, and redfish, stick to fishing along the marshes.