Features: Jackson

As the largest city in the state, Jackson is an ideal place to sample a wide variety of Mississippi’s unique culture. This historical center of business and government is also a cosmopolitan city with so much to see and do for visitors of all ages.

Jackson has two State Capitol buildings—the “old” and the “new.” Tour the new Capitol for an interesting look into Mississippi’s history. Also, make plans to tour the home of Civil Rights leader Medgar Evers. The home and garden of Jackson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Eudora Welty, is now a literary house museum and is available for tours.

Tour the Governor’s Mansion for an up-close look at the second-oldest continuously occupied residence of a governor in the United States. First occupied in 1842, the Mississippi Governor's Mansion was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975, making it at that time one of only two state gubernatorial residences to receive this honor. The magnificent structure is one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the United States. If you visit during December, you can enjoy the holiday décor.

As Mississippi’s largest art museum, the Mississippi Museum of Art is home to some very extraordinary works of art. With some of the best local and regional art combined with national exhibits, there’s always something engaging and entertaining to be seen here.

Don’t miss a stop at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry/National Agricultural Aviation Museum for an interesting look at how agriculture and forestry shaped the history of the state. Lots of exhibits and displays make this a fun place for children, too. While you’re there, you can also discover a wealth of handmade crafts at the Chimneyville Crafts Gallery, which serves as the sales center for the Mississippi Craftsmens Guild.

For the shopper in your family, they’ll love Highland Village—an upscale, open-air shopping area filled with lots of specialty shops, restaurants and gardens. The eclectic Fondren District in Jackson is home to clothing boutiques, art galleries and antique shops among other cool and interesting stores. Be sure to spend time walking around this fun area of the city.

While you’re in the metro Jackson area, you can enjoy a variety of restaurants from fine dining at local favorites such as Nick’s, Walker’s, Shapley’s and Char to authentic Southern cooking at places like Two Sisters Kitchen or Primos Café.

With the Mississippi Opera, the Jackson Symphony Orchestra, many equestrian events as well as festivals celebrating arts and crafts, food and music, there’s always something happening in Jackson no matter what time of the year you choose to visit. Start planning your trip to Jackson today!