A true reflection of Southern charm, Mississippi is home to historic towns, serene river scenery, vibrant musical traditions and lush forests. Whether you’re a longtime Mississippi resident or considering a move to the Magnolia State, you may be wondering what Mississippi is known for.
From soulful blues and delicious food to historic plantations and scenic drives, Mississippi has a lot to offer. Whether you’re buying a home in Jackson, renting an apartment in Oxford, or just passing through, read on to find out why life in Mississippi is so great.
Vibrant agriculture and emerging industries
Mississippi’s economy is deeply rooted in agriculture and is known for its fertile soil and significant contributions to the agricultural sector. The state is a major producer of crops such as cotton, soybeans, and rice. Beyond agriculture, Mississippi has made great strides in diversifying its economic base with expansion into sectors such as manufacturing, aerospace, and technology.
Major cities of economic development
- Jackson: It is the state capital and a major medical, manufacturing and retail center.
- Tupelo: It is the birthplace of Elvis Presley and is known for its thriving furniture manufacturing industry.
- Gulfport-Biloxi: A coastal city famous for tourism, shipping and seafood processing.
Mississippi’s Top Employers
- Ingalls Shipbuilding
- Nissan North America
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- International Paper
- Tyson Foods
Must-visit tourist spots
Mississippi is home to a variety of attractions, from historic landmarks to natural wonders, that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history and beautiful landscape.
- Vicksburg National Military Park: The park commemorates important Civil War battles and hosts historical tours and reenactments.
- Natchez Trace Parkway: It offers 444 miles of scenic drives offering beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities.
- Elvis Presley’s Birthplace, Tupelo: Explore the humble beginnings of the King of Rock and Roll at this historic site and museum.
- Biloxi Lighthouse: An iconic symbol of resilience, towering over centuries of hurricanes.
- Mississippi Petrified Forest: A unique natural attraction where ancient logs have been transformed into stone over millions of years.
Delicious Southern Cuisine
Mississippi cuisine reflects its deep Southern roots and offers a culinary journey packed with hearty, flavorful dishes. From catfish and barbecued ribs to decadent desserts, the state’s food culture is a testament to its rich agricultural traditions and cultural influences.
Mississippi Specialties
- catfish: They are fried to perfection and are often served with hush puppies and coleslaw.
- barbecue: They are known for their slow-cooked meat dishes, especially their pulled pork and ribs.
- Tamales: This traditional dish with a Delta twist is spicy and often wrapped in corn husks.
- Pecan pie: A classic sweet made with locally grown pecan nuts.
- Biscuits and gravy: A popular breakfast dish of fluffy biscuits smothered in flavorful sausage gravy.
Must-Try Restaurants in Mississippi
Rich musical traditions and cultural influences
Mississippi is the birthplace of the blues, a genre that has influenced music around the world, and the state’s cultural landscape is vibrant and deeply rooted in literature, music and the arts.
- Mississippi Delta: Known as “The Land of the Blues,” it is home to numerous blues festivals and museums dedicated to the music.
- Grammy Museum Mississippi: Located in Cleveland, the museum celebrates the state’s contributions to its musical history.
- William Faulkner’s Rowan Oak, Oxford: Learn about the Nobel Prize-winning author’s life and work in his historic home.
- B.B. King Museum, Indianola: Dedicated to the legendary blues musician, this museum features exhibits and his personal belongings.
- Eudora Welty House, Jackson: A literary landmark showcasing the life and work of a famous author.
Prestigious educational institution
Mississippi is home to many renowned universities that provide quality education and foster innovation and research.
Top Universities in Mississippi
- University of Mississippi (Ole Miss): It is known for its beautiful campus and robust academic programs.
- Mississippi State University: Leaders in agricultural and engineering research.
- Jackson State University: A historically black college with a vibrant campus life.
- University of Southern Mississippi: It offers a wide variety of programs and has a strong research focus.
- Alcorn State University: It is one of the oldest continuously operating black land-grant universities in the nation.
Great natural resources and outdoor activities
Mississippi’s natural landscape is diverse and fascinating, ranging from rolling hills and forests to serene river valleys and Gulf Coast beaches, and the state offers numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mississippi’s Top State Parks
- Tishomingo State Park: It’s known for its rugged beauty and excellent hiking trails.
- Lefleur’s Bluff State Park: Located in Jackson, the property offers fishing, hiking and camping.
- Clarkco State Park: It has a beautiful lake, walking trails and picnic areas.
- Percy Quinn State Park: Golf courses, lakes and camping facilities are popular.
- Buccaneer State Park: With access to a water park and beach, it’s popular with beach lovers of all ages.
Fun fact: The state is home to the Mississippi River, the second longest river in the United States, which has been a vital waterway for commerce and travel for centuries.
A mecca for sports
Mississippi’s passion for sports is evident in its love of football, baseball and outdoor activities, and the state is home to college teams and recreational sports.
Professional and collegiate sports teams
- Mississippi State Bulldogs (NCAA)
- Ole Miss Rebels (NCAA)
- Southern Miss Golden Eagles (NCAA)
- Mississippi Braves (MiLB)
- Biloxi Shuckers (MiLB)
Fun fact: Mississippi State University’s baseball team, the Bulldogs, boasts a legendary history and passionate fan base, making home games some of the biggest events in the state.
Mississippi Phrases and Expressions
- “My heartfelt congratulations.” – A typically Southern expression used to show sympathy or affection.
- “everyone.” – A contraction of “you all,” often used when addressing a group.
- “Fix it.” – means to prepare or get ready for something.
- “shout out loud.” – It refers to a small valley or rural area and is often used to describe places where people live.
- “Gulf Coast.” – Refers to the Mississippi coastline, famous for its beaches and seafood.
What Mississippi is famous for
- Literary legends: Mississippi has produced such notable authors as William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, and Richard Wright.
- Cultural Festival: Events such as the Natchez Pilgrimage and the Delta Blues Festival celebrate the state’s heritage.
- Culinary impacts: Aside from its traditional cuisine, Mississippi is also known for influencing Southern cuisine with its flavors and preparation techniques.
- Historical sites: From the antebellum homes of Natchez to Civil War battlefields, Mississippi’s history is richly preserved.
- Craftsmanship: Mississippi is known for its craftsmanship, especially in furniture and pottery.
