best plantations to visit in natchez ms

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

This Is My South

A travel guide to the Southern USA

Visiting Natchez Historic Homes and Plantations

December 13, 2019 By Caroline Eubanks 7 Comments

Like so many towns along the Mississippi River, Natchez , Mississippi was home to lavish plantations and farms where cotton and other products could be shipped up or downstream to market. Cotton planters became millionaires but at the cost of the enslaved labor.

Some of these historic homes in the 300-year-old town are still standing and are open to tours. They’re a popular day trip for those traveling with the river cruises. Some homes are only open during the Natchez Pilgrimage , seasonal tours of homes, but others are open year-round.

During these pilgrimages, you can visit multiple homes for one price. Most can be seen by a group tour, which we’ve linked to, as well as independently by renting a car from the airport rental car  counters in Jackson .

A Note On Plantations:  These homes have a dark history that shouldn’t be ignored. Only you can decide whether this is something you’re interested in doing. Read  this post  for more perspectives on both sides of the debate.

This post contains affiliate links.

Auburn is an antebellum mansion built in 1812 by Levi Weeks, who had fled New York after being tried for murder, for Mississippi’s first attorney general. It is built in the Greek Revival style with porticos and columns as well as a stunning unsupported spiral staircase.

Book your tour of Auburn Museum & Historic Home .

Choctaw Hall

Choctaw Hall was built in the Federal and Greek Revival styles in 1836. It has dramatic double porches. Today it operates as a bed and breakfast and event venue. Tours are offered from Wednesday to Sunday at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm.

Book your tour of Choctaw Hall or spend the night at Choctaw Hall .

Lansdowne is an antebellum plantation set on over 700 acres and is still owned by descendants of the original family. It contains much of the original decor and furnishings and has never undergone a restoration. Tours are offered on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 3 pm. It also operates as a bed and breakfast and event venue.

Book your tour of Lansdowne .

Longwood is the most unique antebellum home in the country, built in a circular “Oriental-style” mansion. Built for a cotton planter, all work stopped during the Civil War and never continued. Tours of the home go through the basement, where the family lived, and the unfinished upstairs. It’s also open for seasonal ghost tours and was even featured in  True Blood .

Book your tour of Longwood Antebellum Mansion .

Magnolia Hall

Magnolia Hall was built in 1858 as a Greek Revival mansion, also known as the Henderson-Britton House. It was owned by Thomas Henderson, a wealthy cotton broker and merchant. A Union shell hit the kitchen during the Civil War. Tours are offered by the Natchez Garden Club and an upstairs exhibit features costumes.

Book your tour of Magnolia Hall .

Melrose was built in the Greek Revival design in the 1820s for lawyer John T. McMurran, who worked with Monmouth owner John Quitman. After the Civil War, he sold the home to Elizabeth and George Davis, a couple whose home, Choctaw, had been taken over by Union troops. It has furnishings from this time period. Tours are offered daily by the Natchez National Park Service .

Monmouth is a 26-acre estate with one of the oldest homes in Natchez, now serving as a restaurant and inn. It was built in 1818 and inhabited by John Quitman, who became a Mississippi Governor. The home offers its own tours and is a stop on the City Sightseeing tour. Restaurant 1818 has Southern favorites like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and collard greens. 

Book your tour of Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens or spend the night at Monmouth Historic Inn , a AAA Four Diamond property.

Rosalie Mansion

Rosalie Mansion overlooks the bluffs of the Mississippi River and was built in the 1700s. Named for the Countess of Pontchartrain, the home was owned by three families before being turned over to the Daughters of the American Revolution. It survived the Civil War by becoming a Union headquarters.

Book your tour of Rosalie Mansion .

Stanton Hall

Stanton Hall is a Classic Revival antebellum home that was built in the 1850s for an Irish cotton broker. It was built to resemble his home in Belfast, another name given to the home. It later became a women’s school and inspired the design for Disney’s Haunted Mansion . Today they operate tours as well as the Carriage House Restaurant, which has some of the best fried chicken around.

Book your tour of Stanton Hall or spend the night at Stanton Guest House .

Other Natchez Houses to Tour

In addition to the grand antebellum homes and plantations, Natchez also has other historic homes open for tours.

The House on Ellicott’s Hill was one of the first homes built in Natchez in 1797. Featuring Federal style elements, the house was purchased through a Spanish land grant. It is now open for tours, operated by the Natchez Garden Club. The 1951 film Show Boat was filmed at the home.

The William Johnson House was named for the freed slave that lived here, a barber. He owned slaves himself and his house and diary provide a picture of life in Natchez during that time.

See the city’s historic homes and attractions on the City Sightseeing Natchez Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour , an informative bus tour that makes twelve stops around town. Your pass is good all day, so take your time.

Where to Stay in Natchez, Mississippi

In addition to the historic homes offering both tours and accommodations, these Natchez mansions run their own bed and breakfasts.

Devereaux Shields House – Guests enjoy a full Southern hot breakfast and 24-hour coffee, sofa, and tea service at this Victorian bed and breakfast. Accommodation options include rooms in the main house and the adjoining cottage. 

Linden – A Historic Antebellum Bed and Breakfast – Located in a well-preserved antebellum mansion, the inn is set on seven acres. Built in 1785, residents include the United States senator Thomas Buck Reed.

The Burn Bed and Breakfast was built in 1834 and became an inn in 1978. Rooms and suites have private baths, cable television, wireless Internet, and access to the outdoor pool.

Brandon Hall Plantation was built in 1856 outside of Natchez. It went through a number of owners before becoming an inn and event venue. They also operate tours during the fall and spring pilgrimages.

About Caroline Eubanks

Caroline Eubanks is the editor of this website, a Lowell Thomas award-winning travel writer, and the author of This Is My South: The Essential Travel Guide to the Southern States. Her stories from the South have appeared in National Geographic Traveler, Afar, Thrillist, Roads and Kingdoms, and BBC Travel.

Reader Interactions

June 16, 2020 at 6:46 pm

Hi! We’re wondering if the historic Natchez homes and plantations are open now?

June 17, 2020 at 9:22 am

I don’t know. You’ll have to check with each website.

February 22, 2021 at 1:50 pm

Can you tour the homes without getting tickets through Natchez Pilgrimage? At NPT, you have to purchase separate tours for $20-$25 each. We only want to tour 3-4 and I was hoping for a ticket/pass that allows multiple home tours for one price.

March 24, 2021 at 1:41 pm

We usually purchase tickets at the Natchez Visitor Center when we get there. They usually have a package deal for 3 houses.

April 12, 2021 at 10:35 pm

I am assuming that Washington and Ellen Ford’s plantation was located in Natchez. Is the house still standing?

February 6, 2022 at 5:57 pm

Caroline – I’m researching my husband’s (Eubanks) family tree – they were enslaved in Jackson MS area. Any relation, possibly?

February 7, 2022 at 3:20 pm

Hi Jeannine, I’m not sure but would love to know! I think most of my family is based in GA and SC.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Lodging Need a place to stay in Natchez, MS? ...click here
• Natchez Trace in Mississippi |
• Lorman - Natchez area |
• Natchez, MS

Natchez, Mississippi Antebellum Tour Homes

Year-round there are several Natchez homes open for public tours.

During March thru early April over 20 additional private homes are on tour during the Natchez Spring Pilgrimage of Antebellum Homes . A Fall Pilgrimage is held in late September thru early October.

Click any photo to view larger photos.

Built 1842-1848 - 1 Melrose - Montebello Parkway. Melrose is operated by the National Park Service as part of the Natchez National Historical Park. Open daily: 10 am. to 4 p.m.

Photo Credit: Downtown Karla Brown

Magnolia Hall

Built 1858 - 215 S. Pearl Street. The last great mansion built in downtown Natchez prior to the Civil War. Open Thursday - Sunday every hour 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Stanton Hall

Built 1857 - 401 High Street. Open daily: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Carriage House Restaurant on the grounds of Stanton Hall is open Wednesday through Monday for lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

• William Johnson House

Built 1840 - 210 State Street. Mr. Johnson became a free black man at the age of 11. He kept a detailed diary of life in Natchez from 1836 to 1851. Open Daily: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Photo Credit: Visit Natchez

more about William Johnson House

Rosalie Mansion

Built 1820 - 1822 - 100 Orleans Street. Overlooking the Mississippi River near the location where the Frenchman Bienville erected Fort Rosalie in 1716. Open daily: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Built 1860 - 140 Lower Woodville Road. Outbreak of the Civil War stopped construction of this octagon shaped home. Open daily: 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

more about Longwood

Monmouth Plantation

Built 1818 - 36 Melrose Avenue. Built by Natchez Postmaster John Hankinson on 26 acres just outside of downtown Natchez. Open daily: 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

More Natchez Photo Galleries:

• Mississippi River
• Church Buildings
• Downtown Natchez
• Bed and Breakfasts

Natchez Trace Travel: Home  - Facebook  - Instagram  - Merchandise Back to Top

Mississippi

• Tishomingo - Belmont area
• Tupelo area
• Houston area
• French Camp area
• Kosciusko area
• Canton - Jackson area
• Jackson - Raymond area
• Vicksburg - Port Gibson area
• Parkway Scenery
• Top 30 Trace Sites:
• Mount Locust
• Emerald Mound
• Near the Trace:
• Canemount Plantation Inn B&B
• Brandon Hall Plantation B&B
• Choctaw Hall B&B
• Devereaux Shields House B&B
• La Perl B&B
• Linden B&B
• River Edge Suites
• The Burn B&B
• The Guest House Inn
• Silver Street Gallery and Gifts
• The Old Country Store Restaurant
• Natchez Historic Photographs
• Natchez Tour Homes
• Natchez Bluff Trail
• Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture
• Natchez Pilgrimage Tours
• Natchez City Cemetery
• Natchez National Cemetery
• Natchez Visitor Center
• Downtown Karla Brown Tours
• Natchez Restaurants
• Natchez Lodging
• Festivals and Events
• Map with Points of Interest
• Access / Exit Roads - Food & Gas
• Loop Routes
• Mississippi Lodging
• Tishomingo, MS Lodging
• Belmont, MS Lodging
• Baldwyn, MS Lodging
• Tupelo, MS area Lodging
• Belden, MS Lodging
• Houston, MS Lodging
• French Camp, MS Lodging
• Kosciusko, MS Lodging
• Carthage, MS Lodging
• Jackson, MS Lodging
• Raymond, MS Lodging
• Port Gibson, MS Lodging
• Lorman, MS Lodging
• Natchez, MS Lodging
• Tanglefoot Trail®
• Tishomingo County, MS Lodging

Ask a Question about the Natchez Trace Parkway

• Ask a Question

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Mississippi

17 Best Things To Do In Natchez, Mississippi

Known for its antebellum homes and haunted history, this Mississippi River city has another side to reveal.

Valerie Fraser Luesse has been affiliated with Southern Living and its parent company since 1988. She has written some 30 Southern Journal essays for the magazine and extensively covered the unique cultural pockets of the South, including Acadian Louisiana, the Mississippi Delta, South Florida, and the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She released her fourth Southern novel with Revell in 2021.

After a notable obsession with yellow houses, historic homes, and glossy magazines as a child that lead to a degree in American Studies from Sewanee: University of the South followed by a jaunt through the Washington, DC art world, Zoë found her way as the Senior Home and Garden Editor with Southern Living. There she crisscrossed the region to produce inspiring interiors, entertaining, and holiday stories while also overseeing the Idea House franchise. After seeing more porches and Christmas trees than any other reasonable person can claim, she ventured out to pave new roads freelancing for various magazines and helping people bring magazine tearsheets to life inside private homes via interior decorating.

Explore Natchez Under-The-Hill

Taste your way through downtown, take a historic tour, choose a charming stay.

In Natchez, Mississippi, even the surrounding landscape beckons you toward a storied past. Roads cut canyons through red-dirt forests that eventually arrive at the city's famous bluffs. All along the way, oak limbs are spread wide. Welcome to the oldest town along the Mississippi River.

Today, Natchez is filled with surprises, thanks in large part to a cohort of young natives who wandered away and then returned home with new ideas. Revived efforts to highlight the area's African-American history, along with a rejuvenation of the downtown scene that includes a bevy of brand-new businesses, have brought the city into a new era. It's one of our favorite Mississippi towns to visit. Here's our list of things to do on your trip to Natchez.

Stroll The Riverside

Any tour of Natchez ought to begin where the city itself did—on the riverside strip of land known, suitably, as Natchez Under-the-Hill. The very first French colonists landed here before the town was established in 1716. In the past, the neighborhood was bustling—and occasionally raucous, full of fishermen and grocers working next to bordellos and bars. Today, stroll along the riverside and take in the views of the Mississippi River and the bridge connecting Natchez and Louisiana. Follow the Natchez Bluff Trail to find a spot to sit and watch the sunset.

Shop At The Silver Street Gallery & Gifts

Only one row of brick buildings has survived the river's floods, but they offer modern comforts behind a rustic veneer. Silver Street Gallery & Gifts is a bright and airy storefront with an eclectic collection of women's clothing, gifts, and river-themed trinkets.

silverstgifts.com , 27 Silver Street, Natchez, MS 39120

Watch Riverboats At The Camp Restaurant

The outdoor bar at The Camp Restaurant is a favorite spot for munching on burgers and sipping local and regional microbrews while the sun sets over the water. Head to this local gathering place to watch sports or see riverboats cruise by.

thecamprestaurant.com , 21 Silver Street, Natchez, MS 39120

Drink At Historic Under The Hill Saloon

For full frontier flavor, there is nowhere better than the Under the Hill Saloon , which purports to be the oldest tavern on the river. Dark wood and dusty brick walls, cluttered with centuries of river paraphernalia, will help you get into a suitably Huck Finn mood.

facebook.com/people/Under-The-Hill-Saloon/100057211160218 , 25 Silver Street, Natchez, MS 39120

Sip Craft Coffee

Stand on a downtown sidewalk, and you'll see enough historic storefronts to overwhelm you. A stroll through the heart of Natchez reveals an architectural gold mine, where you'll spot everything from austere Greek columns to whimsically carved gables. The ideal fuel for ambling can be found at Steampunk Coffee Roasters . Named for its intricate brass espresso maker that serves custom-roasted coffee and Italian-style espresso, this spot is a surprising treat in a town of about 14,000.

Owner Wilmer "Dub" Rogers, who had become accustomed to starting his day with espresso when he worked in Italy, started Steampunk in a late-1800s brick building to satiate his need for craft caffeine in town. You can get more than a caffeine fix there; the coffee house also offers chocolate, tea, and cigars.

steampunkcoffeeroasters.com , 706 Franklin Street, Natchez, MS 39120

See What's On Tap At Natchez Brewing Company

For daytime drinking, choose from excellent sour beers and other microbrews on tap at the family-friendly Natchez Brewing Company . Enjoy live music while sipping the day's features, and don't leave without trying the brick-oven pizza or one of the monthly food specials, like the Applewood Smoked Kielbasa with sweet slaw.

natchezbrew.com/home.html , 207 High Street, Natchez, MS 39120

Tap Your Toes At Smoot's Grocery

One of the latest additions to the town's burgeoning nightlife is Smoot's Grocery , which was previously a grocery store and also an "unofficial juke joint," according to manager Matt Willis. Now this tin-sided shotgun shack has been updated and lined with salvaged wood. The taps flow freely, pool balls knock, and the dance floor echoes with live roots music (from zydeco to Texas blues) late into the night.

smootsnatchez.com , 319 North Broadway Street, Natchez, MS 39120

Try Uniquely Local Fare At The Donut Shop

When it's time to refuel,  The Donut Shop  is the only place in town to enjoy a uniquely local combo: fried pastries and Mississippi-style hot tamales. Order a dozen homemade donuts to enjoy on the patio.

facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063503743228 , 501 John R. Junkin Drive, Natchez, MS 39120

Soak Up The Scenery At Bluff Park

At the edge of downtown, take in views of the Mississippi River from Bluff Park. Order a takeout dinner or dessert from Slick Rick's Cafe to enjoy on the lawn, and stay for a memorable sunset. Follow the path along the river, or relax in the shade of the gazebo. The bluff is a great spot for viewing hot-air balloons taking flight at the Natchez Balloon Festival every fall.

visitnatchez.org/listing/bluff-park , 101 South Broadway, Natchez, MS, 39120

slickricksfoods.com , 109 North Pearl Street, Natchez, MS 39120

Appreciate The Architecture At Longwood

Natchez offers endless home tours, three of which are essential. The largest octagonal home in the United States, Longwood spans six stories and 30,000 square feet and is topped with a stately dome. But it's still unfinished. Construction, which began in 1860, was cut short by the Civil War the following year. Seeing its grand interior unvarnished only underscores the original owner's ambitions for this palatial home. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Historic Landmark.

140 Lower Woodville Road, Natchez, MS 39120

See The 19th-Century Melrose Mansion

The National Park Service (NPS) offers detailed tours of the historic properties it manages. Melrose , a mid-19th-century townhouse, was passed on to each new owner with all of its original furnishings, making it an incredibly intact reflection of the past. The mansion was a former plantation, and visitors can learn about the role of the enslaved people there and view their quarters, as well as the carriage house, stable, and formal garden.

nps.gov/places/melrose.htm , 1 Melrose Montebello Parkway, Natchez, MS 39120

Roam Rosalie Mansion

Built in 1823, Rosalie Mansion also displays original artifacts. Tour the Federal-style town house and grounds, built on the site of the original Fort Rosalie, established by the French in 1716.

rosaliemansion.com , 100 Orleans Street, Natchez, MS 39120

Smell The Flowers At Monmouth

Get your steps in at the 26 acres of Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens , a charming Southern setting that calls for a mint julep from the on-site bar Quitman Lounge & Study. Afterward, head for Restaurant 1818, where a white-tablecloth dinner is served in the mansion's old parlors.

monmouthhistoricinn.com , 1358 John A Quitman Boulevard, Natchez, MS 39120

Step Inside Historic Homes During Spring Pilgrimage

Every spring, some of the area’s grand homes and bed and breakfasts open their doors for exclusive tours during the Natchez Spring Pilgrimage . The public can tour more than 35 historic homes in the area, see many examples of architecture and furnishings, enjoy culinary and musical events, and stroll through gardens in bloom. Natchez Pilgrimage Tours will help you plan your tour experience, or purchase tickets at each individual house.

Book A Victorian Room At Devereaux Shields House

It's hard to go wrong with the many antebellum homes that double as bed-and-breakfasts. Choose from nine Victorian rooms and suites at the classic Devereaux Shields House , and be sure to spend ample time in the sunny courtyard and gardens.

dshieldsusa.com , 709 North Union Street, Natchez, MS 39120

Escape To Luxury At Magnolia Cottage

You'll find more relaxed luxury at the circa 1831 Magnolia Cottage , which is known for its delicious Southern breakfast and proximity to downtown attractions. The Greek Revival Home features a large front porch and private dining for candlelight dinners.

magnoliacottagebandb.com , 35 Homochitto Street, Natchez, MS 39120

Stay On A Budget At Hotel Vue

If you'd like a modern twist on your Natchez visit, Hotel Vue is a solid choice for budget travelers, with rooms starting at $72. As the name implies, the real treat is the setting: The hotel stands on a bluff with a sight line extending out into Louisiana.

choicehotels.com/mississippi/natchez/ascend-hotels/ms365 , 130 John R. Junkin Drive, Natchez, MS 39120

Related Articles

Roadrunner Journeys

Travel Blog featuring historical travel locations

• About Charlene Scott
• Charlene Scott
• Presidential Libraries
• Presidential Historic Sites
• Alabama County Courthouses
• Work with Me!
• Picture Gallery

Exploring the Antebellum Homes of Natchez, Mississippi

Founded in 1716, Natchez is one of the oldest settlements in the South. It is known for its magnificent antebellum homes. In the 1800s, Natchez was home to the largest number of millionaires in the U.S.  Natchez became a center of culture and wealth for the east coast elite. Rich in history and southern hospitality, Natchez has a lot to offer travelers.

Pilgrimage Tours

Twice yearly, Natchez hosts pilgrimage tours of the town’s antebellum homes.  It is the primary fundraiser for the garden clubs that maintain several of the homes.  The Pilgrimage Garden Club began in 1936 and maintains both Stanton Hall and Longwood.  The Natchez Garden club oversees Ellicott’s Hill and Magnolia Hall. The homes survived the Civil War because the Natchez surrendered to the North in 1862.

The quintessential antebellum home and the oldest in Natchez, Linden , was constructed in 1785.  Jane E. Conner purchased the house in 1849 for herself and her nine children.  Jeanette Feltus, the current owner, is a 6 th generation descendent of the Conner-Feltus family. 

Mrs. Feltus is a delight and provided me with an informative tour of the home. 

The top-rated B&B features six rooms.  Mrs. Feltus serves as a charming hostess for guests.  Linden is known for its front doorway because  It served as the inspiration for the front door at Tara in Gone With the Wind .  Mrs. Feltus, 88, explained the producers should have made the movie in Natchez since the town has many houses that survived the Civil War.  Mrs. Feltus was also proud of her sizable collection of 1800s era furnishings. These included a plate warmer, a punkah over the dining room table for circulation, and a fine collection of Audubon paintings.  

Linden hosts tours regularly, and it is well worth your time to experience this bygone era of gracious living.  You might get a few extra stories out of your host as well.

Stanton Hall

Frederick Stanton, a cotton planter, built Stanton Hall in the 1850s as a replica of his Belfast home.  Stanton Hall is an enormous and elegant home and was constructed on an entire city block in the heart of Natchez. Local artisans and craftsmen were primarily responsible for the construction of Stanton Hall.  Unfortunately, Frederick Stanton died only a few months after moving in. His widow, Hulda, lived in the home until 1893.  The house was listed as a National Historic Landmark in 1974. 

Lavishly decorated, the home features Carrara marble fireplaces from Italy, matching bronze chandeliers, and floor to ceiling mirrors from France.  Numerous furnishings are original to the Stanton family.

The home served as Mont Royal, the home of the Main family in the 1985 miniseries, North and South.

The rooms are massive, with 15-foot cypress doors and 17-foot ceilings.  The 72 foot long galleries run the length of the house.

After Hulda died in 1893 and the Stanton College for Young Ladies was housed at Stanton until 1901. The house saw several owners before it was purchased in 1938 by the Pilgrimage Garden Club.

Longwood is the star attraction in the antebellum homes in Natchez. As the only eight-sided home in the United States, Longwood was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.  Designed by architect, Samuel Sloan, the ‘Oriental Villa’ was built for cotton planter, Frederick Nutt. The unique octagon-shaped home was to have six stories and 32 rooms. 

Construction began in 1860, and in just 18 months, 200 on-site workmen and brick masons made and lay three-quarters of a million bricks to construct the home’s 25-inch wall structure. Three hundred thousand feet of cypress timber was used in the structure of the house. The millwork includes 122 capitals that decorate the exterior of the home. Sloan’s unique designs incorporated pocket shutters on the balconies. 

With the Civil War onset, construction was mostly halted, except for Nutt and some local craftsmen. The Nutt family lived in the original nine rooms that were completed.  The dining room table and punkah are massive.

Nutt died in 1864, and the home’s upper floors remain as it was at that time. Julia Nutt died in 1897, and the Nutt children remained in possession of the house until 1968.  The home was donated to the Pilgrimage Garden Club in 1970 by its last owner, a Texan by the name of Kelly McAdams.

The unfinished interior five stories house many artifacts from a bygone era.   

Capping the stunning home is a Moorish Byzantine dome with a 24-foot finial rising 100 feet above the ground.  The original finial fell around 1900 and is stored on the upper floors of the home.

Only have a short time in Natchez? This one of a kind home is not to be missed.

Guest House Inn

The Guest House’s original building was constructed in 1840 and has seen several iterations and owners until its renovation in 1902.  The building became a hotel in 1981, and the present owners have run the property as a B&B since 2017. 

The Guest House Inn’s location in downtown Natchez’s heart places it within walking distance to restaurants and events.  In the small, attached restaurant, Mr. Henry prepares and serves a delicious first-class southern breakfast.  The antiques that decorate the rooms and public rooms harken back to a more gentile time.  The inn is a comfortable and welcoming space for guests to Natchez.

The Camp located alongside the Mississippi River serves up a broad menu of burgers, tacos, and other tasty fare. Unique and delicious craft beer is also served, and outdoor seating is available.  It can be an active place on the weekends.   

Natchez Coffee Company

Natchez Coffee Company serves up much more than coffee. It is a go-to spot for locals. The menu is simple, yet the plates provide customers with generous portions of sandwiches, salads, and more.  Service is first class and quick.  Here you can drop in and eat or grab and go.  

Nearby history

The Ruins of Windsor are located near Port Gibson, Mississippi.  The 23 columns are all that remain of the largest 1860s mansion constructed in Mississippi.  The house burned in 1890.  This site has stood the test of time of a bygone era. The ruins were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. 

Natchez is more than antebellum homes

Natchez is not just about antebellum homes but it is about community. As you stroll the bluff high above the Mississippi River and wander through the shops and churches of downtown, you will be greeted warmly and find something old and new. Natchez hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, so you are never at a loss for something to explore.   My thanks to Visit Natchez for making everything possible.

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Related posts

History lessons at jefferson davis’ beauvoir in biloxi, mississippi, learning how to travel safely, 2020 travels of roadrunner journeys, 2019 travels with roadrunner journeys, leave a comment cancel reply.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address

Subscribe to the RRJ YouTube channel

Recent posts.

• Eight Midwest Presidential History Sites from Harrison to Eisenhower
• Finding History in Harrisburg and Chocolate Town, USA
• Following history in Happy Valley, Pennslyvania
• Tracing Lincoln’s steps through Civil War history in Gettysburg
• Sara on Rediscovering The University of Alabama and Tuscaloosa after forty years
• Sai Harshitha on Architecture, History, Waterfalls and Culinary adventures in North Alabama
• Anthony Wynn on Roadrunner Journeys in print!
• [email protected] on Rediscovering Mobile, Alabama, with the Visit Mobile Ambassador program
• Heather Miller on Rediscovering Mobile, Alabama, with the Visit Mobile Ambassador program
• Entries feed
• Comments feed
• WordPress.org

Powered by SiteGround

Search hotels and more...

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Twitter count

The 12 Best Things to Do in Natchez, Mississippi

As the Southern cotton economy expanded on the back of slave labor in the early 1800s, towns emerged to transport the cotton on the Mississippi River. New Orleans , Memphis, Vicksburg, and Natchez are the four most famous of these towns.

Located high on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, Natchez, Mississippi, was established by French colonists in 1716. The defensible strategic location ensured that it would become a pivotal center for trade.

In the middle of the 19th century, the city attracted Southern planters, who built mansions to show off their vast wealth from the cotton and sugarcane trade. Natchez was where planters came to escape the heat and isolation of the plantations. It was the Hamptons of the South, the place where the rich relaxed and socialized.

I never heard of Natchez until a few weeks before I visited. While in Nashville , I met some local guys at a bar. Fascinated by my road trip plans , they gave me all the information they could on their home state of Mississippi. I mentioned my desire to see antebellum homes.

“That’s Natchez. If you want antebellum homes, Natchez is the place to be,” they agreed.

So, I drove to Natchez, with its dozens of pre-Civil War antebellum homes. As a former history teacher who specialized in pre–Civil War America, I have a significant interest in this part of the country. I’m fascinated by the hypocrisy and duality of pre–Civil War Southern society.

On the one hand, it was genteel, polite, and formal. On the other, it was brutally racist. Southern egalitarian views of chivalry, equality, and honor extended only to a small segment of society and they found no hypocrisy in owning slaves, whom they brutalized to no end.

( Note : Reams of essays and books have delved into Southern culture. If you’re looking to learn more, check out Ken Burns’s The Civil War and The Fall of the House of Dixie: The Civil War and the Social Revolution That Transformed the South .)

Today, Natchez remains a beautiful city and many of the historic homes are still here. Secession sentiment never ran high here and the city quickly surrendered to the Union Army in 1862. Therefore, none of the destruction that took place in other cities occurred here.

These days, Natchez trades in tourism instead of cotton. Visitors to the historic homes, surrounding Natchez Traces , and gambling on the riverboats sustain the tiny town.

But the old homes are the biggest draw.

By today’s standards, they are average suburban homes. You wouldn’t stop and think “Wow, that is a mansion!” But for the period, these homes were an ornate testament to the planters’ great wealth, with high ceilings, intricate wallpaper designs, and multiple stories. They were filled with fine china, exotic carpets, and expensive furniture.

There are over 20 homes in Natchez. I didn’t get to see them all, as many are private residencies. But I saw a lot and the following are my favorite historic homes to visit in Natchez:  

Construction began in 1859, however, the owner died before most of the house was completed, leaving the entire upper floor unfinished. The Civil War stopped the rest of the construction (to this day, only a handful of the rooms are finished)

Today, it’s one of Natchez’s most popular homes and you’re able to tour the home and read about its history. Be sure to wander the grounds, too. They’re beautiful!

Open daily from 9am-3pm with tours every 30 minutes. Admission is $25 USD.  

Rosalie Mansion

The mansion was built for a wealthy cotton broker. In 1863, after the Battle of Vicksburg, General Grant commandeered the home to use as his headquarters. General Gresham, who commanded Union troops in the region after Grant, continued to use the mansion as his headquarters for the duration of the war. There are all kinds of historic artifacts and furniture inside from the 19th century too.

Today, the mansion is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is an official U.S. National Historic Landmark.

Open year-round with daily tours beginning at 9am. The last tour begins at 4pm and tours take around 45-60 minutes. Admission is $20 USD.  

Stanton Hall

In 1890, the estate became home to Stanton College for Young Ladies. In 1940, it began its transition to a historic home and museum and is one the U.S. National Register of Historic Places as well as the U.S. National Historic Landmark list and the list of Mississippi Landmarks.

Open daily. Tours begin at 9am and last 45-60 minutes. The last tour begins at 3pm. Admission is $25 USD.  

Melrose Mansion

In the 1970s, the mansion was used for elaborate parties and events before being turned into a museum and historic site. Like many of the antebellum homes here, it’s on both the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and the U.S. National Historic Landmark list. The house and grounds are now managed by the national park service.

The park is open daily, but the house is only open Wednesday-Sunday from 9am-4pm. Admission is $11 USD.  

Other Things to See and Do in Natchez

1. The Natchez Pilgrimage During the Natchez Pilgrimage in the spring, all of the private historical homes open up to the public. The costumed guides (some of which are descendants of the original owners) explain the history of the home, their family, and the region. It’s the city’s biggest annual event and there are some 20 homes on display.

2. Ghost Tours In a town with so much tumultuous history, including wars and oppressive slavery, it’s no wonder that there are all kinds of eerie and unsettling tales to be found in Natchez. If you’re a fan of the paranormal (or just want to do something unique), try taking a ghost tour. Natchez Ghost Tour offers ghost tours every night for $25 USD. You’ll hear all about Natchez’s haunting and spooky tales and get to see a side of the city most tourists miss.

3. Magnolia Bluffs Casino This casino is located on the Mississippi River in the town’s old mill. The mill opened in 1828 and operated until 1962, eventually being bought and turned into a casino. It’s small and a bit outdated, but they have plenty of slot machines and a few table games, and the views over the river are picturesque.

4. St. Mary’s Basilica This church was built in 1842 and took over forty years to complete. While the exterior is a little plain, the elaborate interior is beautiful, with colorful stained glass, statues, and a spacious vaulted ceiling. The original organ from 1882 is still in use as well. It’s on the National Register of Historic Places (the federal government’s official list of places deemed worthy of preservation).

5. The Emerald Mound This sacred hill just looks like a flat, grassy pentagon. However, it was once a well-appointed holy site. Constructed sometime between the 13th and 17th centuries, it was an elevated place of worship for the Plaquemine Native Americans. The mound itself covers eight acres. Ceremonial stone structures used to sit on top of the mound, which is 65 feet tall, though it is empty today. All kinds of animal bones have been found nearby, leading researchers to believe it was the site of religious or sacred activity. The mound is open to the public free of charge from 8am-5pm daily.

6. The King’s Tavern Visit the King’s Tavern, which was built in 1769 and is the oldest building in the city (and, according to legend, the most haunted). After the Revolutionary War, it was used as an inn and tavern, as well as where the town’s mail was delivered. Until the development of the steamboat, the tavern relied on both coach drivers and outlaws who stopped by in between trips. When the invention of the steamboat made travel in the region safer, business dwindled and it was eventually sold.

The restaurant is now closed, but you can still check out the building, and rumor has it that the new owners plan to offer mixology classes in the future.

7. Natchez Trace Parkway Enjoy the great outdoors by planning an adventure along this historic path in Natchez. The road has been used for centuries by Native Americans, settlers, and soldiers. It’s the perfect place to escape into nature during your trip and take in epic scenery like forests and waterfalls. The area is popular for biking, hiking, fishing, and camping. If you’re only in the area for a short time, make sure to at least save a few hours for a scenic drive.

8. Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture This museum opened in 1991 and highlights information about African American history in the Southern United States. The museum, managed by the Natchez Association for the Preservation of Afro-American Culture, seeks to showcase the cultural heritage and contributions of African Americans from the 1700s to the modern day.

Open Monday-Friday from 10am-4:30pm and Saturdays from 10am-2pm. Admission is free.

For a map of the area and suggested sites to include on your self-guided tour around town, check out this free tour from Visit Natchez .

Natchez is beautiful and elegant. I loved strolling around the streets, marveling at the beautiful homes, and sitting in the park as the sun set over the Mississippi. It was the highlight of my trip to the state.

One downside to the city is that it’s expensive. There are very few Airbnb options and private rooms cost at least $100 USD per night. For a budget hotel, you’re looking at at least $80 USD per night. (Of course, if you want to splurge you can also stay in some of the historic homes here, as many have been converted into B&Bs. But expect to spend at least $155-190 USD per night for those.)

But, while accommodation is expensive, food and drinks are relatively cheap so you can balance it all out.

Natchez may not be a budget travel destination, but if you are looking to learn about American history, see beautiful homes, and visit a destination off the beaten path for most travelers (visitors here tend to be from the surrounding region), visit Natchez. You won’t be disappointed.

Book Your Trip to Natchez: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

GET YOUR  FREE TRAVEL STARTER KIT

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

Tour Historic Homes of Natchez

Natchez is steeped in over 300 years of rich history. Nowhere is the city's history more evident than in its large array of antebellum homes. Prior to the Civil War, Natchez had more million­aires than any other city in the country. Building mansions became a competition producing stunning homes, many of which have been restored to their original state. Tour these magnifi­cent homes and hear the rich and unique stories each has to tell.

Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens

Choctaw Hall

Dr. John Bowman Banks Home

Elm's Court

House on Ellicott's Hill

Linden Antebellum Home

Magnolia Hall

Myrtle Terrace

Oak Hill Inn

Rosalie Mansion

Stanton Hall

Towers Mansion

12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Natchez, MS

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023

The little town of Natchez in southwestern Mississippi, founded in 1716, was once the most important port on the Mississippi River in the heyday of the cotton trade. As a result, the town has many beautiful and historically significant antebellum-era mansions and estates.

The pedestrian-friendly historic downtown core of Natchez is fun to explore on foot. It's here you'll find the town's best shopping experiences, as well as the best places to stay. It's also where you'll find places to eat, too, from casual home-cooking restaurants to cafés and fine-dining experiences.

At night, you can attend a live music event, often hosted in conjunction with a restaurant, or check out the roster of shows at Natchez Little Theatre, the state's oldest community theater. And for those on a fixed travel budget, you'll be pleased to learn that there are numerous free things to do in Natchez, from visiting its attractive old churches, to wandering its interesting old graveyards.

You can learn more about the best places to visit in Mississippi with our list of the top tourist attractions in Natchez.

Antebellum-Era Stanton Hall

Nutt's folly: longwood, the scenic natchez trace parkway, rosalie mansion: "our lady on the bluff", natchez city cemetery, auburn museum and historic home, natchez national historical park, emerald mound: "selsertown site", natchez museum of african american history and culture, historic jefferson college, port gibson, grand village of the natchez, natchez, ms - climate chart.

Stanton Hall, also known locally as Belfast House, is one of the largest and most lavish antebellum mansions in the US. It was built in 1857 in the style of his Irish ancestral home by cotton grower Frederick Stanton and, along with its beautiful grounds, covers an entire two-acre city block.

After a spell as a girls' school in the early 20th century, the building fell into a state of disrepair but was brought back by the Pilgrimage Garden Club who restored the property. Today, visitors can tour the finely restored interior of the house, which is filled with original and antique furnishings.

Guided tours of Stanton Hall are also available. Feeling peckish? Afterwards, why not enjoy a meal in its Carriage House Restaurant. Its Sunday brunches are a popular treat among locals and visitors alike.

And after visiting, you might in fact feel as if this beautiful building seems a little familiar. It certainly should for anyone who has ever visited Disneyland, whose famous Haunted Mansion was based on this classic antebellum home. Stanton Hall is itself supposed to be haunted.

Other fine antebellum homes in Natchez to consider visiting include Magnolia Hall (1858), the Towers of Natchez (1798), and Lansdowne Plantation (1853). They can be visited through organized Natchez Pilgrimage Tours. Some of these fine old homes also now provide a variety of interesting accommodation options, often with B&B-style stays serving sumptuous Southern breakfasts.

Address: 401 High Street, Natchez, Mississippi

Another majestic mansion to visit while in Natchez is Longwood. Also often referred to as "Nutt's Folly," this stunning red-brick house was constructed in 1858 and is notable for its large Byzantine-styled dome. The home was built by Dr. Haller Nutt and is thought to be one of the largest octagonal houses in the US.

Due to the advent of the Civil War in 1861, the interior was never completely finished. However, the first floor family area, consisting of nine of the planned-for 32 rooms, is furnished with family heirlooms.

The unfinished upper floors are said to be haunted by the ghost of Dr. Nutt himself, and can also be toured. They reveal the truly unique architectural styling and work behind the construction of this fascinating home.

Address: 140 Lower Woodville Road, Natchez, Mississippi

Also known as "the Old Natchez Trace," Natchez Trace Parkway is a spectacular tourist road that follows the line of an old historic route that stretches 444 miles from Natchez all the way to Nashville, Tennessee .

First mentioned in 1733, the Natchez Trace route was at its busiest between 1800 and 1820. During this time, the crews of flatboats, which were simple vessels made of logs bound together and designed for a single downstream journey, sailed down the Mississippi to Natchez and returned home on foot or horseback.

Now designated as an All-American Road for its historical and scenic significance, the Parkway, runs past Emerald Mound, 12 miles north of Natchez. The second largest pre-Columbian site in the United States, it was occupied between 1250 and 1600 by the Mississippi people, ancestors of the Natchez and Choctaws.

Other tourist attractions along the route include Mount Locust, built in the 1780s, and the Chickasaw Village Site. Natchez Trace Parkway is also especially popular with cyclists and those who enjoy camping.

If you can, try to plan your journey to coincide with the spectacular fall colors, which draw many visitors. Some sections of the original trail can also be explored, including parts of the famous Sunken Trace.

Official site: www.scenictrace.com

Well known for its stunning views over the Mississippi River, the lovely red brick Rosalie Mansion sits on the site of the former French Fort Rosalie in Natchez, after which it's named. Known locally as "Our Lady on the Bluff," this magnificent home was built in the early 1820s and is notable for having served as the regional headquarters for Union troops in 1863. During these turbulent times, much of the artifacts and furniture on display today was placed in storage.

Lovingly restored since, it's now run as a museum and is furnished throughout with antiques from this period, most of them originally from the home itself. It's also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Be sure to allow additional time to explore the adjoining four-acre grounds, home to the Rosalie Historic Gardens.

Hour-long guided tours are available, as are self-guided tour options, and a gift shop is located on-site. There's also a genealogical library, which is of special interest for those wanting to investigate their Southern roots.

Address: 100 Orleans Street, Natchez, Mississippi

Official site: https://rosaliemansion.com

The Natchez City Cemetery, established in 1822, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and contains the remains of a number of residents buried in an even earlier nearby graveyard that can be traced all the way back to the 1700s. The cemetery is nicely maintained with uniquely designed iron fences.

Strategically placed benches offer superb views over the Mississippi, an especially pleasant experience at sunset. Numerous large and shady live oaks line its pathways. Be sure to spend time inspecting some of the more elaborate monuments and tombstones located here. These include a unique tomb that houses a wealthy individual who chose to be buried in his favorite rocking chair.

Guided tours are available, including a special once-a-year option known as Angels on the Bluff. This fun tour includes informative commentaries by descendants of those buried here. A self-guided tour is also available.

A short walk away is Natchez National Cemetery . Established in 1866, it serves as a burial site for some 7,000 Union soldiers and war vets.

Address: 2 Cemetery Road, Natchez, Mississippi

Set amid a 222-acre public park, Auburn is an 1812 red brick mansion designed in Greek Revival style. With features later often emulated in many other antebellum-era homes, it is considered one of the finest homes in the area of its time.

Of particular interest to architects was the grand entrance, which features tall Corinthian columns and a large upper-level balcony. The interior has been completely restored and furnished in period fashion, with a highlight being a delightful freestanding, unsupported spiral staircase.

If you are in the area in December, be sure to visit during their fun Christmas Open House. This popular event includes free guided tours and period baked goods. An on-site gift shop sells a large selection of related souvenirs.

Stratton Chapel Gallery , located in the First Presbyterian Church, is also worth a visit. It presents a fascinating historical perspective through its large collection of old photos dating all the way back to the 1840s.

Address: 400 Duncan Avenue, Natchez, Mississippi

Official site: http://auburnmuseum.org

Natchez National Historic Park deals with the cultural history of the town of Natchez and contains three important sites: Fort Rosalie, William Johnson House, and Melrose Plantation.

Your first stop, though, should be the Natchez Visitor Center. This popular destination contains maps and attraction details, as well as a number of interesting exhibits, audio-visual displays, and a bookstore.

Your next stop should be the Melrose Estate. This finely preserved antebellum mansion features sundry outbuildings, which have remained little changed since the 1840s. Highlights include guided interior tours, as well as self-guided tours of the outbuildings, including a sobering look at a slave cabin and gardens.

For another perspective of life during this period, visit William Johnson House. Notable as the former home of a "free man of color," Johnson's story is told through fascinating interactive exhibits and the furnished rooms on display.

Address: 210 State Street, Natchez, Mississippi

Official site: www.nps.gov/natc/index.htm

Emerald Mound, also known as the "Selsertown site," is located close to the Natchez Trace Parkway, and is the second largest Pre-Columbian ceremonial mound in the United States. Believed to have been constructed by predecessors of the region's Natchez people, it's a big site that covers eight acres and was created by depositing earth along the sides of a natural hill to create an enormous artificial plateau.

Emerald Mound would once have been adorned with temples and other religious sites and was used from AD 1250 to 1600 as a ceremonial center. A must-see attraction in Natchez, today it's a designated National Historic Landmark.

Address: Emerald Mound Road, Natchez, Mississippi

Official site: www.nps.gov/nr/travel/mounds/eme.htm

A great way to learn more about the history of African Americans in the South is to pay a visit to the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture. Opened in the town's former post office in 1991, the museum provides a fascinating insight into the culture and history of African Americans in the region, from the times of the town's foundation in 1716 right up to the Civil War.

In addition to its displays of artworks, photos, documents, and artifacts, there are important exhibits dealing with issues such as slavery. It also includes details of the notorious Forks of the Road , once one of the country's largest slave markets. A memorial at the actual location of the market can be visited nearby.

Other notable displays deal with the Civil Rights movement and the tragic Rhythm Nightclub fire, which claimed the lives of more than 200 African American residents of Natchez. There are also displays related to the life of author Richard Wright. Educational and musical events are also held frequently.

Address: 301 Main Street, Natchez, Mississippi

Official site: www.visitnapac.net

Take an easy 15-minute drive west of downtown Natchez, and you'll find yourself in the neighborhood of Washington, home to Historic Jefferson College. Established in 1811 and in operation until 1964, the site is now run as a museum and public park.

And it's certainly a fascinating attraction to explore. Interesting displays and exhibits provide visitors with a chance to learn of life at the former military academy attended by well-known alumni, including Jefferson Davis, the former President of the Confederate States of America.

Buildings open to visitors include the kitchen and the various outbuildings that supported this important part of the college, as well as the West Wing and Prospere Hall. Afterwards, be sure to wander the mile-long T.J. Foster Nature Trail network on the property, popular for its wildlife and natural beauty. A number of easier-to-navigate trails are also available.

Please note: This fascinating attraction is currently only open to visitors who have made prior arrangements for their visit; see the official website below for details.

Address: 16 Old North Street, Natchez, Mississippi

Official site: www.mdah.ms.gov/new/visit/historic-jefferson-college/

The small town of Port Gibson is a nice side trip, either from Natchez or Jackson. A visit offers up a number of interesting attractions, along with good restaurants, hotels, and shopping.

It was thought by General Grant to be almost as beautiful as Natchez, which explains why it has remained relatively unspoiled. Visitors today can still enjoy seeing a number of well-preserved pre-war antebellum-era houses, supposedly saved after General Grant proclaimed the town "too beautiful to burn."

The famous Windsor Mansion, south of the town, was not so lucky. All that remains of this former mansion today are some impressive ruins.

The First Presbyterian Church in Port Gibson's historic district features a unique gold-leaf hand on the steeple, which points skyward. The interior of the church houses chandeliers from the Robert E. Lee steamboat. Notable as a stop on the Mississippi Blues Trail , Port Gibson is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Official site: http://portgibsonms.org

A great attraction for those interested in the area's rich native history is the Grand Village of the Natchez . Set amid some 128 acres, this important historic site was once home to an indigenous village that existed here in prehistoric times and which was occupied and in use right up to the early 1700s as an important political and religious center.

Evidence of three original ceremonial mounds were found, parts of which have since been restored. A highlight of a visit is checking out the on-site museum, which contains a number of important artifacts found during archeological digs, including fascinating grave goods buried with the dead, often European made.

The museum also contains an interesting collection of traditional baskets from local native tribes, as well as exhibits and displays portraying the site's significance. A replica of a period tribal home, plus plenty of hiking trails are also available to explore. The site is also a great place for a picnic.

Also, be sure to check out their website for details of the Natchez Powwow . This two-day event features American Indian dancers, arts, and crafts.

Address: 400 Jeff Davis Blvd, Natchez, Mississippi

Official site: www.mdah.ms.gov/explore-mississippi/grand-village-natchez-indians

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Mississippi Moments : If you haven't had enough of that Deep South friendliness after a stay in Natchez, then head straight to Jackson, the state capital of Mississippi . Fun things for families to do here include touring the Capitol building and museum, visiting the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, and, of course, the Mississippi Children's Museum.

And there's plenty of other things to do in the state of Mississippi , too, from exploring one of the most spectacular coastlines in the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf Islands National Seashore, to getting up close to the diverse marine life found here at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies.

Deep South : The exciting city of New Orleans , Louisiana, offers visitors plenty of great attractions (the National WWII Museum is a must), as well as diverse neighborhoods such as the lively French Quarter, famous for its music, shops, and restaurants.

Other Southern US destinations to consider visiting include Memphis , famous the world over for its Graceland estate, the former home of the "King," Elvis Presley; and that other important center of musical innovation, Nashville (also in Tennessee), where you can wander Music Row, an area with multiple attractions dedicated to music, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and RCA Studio B, where many a famous recording was made.

More on Mississippi

15 Things to do in Natchez, Mississippi [With Suggested Tours]

Boasting with lots of antebellum mansions, Natchez in Mississippi is an interesting city to visit. The fact this is also the oldest city on the Mississippi River, Natchez would surely win your heart the moment you go here. Aside from enjoying the trip, you can also learn a lot about the area’s history. Visiting Natchez is surely an educational one. 

Because of its rich history and beautiful attractions, we listed down the things that you can do and visit in Natchez. This list will give you an idea of what to see and experience in each popular attractions. 

• Complete List of Recommended Cheap Hotels in Mississippi, USA
• Travel Guide to Mississippi, USA – 10 Best Attractions, Where to Dine and Where to Stay
• List of the Best Hotels in Mississippi, USA – from Cheap to Luxury Hotels
• Top 7 Things to Do in New Orleans
• Complete List of Recommended Cheap Hotels in Alabama, USA

Best Things to do in Natchez, Mississippi

1. longwood.

This is the largest octagonal house in the United States. Longwood is considered as a National Historic Landmark. Boasting with a rich history, you’d have a meaningful tour here. Although its structure is unfinished, it still stands with beautiful and unique architecture.

Suggested Tour: Longwood Antebellum Mansion Ticket

2. Stanton Hall

Stanton Hall was founded in the 1850s. You will have fun learning about the history of the house. The house is also well-preserved and the tour is very informative. By going here you’d realized how wealthy the Natchez citizens are in the Antebellum era. 

Suggested Tour: Stanton Hall Ticket

3. Rosalie Mansion

Rosalie Mansion was built in 1823. With lots of knowledgeable tour guides, you won’t get bored while learning about the history of this antebellum mansion. Plus, Rosalie Mansion also has a beautiful view of the river.

Suggested Tour: Rosalie Mansion Ticket

4. St. Mary Basilica

This stunning church is a must-visit. Boasting with lovely stained glass windows, magnificent ceilings, and beautiful outside brick, this church will leave you in awe. The architecture is very picturesque and the church itself feels peaceful when you’re inside.

Suggested Tour: City Sightseeing Natchez Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Melrose is an antebellum plantation. It offers a slavery exhibit. If you love seeing old mansions like from the 1700s or 1800s, then you shouldn’t miss Melrose. This is considered one of the most beautiful antebellum houses in Natchez, Mississippi. 

6. Natchez Visitor Center

A lot of helpful and friendly staff await you when you visit here in Natchez Visitor Center. It is loaded with lots of information on where to go and what to do during your stay in Natchez. It is highly recommended to go here first before you start your official trip.

7. Bluff Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Visit Natchez (@visitnatchez) on Mar 20, 2019 at 10:09am PDT

If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of the city. If you’re craving for a relaxing and peaceful day or afternoon. You should head to Bluff Park. This is the perfect place to rest and relax as you look at the waters of the beautiful Mississippi.

8. Historic Natchez Cemetery

Have a lovely tour here in the Historic Natchez Cemetery. The views are amazing that you’d enjoy driving along its wide paths. This cemetery is very clean and rich in history, you’d be interested in looking at the old monuments and the dates on the tombs. Really a must-visit.

9. William Johnson House

This was the former house of a freed slave also known as the Barber of Natchez who became a real businessman in the mid 19th century. His name is William Johnson. His house was built in 1840. A tour here would offer you a glimpse of an inspiring story of a slave who worked hard and became successful. 

10. Choctaw Hall

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Work Hard And Play Hard (@edwinarogers) on Dec 24, 2019 at 11:38am PST

This house is filled with antique furniture. It is huge but was carefully restored. By going here, you’d see how beautiful this house is inside and out. It is also full of interesting facts. So, if you’re a fan of stunning antebellum homes full of historic finery, then go and visit Choctaw Hall.

Suggested Tour: Choctaw Hall Ticket

11. Emerald Mound

Have a quick visit to the Emerald Mount. It is considered as the second-largest Indian mound in the United States. As you go here and learned about its rich history, you’d be heartbroken about what happened to the Natives of this great land.

12. The Natchez Trace Parkway

Have a wonderful and peaceful drive in The Natchez Trace Parkway. Along the way, you can get a chance t o see turkey, deer, armadillo, and a lot more animals. There lots of history to stop and see along the way. So if you’re looking for a perfect road trip, this is the answer.

13. Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by MisterandMrs. (@traveling_happilyeverafter) on Feb 7, 2020 at 10:46am PST

This is a small museum that features exhibits on the rich history and culture of African Americans in the region. It is loaded with information such as exhibits that cover the era of slavery, the 20th-century wars and the Civil Rights movement. You’d definitely learn a lot here.

14. Natchez National Historical Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 418 Parks (@418parks) on Mar 1, 2019 at 7:45am PST

Natchez National Historical Park is the location of the three of Natchez’s most popular attractions. Namely, Fort Rosalie, the William Johnson House and the Melrose estate. A tour here is definitely a worth to try when you’re in Natchez.

15. Natchez Brewing Company

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by JRL42 (@jrl42) on Feb 15, 2019 at 10:40am PST

Have a great beer at a great location in Natchez Brewing Company. An ideal place to visit with friends or family. The atmosphere is nice and welcoming. You can also have a delicious pizza while drinking their tasty beers. This is a must-visit if you’re looking for a place to enjoy.

Things to do with 3 days in Natchez, Mississippi

Day 1 in Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez Visitor Center – On your first day, before you start your official tour in Natchez, you should go to Natchez Visitor Center first. It will provide you with any information that you might need when you start your trip.

Longwood – This octagonal house in Natchez is a must-visit. Although it’s unfinished, it’s still stunning and is rich with history. 

Day 2 in Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez National Historical Park – On your second day, it is recommended to go to Natchez National Historical Park. Why? Simply because it is the location of the three important sites in Natchez. They’re Melrose , William Johnson House , and the Rosalie Mansion . No time would be wasted in this park.

Day 3 in Natchez, Mississippi

Stanton Hall – The design of this house is absolutely beautiful. It is very picturesque and contains a lot of rich history. It is well-preserved so you’d really feel like you’re back in the past.

Frequently Asked Questions about Natchez, Mississippi

1. Is it safe to travel to Natchez, Mississippi?

Natchez is relatively safe. When tourists go here, the most popular way to get around is by renting a car. And while driving, you won’t feel any danger along the way. Just be cautious all the time as you would whenever you go to other places.

2. When is the best time to visit Natchez, Mississippi?

If you want to have a more comfortable trip to Natchez, the spring season is the best time to visit. During the month of July, the city becomes busy as a lot of tourists go here. So, to avoid the crowd, you can come between March and April.

3. How to get to Natchez, Mississippi?

The main airport in Natchez, Mississippi is the Natchez–Adams County Airport. To go there, you need a connecting flight from the state or city that you’re coming from. Visit Skyscanner for cheaper and available flights.

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these!

About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima . My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER: Many of the articles on Two Monkeys Travel Group are guest posts by a number of Approved Contributors and are hosted by Two Monkeys Travel Group. Approved Contributors control their own work and post freely to our site. This includes all text and images that they use within their own work. All contributors are instructed to follow internationally recognised copyright and intellectual property guidelines. Two Monkeys Travel Group takes its own responsibilities very seriously, so if you feel that any part of this work is abusive in any way, please send us an email so that we can investigate - [email protected]

DISCLOSURE: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The cost to you remains the same, sometimes even cheaper if we have negotiated a special deal for our readers.We use all of the companies we have listed here and that’s why they are in this list, but of course we need to keep Two Monkeys Travel Group running as well as it can, which is exactly what you’re helping with if you do decide to buy or book something through an affiliate link! If you have any more questions about the companies we use or any other companies you’re looking at, just email us and we’ll be happy to help. Please see our full disclaimer page for more information.

Written by Two Monkeys Travel - Contributor

Two Monkeys Travel Group – Community Travel Blog is a travel blog and website. We quickly grew into a valuable source of inspiring travel stories, advice, itineraries and travel guides, with the aim of demonstrating how to live a sustainable life of travel, whilst living your own definition of success. If you'd like to contribute and write a guest post, contact us at [email protected]

11 Best Hiking Treks To Experience in Nepal

Getting the most out of your holiday in bali, 5 best things to do in canggu, bali, indonesia [diy travel guide to canggu], 10 awesome things to do in florence, italy, africa unveiled: discovering the continent’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks, related posts, 7 awesome things to do in orlando, florida @anjalisareen, 10 best things to do in san antonio, usa [with suggested tours], best beaches in maui, hawaii – top 10 beaches in maui [with photos], best beaches in fort lauderdale, florida – top 10 beaches in fort lauderdale, previous post, 10 amazing cities to visit in south morocco and why, weekend in santiago, spain: how to spend 3 days in santiago, spain, subscribe to our newsletter.

Receive tips on how you can live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle!

• First Name *
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

NATCHEZ NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK - MISSISSIPPI

E pic Guide to Natchez National Historical Park located in Mississippi! This guide includes history, things to do, where to stay, nearby camping, and so much more!

Natchez National Historical Park

Natchez National Historical Park is located in Natchez, Mississippi. The park includes three different distinct areas to visit, Fort Rosalie, William Johnson House, and Melrose Estate.

About Natchez National Historical Park

The park is comprised of three separate sites, all of which are significant to the south-central United States' history.

At the Melrose Estate, visitors can marvel at the perfectly preserved antebellum mansion's grandeur, while the William Johnson House offers a glimpse into the life of a free Black businessman during the 19th century.

The Fort Rosalie site provides valuable insight into Mississippi's colonial history, with ruins and exhibits presenting the story of early French settlement in the region.

For those interested in American history and architecture, Natchez National Historical Park is a highly recommended destination.

Natchez National Historical Park is a diverse and informative attraction that offers a comprehensive overview of the Mississippi River region's history, making it an essential destination for both history enthusiasts and casual travelers.

Is Natchez National Historical Park worth visiting?

Yes, The park does an amazing job of telling the history of the area in a way that is easy to understand and interesting.

From the downtown home of free African American Barber William Johnson to the Melrose plantation estate and slave quarters you will learn a lot about the rich cultural history of Natchez.

History of Natchez National Historical Park

Named after the Natchez tribe that called the region home for thousands of years, Natchez National Historical Park tells the tale of the people who lived, worked, and died in Natchez, Mississippi.

The park is made up of several historic structures and sites spread across Natchez. These include the Forks of the Road slave market, the Melrose estate, and the William Johnson House.

The park's history dates back to the early 18th century when Natchez was founded by French colonists. In the mid-19th century, Natchez became a center of the antebellum South, with grand plantations and mansions built by wealthy plantation owners. However, the Civil War and the abolition of slavery brought significant changes to Natchez and the surrounding region.

The Natchez Tribe

Thousands of years before Natchez became the center of the antebellum South, the Natchez tribe lived here. The tribe hunted, gathered, and fished in the forests, rivers, and creeks of the region. Over time, the hunter-gatherers began settling down, planting crops, and building more permanent structures.

The Natchez tribe began building hundreds of earthen mounds around 800-1400 CE. The Natchez National Historical Park preserves two of these sites. These are the Emerald Mound and Grand Village of the Natchez Indians.

Mounds were constructed to be used for ceremonies, and games, becoming the centers of community life. The Natchez tribe was not isolated, evidence suggests the tribe engaged in trade with other tribes along the Mississippi, which even stretched as far as the Great Lakes region and Mexico.

When the first Europeans began to settle in the region in 1716, the Natchez were initially welcoming but relations soon soured. By 1729 the Natchez attacked the fort the French settlers had erected, called Fort Rosalie, killing almost all of its inhabitants.

The French retaliated, killing almost all of the Natchez people. By 1731, Those who survived fled the area.

Fort Rosalie

Fort Rosalie was the first European settlement on the lower Mississippi River. The fort was established by the French, who began exploring the region in 1716, 140 years after Spaniard Hernando De Soto passed through the area.

The French began planting tobacco plantations and establishing settlements in Natchez territory. They needed a stronghold in the area to protect their interests if necessary and to trade with the Natchez people so they built Fort Rosalie. The fort was built close to the main Natchez village of Grand Village.

On November 28th, 1729, relations between the French and the Natchez tribe turned violent. The Natchez revolted against the French colonists, killing between 229 to 285. The revolt was in response to the French colonial commandant, Sieur de Chépart, demand for land to establish a tobacco plantation close to the fort.

When the Natchez attacked the fort, they also attacked the homesteads of the colonists. They spared most of the women and African American slaves. The warriors burned the fort and the homesteads to the ground.

The French retaliation was brutal and quick, carrying out massacres of the people of the nearby native villages in response.

Natchez National Historical Park is home to the grand estate and mansion known as Melrose. The home is a prime example of the Greek revival architectural style designed by architect Jacob Byers, the home was never a working plantation. It was built in 1848 by a lawyer called John T. McMurran.

The McMurrans named the house Melrose after Melrose Abbey in Scotland. The McMurrans lived in the home, along with 22 enslaved people who worked in the home and on the land from 1848 until 1865.

Due to financial issues caused by the Civil War, the McMurrans sold the house to George and Elizabeth Davis in 1865. The Davis family owned and lived in the home intermittently from that point onwards until 1976.

William Johnson House

The William Johnson House is the home of a man known as the ‘barber of Natchez,’ William Johnston. Johnson was born into slavery in 1809 but was freed at the age of 11. Johnson bought his first barbershop in 1830, where he allowed free African American boys to learn how to be barbers.

When he bought his first barber shop, Johnson began to keep a diary, one he wrote in every day for 16 years. His diaries give us a glimpse into what everyday life was like in Natchez, especially for the free African American community.

Johnson built his fortune and opened two more barber shops, and bought a farm. Johnson, despite being born into slavery, owned several enslaved people himself. The enslaved people worked in William Johnson’s house, barber shops, and farms.

Johnson was murdered in 1851 outside of his farm which was to the south of Natchez. He was attacked and shot by Baylor Winn over a land dispute. Despite Johnson naming his attacker on his deathbed, Winn was never held accountable due to Mississippi law at the time.

Forks of the Road Market

During the 1800s, before the American Civil War, Natchez served as the center of the slave economy. The economy of the South relied heavily on the labor of enslaved people. The market was started by Isaac Franklin and John Armfield, who realized they could purchase people from areas where they did not cost as much, and sell them for much more.

Forks of the Road Market, established at the intersection of Liberty Road and D'Evereux Drive became the second-largest slave market in the Deep South. Thousands of men, women, and children were transported to Natchez from Kentucky, the Carolinas, Virginia, and Maryland.

The people sold at the market were kept in ‘slave pens’ that were torn down by the 58th United States Colored Troops in 1863. Many of the soldiers who tore down the ‘pens’ to create barracks for the Union Army had been held and sold at the market.

Things to know before your visit 

Entrance fee .

Melrose Mansion Guided Tour Fee - Adults age 18 and above - $11.00

This per-person fee is for a ranger-guided tour of the Melrose mansion. The tour is approximately 30 minutes long.

Melrose Mansion Guided Tour Fee - 17 and under - $0.00

Melrose Mansion Guided Tour Fee - Educational/School Groups - $0.00

Entrance to Melrose Grounds, Formal Gardens & Outbuildings - $0.00

Entrance to the William Johnson House Site - $0.00

Planning a National Park vacation? America the Beautiful/National Park Pass covers entrance fees for an entire year to all US National Park Sites and over 2,000 Federal Recreation Fee Sites.

The park pass covers everyone in the car for per-vehicle sites and for up to 4 adults for per-person sites.

Buy on  REI.com  and REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation, and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.

Free Entrance Days  -Mark your calendars with the five free entrance days the National Park Service offers annually. 

Time Zone 

Central Time Zone

Pets are not allowed within the park.

Cell Service

Cellular data service is typically available throughout the park

The exhibit area at the Forks of the Road site is open daily from sunup to sundown.

The Fort Rosalie site is open daily from sunup to sundown.

Melrose is open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm. At the present, Melrose is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Guided tours of the mansion are offered at 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm, and 4:00 pm. Reservations for the house tour must be made on Recreation.gov.

Melrose is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

Natchez Visitor Center

The Natchez Visitor Center is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

The visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

The William Johnson House

The William Johnson House site is closed at this time.

Public Wi-Fi is available

Insect Repellent

Insect repellent is always a great idea when outdoors, especially if you are around any body of water. 

We use Permethrin Spray on our clothes before our park trips. 

Water Bottle 

Make sure to bring your own water bottle and plenty of water with you. Plastic water bottles are not sold in the park.

There are accessible parking spaces available in the main parking lot.

Food/Restaurants

There is no restaurant located within the Natchez National Historical Park

There is no gas station in the Natchez NHP. The nearest gas station is approximately 1 mile away from the park.

Drones are not permitted within National Park Sites.

National Park Passport Stamps

National Park Passport stamps can be found in the visitor center.

We use the Explorer Edition Passport Book that can be expanded and updated. This is a great way to track all of the parks you have visited over time. 

Make sure to bring your National Park Passport Book with you or we like to pack these circle stickers so we don't have to bring our entire book with us. 

Natchez NHP is part of the 2012 Passport Stamp Set . 

Electric Vehicle Charging

There are EV charging stations available at a distance of 1 to 70 miles from the park.

Details about Natchez National Historical Park

Size - 108 acres

Check out how the park compares to other National Parks by Size . 

Date Established  

October 7, 1988

Visitation  

In 2022, Natchez NHP had 64,691 park visitors

In 2021, Natchez NHP had 56,264  park visitors. 

In 2020, Natchez NHP had  57,646 park visitors. 

In 2019, Natchez NHP had  182,123 park visitors. 

Learn more about the most visited and least visited National Parks in the US

National Park Address

Melrose Estate is located at 1 Melrose-Montebello Parkway, Natchez, MS 39120.

William Johnson House is located at 212 State Street, Natchez, MS 39120.

Natchez National Historical Park Headquarters and the Natchez Visitor Center is located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 84 and Canal Street in Natchez, MS.

Where is Natchez National Historical Park?

Located in Natchez, Mississippi, in the southern United States, Natchez National Historical Park is comprised of three distinct sites:

Fort Rosalie, the William Johnson House, and the Melrose Estate. Originally constructed by the French in 1716, Fort Rosalie was later utilized by the British and then the Americans.

Meanwhile, the William Johnson House served as the residence of a free African American entrepreneur during the antebellum era.

The Melrose Estate is a historic mansion constructed in the Greek Revival style during the mid-1800s.

By exploring the park, visitors can learn about the diverse and multifaceted history of the region, including the roles of Native Americans, Europeans, Africans, and African Americans in shaping the area over time.

Estimated distance from major cities nearby

Vidalia, Louisiana-  3 miles

Ferriday, Louisiana - 11 miles

St. Francisville, Louisiana - 61 miles

Baton Rouge, Louisiana - 92 miles

Jackson, Mississippi - 103 miles

Alexandria, Louisiana - 74 miles

Monroe, Louisiana - 97 miles

New Orleans, Louisiana - 171 miles

Memphis, Tennessee - 304 miles 

Estimated Distance from nearby National Park

Congaree National Park - 834 miles 

Gateway Arch National Park - 576 miles 

Hot Springs National Park - 317 miles 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park - 364 miles 

Big Bend National Park - 909 miles 

New River Gorge National Park - 958 miles 

Where is the National Park Visitor Center?

The Natchez National Historical Park is located at 640 S Canal St, Natchez, MS 39120, USA

Getting to Natchez NHP

Closest airports .

Alexandria International Airport (AEX) - 82 miles

Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) - 111 miles

Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) - 85 miles

Monroe Regional Airport (MLU) - 95 miles 

International Airports

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) - 160 miles

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) - 295 miles

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) - 487 miles

Memphis International Airport (MEM) - 297 miles 

Regional Airports

Natchez-Adams County Airport (HEZ) - 11 miles

Concordia Parish Airport (0R4) -  8 miles

St. John the Baptist Parish Airport (1L0) - 139 miles

Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) - 111 miles 

Driving Directions

If you are coming from the north, take US-61 South and exit at John R Junkin Drive. Turn left onto John R Junkin Drive and proceed for 2.1 miles.

If you are coming from the south, take US-61 North and exit at Jefferson Street. Turn right onto Jefferson Street and proceed for 1.6 miles.

If you are coming from the east, take US-84 West and exit at Canal Street. Turn left onto Canal Street, then right onto S. Union Street. Proceed for 0.3 miles and turn left onto John R Junkin Drive.

If you are coming from the west, take US-98 East and continue onto US-84 East. Exit at Canal Street and follow the directions above.

Once you arrive at Natchez National Historical Park, park in the designated areas and follow the signs to the various historical sites.

Best time to visit 

The best time to visit Natchez National Historical Park would be in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November).

During these seasons, the weather is mild and comfortable with fewer crowds than in the summer months. Visiting during the spring season will allow you to see beautiful blooming flowers while fall brings beautiful autumn colors.

Keep in mind that the park is closed during the winter months and may experience some seasonal flooding.

The park offers a variety of activities, including guided tours, historic homes, and walking trails. It's recommended to check the park's website for any changes to opening hours, events, or closures before planning your trip.

Weather and Seasons

The warmest weather months in Natchez National Historical Park are typically June, July, and August, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 80s to lower 90 degrees. Visitors should plan for hot and humid conditions during this time and take precautions to stay hydrated and cool, such as wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothes and bringing along a water bottle.

The Natchez National Historical Park in Mississippi experiences hot and humid summers but milder temperatures in the fall and winter months. The coolest weather months are typically between November and February, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60 degrees. Visitors to the park during this time can enjoy comfortable hiking and outdoor activities without the oppressive heat of the summer. However, it's important to note that colder temperatures and occasional rainfall can occur during these months, so visitors should come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.

The park is located in Mississippi, which generally experiences mild winters with occasional snowfall. According to historical data, the snowiest months in Natchez are typically January and February.

However, it's important to note that snow is still a rare occurrence in this region and heavy snowfalls are infrequent. Visitors to the park during the winter months should anticipate cool temperatures and potentially wet conditions, but should not expect heavy snowfall. Visitors should also be aware of any weather-related closures or restrictions, as severe weather events can occur at any time of year.

Best Things to Do at Natchez National Historical Park

We suggest planning at minimum half a day to visit the park but it could easily take longer depending on how much time is spent in each area. 

Natchez National Historical Park is home to several historic sites, including the William Johnson House, the Melrose Estate, and the Fort Rosalie Archaeological Site.

Visitors can take guided tours of each location to learn about the history of Natchez, Mississippi.

The William Johnson House was the home of a free African American businessman who lived in the area during the mid-1800s.

The Melrose Estate is a beautiful antebellum home that exemplifies the grandeur of the pre-Civil War South.

Finally, the Fort Rosalie Archaeological Site is where the original French fort once stood, and visitors can explore the remains of the fort and learn about its significance in the area's history.

Other activities in the park include hiking the trails, enjoying a picnic, or attending one of the many cultural events held throughout the year.

This visitor center is actually shared between the city of Natchez Visitor Bureau, Mississippi Tourism, and Eastern National Bookstore for the National Park Service.

You will not find the actual park exhibits here but you can get a passport stamp, brochures, and a map of the park. 

There is a 20-minute movie that depicts the history of Natchez, Mississippi. 

Located in downtown Natchez, Mississippi.

Junior Ranger Program 

The Junior Ranger Program is a fantastic way to deep dive into learning more about the park. 

Programs can be picked up at both Melrose House and William Johnson House. 

There are a few interpretive panels at Fort Rosalie. You can pull over and see the area where Fort Rosalie was founded on August 3, 1716.

This 18th-century fort was built by the French. The fort anchored a European settlement that survived three different periods of European rule over the course of the 1700s (French, British, and Spanish) and developed into the capital of the Mississippi Territory under United States governance at the end of that century. 

Melrose House

Melrose House is an 1800s Greek Revival Mansion that housed the John T. McMurran family beginning in 1841.

Ranger Led Tours are offered at the main house. We did not have the chance to take a tour due to time restraints. 

During the tour of the main house, you can learn more about the story of everyday life in antebellum Natchez. 

Reservations for the guided Melrose Mansion Tour must be made on Recreation.gov. Tours start at 9, 10, 11, 2, 3, and 4; masks are optional. Beginning March 1, Melrose will be temporarily closed on Tuesdays.

If you can't make one of the ranger-guided tours you can take a self-guided tour of the grounds. 

The dairy and laundry are located behind the main house.

Cows were raised on the plantation. Milk was processed and preserved in the dairy. 

The 2nd story was used as the living quarters for 3 house slaves. 

Behind the Melrose House, there is a walkway to the former slave quarters. Please make sure you visit this part of the park.

The interpretive panels do a great job of really showing what life was like for slaves in this region. 

These cabins were the living quarters for approximately 15 enslaved people including gardeners and blacksmiths. 

William Johnson House is located in the town of Natchez. 

William Johnson was a slave who was freed. He started out as a barber and eventually owned multiple barbershops, a farm, rental property, and timber. 

The William Johnson House Museum includes a small store and museum on the 1st floor.

Upstairs you can view where the Johnson family lived. One thing to know is it is a steep outdoor staircase to reach the living quarters. 

If you have any issues with stairs I would be very careful or skip the upstairs portion and enjoy the museum. 

The museum and living quarters do an amazing job of sharing about the life of free African Americans in the pre- Civil War South. 

One thing we found fascinating is William Johnson kept an in-depth diary from 1835-1851 which detailed everyday life in Natchez.

How to beat the crowds?

We did not experience any crowds during our visit.

Where to stay when visiting 

There are no National Park Lodges within the park.

Nearby lodging includes:

Monmouth Historic Inns and Gardens -  This historic inn features beautifully appointed guest rooms, each with its own unique charm and character. The gardens at Monmouth are simply breathtaking, with lush greenery, winding paths, and charming features such as fountains and gazebos. Visitors to Monmouth can also enjoy a fine dining experience at the inn's award-winning restaurant, 1818. The restaurant offers a menu of Southern-inspired cuisine made with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. In addition to its luxurious accommodations and exceptional dining, Monmouth is home to a rich history that is celebrated throughout the inn and its grounds. With its old-world charm and modern amenities, Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a truly unique and memorable experience.

The Beaumont House - The Beaumont House in Natchez is a historic mansion that was built in 1857. It is located in the heart of the town's downtown area and is one of the most well-preserved antebellum mansions in the area. The house has been impeccably renovated and restored and now serves as a luxurious bed and breakfast for guests. The Beaumont House is known for its elegant and comfortable accommodations, its unique architectural style, and its stunning views of the Mississippi River. Guests who choose to stay at the Beaumont House will be treated to a truly unforgettable experience that combines history, luxury, and Southern hospitality. Overall, the Beaumont House is an excellent choice for those who appreciate history, architecture, and the finer things in life.

The Pillars in Natchez B&B -  The Pillars in Natchez B&B is a historic bed and breakfast located in Natchez, Mississippi. The main building, built in 1857, was originally a private residence before it was converted into a bed and breakfast in the late 1990s. The property features 20 guest rooms and suites spread across two buildings and offers a range of amenities including complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a pool. The main building’s architectural style is Greek Revival, while the second building features more modern décor. Guests can also enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the property, which includes landscaped gardens and plenty of Southern hospitality.

Concord Quarters -  Concord Quarters is a residential neighborhood is characterized by its large, well-manicured lawns and beautiful architecture. Many of the homes in Concord Quarters are historic, dating back to the 19th century. The area is known for its rich history, and residents can explore the many museums and historical sites in the area. Concord Quarters is a charming and welcoming community that offers a high quality of life to its residents.

Dunleith Historic Inn - Dunleith Historic Inn is a historic antebellum mansion built in 1856 in Natchez, Mississippi. It is a classic example of Greek Revival architecture and is located on 40-acre grounds that include beautiful gardens, fountains, and a carriage house. The mansion served as a hospital during the Civil War and was later converted into a hotel in the 1930s. The inn features 22 guest rooms, each with its unique charm and character, including original hardwood floors and antique furnishings. The onsite restaurant serves southern cuisine, and guests can relax on the veranda or take a dip in the pool. The Dunleith Historic Inn is not only a luxurious place to stay, but it also provides a glimpse into the rich history of Natchez and the American South.

Click on the map below for additional vacation rentals and hotels near the park.

Camping is not allowed on the premises. The park is not intended for overnight stays and lacks the essential facilities to accommodate camping.

For a fun adventure check out Escape Campervans . These campervans have built-in beds, kitchen areas with refrigerators, and more. You can have them fully set up with kitchen supplies, bedding, and other fun extras. They are painted with epic designs you can't miss! 

Escape Campervans has offices in Vancouver, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco , Las Vegas , Los Angeles , Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Denver, Chicago, New York, and Orlando

National Park Sites near Natchez National Historical Park

Cane River Creole National Historical Park

Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument

Poverty Point National Monument

Vicksburg National Military Park

Big Thicket National Preserve

Natchez Trace Parkway

Check out all of the Mississippi National Parks along with neighboring National Parks in Alabama , National Parks in Louisiana , National Parks in Tennessee , and Arkansas National Parks . 

The Natchez Style Architecture Book is now available! Click Here for more details and to purchase

NATCHEZ PILGRIMAGE TOURS

Your best source for the perfect natchez visit.

FUTURE PILGRIMAGE DATES

FALL PILGRIMAGE 2024 SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 19

Click Here for Fall Pilgrimage 2024

SPRING PILGRIMAGE 2025 MARCH 9 – APRIL 9

ABOUT OUR COMPANY

Natchez pilgrimage tours - let us guide you to the perfect natchez experience.

Natchez Pilgrimage Tours (NPT) is your best source for planning a perfect trip to Natchez. We assist individuals and groups of all sizes in planning a Natchez visit, including historic mansion tours, candlelight dinners, private guides, special events, and more. Natchez Pilgrimage Tours — an arm of the Pilgrimage Garden Club — is the only full-service receptive tour operator in Natchez. We customize your trip, free of mark-ups or fees for our direction and expertise. Let us guide you to the perfect Natchez experience!

Office open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at 211 Main Street, the corner of Main and Wall Streets.  601-653-0919.

Natchez Style Architecture Book

Showcasing stunning photography of Southern charm at its finest, purchase this lovely hardcover coffee table book to add a unique flair to any room.  Take a rare glimpse inside these private homes and experience their uniqueness and the people that call them home.  Gracious homes with menus, intimate family traditions and the art of a good Natchez party!

SEE WHY WE HAVE THE TOP TOURS IN NATCHEZ!

This is one of the best tours I have ever been on! The history is amazing! The knowledge of the people working the tour was unparalleled! You could tell they loved being a part of the history and sharing it with others!! I would love to go back and take my mom to enjoy this!!

I visit Natchez yearly and Natchez Pilgrimage Tours is the place to purchase your pilgrimage tickets. Not only are they friendly and helpful, you feel like you are chatting with old friends who are glad to see you!

There are so many beautiful homes in Natchez. I'm not sure how anyone could plan a trip there without the Natchez Pilgrimage Tours website! It was so helpful and the tours we booked were unforgettable. I highly recommend a trip to Natchez and using this website as a resource.

When I traveled to Natchez, MS my friends and I wanted to explore several of the historic homes. We didn't know where to begin, and found The Natchez Pilgrimage Tours website to be a very useful resource and made our travel planning much easier! Would recommend!

I travel to Natchez from Springfield, MO at least two times each year, for Spring and Fall pilgrimage. I always purchase tickets from Natchez Pilgrimage Tours and find them extremely helpful and friendly. Whether someone is traveling to Natchez for the first time or the 50th time, starting with Natchez Pilgrimage Tours is very helpful. I'll be returning in late September.

We bought tickets online for this event. Upon arriving at the church, it appeared that we were the only ones arriving. Soon afterwards, a tour bus pulled up and unloaded. The music and story telling is just magnificent and beautiful and moving. Don't miss this as it stands alone for excellence!

Natchez has thirteen National Historic Landmarks and over 1,000 structures on the National Register of Historic Places, and a large number of those historic homes and buildings can be seen right within our walkable downtown area. Let one of our many tour guide companies take you through the past and present of Natchez. With private escorted tours, horse drawn carriages, and a downtown double decker bus, you’ll be touring Natchez in style. Tour topics vary widely, covering food, literary locations, Civil Rights, ghost tours, and scavenger hunts.

1 – of 26

AAA Magazines

Tank trip: what to do in natchez, mississippi.

By Larry Bleiberg

September 14, 2024

Picture-perfect Natchez has long attracted visitors for its antebellum homes and plantations, along with spring and fall tours that showcase the historic properties and their gardens. The Little Easy, as it’s known, has in recent years begun to focus more keenly on its African American history. Gracious inns and tasty dining options round out a getaway to this storied riverfront city.

In a town full of history, Longwood—the nation’s largest octagonal house—is a standout. The first floor was completed just as the Civil War broke out. Workers abandoned the project to go off to battle, and the rest of the six-story building remains incomplete. On tours, marvel at architectural details like the Byzantine onion-shaped dome. Adults, $25.

The preserved Melrose estate was built at the height of the mid-1800s cotton boom. Focusing on research of the pre–Civil War American South, ranger-led tours at this National Park Service site shine a light not only on the luxurious plantation home but also on the harsh realities of slavery. Adults, $10.

The Proud to Take a Stand monument pays tribute to Black Natchez residents wrongly arrested after a 1965 civil rights protest. Photo courtesy Visit Natchez

The Forks of the Road National Historical Park preserves the site of one of the nation’s largest slave markets. Interpretive signs recount how enslaved African Americans were penned and auctioned off here.

Nearby, the Proud to Take a Stand monument, unveiled five years ago, honors hundreds of Black Natchez residents wrongfully arrested after a 1965 civil and voting rights protest; many were sent to the infamous Mississippi State Penitentiary at Parchman.

Learn about the area’s earliest inhabitants at the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians , which preserves mounds built for religious and ceremonial purposes. Walk a nature trail through the site and explore the tribe’s history in the visitors center.

Admire dazzling stained glass and an Italian marble ark at Temple B’nai Israel, home to one of Mississippi’s longest-standing Jewish congregations. Tours of the 1905 building, offered by appointment, shed insight on the area’s early Jewish community. $15 suggested donation.

Discover secrets to making biscuits and brunch, beloved elements of Southern cuisine, at Regina’s Kitchen Cooking Classes . Led by chef Regina Charboneau, dubbed the Queen of Biscuits, classes are $90 per person and limited to groups of eight. Other sessions focus on French and Italian classics.

You may also like: Inviting small towns and cities to visit

Where to shop

Darby’s Fudge & Gifts tempts not only with sweets but also with clothing, jewelry, and home decor. ArtsNatchez Gallery highlights works by local artists, including painters, sculptors, and potters. Load up on souvenirs and custom collectibles at Old South Trading Post .

You may also like:  Discover art, nature, and history by visiting these Southern cemeteries

Where to eat

Craft beers and burgers highlight a menu featuring sandwiches, salads, and tacos at The Camp Restaurant. Photo courtesy Visit Natchez

Enjoy one of the state’s top burgers, craft beers, and sunset views over the Mississippi River at The Camp Restaurant . Tantalizing options at Roux 61 Seafood & Grill include chargrilled oysters, blackened redfish, and a baked potato topped with shrimp, oysters, lump crab, crawfish, and white wine lobster cream sauce.

Start the day with coffee and end it with cocktails at The Little Easy . Brunch highlights include chicken-and-waffles and cheddar rosemary biscuits.

Where to stay

The stately Natchez Grand Hotel & Suites offers 119 rooms within walking distance of downtown. Rates start at $139.

Dating to 1818, Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens exudes Southern elegance, with rooms available in the main house and seven outbuildings. Rates start at $238.

Be sure to designate a driver if you plan to drink alcohol.

You may also like:

• Tank Trip: What to do in Tupelo, Mississippi
• Tank Trip: Things to do in Cleveland, Mississippi

Follow us on Instagram

Follow @AAAAutoClubEnterprises   for the latest on what to see and do.

Read more articles

You'll find more of the articles you love to read at AAA Insider .

Travel offers & deals

Hot travel deals

Get the latest offers from AAA Travel’s preferred partners.

Travel with AAA

See how we can help you plan, book, and save on your next vacation.

Entertainment savings

Save big with AAA discounts on tickets to your next adventure.

Travel with confidence

Purchase travel insurance with Allianz Global Assistance.

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Mississippi (MS) » 21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Mississippi

21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Mississippi

Mississippi , know also as “The Magnolia State” and “The Hospitality State”, offers some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures and be amazed by it’s beauty. Ps: Did you know the world’s largest shrimp is on display at the Old Spanish Fort Museum in Pascagoula?

1. Windsor Ruins

The Windsor Ruins are well and truly off the beaten track, giving visitors a private window into the centuries gone by quite unlike other tourist attractions. Surrounded by natural beauty and a breath-taking scenery, it’s easy to forget the Windsor Ruin’s past of slavery, war, and disaster.

Built between 1859 and 1861 by a wealthy plantation owner, Smith Coffee Daniel II, was a four-story Greek Revival mansion overlooking the Mississippi River. Destroyed by a fire on 1890, all that remains of the grand mansion are the beautiful Greek columns and a deathly serenity—a haunting reminder of what once was.

2. Doyle Arm, Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge

The Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge is home to not only a wide variety of Mississippi’s native wildlife but some stunning natural beauty, too. As a feeding area for migratory species, the boardwalk at Doyle Arm offers some spectacular bird watching year-round—and for the more adventurous explorer, the opportunity to see Alligators in their natural habitat is something not to be missed.

Doyle Arm has something for everyone, offering breathtaking scenery, a host of animal-spotting opportunities, and room for quiet contemplation. The best time to visit is the fall when the leaves have begun to change and the water glistens an orange-brown hue.

3. Cypress Swamp

While away a few hours in the tranquility of Cypress Swamp, inside the Natchez Trace Parkway National Park. Bask in the natural beauty that you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere and take in the excitement of seeing Mississippi’s wildlife at play. Whether walking, driving, or cycling, you’ll find lots to do and see when you visit the Cypress Swamp and its surrounding area.

4. Dunn’s Falls

Dunn’s Falls, named after their creator—John Dunn, an Irish immigrant—came to be in the mid-1850s. Hidden among the rugged landscape around the Chunky River, the stream provides a natural source of power via a working water wheel, before crashing seventy feet into the river below.

Whether you are looking to take part in activities such as fishing, canoeing, and swimming, or simply wish to see the marvel of nineteenth-century engineering, this quiet landmark offers something for everyone.

5. Friendship Cemetery

Formerly known as Odd Fellows Cemetery, the Friendship Cemetery in Columbus fills visitors with conflicted emotions. While appreciating the natural beauty of this historic resting place, it’d be easy to forget that thousands of unknown soldiers, federal and confederate, are buried here—were it not for the graves that stretch as far as the eye can see.

However, many graves have been reclaimed by Mother Nature herself, with Southern Magnolias decorating otherwise grim reminders of the bloody civil war that raged on in the surrounding areas in the not too distant past; Friendship Cemetery is a real testament to the continuous beauty of the natural world.

6. Stanton Hall in Natchez

Irish immigrant and successful cotton merchant, Frederick Stanton, began the construction of his dream home in 1857. The house covered the area of a city block and was decorated with the finest marble from New York and grand mirrors imported from France. Stanton Hall has seen a vast and varied history: with its namesake dying only months after it was completed, the hall housed Union troops throughout the Civil War.

In 1894, Stanton Hall was transformed into a Ladies College and remained that way until 1938, when it was bought and restored to its former glory by the Pilgrimage Garden Club. Nowadays, daily 30-minute tours of the home are given, providing a unique insight into the history of this beautiful mansion. Whether you love architecture or history, Stanton Hall provides an excellent day out—and food lovers will delight in the nearby Carriage House Restaurant!

You’d be forgiven for thinking that New Orleans was the birthplace of Mardi Gras. However, that honor actually resides with Biloxi! Known as the “playground of the south,” Biloxi has a host of activities, landmarks, and cultures to suit all tastes. Thanks to its prime position on the Mississippi Gulf, wherever you are in Biloxi, you’re always near to beautiful coastline and pristine beaches.

With casinos and nightclubs for party-goers, mini-golf and amusement parks for children, and everything in between, it’s no wonder that Biloxi is such a popular seaside getaway!

8. Mississippi State Capitol

The third State Capitol building to be built in Jackson, Mississippi, this signature landmark was completed in 1903 and cost over one million dollars to build! After undergoing a renovation between 1979 and 1983, the Capitol building still retains its original architectural design and feel, as was the intention throughout the restoration project.

Listed on the National Register of Historical Places and located at 400 High Street, Jackson, the Mississippi State Capitol building is well worth a visit thanks to its beautiful Beaux Arts flair. It is hard to decide what is more impressive, the exterior façade, with its 180-foot dome; or the brightly lit interior with its replica liberty bell, and multitudes of scenes from US history. With free-of-charge daily tours on a daily basis, and group reservations available upon request, the Mississippi State Capitol is not to be missed!

9. Fillmore Street Chapel, Corinth

Located 90 miles or so from Memphis, the Fillmore Street Chapel is Corinth’s oldest place of worship. It was completed in 1871 and at one time served as a Presbyterian Church. From the outside, you’ll be amazed by awe-inspiring steeples and arched windows that act as mirrors reflecting Corinth’s scenery.

Currently, Fillmore Street Chapel is maintained by the First United Methodist Church and its history and landmark status make it a popular venue for weddings, baptisms, and more. Whether you’re religiously inclined or not, Fillmore Street Chapel is well worth a visit, merely to see a beautiful historical landmark that is currently making history for people every year.

10. Ship Island

Once a single island, 1969’s hurricane split the land mass in two. Located some eleven miles south of Gulfport and Biloxi are some of Mississippi’s most magnificent beaches. Accessible by a 50-minute ferry ride on which you’ll see Bottlenose Dolphins at play, Ship Island is definitely the place to be for sun seekers and marine-life lovers alike.

Ship Island offers affordable fun for families and individuals alike. Administered by the National Park Service, there’s loads to do across miles of tranquil beach and warm, gentle shoreline. If you’re a fan of history, you’ll be more than pleased to know that Ship Island played a vital role in the settlement up and down the gulf coast—its deep water anchorage providing French settlers with its name, which still stands to this day.

11. Bluff Lake, Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge

The beauty of nature and the tranquility of solitude combine at Bluff Lake to create memories that will last a lifetime. Bird watchers will appreciate the vast number of species on offer—included the endangered Red Cockaded Woodpecker. Meanwhile, fishermen will appreciate the quality of the sport available, and nature lovers will fall in love with just about everything on offer.

Visiting Bluff Lake during the fall is truly magical: the crunching of leaves underfoot as you adore the orange and yellow and brown that envelopes you into a trance-like peaceful state is something that you’ll never quite get over.

12. The Biloxi Lighthouse

Construction of the Biloxi Lighthouse was completed in 1848, making it one of the very first cast-iron lighthouses in the southern states. It is central to Biloxi’s image and has, since Katrina, become an iconic tribute to the city’s strength and resolve. Biloxi Lighthouse has a rather symbolic meaning for females in the area, thanks to its rather unique renown for having female lighthouse keepers, right up until the Coast Guard took on the lighthouse in 1939.

Despite Hurricane Katrina’s storm surge battering a third of the lighthouse’s 64-foot tall stature, it stood firm, and the City of Biloxi re-opened it for tours in 2010, after an almost half-million dollar renovation. Whether you’re visiting Biloxi for its nightlife or culture, you’ll definitely want to visit this living tribute to the city’s triumph over Katrina’s destructive force.

13. Vicksburg National Military Park

The battle of Vicksburg was pivotal to the American Civil War—it included a 47-day siege which gave way to the surrender of the city, which gave the Union complete control of the Mississippi River. Vicksburg National Military Park is run by the National Park Service in commemoration of this vital point in United States history, and to the lives of the soldiers that gave their lives throughout the campaign.

Whether you’re a history lover or not, it’s impossible not to appreciate this national treasure. Over 1,300 historical monuments and markers are within the park’s bounds, as well as the melancholic Vicksburg National Cemetery—the resting place of over 18,000 people, of which two-thirds are unidentified. Over 500,000 visitors attend this haunting tribute to the battle of Vicksburg and the soldiers that gave their lives during; whether you wish to learn more about the civil war, or just pay your respects, Vicksburg National Military Park is a prime place to do either.

14. Tishomingo State Park

Rich in history and a breath-taking sight to boot, Tishomingo State Park takes its name from Chief Tishomingo, the leader of the Chickasaw nation. Archeological surveys have indicated that Paleo-Indians were active within the Park’s boundaries as far back as 7,000 B.C—and if that’s not enough to get you interested, the natural beauty and the array of activities on offer surely will!

Dissected by the Natchez Trace Parkway, the Tishomingo State Park is a landscape of the likes you’ll only find in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains—imposing ferns scatter the ground, moss-covered boulders rise from their earthy domain, and colorful wildflowers add majesty to the harsh terrain.

15. Clark Creek Nature Area, Woodville

Totaling over 700 acres and scattered with over 50 waterfalls, some of which stand over 30-feet tall, Clark Creek is a paradise for all naturists, hikers, cyclists, and outdoors lovers in general. Though the majority of the park is made up of large beech and magnolia trees, this hardwood forest also has some of the United States’ rarest flora on offer—all of which is clearly marked, helping visitors to stay out of trouble!

Clark Creek Nature Area is a popular and beautiful state park, but do not be fooled: the terrain is tough going and it is highly recommended that you take the correct equipment!

16. Elvis Presley Birthplace Park

In 1935, few people local to Tupelo would have guessed that this area would become known as the birthplace of the King of Rock n’ Roll. Of course, Elvis Presley’s name and legacy will live on forever; and thanks to Elvis Presley Birthplace Park, so too will his birthplace.

A couple of hours from Memphis, this museum is home to the place where the future music legend was born and has various personal effects on display for guests to view. If you’re a fan of Elvis, or even if you’re not, this small but impressive monument to the birth of one of the most iconic names in musical history is well worth a visit!

17. Noxubee Refuge

Established in 1940, Noxubee Wildlife Refuge set out to repair the damage done by generations of intensive farming and grazing and provide habitat protection for species that direly needed it. This vast and beautiful refuge, covering three counties, has been a great success—it is now home to both wildlife and forests that were on the brink of destruction at the turn of the twentieth century.

The landscape will take your breath away. The selection of wildlife—both native and migratory—on offer, is as impressive as you’ll find anywhere else in Mississippi. The Noxubee Refuge sees 150,000 visitors a year, and just by looking at it, it is easy to see why!

21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Mississippi:

• Windsor Ruins
• Doyle Arm, Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge
• Cypress Swamp
• Dunn’s Falls
• Friendship Cemetery
• Stanton Hall in Natchez
• Mississippi State Capitol
• Fillmore Street Chapel, Corinth
• Ship Island
• Bluff Lake, Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge
• The Biloxi Lighthouse
• Vicksburg National Military Park
• Tishomingo State Park
• Clark Creek Nature Area, Woodville
• Elvis Presley Birthplace Park
• Noxubee Refuge