Best of the Magnolia State: Mississippi’s 10 Most Shared Destinations

By Megan T. Brown on March 24, 2016

Mississippi is known as the birthplace of the blues, but the Magnolia State has much more to offer. Step into a state where Southern hospitality blends seamlessly into the rough exteriors of the juke joints where American music was born with the most buzzed-about Mississippi attractions.

1

Selling the Blues: To draw tourists, the Mississippi Delta plays on its musical heritage

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The juke joints of the Mississippi Delta are a draw to tourists seeking an authentic blues experience. With the completion of the Blues Trail, music lovers can now get a true feel for the roots of American music.

William Widmer for Al Jazeera America

2

This One Creepy Ghost Town In Mississippi Is The Stuff Nightmares Are Made Of

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About 30 miles northeast of Natchez lie the remains of Rodney, a town barraged with tragedy in its heyday—and now, frozen in time.

Michael McCarthy/Flickr via Only in Your State

3

Back-Road Trip: The Mississippi Delta's Blues Highway

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A journey down U.S. Highway 61 from Clarksdale to Vicksburg will take you on the same path traveled by blues greats like Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, Son House, and B. B. King—with some fascinating stops on the way.

Grant Ellis for Garden & Gun

4

Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival

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Honoring the original potter of Shearwater Pottery, the Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival aims to celebrate the art community of Ocean Springs and surrounding areas.

Peter Anderson Festival

5

Tupelo Elvis Festival

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What would a Mississippi visit be without a tribute to the King? Each June, fans of Tupelo’s native son flock to participate in contests paying homage to Elvis and his career.

Tupelo Elvis Festival

6

Escape to Ship Island: Mississippi's beach getaway is soaked in history

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Along with its pristine sands, this peaceful island getaway is known for the sprawling Fort Massachusetts and a rich history.

www.msshipisland.com

7

Natchez Spring Pilgrimage of Private Antebellum Homes

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During this four-week spring Pilgrimage, costumed descendants of original homeowners graciously welcome guests into breathtaking antebellum mansions, bringing their histories to life.

Natchez Pilgrimage Tours

8

Tishomingo Is The Best State Park In Mississippi

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Breathtaking views, history-rich trails, prime camping and bountiful fishing are only a few of the reasons you should visit this park nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography via Only In Your State

9

A Writer’s Garden: Eudora Welty in Mississippi

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Welty wrote in the Jackson home until her death in 2001, and literary-minded visitors can bask in the stunning blooms that often figured in the writer's work.

http://www.liebemarlene.com/

10

The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint

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Secret Shed Rub and the original location's seat on the Mississippi bayou make this joint a delicious destination. Here, live blues music flows in "old school, down-home southern, tacky charm."

The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint