Jackson, Mississippi, is a soulful tapestry woven with history, culture, and culinary delights. As one of the South’s historic capitals, Jackson played a pivotal role in both the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement, leaving a legacy that the city celebrates with pride. Today, Jackson’s vibrant art scene, award-winning eateries, and renowned historical sites make it a compelling destination, drawing travelers to experience the hidden beauty and boundless warmth of Mississippi’s capital.
History of Jackson, Mississippi
Founded in 1821 and named after General Andrew Jackson, this city is a vital chapter in American history. Jackson has weathered Civil War battles and served as a crucible for the Civil Rights Movement. Today, Jackson retains its historical spirit while embracing a modern vibrance, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate the intersection of past and present. Whether strolling through historic neighborhoods or visiting monuments of the city’s storied past, visitors find that Jackson’s history is celebrated. Jackson is home to several historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Jackson State University, established in 1877, which became a significant institution for civil rights activism. Additionally, in Jackson, notable figures, including authors like Eudora Welty, lived and contributed to the city’s cultural and literary heritage, strengthening its reputation as a creative and intellectual hub.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
Eudora Welty House and Garden
Tucked away in the leafy Belhaven neighborhood, the Eudora Welty House and Garden tour provides an intimate journey into the life of one of America’s literary icons. This home, preserved meticulously, gives visitors a window into Welty’s world, with original furnishings and personal photos that vividly capture the 20th-century Southern life she wrote about. Strolling through her carefully tended garden, you can feel the inspiration she drew from these surroundings.
Old Capitol Museum
Stepping into the Old Capitol Museum is like walking through Mississippi’s most defining moments. With grand architecture and well-curated exhibits, this former statehouse invites visitors to connect with critical events that shaped the state. Each gallery pulls you deeper into Mississippi’s past, from political upheavals to cultural milestones,
Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
Located in LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, this museum showcases Mississippi’s natural wonders through immersive exhibits and serene trails. The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science provides a sensory-rich experience with extensive aquariums and dynamic dioramas, making it an enlightening stop for nature lovers and families.
Two Mississippi Museums
The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the Museum of Mississippi History combine under one roof to share the state’s profound and complex history. This dual experience is necessary for those interested in understanding the journey of resilience and transformation that defines Mississippi.
Merci Train
The Merci Train, a humble yet moving relic of post-WWII gratitude, is one of Jackson’s unique historical gems. This boxcar, a gift from France to the U.S., symbolizes the friendship between the nations showing French heartfelt gestures of appreciation. The side of the boxcar has a series of plaques with names of various cities and towns in France.
The Book Nook Bookstore
This cozy bookstore in Jackson is a treasure for book lovers and travelers seeking a quiet escape. The Book Nook welcomes visitors in an inviting atmosphere, with shelves teaming with books highlighting many genres, including some of that have inscriptions from the author. Along with its cozy coffee bar, The Book Nook offers a peaceful pause and a chance to enjoy Jackson’s creative spirit.
Best Places to Stay
Fairview Inn
The Fairview Inn combines Southern elegance with contemporary luxury. This 1908 Colonial Revival mansion provides guests with individually designed rooms that blend period charm and high-end amenities. One of these rooms is the Eudora Welty Room designed and furnished in honor of the esteemed author. With a gourmet Southern-inspired restaurant and a serene spa, this inn is ideal for travelers seeking a refined, relaxing stay.
Old Capitol Inn
The boutique Old Capitol Inn is a unique stay with themed suites such as the William Faulkner Room. This lovingly restored historic inn combines Southern hospitality with modern comforts, offering a welcoming retreat for leisure and special occasions.
Homewood Suites
For those seeking a home-away-from-home experience, Homewood Suites by Hilton offers spacious suites with full kitchens and a prime location near downtown Jackson. This all-suite hotel balances home-like charm and practicality, ideal for short and extended stays.
Best Places to Eat
Eudora’s Mississippi Brasserie
Eudora’s Mississippi Brasserie combines Southern comfort with French finesse, delivering an exceptional dining experience. Named for Mississippi’s Eudora Welty, the brasserie’s menu features dishes that honor regional ingredients and European culinary traditions. The warm décor creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for lingering over dishes like crispy duck confit or classic shrimp and grits.
The Manship Wood-Fired Kitchen
The Manship Wood-Fired Kitchen is a celebration of wood-fired Southern and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. With an open kitchen, diners can experience the artistry behind dishes like the strawberry salad and the shrimp po-boy sandwich, making it a go-to for foodies eager to experience the local flavor experience. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or an indulgent dinner, The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen encapsulates the warmth and creativity of Jackson’s dining scene, making it a must-visit for anyone eager to explore the city’s unique gastronomy.
Keifer’s
Keifer’s is a beloved spot for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a Southern twist. Known for its signature gyros and vibrant Greek salads, this restaurant blends tradition with innovation, offering a welcoming, relaxed dining experience.
Broad Street Bakery
Broad Street Bakery is a bakery and café beloved by locals for its fresh, artisanal pastries and sandwiches. Signature items like the cinnamon twist and hearty Reuben sandwich make it a satisfying choice for travelers seeking a casual, delicious meal.
Come Visit Jackson, Mississippi
Jackson, Mississippi, combines Southern history with a growing cultural renaissance, creating a sophisticated destination for travelers with a keen eye for authentic experiences. Jackson gives you an engaging, dynamic cityscape, from immersive museums to culinary gems celebrating local flavors. Whether exploring the city’s storied neighborhoods, enjoying world-class dining, or relaxing in charming accommodations, Jackson provides an enriching and memorable travel experience.
Thanks to the wonderful folks at The Eudora Welty House and Garden as well as Eudora’s Mississippi Brasserie for hosting me. All opinions are my own.
