You searched for vicksburg - Just Short of Crazy https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/ Travel, food and life in the midwest (and beyond) Wed, 14 Feb 2024 03:16:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/wp-content/uploads/favicon-1-96x96.png You searched for vicksburg - Just Short of Crazy https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/ 32 32 6 Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in Mississippi https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/mississippi-romantic-getaways/ Tue, 16 Jan 2024 23:30:00 +0000 https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/?p=44800 When you truly want to get away from it all, relax, unwind and reconnect, Mississippi offers one-of-a-kind romantic getaways for all couples.

For Valentine’s Day to Anniversaries and Birthdays or Just Because, Mississippi really does have it all. Find more Mississippi travel ideas here.

The ideas shared here are perfect for the active adventurers to the relaxation revelers. For those looking for small towns, live music, fine dining, and historic sites. There are a number of great places for the perfect romantic getaway.

We’ve included a historic mansion, my favorite place along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, a romantic cabin, and unique hotels (Fern Hollow, I’m looking at you). What you won’t find is recommendations for generica hotels, we’re sharing the best places that we’d stay at again and again.

Romantic Getaways in Mississippi

Duff Green Mansion 8

For the History Buffs

Duff Green Mansion – Vicksburg – Available on Booking.com

All the southern charm in the heart of the city. The mansion, built in 1856, invites guests to relax and enjoy being surrounded by numerous historical sites.

Located in Vicksburg, famous for its siege and home to the beautiful Vicksburg National Military Park, there is so much to see and experience in this historic city.

With this getaway you’ll experience exceptional food, history and fun while staying at a hotel that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Also, for legit haunted house lovers be sure to check out McRaven Home, Mississippi’s Most Haunted House.

mokara spa

For the Spa Sophisticates

The Alluvian – Greenwood – Available on Expedia.com

Located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, the Alluvian Hotel and Spa provides the ultimate romantic escape complete with luxury rooms and an air of romance. The Alluvian has an award-winning restaurant in-house serving up classic

Southern fare, while across the street guests will find the 7,000-square-foot luxury spa offering a complete menu of treatments.

Couples can enjoy cooking classes, or a full culinary weekend, at the Viking Cooking School, also located directly across the street from the Alluvian hotel in the charming town of Greenwood.

The Roost Ocean Springs

For the Beach Bums

The Roost Hotel – Ocean Springs – Available on Expedia.com

The Roost is a boutique hotel located in the picturesque coastal town of Ocean Springs. A beautifully restored historic building,

The Roost is walking distance from both serene sunsets at the Gulf of Mexico and delightful downtown restaurants offering the best of coastal cuisine.

If you’d like to indulge in a luxurious spa visit during your weekend getaway, head over to the spa at Beau Rivage Resort a quick minutes away.

Come Roost for a weekend retreat or a week long getaway.  You and your special someone will find yourselves charmed by all this laid-back beach community has to offer.

Chester Hotel room
(c) Chester Hotel

For the Retro Romantics

Hotel Chester – Starkville – Available on Expedia.

Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Starkville, Hotel Chester was built in 1925 as a full service hotel.

Not only has the historic hotel been lovingly restored, but the hotel’s unique Beer Garden was given a facelift in 2013 by world-renowned chef Gordan Ramsay during season 2 of his program, Hotel Hell.

Stroll the streets of this quaint college town and peruse the local boutiques, like CuRio candle shop, and delectable dining spots ranging from backyard BBQ at Little Dooey’s to white tablecloth dining at Restaurant Tyler.

Make your way to Starkville and share a craft beer or a delectable biscuit from The Biscuit Shop with the one you love.

Tishomingo State Park
(c) Tishomingo State Park

For the Adventurists

Tishomingo State Park  – Book your stay at the Fern Hollow Treehouse located nearby.

For the outdoorsy types, Tishomingo State Park offers some of the state’s best hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and even rock climbing.

This breathtaking state park has six rustic cabins and one cottage available for rental, making it the ultimate retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.

Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains approximately 45 miles from Tupelo, Tishomingo State Park is steeped in history and scenic beauty.

The famous Natchez Trace Parkway, the premier highway of the early 1800s and a modern scenic parkway, runs directly through the park.

Discover the same timeless natural beauty that enchanted Indians and explorers centuries ago and treat your one and only to the great outdoors of Tishomingo.

shack up inn in Clarksdale
(c) ShackUpInn

For the Blues Lovers

Shack Up Inn – Clarksdale

Head over to Clarksdale where there is blues music and live entertainment every night of the week and is one reason this Mississippi Delta town is a great place for every blues fan.

And the perfect place to stay during a visit is none other than the Shack Up Inn.

Complete with tin corrugated tin roofs and cypress wall it’s an authentic Delta stay.

Located minutes from the legendary Crossroads, Hambone Art Gallery, Delta Blues Museum, Cat Head Delta Blues and many other blues music venues.

By the way, it’s really hard for me to pick a favorite out of this list, but if you forced an answer for my favorite romantic getaways in Mississippi I’d go with The Roost in Ocean Springs.

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]]> Things To Do In Vicksburg, Mississippi https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/things-to-do-in-vicksburg/ Wed, 12 Jul 2023 19:00:11 +0000 https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/?p=44587 Just one weekend in Vicksburg is barely enough time to soak up all that this historic city has to offer. But I did my best to make the most of the time we had. And what a time we had!

Here’s some of my favorite things to do in Vicksburg.

Welcome to Vicksburg Mural

WHERE TO STAY IN VICKSBURG, MS

To kick off the weekend, I found the perfect place to stay: The Duff Green Mansion. This Civil War era mansion is the ideal setting for a weekend full of hauntings and history.

My room, The Dixie Room, is also the home of the lost soul of a Confederate soldier who is said to rock the night away next to the fireplace.

Unfortunately, he did not make himself known during my stay.

Duff Green Mansion 8

But everything else about this Bed & Breakfast suited me just right.

A three-course breakfast is served every morning, followed by a complimentary tour of the mansion.

During the tour, I learned all about the couple who built the mansion and how it became a designated hospital for both Union and Confederate soldiers during the Civil War.

The Duff Green is ripe for paranormal activity, and I thoroughly enjoyed searching it out during our stay!

Book your stay at Duff Green or nearby hotel here.

Vicksburg Foods Vicksburg Foods

WHERE TO EAT IN VICKSBURG, MS

Vicksburg has no shortage of fantastic places to dine. Everywhere we ate graced us with the southern flair both in hospitality and in cuisine that I’ve come to expect. 

Cottonwood Public House is where you go for pizza and beer. Or buffalo wings and a cocktail.

The Walnut Hills Restaurant is a staple in the area, known for its “World Famous Southern Plantation Cuisine.”

Anchuca Historic Mansion and Inn offers gourmet southern dishes in a casual yet elegant style. The tender, juicy steak is a favorite among the guests at Cafe Anchuca.

Vicksburg Cake

The Main Street Market Cafe prides itself in using local and seasonal ingredients. Everything is made from scratch, including Betty’s legendary biscuits.

10 South Rooftop Bar & Grill is exactly what it sounds like: a rooftop grill with a full bar and an incredible view of the Mississippi River.

Vicksburg Street

THINGS TO DO IN VICKSBURG, MS

The historical significance of Vicksburg, Mississippi allows for plenty of paranormal activity. In my short weekend stay, I chased down as much of that activity as possible.

I also managed to stop into some other fascinating places that were well worth my time.

Haunted Vicksburg Ghost Tour 8

HAUNTED VICKSBURG GHOST TOUR

The Haunted Vicksburg Ghost Tour is a leisurely stroll through Vicksburg’s oldest and most haunted neighborhood.

Haunted tours are offered on Friday, Saturday, & Sunday nights at 7 and 8:30pm. Tickets are $25  and kids under 5 they are free. The neighborhood is full of beautiful homes, gardens, and churches, but it was the restless spirits we were focused on during this tour!

Front of McRaven House

MCRAVEN HOUSE

The McRaven Tour Home is considered the “Most Haunted House in Mississippi,” as well as the “Time Capsule of the South.” McRaven offers 3 different tours: Historic, Haunted, and a Combination tour.

military park

VICKSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK

Home to Vicksburg National Military Park, this is the 2nd largest military park in the United States. During the civil war, both sides agreed that wining Vicksburg was vital to winning the war.

One of the largest Civil War battles was fought on this land.

Today you can walk, bike or drive the park, visit the monuments erected by states to honor their fallen and learn about the turning point of the war. 

vicksburg military park

For a more in-depth experience hire tour guide, Morgan (the same Morgan that leads the Haunted Vicksburg Ghost Tours) . He’ll make multiple stops throughout the park and share stories about the historical significance of each stop.

If you plan on visiting the park a guided tour is definitely the way to go for a fully 

VICKSBURG CEMETERIES

Vicksburg National Cemetery has 116 acres that hold the remains of more Civil War Union soldiers than any other cemetery in the nation.

17,000 Union soldiers have been laid to rest here, more than half of which have nothing more than a number on their grave marker.

Vicksburg Union Cemetery

The Cedar Hill Cemetery is where Confederate soldiers of the Civil War were buried. It is known as “Soldier’s Rest,” and is one of the oldest and largest cemeteries still in use in the United States.

Douglas the Camel

DOUGLAS THE CAMEL TOMBSTONE

Within Cedar Hill Cemetery, a headstone pays homage to a special kind of Confederate soldier named Old Douglas. He was a beloved camel of the 43rd Mississippi Infantry, Company A, known as “The Camel Regiment.”

He was a one hump camel who carried whatever his regiment needed him to. He paid the ultimate price on June 27th, 1863 when he wandered too far from his post and was shot down by a sharpshooter.

Legend has it, he continued to help his fellow soldiers by being a source of much-needed sustenance.

Old Courthouse Museum

OLD COURT HOUSE MUSEUM

The Old Court House Museum in Vicksburg holds thousands of artifacts. You’ll find the Confederate flag that was never surrendered, an original Teddy Bear given to a local child by Teddy Roosevelt himself, and so much more.

old court house museum vicksburg
Is the Old Court House Museum haunted? What do you make of this reflection?

The courthouse is one of the most historic structures in Vicksburg, and it has hosted Ulysses S. Grant, Booker T. Washington, and other household historical names.

Coke Museum

BIEDENHARN COCA-COLA MUSEUM

Anyone who has ever enjoyed a refreshing Coke will appreciate the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum. The very first Coke was bottled here in 1894.

coke museum vicksburg ms

Reminisce through a variety of original advertisements and memorabilia, then top of the visit with a Coke float from the candy store.

LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER MUSEUM

The Lower Mississippi River Museum will satisfy all the questions you’ve ever had about the Mississippi River.

Through interactive displays, you’ll learn about the history of the mighty river as well as the science of water flow and the fish that currently call it home.

Vicksburg Murals

HISTORIC VICKSBURG MURALS

On the Historic Waterfront in Vicksburg, you’ll find the Riverfront Murals. The flood wall has become a canvas that beautifully displays the past, present, and future of Vicksburg.

Plan your trip at Visit Vicksburg.com

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]]> Why Your Next Girls Trip Needs To Be To Cleveland, Mississippi https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/why-your-next-girls-trip-needs-to-be-to-cleveland-mississippi/ Thu, 04 May 2023 00:00:12 +0000 https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/?p=43566 I know, I know, you all are going to think I’ve officially lost my mind, but stick with me and see why Cleveland, Mississippi really should be your next girl’s trip.
 
You all know I love charming southern small towns and Cleveland, Mississippi checks all my boxes for what I’m looking for when I travel. Food, music, arts, and loads of charm and hospitality.
 
Downtown-Cleveland-by-Rory-Doyle-27
(c)Rory Doyle
 
Amid the farmlands, legendary juke joints, and Southern legends of the Mississippi Delta, Cleveland is a town with a character all its own.
 
Midway between Memphis and Vicksburg, this historic downtown on famed Highway 61 has kept the best of the past and added a whole bunch of fun for today’s visitors to enjoy.
 
The result is a destination with a hip vibe that’s become a popular spot filled with fun activities for a girls’ getaway.
 
We’re helping take the guess work out of where to stay. Use our handing booking map below to book your stay now.

cottonhouse_054-3
Photo Credit: VRX Studios

Southern Hospitality Perfected in Cleveland, MS

Of course, no girl’s trip is complete without a healthy dose of pampering.
 
The Cotton House Cleveland is the perfect spot for that, offering luxurious lodging and award-winning cuisine.
 
Located downtown on Cleveland’s Cotton Row, this 95-room boutique hotel offers the finest of Southern hospitality, with a unique blend of classic and on-trend amenities and services.
 
Delta-Meat-Market-by-Rory-Doyle-31
Delta Meat Market Photo Credit: Rory Doyle
 
Of course, a highlight of any stay is enjoying the creations of James Beard Award-nominated Chef Cole Ellis.
 
Options include the local, fresh menu at Delta Meat Market and a meal and drinks with a view at the rooftop Bar Fontaine.

Find Your Balance in Cleveland, MS

A visit to Balance Fitness, located within the hotel building, is the perfect way to give your body just the boost it needs.
 
Whether your chosen therapy is a rigorous workout, a meditative yoga session or something in between, you’ll find the right balance here.
 
Reformer Pilates, Ryde cycling, HIIT training, yoga and more are offered at scheduled times or personalized classes can be arranged just for your getaway group.
 
Breathe in, breathe out, enjoy!
 
Downtown Cleveland Mississippi
Photo Credit: Rory Doyle

Take A Look Back

Mainstreet is centered around the town’s original rail line and the fun begins in this downtown center.
 
It features a lovely green space for outdoor events and a multi-purpose trail used by locals and visitors alike.
 
This classic railroad town has stayed true to its roots and maintains a historic depot, housing a visitors’ center.
 
Next door is the Martin & Sue King Railroad Museum and a 1941 caboose. Museum exhibits capture the history and influence of the railroad in Cleveland and the region and the museum also house the largest O-gauge model train replica in Mississippi.
 
Shopping downtown Cleveland Mississippi
Photo Credit: Rory Doyle

One-Of-A-Kind Finds in Cleveland, MS

The street is lined with one-of-kind shops–more than 30 in all–ranging from boutiques to antiques to bookstores and more.
 
Shoppers enjoy a leisurely walk along the brick-paved sidewalks, taking in the diverse mix of retailers and a warm, local welcome.
 
Shopping days can also include a meal at one of the downtown restaurants, serving up local favorites and regional specialties.
 
Nearby, internationally known clay artists offer even more opportunity for that unique shopping experience. 
 
McCarty’s Pottery is known world-wide for the distinctive McCarty design. The studio grounds also include a garden listed on Smithsonian’s registry of gardens, as well as a café.
 
Just up the road, Peter’s Pottery has gained fame, as well. Peter Woods’ is a family business, creating pottery in a vast assortment of forms, from delightful to functional.
 
LegacyOfTheElectricGuitar_RDoyle-26
Photo Credit: Rory Doyle

Music and the Arts in Cleveland, MS

Of course, music is a part of the Delta. And it’s a big part of Cleveland, home to the GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi.
 
Celebrating the music of all genres, this amazing facility has two dozen exhibits, films, memorabilia, and more, as well as a 130-seat state of the art sound stage.
 
It also gives visitors a reason to come back, again and again, to enjoy rotating exhibits highlighting the diversity of music innovation and history.
 
Those in search of live music will find it at several downtown venues where Cleveland’s eclectic vibe prevails. The variety of music here goes beyond the blues, as a wide range of entertainers performs at local hot spots.
 
Celebrating the arts goes beyond music here and combining a getaway with a special performance is always an option in Cleveland.
 
The Bologna Performing Arts Center has earned a reputation as a premier arts venue, presenting an impressive array of concerts, dance companies, Broadway touring shows and cultural education programs.
 
It sits amid the campus of Delta State University, itself a center for the arts, from music to theatre to visual arts.
 
Cotton-House-Cleveland-a-Tribute-Portfolio-Hotel-Human-Element-Bar-Fountaine-1410559-1
Photo Credit: VRX Studios

Why Cleveland, MS

When it’s time for a getaway that’s a little bit different but a whole lot of fun, Cleveland is the perfect spot, with downtown shopping–combined with unique arts and music venues–all from the comfort of an amazing boutique hotel.
 
And all with a quirky little twist on what you’d expect from a Mississippi Delta town. Grab the girls. Have a little fun and enjoy the vibe in Cleveland, Mississippi.
 
Note, if you have some extra time to spend be sure to swing over to Oxford, Mississippi. A must for literary lovers!
 

PIN CLEVELAND MISSISSIPPI TO PINTEREST

]]> Spilling the Beans on the Best Places to Eat in Cleveland, MS https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/where-to-eat-in-cleveland-ms/ Tue, 02 May 2023 23:00:14 +0000 https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/?p=43624 Cleveland is in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, is a region known for a culture all its own. It’s the deep south and life moves to its own groove.

Located between Memphis and Vicksburg, it’s a unique destination with a deep love for music, both past and present, a downtown packed with boutique shops, and, most importantly a culinary scene that has people taking notice. 

How does one ever decide where to eat though when the choices are overwhelming?

As a rule, most of us will only eat two dinners during a weekend getaway which can cause some of us to panic. How do you ever decide?

Keep reading as I’m about to spill the beans on the best places to eat in Cleveland, MS.

Food of the Mississippi Delta

Food is such a major part of travel. Not only do we want to discover unique things that a place has to offer we also want to be a part of their food culture, even if it’s only for a day or two.

Here you’ll find recipes that have been passed own through generations to chefs on the cutting edge of creating new flavors and dishes to tempt your palate. 

From refined dining to kickin’ it casual there’s something for everyone to try in Cleveland MS.

The hardest part will be deciding what you want to eat, but never fear, we got you. Here’s our top four choices of where to eat in Cleveland MS. 

Where To Eat in Cleveland MS

Get ready for your mouth to water because we’re sharing where to eat in Cleveland and you’re going to want to go.

A Visit to a James Beard Award Nominated Chef

In 2013, after spending 13 years in Charleston, Nashville and Kiawah Island, Chef Cole Ellis returned to his hometown of Cleveland to open Delta Meat Market, a butcher shop, restaurant, bar and boutique grocery.

Located in the Cotton House Cleveland Hotel, his menus, as well as his retail shelves, feature fresh local produce, proteins and homemade specialties.

The market is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and, upstairs, the rooftop Bar Fontaine features dinner service and an extensive spirits menu, all to be enjoyed with a view of downtown.

BLT Sandwich

Hey Joe!

Just up the street, Hey Joe’s is known for burgers and beer. It’s also known for good times, good music and good works.

This modern-day juke joint is the epitome of the hometown local hangout and it is committed to feeding both the body and soul of this town.

Hey Joe’s, has a commitment not only to quality food–specialty burgers and sandwiches are the fare–but to craft beer and live music.

Profit from monthly specials is contributed to selected local charities and the restaurant and its sister eatery, Mosquito Burrito, are active in local community efforts to produce annual events aimed at keeping downtown vibrant.

Airport Grocery

Airport Grocery is touted as a “quintessential Cleveland establishment” offering true soul food that continues to withstand the test of time.

What began as a Depression-Era grocery store has been passed down among generations and families.

Rustic and comfortable, the full bar and pool tables entice folks to stay and enjoy the company, but it’s the hot tamales and crawfish tails, the barbecue, the burgers and the ribs, that have kept people coming back through the years.

House-smoked pork, Mississippi catfish po’ boys, and legendary gravy fries are tops on the menu

Find out more about dining, as well as shopping and entertainment options, online at VisitClevelandMS.com.

Downtown-Cleveland-by-Rory-Doyle-27
(c)Rory Doyle

A Few Tips About Visiting Cleveland MS

Downtown is the heart of this hip town. Mainstreet is centered around an original rail line and features a historic depot, housing a visitors’ center.

The town green features an open space for outdoor events and is looped by a multi-purpose trail used by locals and visitors alike.

LegacyOfTheElectricGuitar_RDoyle-26
Photo Credit: Rory Doyle

Of course, music is a part of the Delta. And it’s a big part of Cleveland, home to the GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi.

Celebrating the music of all genres, this amazing facility has two dozen exhibits, films, memorabilia and more, as well as a 130-seat state-of-the-art soundstage.

See why we recommend Cleveland for your next Girl’s Trip!

Pin Where To Eat in Cleveland MS to Pinterest

]]> The Southern Small Town Charm of New Albany MS https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/new-albany-ms/ https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/new-albany-ms/#respond Thu, 30 Mar 2023 15:00:11 +0000 https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/?p=32859 Exploring the beauty and history of small towns is one of those adventures that truly never gets old. Every small town tells a story and has some amazing landmarks and interesting facts that are intriguing to us outsiders.

One town that recently caught my eye was New Albany, MS.

New Albany MS

It’s the perfect combination of that southern charm meets small-town innocence. While the population is just over 8,000 people, there are surprisingly several fun attractions to visit and activities to do.

New Albany MS

It’s no wonder why New Albany, MS gets so much attention.

It’s located right along the Tallahatchie River and is actually considered to be the gateway to the Tanglefoot Trail, which is the longest rails to trails conversions that shows the beautiful countryside of Mississippi.

If you are looking for a few fun activities to do while in New Albany, MS, here are some suggestions to help you plan your travels!

New Albany MS

Things To Do In New Albany, MS

  • Visit historic downtown. Did you know that New Albany, MS was actually voted by USA Today as the Best Southern Small Town? And that’s in part largely to their awesome historic downtown.

           If you have a hankering for a bit of boutique shopping, you’ll want to see all that main street has to offer in     New Albany, MS. Plus, the businesses that are located downtown are all locally owned! Gotta love that small town pride!

New Albany MS

 

  • Take a peek at the Coca-Cola mural in the downtown park.  Feast your eyes on a mural that was painted in the early 1900’s. If you are downtown exploring everything that there is to do and see, then stopping and taking a look at the Coca-Cola mural is a must.

 

New Albany MS

  • Eat some delicious homemade sweets at Sugaree’s Bakery. Known for their cakes, trust me when I say that this bakery doesn’t disappoint. Why not have a piece (or two!) of their perfectly baked cake and get a few slices to go as well?
  • Enjoy some outdoor time and play a bit of disc golf. While this isn’t a beginner level course, it’s still fun to just get out and enjoy the beautiful weather and scenery of this town. And the best part? It’s free!New Albany MS
  • Learn about some history at Union County Heritage Museum. With all the history that surrounds this small town, it would be a shame to miss a visit to this awesome museum.

          Not only does it provide a great timeline of the area, it also has an outdoor exhibit that features many                  beautiful plants as well.

 

  • Rent a bike and ride the along the Tanglefoot Trail. If you love to get out and about and enjoy the nature all around you, there is nothing more relaxing than hopping on a bike and riding along this beautiful trail.

          And if you don’t have a bike or don’t have the desire to rent one, no worries! Taking a simple stroll is absolutely  perfect as well.

         The trail is wide enough for all different types of activities and is typically pretty busy throughout the day.

New Albany MS

Consider making a day trip, or extending it to a weekend adventure with a visit to New Albany, MS. There are so many amazing things to see and do, that you’ll be so happy that you discovered this hospitable and welcoming small town.

 

More Adventures To Do In Mississippi:

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]]> https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/new-albany-ms/feed/ 0 Discover the Hidden Gems of Greenwood: A 24 Hour Guide to Mississippi’s Best Kept Secret https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/things-to-do-in-greenwood-mississippi/ Sun, 22 Jan 2023 13:00:23 +0000 https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/?p=44672 In true Delta style, Greenwood, Mississippi is brimming with history, music, and delicious Southern eats.

I soaked up as much of all these things as I could during my quick stop in Greenwood, Mississippi.

As is usually the case there is never time to see and do it all, but we squeezed in as many best things as possible and we don’t regret one minute of the time we spent here.

Favorite Portrait taken in cotton field in Greenwood MS by Ruth Sykes of LRC Media
This is hands down, my absolute favorite photo of me during my Mississippi Delta trip. Taken by the incredible Ruth Sykes of LRC Media.

Things To Do in Greenwood, Mississippi

Speaking of good eats, Viking Cooking School is a must when visiting the Greenwood area. Viking, the company that made professional-grade kitchen appliances a thing for homes.

Sign up for a cooking class and have the opportunity to use all of their amazing appliances.

From the novice to the experienced and everyone in between, these classes are so much fun for all!

Toast Robert Johnson

Robert Johnson, the blues legend famous for allegedly selling his soul to the devil for musical talent, met his end in Greenwood, Mississippi.

At only 27 years old, Johnson passed away in a tenant house after being poisoned by a jealous husband, so the story goes.

While there are three different sites where he may have been buried, the most likely place is in the graveyard at Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church just north of Greenwood.

This is an opportunity to grab a drink and toast a famous blues legends who left a lasting impact on the blues world.

The Help House Greenwood MS

“The Help” Tour takes you on a self-guided driving tour of the film site for the movie “The Help” was filmed in Greenwood.

This movie, based on the novel written by Mississippi native, Kathryn Stockett, brought lots of famous faces to Greenwood.

The tour points out the places where the actors stayed, ate, and played.

A stay in Greenwood cannot be complete without a visit to Turnrow Books.

Often referred to as “the most beautiful bookstore in America,” and being voted Greenwood’s Favorite Retailer, Turnrow has earned its place on the map.

They often host community events including live music and art exhibits, as well as invite authors of all kinds to speak and sign books. You can find quite a collection of signed books.

The Turnrow Cafe is an excellent place to grab a light lunch and stay awhile. They also offer excellent coffees and craft beers.

In the evenings, the cafe is the place you’ll often find author signings and readings, art displays, or local musicians.

You’ll also want to swing by the Mississippi Gift Company to take home a piece of Mississippi with you.

If bridges and architecture interest you be sure to check out the Keesler Bridge.

It’s a swing bridge the features ornamental railing of steel design on the swing span. The bridge has been rehabilitated and preserved.

Where To Spend Time In the Great Outdoors Near Greenwood

Sky Lake Greenwood MD

If there’s time, take a drive out to Sky Lake for an easy hike or paddle among the ancient Bald Cypress trees.

Many of them are 1,000+ years old. The oldest tree at Sky Lake measures 47-feet around and 70-feet tall. There is a slightly smaller tree 300 yards away from this one and the two of them are the largest trees in Mississippi.

The park is also full of wildlife including birds, mammals, fish, and other small critters.

The boardwalk provides an easy stroll and is 12-feet above the forest floor giving you a great opportunity to photograph wildlife and the Bald Cypress trees. 

If you prefer to paddle there is a great 2 1/2 mile paddling trail here. The best time to paddle is late fall to early summer when water levels are higher. Be sure to bring bug spray!

Museums to Visit in Greenwood, MS

Museum of the Mississippi Delta (Formerly Cottonlandia Museum)

A museum about not only cotton and agricultural history in the Delta, but also about so much more.

Nine galleries showcase everything from Mississippi’s Native Americans, the Delta Swamp, Local Military History, Fossils, Feathers, and Fur, a Mississippi Art Collection, and Civil War plus a few others.

If you find yourself passing by Leland, MS on your way to/from Greenwood you’ll want to check out the birthplace of Jim Henson Kermit the Frog. A small, adorable museum dedicated to all things Kermit the Frog.

 

Talahatichie flats

Where to Stay in Greenwood, Mississippi

The Tallahatchie Flats,58458 Co Rd 518, is the perfect lodging for your time in Greenwood.

These “tenant houses” are beautifully preserved examples of the kinds of homes many of our favorite blues musicians spent their lives.

Sunrise from bed
Sunrise from my bed….incredible way to wake up.

Each farmhouse was acquired from surrounding plantations and settled along a river with cotton fields as a backdrop.

Talahatchie flats

The houses offer modern amenities such as indoor plumbing, a full kitchen, heat, and A/C.

But the antique furniture and rustic nature of the houses ensure an authentic experience.

Beautiful sunrise from Talahatchie Flats
What an incredible view from the front porch of my room at Tallahatchie Flats.

There is nothing quite like sitting on the porch, under a star-studded sky, surrounded by the silence only this deep country lodging experience can offer.

Alluvian Hotel room, lobby and decor

Named, in part, after the fertile alluvial soil of the Mississippi Delta, the Alluvian Hotel,305 Howard Street, is a cosmopolitan boutique hotel in the heart of the Mississippi Delta.
 
Complete with 45 luxurious guest rooms, 5 suites with plenty of room to relax and enjoy your time in the Delta, the Alluvian Spa, the Viking Cooking School and fine dining options.

Fran and Johnnies

Where to Eat in Greenwood, Mississippi

We only had time for one meal in Greenwood and it did not disappoint.

I recommend Fan and Johnny’s. They offer authentic southern cuisine, smoking their meat in their own smokehouse behind the restaurant. It is a quaint and adorable local eatery that will not disappoint.

More information about Greenwood, MS

Nearby Cities to Visit in the Delta Region in the Southern United States

Vicksburg, MS: Things To Do

Yazoo City, MS: Why You Need To Visit

Cleveland, MS: The Perfect Girlfriend Getaway 

Things To Do In Mississippi: The Ultimate Travel Guide to the Magnolia State

Pin 24-Hours in Greenwood, Mississippi to Pinterest

 

]]> Things To Do In Mississippi – The Ultimate Travel Guide to the Magnolia State https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/things-to-do-in-mississippi/ Wed, 10 Feb 2021 16:27:41 +0000 https://www.justshortofcrazy.com/?p=44927 Planning a trip to Mississippi? You have just discovered a treasure trove of the best places to visit and tips on all the great things to do in Mississippi. This really is the ultimate guide to visiting the Magnolia State.

We’ve broken the guide into three parts:

  • The Mississippi Delta
  • Coastal Mississippi
  • More Mississippi Destinations

Links go to the stories we have about each destination with everything you need to know from where to stay and eat and all the things to do in Mississippi.

We’re making it easy to book your stay right from our site! Simply click on the map to find the best accommodations and prices.

We include tips to make sure you don’t miss anything during your visit!

Gateway to the blues tunica ms
Gateway to the Blues Museum, the start of a grand adventure.

Things To Do in the Mississippi Delta

Welcome to the Mississippi Delta where history, music, and a bit of paranormal activity blend seamlessly into an experience you won’t forget. Here are all the best places to visit in the Mississippi Delta.

Clarksdale, MS

Make like Huckleberry Finn and paddle the Mississippi River in Clarksdale.

Stay at the Hooker Hotel or the Squeeze Box, highly rated AirBnB’s that celebrate the blues of the Delta.
 
Park quapaw canoe on the mississippi river
Canoeing the mightly Mississippi River in Clarksdale, MS

Cleveland, MS

Make it a girlfriend getaway in Cleveland, shopping antiques, admiring unique art, and sipping drinks with some live music.

Spend the perfect long weekend in Cleveland enjoying the great southern eats, fascinating museums, and the must-see Dockery Farms.

During the Christmas season, Cleveland boasts 50 Nights of Lights consisting of more than 100,000 lights.

Stop by some of the best places to eat in Cleveland, MS.

Stay at The Cotton House right in the heart of the Delta.

Docker Farms Gas Station Cleveland MS
Dockery Farms in Cleveland, MS

Greenville, MS

Stay at The Lofts at 517, located in the historic Sears Building right in downtown.

tallahatchie flats
Tallahatchie Flats

Greenwood, MS

Spend 24 hours in Greenwood cooking at the Viking Cooking School, remembering Robert Johnson, the Blues legend, and browsing the books and artwork at Turnrow Books.

Stay at the Tallahatchie Flats, rustic tenants houses that are perfectly preserved examples of the homes of some of your favorite blues musicians.

original kermit the frog
Leland, MS is the birthplace of Kermit the Frog. Be sure to stop at the museum!

Leland, MS

A drive along the Blues Highway will take you right through the heart of Leland, MS where you’ll find several incredible Blues murals. Say hi to Kermit the Frog while you’re in town!

Rolling Fork, MS

Mont Helena is a jewel of a mansion in the midst of corn fields, offering up tours where you’ll have the privilege of admiring the beauty of the home, be enchanted by the love story surrounding it, and possibly experience some paranormal activity.

Go on a Bear Hunt in Rolling Fork, where the original Teddy Bear was born.

teddy bear at the library
Finding the teddy bears around Rolling Fork is a great way to spend part of your day!

Tunica, MS

Soak up amazing views of the Mississippi River at the Tunica RiverPark & Museum.
 
Blues fan or not, a visit to the Gateway to the Blues Museum will certainly leave you with an appreciation for this truly American music and the moving history surrounding it.
There is so much to see and do in Vicksburg, MS. You’ll want to plan a long weekend for this destination.

Vicksburg, MS

Looking for things to do in Vicksburg? There’s the Haunted Vicksburg Ghost Tour, the Old Court House Museum, and the Historic Vicksburg Murals for starters.

The Haunted Vicksburg Ghost Tour takes you on a journey to discover mysteries and tales of things past and what may yet remain.

The McRaven Tour Home, the “most haunted house in Mississippi”, is a must-visit.

Find even more haunted attractions in and near Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Stroll through Vicksburg National Military Park, where one of the largest Civil War battles was fought.

Celebrate the rich history of Vicksburg visiting the Vicksburg Cemeteries.

Get outside in Vicksburg on a walking tour, a biking trail, a fishing trip, and more.

Stay at the haunted and historical Duff Green Mansion in Vicksburg.

Downtown Yazoo City
When you find yourself in the Mississippi Delta a stop in colorful Yazoo City is a must.

Yazoo City, MS

Stroll along the colorful block of Main Street in Yazoo City.

Coastal Mississippi

Things To Do in Coastal Mississippi aka The Secret Coast

Coastal Mississippi is so much more than a beach destination. It is a true coastal destination with enough to do to pack out a week.

One of those incredible experiences is through McCoy’s River and Marsh Tour.

mccoys swamp tour

Biloxi, MS

Experience everything shrimping in Biloxi, MS.

Stay at the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino, which is a destination all on its own!

roost hotel

Ocean Springs, MS

Stay at the Roost Boutique Hotel, recognized in 2018 as the most beautiful hotel in Mississippi.
 
 
Bay Saint Louis
If you forced me to pick one favorite spot along the secret coast it would have to be Old Town Bay Saint Louis…I love the entire coast, but absolutely ADORE Old Town.

Old Town Bay St. Louis, MS

Bay Saint Louis has charm and personality in spades. I found at least 27 places you must visit in Old Town Bay St. Louis.

Stay in a spacious room with all the best amenities at Bay Town Inn.

Hot Tamales in Corinth
Did you know Mississippi is famous for their Hot Tamales?

Things To Do In More Mississippi Destinations That You Don’t Want To Miss

Corinth, MS

I was pleasantly surprised by these 7 hidden gems in Corinth, MS, including Roy the Rooster.

Take a tour of the oldest cemetery in Corinth and learn about the deep Civil War history surrounding this town, and the potential paranormal activity rumored in the area.

For my fellow foodies, I compiled a list of the ultimate guide of places to eat in Corinth just for you.

In that ultimate guide, you’ll find not just one, but THREE foods unique only to Corinth!

The Crossroads Museum is haunted. The Tennessee Wraith Chasers agree!

Laurel MS
A quant stop on your Mississippi road trip adventure.

Laurel, MS

Visit “Home Town” Laurel, MS, the town that made itself known through HGTV.
New Albany MS
Yes, you want to visit New Albany, for the Coca Cola mural and so much more.

New Albany, MS

Soak up the sweet, southern, small town charm of New Albany, MS.

oxford ms
If you are a literary lover like me you absolutely must, no excuses, visit Oxford, MS!!

Oxford, MS

The literary lure of Oxford will charm every book lover.
 
Stay at the Graduate Hotel right in the heart of Oxford where just about everything is within walking distance.
 
Are you ready to pack your bags and explore Mississippi? If you find yourself debating where to go and when I’m happy to help. Drop me a line and lets chat all the wonderful things that are Mississippi.
 

Be sure to pin this guide to Pinterest!!

 
Thing to do in mississippi
 
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