12 Scenic Destinations in Mississippi You Need to See

Mississippi grabbed me in a way I never expected. The moment I cruised down the Natchez Trace with those massive oak trees draping over the road and Spanish moss swaying in the breeze, I knew this state was something special. And when I finally stood on the bluffs above the Mississippi River in Natchez, watching the sun paint the water gold, I understood why they call these some of the most beautiful places in Mississippi to visit.

Look, this isn’t a state that shows off—it pulls you in slowly with its charm, history, and incredible food. After road tripping through small towns and stopping at more front porch restaurants than I can count, I’ve gathered my favorite spots that showcase what makes Mississippi truly unforgettable. Trust me, you’re in for a treat.

Scenic Destinations to See in Mississippi

Looking to explore Mississippi’s most beautiful places? From the serene waters of the Mississippi River to the lush landscapes of the Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll the historic streets of Vicksburg, hike the trails of Tishomingo State Park, or drive the scenic Natchez Trace. Explore the vibrant culture of Jackson, the charming beauty of Oxford, or the coastal allure of Biloxi. Whether you’re into forests, rivers, or historic towns, here are 12 of Mississippi’s most breathtaking spots!

1. Elvis Presley Lake

• 📍 Location: Northeast Mississippi, about 10 miles north of Tupelo, Elvis Presley’s birthplace
• 🏆 Best For: Fishing enthusiasts 🎣, boaters 🚤, outdoor families 🏕️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Fishing for bass and crappie, picnicking along shorelines, hiking nature trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for comfortable temperatures, summer for water activities 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Comfort Inn Tupelo – Modern accommodations just 15 minutes from the lake with complimentary breakfast and outdoor pool

Escape the career grind at Elvis Presley Lake, where 33 acres of peaceful waters offer the perfect weekend reset. This pristine reservoir boasts excellent fishing with healthy populations of largemouth bass and crappie. Well-maintained bank fishing areas, a convenient boat ramp, and multiple piers accommodate anglers of all skill levels. Beyond fishing, scenic hiking trails wind through native woodlands with beautiful lake vistas. I couldn’t believe how many wildlife species appeared during my quiet morning hike!

The picnic areas with covered pavilions make this spot perfect for family gatherings. Located minutes from Elvis’s birthplace in Tupelo, the lake creates an ideal pairing with a music heritage tour. The peaceful waters represent a quieter side of Mississippi that even the King himself would appreciate.

2. Mississippi River

• 📍 Location: Forms Mississippi’s entire western border, with major access points at Vicksburg, Natchez, and Greenville
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, riverboat enthusiasts 🚢, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riverboat cruises, visiting historic river towns, watching spectacular sunsets over the water
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November for mild weather and lower humidity 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Natchez Grand Hotel – Elegant accommodations with panoramic river views

Feel the powerful pulse of America’s most legendary waterway along the mighty Mississippi River. This iconic river stretches along Mississippi’s entire western border. It reveals itself most dramatically at Vicksburg and Natchez, where bluffs provide commanding views. Take a sunset riverboat cruise to experience the timeless rhythm of river life. The Great River Road connects historic river towns, each telling unique stories. Once I watched the sunset from a Natchez bluff, I understood why this view has captivated visitors for centuries.

The Mississippi River Parkway offers countless scenic overlooks for contemplation. Learn about the river’s crucial Civil War role at Vicksburg National Military Park. Explore antebellum homes in Natchez showcasing wealth generated by river commerce. Each town provides its own perspective on this natural wonder.

3. Biloxi

• 📍 Location: Mississippi Gulf Coast, about 90 minutes east of New Orleans and 2 hours south of Hattiesburg
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, casino gamers 🎰, seafood enthusiasts 🦐
• 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on white sand beaches, trying your luck at casinos, visiting the Biloxi Lighthouse
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring and early fall for perfect beach weather without summer crowds 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Beau Rivage Resort & Casino – Luxury accommodation with Gulf views and entertainment

Vegas meets beach paradise at Biloxi, the crown jewel of Mississippi’s 62-mile Gulf Coast. This coastal playground blends sugar-white beaches with exciting entertainment and Southern hospitality. The 26-mile stretch of artificial beach offers some of the softest sand on the Gulf. Perfect for sunbathing or watching shrimp boats on the horizon. The historic Biloxi Lighthouse stands as both the city’s symbol and a testament to its endurance since 1848. My favorite evening activity combines fresh seafood followed by trying my luck at one of the waterfront casinos.

Beyond the beach, the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum explains the Gulf Coast’s fishing heritage. Take a shrimping trip to experience firsthand how the Gulf’s famous seafood reaches your plate. Biloxi offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

4. Natchez

• 📍 Location: Southwest Mississippi on the Mississippi River, about 90 minutes southwest of Jackson
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, architecture admirers 🏠, romantic getaways 💑
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring antebellum mansions, walking the historic downtown, enjoying river views from the bluff
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-April during Spring Pilgrimage for home tours, October for fall foliage and pleasant weather 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Monmouth Historic Inn – Elegant 1818 antebellum mansion converted to a luxury hotel

Travel back in time without leaving modern comforts in Natchez, America’s best-preserved jewel of antebellum splendor. Over 1,000 structures here appear on the National Register of Historic Places. The city perches dramatically on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. Its crown jewels are magnificent mansions like Longwood, Stanton Hall, and Rosalie. Each tells stories of wealth and architectural innovation. The twice-yearly Natchez Pilgrimage opens many private historic homes to visitors.

I still dream about the sunset views from the dramatic bluff overlooking the mighty Mississippi. Beyond mansions, stroll oak-lined streets and visit Natchez Under-the-Hill, once a notorious river port. For complete historical understanding, visit Forks of the Road, once the South’s second-largest slave market, now a sobering historical site.

5. Gulfport

• 📍 Location: Mississippi Gulf Coast, about 1 hour east of New Orleans and 1 hour west of Mobile
• 🏆 Best For: Family vacationers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, marine life enthusiasts 🐬, outdoor adventurers 🏄‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Gulf Islands Water Park, exploring Ship Island, touring the Mississippi Aquarium
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-May and September-October for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Courtyard by Marriott Gulfport Beachfront – Modern accommodations with direct beach access

Work-weary parents rejoice at Gulfport, Mississippi’s second-largest city and perfect family getaway on the sparkling Gulf of Mexico. The impressive Mississippi Aquarium showcases diverse Gulf ecosystems through immersive exhibits and daily dolphin shows. For pristine beaches, catch the ferry to Ship Island, part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, where historic Fort Massachusetts awaits exploration. When I visited with my family, the kids couldn’t decide between beach time and aquarium animals!

Families love Gulf Islands Waterpark for cooling off during summer months. The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, Mississippi’s first children’s museum, offers educational fun. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak through bayous at the Pascagoula River Audubon Center. Anglers appreciate access to the world’s largest artificial reef system just offshore.

6. Tishomingo State Park

• 📍 Location: Northeast Mississippi in the foothills of the Appalachians, about 45 minutes north of Tupelo
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, rock climbers 🧗‍♀️, archaeology enthusiasts 🏺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Bear Creek Canyon, rock climbing on natural sandstone outcroppings, fishing in Haynes Lake
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late March through May for spring wildflowers, October for fall foliage 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Tishomingo State Park Cabins – Rustic stone cabins built by the CCC in the 1930s

Adventure seekers will be shocked to discover Mississippi’s hidden mountain paradise at Tishomingo State Park. This 1,530-acre natural wonder showcases massive rock formations and rugged terrain unlike anywhere else in the state. Named for the famous Chickasaw Chief Tishomingo, this unique geological area represents the southernmost foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The park’s highlight is stunning Bear Creek Canyon with towering sandstone cliffs and massive boulders. I spent hours mesmerized by the play of light on ancient rock formations while hiking the canyon trails.

The CCC-built swinging bridge offers dramatic views and trail access. Archaeological sites throughout reveal evidence of human habitation dating back 9,000 years. Modern visitors enjoy rock climbing, fishing in Haynes Lake, and paddling scenic Bear Creek.

7. Gulf Islands National Seashore

• 📍 Location: Spans the Gulf Coast across Florida and Mississippi, with portions about 30 minutes from Pensacola, FL and Biloxi, MS
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, wildlife enthusiasts 🐢, history buffs 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring pristine white sand beaches, touring historic forts, snorkeling in crystal clear waters
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Fall (September-November) for perfect temperatures and fewer crowds, spring for bird migrations 🦅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fort Pickens Campground – Beachfront camping surrounded by history and nature

Need an escape from endless emails and Zoom meetings? Gulf Islands National Seashore has with squeaky-clean white sand beaches and emerald waters that instantly reset your stress levels. This coastal gem protects barrier islands across two states, creating perfect weekend getaways.

The historic Fort Pickens tells stories of coastal defense through massive brick structures that have withstood hurricanes for over 150 years. Wildlife thrives here, with sea turtles nesting along protected shorelines. I found paddling through calm waters at sunset to be almost meditative after seeing dolphins play in the surf.

Multi-use trails and boardwalks connect different beach sections, making it easy to find your own private stretch of paradise. Pack sunscreen and a cooler, and leave your work phone behind for a true digital detox on America’s most beautiful shores.

8. Greenville Cypress Preserve

• 📍 Location: Greenville, Mississippi, along the Mississippi River Delta
• 🏆 Best For: Birdwatchers 🦉, nature photographers 📸, tranquility seekers 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the cypress-lined boardwalks, spotting migratory birds, capturing sunrise reflections on the water
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers and bird migrations, fall for stunning cypress colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hampton Inn Greenville – Modern rooms and amenities with easy access to the cypress preserve

Tired of scrolling through Instagram nature photos? Greenville Cypress Preserve puts you inside the frame with ancient cypress trees rising from mirror-like waters. This hidden gem offers the perfect backdrop for your own social media envy-inducing shots.

The network of elevated boardwalks takes you deep into the swamp without muddy shoes. Early mornings bring a symphony of birdsong as herons and egrets hunt breakfast among moss-draped trees. My camera barely captured the magical light filtering through the cypress canopy at dawn.

This compact preserve packs an immersive natural experience that feels worlds away from ordinary life. Visit midweek to practically have the entire boardwalk system to yourself. The preserve provides a perfect half-day excursion before exploring Greenville’s surprisingly vibrant food scene nearby.

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9. Vicksburg

• 📍 Location: Western Mississippi, perched on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River
• 🏆 Best For: Civil War enthusiasts 🏛️, riverboat fans 🚢, architecture lovers 🏠
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Vicksburg National Military Park, exploring historic downtown, watching sunset over the Mississippi River
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) for pleasant temperatures and blooming azaleas, fall for comfortable touring weather 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Anchuca Historic Mansion – Authentic antebellum experience in a beautifully preserved home

History buffs with mortgage payments will geek out at Vicksburg. This isn’t just another river town but a living museum where pivotal American history unfolded. The crown jewel, Vicksburg National Military Park, features over 1,400 monuments and cannons across rolling terrain.

Downtown offers remarkably preserved antebellum homes available for tours. Stroll brick-paved streets to discover colorful murals depicting city history along the riverfront. The massive wrought iron balconies reminded me of New Orleans without the crushing crowds.

Don’t miss the Old Court House Museum or the fascinating USS Cairo Museum, featuring a recovered Civil War ironclad gunboat. Excellent Southern cuisine awaits throughout downtown. Vicksburg perfectly combines history, architecture, and Mississippi River charm for an ideal adult weekend getaway.

10. Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge

• 📍 Location: Eastern Mississippi, about 20 minutes south of Starkville and Mississippi State University
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife photographers 📸, birdwatchers 🦅, peaceful paddlers 🛶
• 📸 Top Experiences: Spotting alligators in Bluff Lake, watching for bald eagles, hiking through pine forests
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early spring for wildflowers and bird migrations, fall for comfortable temperatures and wildlife activity 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Montgomery B&B – Charming lodging in nearby Louisville with easy refuge access

Ever wondered where to escape when your kids finally have their own weekend plans? Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge offers 48,000 acres of protected wilderness that has outdoor therapy without extreme hiking. The refuge surrounds three main lakes flanked by cypress swamps and pine forests.

Bluff Lake features an accessible boardwalk that takes you directly over alligator territory. Look for their bumpy snouts breaking the water’s surface. The observation platform practically guarantees wildlife sightings, from graceful herons to busy beaver families.

Kayaking these tranquil waters feels like floating through a National Geographic documentary. Well-maintained trails wind through diverse ecosystems with minimal elevation gain. Bring binoculars, as the refuge hosts Mississippi’s largest concentration of bird species, including endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers.

11. Red Bluff

• 📍 Location: Southern Mississippi, about 45 minutes west of Hattiesburg near the town of Foxworth
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, geology enthusiasts 🧠, adventure seekers 🧗‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Capturing the dramatic red clay cliffs, hiking along the canyon rim, witnessing erosion in action
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Fall for vivid contrasts between red cliffs and changing foliage, spring after rain for vibrant colors 🌈
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbia – Located approximately 10 miles from Red Bluff, this hotel offers modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to local attractions

Looking for Instagram gold without Western travel costs? Red Bluff, nicknamed “Mississippi’s Little Grand Canyon,” has shocking terrain in a state known for flatness. These dramatic 400-foot-deep canyons carved through vibrant red clay soil create photos your followers won’t believe were taken in Mississippi.

The bluff’s colors range from brick red to bright orange and white. Golden hour transforms these geological formations into something from Mars. You’ll want waterproof hiking boots as the terrain gets slippery after rain.

No official trails exist, but visitors can carefully explore the rim for increasingly impressive vistas. The raw beauty offers a refreshingly uncommercial experience. I spent hours photographing the constantly changing light on the clay formations. Come early to avoid the handful of other visitors at this relatively unknown natural wonder.

12. Windsor Ruins

• 📍 Location: Southwest Mississippi, about 30 minutes west of Port Gibson and 1.5 hours southwest of Jackson
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, photographers 📸, Southern Gothic fans 📖
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking among towering columns, imagining antebellum grandeur, capturing haunting sunset photos
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for dramatic lighting on the columns, spring for comfortable temperatures 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Isabella B&B – Historic lodging in nearby Port Gibson with period furnishings

Seeking the perfect moody backdrop for your podcast profile pic? Windsor Ruins has Southern Gothic vibes with 23 massive Corinthian columns reaching skyward. These silent sentinels are all that remain of what was once the South’s largest antebellum mansion.

Built in 1861, the palatial Windsor mansion survived the Civil War only to burn in 1890. The columns stand 45 feet tall, with decorative ironwork creating perfect photography frames against oak trees and sky. The remote location adds mystique with minimal development.

A short interpretive trail provides context about the Smith family, whose grand home hosted Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Visit at sunset when shadows stretch dramatically between columns. Combine your trip with nearby historic Port Gibson, which Grant famously declared “too beautiful to burn” during his Civil War campaign.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Mississippi

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in Mississippi? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Mississippi attractions and activities.

What is the nicest town in Mississippi?

Based on its reputation for well-preserved antebellum architecture, scenic views of the Mississippi River, and the natural beauty offered by the Natchez Trace Parkway, Natchez is one of the nicest towns in Mississippi. It offers a blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and Southern hospitality that many find appealing.

What are the prettiest towns in Mississippi?

Mississippi is home to several picturesque towns that exude southern charm. Natchez, with its antebellum homes and historic streets, Ocean Springs for its artsy vibe and coastal beauty, and Oxford with its literary heritage and vibrant town square, are often cited as some of the prettiest towns in the state.

What is the best time to visit the Gulf Islands National Seashore?

The ideal time to visit the Gulf Islands National Seashore is during the spring and fall months. This is when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer.

Are there guided tours available at the Vicksburg National Military Park?

Yes, guided tours are available, offering insights into the park’s historical significance and the Civil War’s impact on the region.

Where is the prettiest place in Mississippi?

Here are some of the nicest places to visit in Mississippi that offer scenic beauty:

Natchez

• Why It’s Considered Pretty: Known for its well-preserved antebellum architecture, Natchez is a city that transports you back in time. The Mississippi River serves as a beautiful backdrop.
• What Makes It Special: The Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic road that runs through the area, offers stunning views. This is especially true during the fall.

Oxford

• Why It’s Considered Pretty: Home to the University of Mississippi. Oxford is often considered one of the most charming college towns in the South.
• What Makes It Special: The city’s Square is a hub of activity, lined with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, and the surrounding countryside offers natural beauty.

Gulf Islands National Seashore

• Why It’s Considered Pretty: This stretch of barrier islands offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and a variety of wildlife.
• What Makes It Special: It’s a haven for outdoor activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and bird-watching.

Tishomingo State Park

• Why It’s Considered Pretty: Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the park is known for its unique rock formations, fern-filled crevices, and scenic waterways.
• What Makes It Special: The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and fishing.

Vicksburg

• Why It’s Considered Pretty: Known for the Vicksburg National Military Park, the city is rich in Civil War history. It offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River.
• What Makes It Special: The military park is a historical site that offers scenic vistas and walking trails.

The Delta

• Why It’s Considered Pretty: The Mississippi Delta is known for its rich musical history, particularly the blues. It’s also renowned for its flat, expansive landscapes can have a stark beauty.
• What Makes It Special: The area is dotted with small towns that offer a glimpse into the soul of the South. Delta’s sunsets are legendary.

How accessible is Red Bluff for visitors?

Red Bluff is easily accessible by car, and there are designated viewing areas. However, visitors are advised to exercise caution near the edges and stick to marked trails.

Can you camp at the Elvis Presley Lake?

Yes, the lake offers a serene campground on its east shore, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Is the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge open year-round?

The refuge is open throughout the year, but certain areas might be restricted during specific seasons to protect the local wildlife.

Is it worth visiting Mississippi?

Yes, visiting Mississippi is worth it for a variety of reasons, depending on your interests. Here are some compelling reasons to consider:

• Historical Significance: Mississippi is rich in history. This includes everything from Civil War sites like Vicksburg National Military Park to landmarks of the Civil Rights Movement.
• Cultural Heritage: The state is a mecca for music lovers, particularly those interested in the blues. The Mississippi Delta is often called “The Birthplace of the Blues.”
• Natural Beauty: Places like the Gulf Islands National Seashore offer pristine beaches. State parks like Tishomingo offer hiking and outdoor activities in a scenic setting.
• Southern Hospitality: The state is known for its warm and welcoming people, making for a pleasant travel experience.
• Culinary Delights: Mississippi offers a range of Southern cuisine, from soul food to seafood, that foodies will appreciate.
• Affordability: Compared to other U.S. destinations, Mississippi is relatively affordable, making it a good option for budget travelers.
• Unique Towns: Towns like Natchez and Oxford offer a blend of historical architecture, cultural events, and local charm that are worth exploring.
• Educational Value: The state’s rich history and cultural contributions make it an educational destination for those interested in American history.

Why are the Windsor Ruins significant?

The Windsor Ruins are remnants of a grand antebellum mansion, representing the architectural and cultural heritage of 19th-century Mississippi.

Where is the clearest water in Mississippi?

The clearest water in Mississippi is generally found along the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Specifically, you will find it around the barrier islands like Ship Island, Horn Island, and Petit Bois Island. These islands are part of a protected national seashore and are accessible by boat. The waters here are clearer and often more pristine than those closer to the mainland because they are farther from sources of pollution and sediment.

Gulf Islands National Seashore

• Why It’s Known for Clear Water: The barrier islands act as a natural filter, resulting in clearer and cleaner water. The Gulf Stream also contributes to the water’s clarity.
• What Makes It Special: In addition to clear water, these islands offer white sandy beaches and are excellent for activities like snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing.

If you’re looking for clear water within the state, this area along the Gulf of Mexico is your best bet. It’s a popular destination for those interested in water activities and offers some of the most beautiful natural settings in Mississippi.

Are there any special events or festivals in Biloxi that visitors should be aware of?

Biloxi hosts various events throughout the year, including seafood festivals, arts and crafts fairs, and music concerts. It’s advisable to check the city’s event calendar before planning a visit.