If you’re road tripping from Memphis to New Orleans, you’ll almost certainly stop in Jackson. It’s a great stopping point while following Route 55, and a great place for a quick day trip or his overnight stay for a rest. Not only that, but Jackson has some of the best things to do throughout the city.
So, to make your Mississippi road trip fun and easy, here are some of our favorite Jackson discoveries and places worth visiting while you’re in the city.
Have a great time exploring the city and driving through Mississippi itself.
1.) Mississippi Museum of Art
Well, one of Jackson’s favorite spots has to be the Mississippi Museum of Art. Spend a few hours wandering and explore some of the state’s most treasured works of art.
Not only that, but there are also a number of special exhibitions on changing culture throughout the year.
Oh yeah, don’t forget. The museum has free admission on Thursday nights, making it an easy stop while driving around the city.
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2.) Doryo Hall (and music venue)
If you’re staying in Jackson for a night or two, be sure to keep an eye out for shows and gigs happening at the same time as your stay.
Be sure to check out these places. Durinhall, or catch your favorite bands and comedians live at the Jackson Convention Center. A great way to “feel” the area around Jackson and Fondren.
Or catch a comedy show at the Fondren Playhouse and laugh the night away. The Fondren Playhouse is a great theater that hosts a variety of comedy shows and has a show for every taste. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance.
Also, if you’re in this area of Jackson, stop by this unpretentious place. Bully – A soul food restaurant on the outskirts of Jackson. Totally Southern cuisine, the beef ribs and catfish are so delicious.
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3.) Mississippi State Capitol
Built in the early 20th century, the Mississippi State Capitol is one of the best things to do if you want to explore old buildings in Jackson.
The Mississippi State Capitol, located just off High Street, is best seen in this photo Officially guided tour (It’s completely free). Not only will you learn more about the State Capitol, but you’ll also get a sneak peek at one of the state’s most impressive buildings.
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4.) Mississippi Supreme Court
While we’re not going to take you through every government building in Jackson, there are a few that are worth seeing as you wander around the city.
Located just off Farish Street in Jackson’s historic district, the Mississippi Supreme Court is very easy to find, especially if you’ve already visited the Capitol.
Don’t get too excited. You won’t spend more than 5-10 minutes here, but it’s well worth the effort to find it as you’re looking for all of the best things to do in Jackson scattered throughout the city.
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5.) Mississippi Governor’s Mansion
Home to the state’s governors since the 1800s, the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion is one of Jackson’s must-see historical attractions.
Just off East Capitol Street, the Governor’s Mansion is worth a peek inside.Please be sure to Book a free tour The governor’s official residence itself. Tours run on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings.
If you want to explore one of Mississippi’s National Historic Landmarks, this is one of the best things to do in Jackson.
6.) Mississippi Freedom Trail
Yes, it’s not just Mississippi, but Jackson’s Freedom Trail has quite a few signs, and they’re well worth seeing as you explore the city and further afield.
Of course, you’ll be stopping at places like: Medgar and Murray Evers Home National, Greyhound Bus Station, Woolworth Sit-In marker (on Capitol Street).
To see detailed itineraries for Civil Rights Trail routes in other states, see below. These itineraries This will guide you to each marker.
Then don’t forget to check Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, too. This is a great way to learn more about the history surrounding the state and nation’s civil rights struggles and events. Top tip: It’s well worth spending a few hours exploring.
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7.) Mississippi State Fairgrounds
Visiting the Mississippi State Fair is one of the best things to do in Jackson, where there are numerous events, entertainment, and cultural events throughout the year. The Mississippi State Fair is now typically held in October and is worth experiencing if you’re in Jackson during that time.
There will be rides, food stalls, food and shows. It was at the Mississippi State Fair. Just don’t forget the cotton candy!
Looking for more sporting events? Head to Trustmark Park and cheer on the Mississippi Braves. The Mississippi Braves are a minor league baseball team. A great place to watch a professional baseball game and cheer on the home team.
8.) Eudora Welty House
The Eudora Welty House, the home of nationally known author Eudora Welty, stands proudly on Pinehurst Street to this day.
Now, if you are a bookworm, this place will definitely be one of the best things to do when you visit Jackson.
Best of all, from Tuesday through Friday, you can actually take a tour of the house and learn more about Welty and the history of her writing.there is small entrance feeBut the experience is worth it.
9.) Smith Park
Smith Park, located directly across from the Governor’s Mansion, is a relatively small and relaxing area of Jackson. Now, to give you some context, visiting Smith Park is actually not a big walk. It’s not Central Park like New York.
When you get to Jackson, be sure to check to see if there’s any live events or music happening at Smith Park. Then it’s well worth a visit. But otherwise I wouldn’t rush to Smith Park.
If that’s not your thing, take a walk or bike ride through the Greenbelt and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Jackson. The Greenbelt is a 35-mile trail that runs through the city of Jackson. Well worth it on a sunny day.
10.) Belhaven Historic District
If you want to explore Jackson’s long history, one of the best things to do is visit the Belhaven Historic District.
Of course I plan to visit Eudora Welty House (As I mentioned earlier), you can also see a lot more.
Don’t forget to stop by the Mississippi Children’s Museum’s art studio to create your own masterpiece. The Mississippi Children’s Museum’s art studio is stocked with a variety of art supplies and activities. It’s great fun for families, so it’s worth a visit if you want to entertain the kids.
Just up the road is the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum. Visiting Jackson is one of the best things to do to learn about Mississippi’s agricultural and forestry history. Trust me, it’s more impressive than you think. There are plenty of educational and fun exhibits and activities to keep the whole family occupied.
If you want delicious BBQ, come here E&L BBQ. It’s a no-frills restaurant, but the food is top-notch!
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11.) Medgar Evers Home
Located on Margaret Walker Alexander Drive. medgar evers house is a national monument worth visiting when exploring Jackson.
Now operated by the National Park Service, you can step inside the museum and learn more about the legacy and life of Medgar and Marley Evers. Their accomplishments as civil rights activists are amazing and heartbreaking to hear about.
Then, drive to Meiner Gardens, home to one of the state’s best botanical gardens. A great place to relax and spend some time before leaving Jackson.
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