Mississippi

Best time to visit Mississippi

The best time to visit Mississippi depends on what you're looking for in your trip.

The best weather can be found in spring (March-May) with mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Plus numerous festivals and events take place, including the Mississippi Blues Festival and the Mississippi Craft Beer Festival.

Autumn (October-November) also has pleasant weather with slightly cooler temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the state's natural beauty. You can also enjoy the Mississippi Book Festival and the Mississippi State Fair during autumn.

If you're looking for a cheaper option consider visiting during summer (June-August) to find lower prices on flights and accommodations. However, be prepared for hot and humid weather and potential hurricanes.

Similarly in winter (December-February) you can enjoy lower crowds and potentially cheaper rates, but expect cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Mississippi depends on your personal preferences and priorities.

Discover Mississippi

Mississippi is the birthplace of the blues, and no visit is complete without immersing yourself in its soulful sounds. Walk the legendary streets of Clarksdale, where the Delta blues came alive, or explore the Mississippi Blues Trail—an iconic route that traces the roots of this genre’s greatest legends. From Tupelo, the birthplace of Elvis Presley, the Grammy Museum in Cleveland and B.B. King’s birthplace, every note played in this state echoes its passion and history.

The state’s charming cities are steeped in history, and all offer their own unique charm – the state capital Jackson is a vibrant metropolis that blends modern attractions with a deep Southern legacy. Visit picturesque and historic Natchez homes to beautiful historic mansions with tree-lined streets or learn about civil war history at the National Military Park in the riverfront town of Vicksburg.

Beyond its blues history and the friendly towns and cities, Mississippi’s natural beauty is waiting to be explored. From the rolling hills of the north to the lush forests and serene bayous, this state offers endless opportunities to connect with nature. Hike through the Natchez Trace Parkway, paddle down the Pearl River, or simply unwind on the sandy beaches of the Gulf Coast. Whether you're looking for outdoor thrills or tranquil moments in nature, Mississippi's diverse landscapes offer it all.

Highlights of Mississippi

What is Mississippi famous for?

• Tupelo
• Natchez
• Vicksburg
• Jackson
• Mississippi’s Gulf Coast

Swipe left or right to learn more about each destination.

Tupelo

One of Mississippi’s many claims to fame is that it was the birthplace of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, who was born on the 8th January 1935 in Tupelo, northeast Mississippi. At Elvis Presley’s Birthplace, visit his family’s two-room shotgun house and the church where he sang his first song. There are also various statues of Elvis throughout the years and a museum that shows a video of Elvis’ life. Visit Johnnie’s Drive-In and sit in the booth that Elvis frequently hanged out in and the Tupelo Hardware Store where Elvis’ Mum, Gladys, bought Elvis his first guitar.

Natchez

Natchez is the oldest permanent settlement on the Mississippi River and lies at the southern end of the Natchez Trace Parkway. It boasts the biggest and most impressive collection of historic architecture in the USA with over 1000 antebellum structures. Many of the mansions date back over 300 years and are open for guests to tour. Popular houses to visit include Longwood, the largest octagonal house in the USA and the beautiful Greek rival architecture at Stanton Hall.

Vicksburg

A popular port of call when cruising the Mississippi River from Memphis to New Orleans, the historic riverside town of Vicksburg boasts many attractions including its colourful riverfront murals and the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum which was the first place to bottle Coca-Cola. For southern cuisine and spectacular sunset views head to 10 South Rooftop Bar and Grill. The National Military Park is a major sight to visit where the 47-day siege and battle by General Ulysses Grant took place that ended in the surrender of the city. Drive the 16-mile trail inside the park past historic markers explaining key events and battle scenarios.

Jackson

Mississippi’s capital city is packed full of soul, culture, civil rights history and great music and food. The state-wide Mississippi Freedom Trail runs through the city and encompasses several significant civil right sites including the grand State Capitol building. If you’re interested in civil rights, make sure to visit the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and Museum of Mississippi History, two interconnected museums that tell the state’s rich and complex history.

Mississippi's Gulf Coast

Set on 62 miles of idyllic coastline overlooking the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, this tranquil setting is the perfect way to end your trip in Mississippi. Home to three vibrant cities Biloxi, Gulfport, and Ocean Springs. Biloxi is known for its historic sites like the Biloxi Lighthouse and its iconic casinos. Gulfport has countless outdoor activities including boating and paddleboarding, whilst Ocean Springs is a charming small town with a bohemian flair. The beautiful coastline is home to incredible natural beauty, with stunning barrier islands that you can sail to, plus fishing and bird spotting excursions. Back on land the area is home to championship golf courses and a huge variety of tasty cuisine from beach seafood to fine dining and fusion cuisine.