It is almost redundant to talk about attractions and Mississippi in the same sentence, since this North American state is certainly one of the richest and most diverse places to enjoy a trip.
Whether in transit or as a main destination, the Mississippi does not disappoint those who prepare their bags and energies to invest in a quality trip that provides unforgettable moments.
Several tourist profiles will satisfy you here, you like to visit a good museum? the Mississippi National Museum of Natural Science will be a full dish; how about making the pilgrimage to the tomb of a blues legend? It is in Mississippi that the talented John Hurt rests in peace!
How about making some more relaxed stops too? Visit the birthplace of one of the most famous muppets in history: Kermit the Frog! There is still time to take a walk in the Petrified Forest.
Can you imagine how great this place is? Our team has prepared a set of tips and super valuable information so you don't miss an ounce of excitement when visiting this unique state.
Attention to detail: traveling to Mississippi
As you already know, our motto here is always to plan a good travel itinerary. The best of places may not reveal all its most intense beauties if we do not take precautions. It's worth having an idea of the laws involved in the whole process.
Thinking about the main attractions is always a very tasty and necessary task, but it is the details that end up weighing in the end. Taking the accommodations into consideration, as well as the transport that will be used is indispensable!
Before we talk directly about the places to visit, it is worth keeping in touch with some facts and curiosities about the state of Mississippi that will help you get even more immersed in the journey.
History and curiosities
It is in the Palaeozoic period that the American continental mass begins to form, where Mississippi will emerge.
The Mississippi is a state in the far south of the United States, in a region marked by the grandeur of the Mississippi River. This river has a great presence in the American culture, being one of the largest rivers in the country.
This state is also associated with the dams, as the flooding caused by the Mississippi and Yazoo rivers make it necessary to protect against flood waters.
Next, check out some of the historical curiosities of this territory:
1. The state's name is derived from the Mississippi River. The native word, of Ojibe origin, for the river is messipi, which means "great river";
2. Jackson, the state capital, bears this name in honor of General Andrew Jackson, who won the famous Battle of New Orleans in January 1815;
3. The root beer was invented in Biloxi, in 1898, by Adolfo Barq. This drink gained so much space and affection from the public that it was bought by coca cola;
4. By 2011, it is reported that about 63 percent of the entire Mississippi territory is covered by forests, which translates into over 8 million hectares;
5. The thirteenth amendment, responsible for the abolition of slavery in 1865, was not ratified by Mississippi until 2013;
6. The state has an intense catfish breeding activity, with thousands of hectares of lakes.
What to visit in Mississippi
Okay, now that we have learned a little about the history and curious facts related to the state, it is time to think about the main attractions. As you can imagine, just one trip is not enough to contemplate everything.
In this way, it is necessary to choose with affection each one of the places that will be visited in the space of time, generally short, of the tour. Even so, do not be afraid to consider as many places as you like.
After all, you have to build up expectation for the next trips to Mississippi. Each attraction exerts a special magic on us, which needs to be felt, so always plan other visits!
Let's start with places that will sharpen your sense of adventure and stimulate your curiosity.
1. muppet museum
To start with a relaxed and perfect destination to take children, we have the museum as a tribute to one of the most famous characters in history: Kermit the Frog!
Located in Leland, the museum was built to help preserve the memory of Jim Henson, the creator of the Muppets, who lived his childhood in the small Mississippi town. Legend has it that Jim was inspired by the nature of the place to create his popular toad.
Here you can take super cool pictures by hugging a giant replica of Kermit, and buy something interesting at the gift shop
If you are interested in visiting and signing the attendance book, remember that the museum opens Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4pm. The entrance is made by donation
2. Fort Massachusetts
This military building was erected during the 1812 War between the United States and England and today serves as a tourist spot for lovers of history. If you like to feel the thrill of being in a historic location this is the right place.
Fort Massachusetts is in Gulfport, and because it is on an island, its visitors are transported to it by ferry. The transport is done twice in the morning and twice at night. You won't regret taking plenty of sunscreen!
3. Automotive Museum
Attention for the mandatory stop for all motoring lovers in Tupelo, Mississippi. The Tupelo Museum houses an enviable collection of vintage cars.
You then ask yourself, "But how old?" Well, he's got an 1886 Mercedes Benz! Even a Lincoln that belonged to Elvis Presley himself can be appreciated in the hall of this incredible museum.
Really, if you've traveled to Mississippi thinking about visiting a collection of cars valued at over $6 million, you already know where to go, don't you?
4. Government Capitol
Contemplating the architectural beauty of the State Capitol is certainly a very rich program. In this visit we can not miss the beauty of the building, whose construction dates from 1903.
Giving Jackson that leap is also an excellent way to delve deeper into the history of the state, as you pass through the Governors' Corridor, where the portraits of various Mississippi leaders are displayed.
There is also a replica of the Liberty Bell and a monument to the women who fought in the Civil War. The tour of the capitol facilities is offered on weekends.
Pleasing the palate in Mississippi
Of course, we wouldn't finish our recommendations without talking about the goodies waiting for the Mississippi. Next, we'll cite just a few of the best delicacies the state offers.
1. Mud Pie
Vicksburg is the home of a sweet dish that will make you think seriously about the dangers of being a chocolate lover. The pie made by Rowdy's Family Restaurant is a real masterpiece for confectioners.
Mud Pie has three layers: the first works as the base of the pie, is crispy and made with pieces of cookie; the third is the frosting made with fluoride-free chocolate cake; the second is the chocolate pudding filling.
To top it off, the piece of pie is accompanied by a syrup with marshmallow and, guess what, more chocolate!
2. Soul Food
One of Mississippi's trademarks is soul food. This is an option for those who want to taste its expertise in handling heavier dishes. Soul food is extremely tasty.
The main attractions of the dish are the catfish, okra and fried chicken and corn flour. This meal delight originated in the time of slavery and lasts until the present day, having suffered several modifications.
If the fried chicken has awakened the American in you, just stop by Cajun's Fabulous Fried Chicken in Gulfport to enjoy a complete buffet with this delicacy. Now, if the idea is really to taste quality soul food, visit the Ajax Diner, near the University of Mississippi.
3. Blue Crab
If you've ever been to TexasI'm sure you've seen the importance of bacon in cooking. Now, in Mississippi, bacon is the blue crab! If you come across this delight, don't hesitate to ask for a good portion.
Especially if you want to try fried or sautéed crab claws in garlic and butter, which are a delicacy common throughout the state.
We look forward to hearing about your trip, share a comment with your expectations, doubts and fears to plan this wonderful adventure! Check out our posts to discover even more places to travel by car.
