Bubba O'Keefe, Director of Visit Clarksdale, passionately shares the vibrant cultural tapestry of this small Mississippi town. With roots in African-American heritage and a rich musical history, Clarksdale has transformed into a thriving hub for art and live music. O'Keefe invites visitors to fully immerse themselves in the local experience, encouraging them to explore beyond the typical tourist path. Over the past two decades, the downtown area has blossomed with new eateries, hotels, and live music venues, attracting artists and musicians seeking an authentic and affordable lifestyle. Clarksdale’s unique charm continues to captivate those who visit.  

  Jennie Bradford Curlee, Deputy Director of the Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau, shares her enthusiasm for honoring Elvis Presley’s legacy and the city’s vibrant culture. As Tupelo prepares for Elvis's 90th birthday in 2025, festivities will include a year-long celebration, highlighted by the Elvis Festival in June. Jennie highlights the importance of Elvis’s roots in Tupelo, where he formed his musical identity. Beyond Elvis, Tupelo offers a rich tapestry of history, including Native American heritage and civil rights milestones, all contributing to the city’s unique spirit and inviting atmosphere for visitors.  

  Craig Ray, chairman of the Blues Trail Commission, proudly unveiled a new Blues Trail marker in Liverpool, marking a significant milestone in a journey that began seven years ago. The Blues Trail, which started in 2004, now boasts 217 markers, primarily in Mississippi, with a rich concentration in the Delta region. Ray emphasized the importance of live music, noting that cities like Clarksdale offer nightly performances while others host regular blues nights. Looking ahead, there are ambitious plans to expand the trail internationally, particularly in the UK and Europe, showcasing Mississippi's profound influence on the global blues scene.  

  Katie Coats, Director of Marketing & Communication for Visit Mississippi, highlights the rich tapestry of the state’s cultural heritage through its four trails: the Blues Trail, Country Music Trail, Writers Trail, and Freedom Trail. Each trail invites visitors to explore historic sites and engage with the stories that shaped Mississippi. Coats emphasizes the importance of storytelling and the connections between local cuisine and music, encouraging tourists to experience authentic southern culture. With spring and fall offering the best weather for festivals, Coats warmly invites everyone to discover the vibrant spirit of Mississippi.  

  Robert Terrell, Deputy Director at the BB King Museum, shares the profound significance of preserving the legendary musician's legacy. Opened in 2008, the museum uniquely narrates BB King’s life, from his humble beginnings at the Marxel Cotton Gin to his rise as an iconic figure in music. Terrell highlights a close partnership with BB King’s Club in Memphis, promoting joint events and celebrating the vibrant history of venues like Club Ebony. The museum not only honors BB King's music but also fosters community connections, showcasing the talents of musicians influenced by his extraordinary journey.  

  A passionate initiative is underway to showcase Mississippi’s rich musical heritage at Liverpool's Cavern Club. With a focus on iconic figures like B.B. King and Elvis Presley, the project aims to promote the state's significance as the birthplace of various music genres. Mississippi offers visitors a vibrant experience, combining live music, fine dining, and unique accommodations. As tourism remains a vital economic driver—attracting over 43 million visitors in 2023—the hope is to inspire global interest in the Mississippi Blues Trail and the diverse cultural experiences that await in the heart of the South.  

From boating, fishing and delicious seafood the southern hospitality is in full flow this summer in Coastal Mississippi. The MS Gulf Coast welcomes travelers to experience weekends of adventure, entertainment and relaxation with a myriad of events and festivals lined up on the sun-drenched shorelines. "We are excited to invite all travelers to discover the magic of spring and summer here in Coastal Mississippi," said Judy Young, CEO of Coastal Mississippi Tourism. "Whether seeking serene sunsets, water adventures, or vibrant cultural experiences, everyone can expect an unforgettable weekend getaway."   The Best Events and Festivals: Taste of Ocean Springs | Food & Wine Festival: Savor food, wine, and southern charm as historic downtown Ocean Springs transforms into a culinary haven. May 9, 6PM – 8PM. LLamaroo: Fly Llama Brewing invites 2024 festival goers to Biloxi with live music, a Hungry Llama Smashburger eating contest, art vendors, food trucks, beer, and new for this year, a live gameshow version of Family Feud. May 11. Free Flowin' Fest: Don't miss this free annual music festival in downtown Pascagoula, featuring coastal fare, arts & crafts vendors, and live music all day. May 11, 12PM – 8PM St. Clare Seafood Festival: Come to Waveland for this annual festival, featuring the freshest seafood from local chefs, arts & crafts vendors, rows of classic cars, children's rides and more. Enjoy spectacular views of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, great food, live music, and cool spring breezes. May 24 – May 26, Time Varies Daily. Jazz in the Pass: Live music will echo across the Mississippi Sound from Pass Christian's War Memorial Park. Bring blankets and chairs and enjoy an evening of great music, food and drink, and local crafts. May 26, 12PM – 8 PM. Annual Jeepin the Coast: Get ready for one of the biggest events of the summer as thousands of Jeep enthusiasts gather from across the US. This annual five-day Jeep event starts in Long Beach and invites travelers to enjoy family-friendly activities, hang out together or branch off on their own Coastal Mississippi adventure. May 29 – June 2, Time Varies Daily. GCAP Pride Day 2024: The Gulf Coast Association of Pride (GCAP) will host Pride Day in Biloxi, featuring diverse activities celebrating the Mississippi Gulf Coast's LGBTQIA+ community. Expect everything from delicious coastal fare to drag shows, live music, and the crowning of the Pride Queen & King. June 1, 11AM – 6PM. Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic: The premier billfish tournament on the Gulf of Mexico returns for another year of record-breaking fish, and millions in cash prizes. Luxury fishing boats and billfish weighing up to 1,000 pounds are the catch of the day at this spectacular annual tournament hosted by the Golden Nugget Casino. Watch as teams from around the Gulf of Mexico battle it out for the largest blue marlin, tuna, mahi mahi, and wahoo. June 3 – June 9, Time Varies Daily. Rock-n-Roll Open Car, Jeep & Bike Show: For Rock-n-roll, sports cars, coastal fare and more, this Biloxi event has everything. From classic cars to local vendors, including the Big Boyz Toy Show with the coolest outdoor gear on the Gulf Coast, there is also live music and all-you-can-eat crawfish. June 15, 11AM – 6PM.   With an array of events and festivals, Coastal Mississippi promises weekends filled with unbridled fun. Everyone is invited to escape the ordinary and Play Coastal Mississippi on a memorable spring or summer weekend getaway. To plan a stay, visit CoastalMississippi.com.

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  A musical Journey begins with a single note and a singular place the Cradle of the Blues where rock and roll first tail its king come wander the birthplace of America's music Mississippi Wanderers welcome  

  There’s always something new to see in Mississippi. Even returning visitors will find new experiences in every corner of the state that truly offer something for everyone. From its world-class cuisine to the birthplace of America’s music, Mississippi’s rich cultural heritage takes travelers on the journey of a lifetime.   Mississippi native and country music legend Marty Stuart gets back to his roots in Philadelphia, Mississippi, with his Congress of County Music, home of the largest private collection of country music artifacts in the world and the recently opened Ellis Theater, which hosts a variety of shows and live music from some of country’s greatest performers.   In the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Club Ebony in Indianola, which opened in 1948, was an important stop for African American musicians traveling through Mississippi. Iconic blues musician B.B. King bought the club in 2008, and today it is associated with the nearby B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center. Visitors are invited to explore the museum to learn about the history of blues music and the Mississippi Delta before heading over to Club Ebony to take in a truly authentic blues experience.   Both B.B. King and Club Ebony are featured on the Mississippi Blues Trail, which honors blues legends and historic locations with more than 200 markers that dot the Mississippi landscape. Recent additions, like those commemorating Holly Springs bluesmen R.L. Burnside and David “Junior” Kimbrough, continue to expand the story of Mississippi’s beloved blues and the artists that shared their soulful sound with blues fans for decades.   Along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, visitors can cozy up in luxurious – sometimes quirky – boutique hotels, like The Bella. This 13-room hotel, a renovated bank building, features accommodations related to pop culture themes, easily making it one of the most unique accommodations in the region. For a more classic experience, the recently remodeled Gulf Hills Hotel & Resort in Ocean Springs boasts opulent accommodations for visitors seeking a luxurious coastal retreat.   Mississippi cuisine is as equally unforgettable as the authentic experiences served up by the state. Classic Southern cooking, delectable seafood from the Gulf of Mexico, and contemporary cuisine served alongside a signature cocktail await even the most discerning of palates. A recent addition to Mississippi’s impressive portfolio of James Beard Award-nominated restaurants is Sambou's African Kitchen in Jackson. Featuring genuine Gambian cuisine, this family-run restaurant features a warm and welcoming space to enjoy dishes with international appeal.   Ready to plan your Mississippi getaway, but not sure where to start? The Visit Mississippi website, which features an expansive list of upcoming events, experiences, restaurants, and hotels, makes planning a Mississippi getaway a breeze. Be sure to download our trip planner app so you can add stops to your journey while on the go. For questions or additional information, the Visit Mississippi team stands ready to point you in the right direction. We look forward to seeing you soon!

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  There’s something in the air in the Magnolia State. From sultry blues floating through the door of a Mississippi Delta juke joint to the aroma of homestyle cornbread and farm-raised catfish permeating the air from a nearby kitchen, visitors to Mississippi can experience first-hand the many aspects of all that makes the state’s cultural heritage stand out from any other place in the world, including walking in the very footsteps of some of the world’s most inspiring and beloved musicians, writers and historic figures. Enjoy fresh local seafood prepared by James Beard Award-nominated chefs, an authentic Delta blues performance, or a tour of the birthplace of the undisputed “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll” Elvis Presley to make any trip memorable. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of options for all tastes – Mississippi truly offers something for everyone.   Mississippi isn’t just the home of countless musicians, it’s where their music was born. Aficionados can journey to the past and visit landmarks where blues music was inspired and developed, including pool halls, juke joints, and farms where men and women came to play and share their unique sounds. Old farmhouses, venerable performance halls, and homes of the men and women who helped create American music as we know it today are marked along the Mississippi Blues Trail. Signposts memorialize the people, places, and communities where this uniquely American art form first took shape.   Along the Blues Trail, fans will find one of the primal centers of blues music, Dockery Farms. As a working farm for more than a century, Dockery once was the home of itinerant workers and traveling musicians. In the early 20^th century, Dockery was a self-sufficient community, hosting hundreds of tenant families, including that of influential bluesman Charley Patton, who would go on to inspire Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Robert Johnson, and Elvis Presley. The site is one of very few locations with a claim to the birthplace of blues music, where musicians like Patton came to learn before eventually sharing their music with the world.     Visitors along the Blues Trail also can visit the final resting places of some of the most recognizable blues musicians in the world, including B.B. King and Robert Johnson. Johnson, just 27 years-old when he died, is the central figure in one of Mississippi’s most well-known stories. Remembered as one of the most important bluesmen ever to live, Johnson was integral to the creation of the Delta blues, and his guitar style and lyrics can be found in the works of those who came after him. The legendary crossroads, where he is said to have sold his soul to the devil in exchange for mastery of the guitar, is memorialized in Clarksdale.       In addition to the Blues Trail, multiple museums like the Delta Blues Museum highlight blues legends and their contributions to American music, inspiring music fans of all ages. B.B. King, well known as the “King of the Blues,” was born in the small town of Itta Bena, Mississippi. He began his 70-year career as a self-taught guitar player working at local juke joints. After moving to Memphis in the 1940s, King would go on to become one of the most famous musicians ever to come out of Mississippi. At the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center, visitors can learn about the life of this internationally regarded musician through his own words and memorabilia, attend musical events and workshops, and take advantage of educational opportunities about the history of the Delta.   Elvis Presley, one of the most famous and talented musicians the world has ever known, is another one of the Magnolia State’s great musical icons. Born in Tupelo in 1935, Presley’s impact cannot be understated. Regarded as one of the most significant cultural figures of the 20^th century, his legacy is found in film and in a variety of musical styles, from rock to gospel to country. At the Elvis Presley Birthplace, fans can tour the two-room home in which he was born, the church he attended, and a museum, all of which provide invaluable information about the life of the “King.” After touring the grounds, guests can take a self-guided tour of Tupelo and explore the locations where Presley grew up, played and studied. At Tupelo Hardware, “x” marks the spot where Presley stood when his mother purchased his first guitar – a birthday present that would forever change the landscape of the music industry.     Along with memorials of his life and accomplishments, a marker celebrating Presley’s contributions to country music also stands on the grounds off his birthplace. Like the Mississippi Blues Trail, the Mississippi Country Music Trail recognizes dozens of musicians whose contributions to country music are unmatched to this day. From Jerry Lee Lewis to modern artists like Marty Stuart and Faith Hill, the Country Music Trail highlights the vital roles Mississippi artists have played and continue to play in the development of the genre. One Mississippi native in particular is Jimmie Rodgers, also known as the “Father of Country Music.” Born in Meridian, this singer-songwriter was a major influence on the early days of country music, dating back to the early 20^th century. Details of his life and his contributions to American music are proudly on display at the Jimmie Rodgers Museum in Meridian.   Of course, there’s more than music awaiting travelers to the Hospitality State. Meals in Mississippi are integrated into the state’s rich culture, with savory homestyle cuisine sharing menus with contemporary culinary masterpieces. Even locals find something new, as menus evolve to feature creations made with a remarkable mix of locally grown, seasonal ingredients and cultural influences.   Mississippi farms, fields, and local waters produce a bounty of ingredients that find their way into home kitchens and restaurants all over the state. Local produce like greens and sweet potatoes may be served along with farm-raised catfish or seafood caught fresh from the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Fine-dining eateries like Elvie’s in Jackson feature high-quality ingredients and Mississippi flavors, which are elevated by local chefs like Elvie’s founder and James Beard Award nominee Hunter Evans. Their modern twists on classic dishes make a Mississippi dining experience that much more memorable, and of course, delicious.   Along with Evans, numerous award-winning chefs are shaping the future of Mississippi cuisine while bringing out the best of their culinary traditions. From the traditional West Africa flavors found at Sambou’s African Kitchen, voted one of America’s “Best New Restaurants” in the 2023 James Beard Award class of semi-finalists, to the creations of James Beard Best Chef Award semi-finalists Alex Perry and Kumi Omori at Vestige in Ocean Springs, Mississippi’s culinary artists are regularly recognized as some of the best in the country.   In the Mississippi Delta, even casual dining brings out some of the best flavors in the state. In modest diners in unexpected corners of small towns are big flavors and generous dishes awaiting even the most sophisticated palates. At old-style eateries like The Crystal Grill in Greenwood, diners can enjoy classic dishes like a lemon-pepper seasoned catfish or traditional Delta Hot Tamales served by the half-dozen in a setting as timeless as the menu. In fact, Mississippi boasts a Tamale Trail and a Barbecue Trail for visitors craving a more traditional savory meal (who also don’t mind their fingers getting a little messy in the process).   For steak lovers, the unparallel cuts at Doe’s Eat Place are just one example of the bold dishes and world-class meals that remain a celebrated staple of Mississippi cuisine. Within Doe’s small and unassuming interior, guests can find a meal fit for any occasion, with mouthwatering flavors beckoning guests to stay a little longer – if they’re not full already. At local bakeries like Sugaree’s, sweet treats like the classic Mississippi Mud Pie or a big slice of Caramel Cake are long-time favorites for after dinner or just as a tasty mid-day splurge.     The seafood found in the waters along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast lend to an incredible selection of ingredients that allows chefs to continually rotate dishes on their menus while creating new ones, so guests never tire of the available options. At seafood restaurants like Vestige or Mary Mahoney's Old French House, menus offer fresh oysters served on the half shell or broiled to perfection. Signature dishes highlighting shrimp, crab, and the catch-of-the-day often blend fresh ingredients and local flavors that leave patrons awestruck and excitedly awaiting their next visit.     When planning your trip to Mississippi, the impressive list of things to do and places to visit may seem overwhelming, as Mississippi is a mecca for all things cultural. But the team at Visit Mississippi is here to help you get started. Send us a message to request the latest Mississippi Tour Guide or download the Visit Mississippi app to get started your journey through Mississippi today. We hope to see you soon.

Porchfest and pecan pie — just two of the many reasons why travelers need to add Vicksburg, Mississippi to their fall travel itinerary. This charming, little known southern town comes to life with fall festivals, candlelight ghost tours, and seasonal menu offerings. Discover the spooky charm of Vicksburg this October with Halloween-themed events, including special candlelight and ghost tours at the McRaven House, the most haunted house in Mississippi. Dating back to pre-Civil War, this historic home was built in three different periods and has a spine-chilling past. Candlelight Tours are offered on Fridays and Saturdays from October 20 – 28, from 7 pm. Here visitors will be guided by candlelight through the home, stopping in each room to meet a character of McRaven's past to learn their story. Tickets are available for $25 per person. Visit www.mcraventourhome.com.   Cokes and Floats Autumn leaves aren't the only crisp thing in Vicksburg during the fall. Visitors should head to the historic downtown to enjoy a crisp, ice cold soda and see where Coca-Cola was first bottled. The Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum was first constructed in 1890 and initially used by the Biedenharn family as a wholesale candy company and a shoe store. Joseph Biedenharn was approached by Asa Griggs Candler, the co-founder of The Coca-Cola Company, on a business trip and suggested that Biedenharn's Candy Company stock the iconic drink to supply the fountain dispensing trade around Vicksburg. From there, Joseph Biedenharn had the idea to bottle America's favorite carbonated drink, marking it the first official bottling of Coca-Cola in 1894. On March 12, 2024, Vicksburg will celebrate the 130th anniversary of the first bottling of Coca-Cola. Get outside and explore the fall foliage on the Mighty Mississippi! Catch blue catfish on a U.S Coast Guard-licensed charter with Blue Cat Guide Services or go on a guided canoe adventure with Quapaw Canoe Company. Immerse in the Vicksburg community. The city is home to a number of fall focused events, including Porchfest and the Vicksburg Vintage Motorcycle Show. Porchfest weaves the community of Vicksburg together through food, music, and family-friendly activities. On October 28, in the Historic Fostoria neighborhood, visitors and locals alike can listen to live grassroots music on the front porches of historic homes and wander down Drummond Street for bites and fun activities. Motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to downtown Vicksburg for the Vintage Motorcycle Show on November 4 to view the collection of old bikes produced before 1990.   Seasonal Southern Comfort Cuisine Feast on the flavors of Vicksburg this fall with the pecan praline pie and fried chicken at Walnut Hills Restaurant or Betty's legendary biscuits at Main Street Market Cafe. Visitors can sample what the city has to offer at the Taste of Vicksburg on October 27. From soulful performances by local entertainers to engaging insights from history buffs, dine on the city's rich history and culture at the Vicksburg Convention Center. Tickets are $15 per person and are available for purchase at the Vicksburg Convention Center Box Office.   Visit Vicksburg

  Beginning on April 12, 1861, and ending on April 9, 1865, the American Civil War saw the Northern and Pacific states take on the Southern states that sought to secede from the union and form the Confederate States of America – and many of the historic battles took place right here in Mississippi. Visit Mississippi takes a closer look at the role our state played in the war and where locals and tourists alike can revisit the past at many Civil War battlefields across Mississippi.  

Mississippi’s Civil War Battles

  Beginning with the First Battle of Bull Run, the Civil War resulted in a victory for the Northern and Pacific states and the dissolution of the Confederate States. The war also led to the abolishment of slavery, the ratification of the U.S. Constitution’s 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments, and the start of the era of reconstruction. Mississippi alone saw many Civil War battles, including:   Battles in 1862 April 29-June 10: Corinth September 19: Iuka October 3-4: Corinth December 26-29: Chickasaw Bayou/Walnut Hills Battles in 1863 April 16: Vicksburg April 29: Grand Gulf April 29-May 1: Snyder’s Bluff/Snyder’s Mill May 1: Port Gibson/Thompson’s Hill May 12: Raymond May 14: Jackson May 16: Champion Hill/Baker’s Creek May 17: Big Black River Bridge May 18-July 4: Vicksburg Battles of 1864 February 14-20: Meridian February 22: Okolona June 10: Brice’s Cross Roads/Tishomingo Creek July 14-15: Tupelo/Harrisburg  

Battlefields to Include on Your Itinerary

  Thousands of visitors flock to Mississippi each year to take in the Civil War history and see some of the most popular battlefields and sites for themselves. These include the following and more:  

Brice’s Crossroads National Battlefield

  Located in Guntown, this battlefield was the location of a significant Confederate victory and saw over 12,000 men engaged in battle. Brice’s Crossroads National Battlefield was established in February 1929 by the U.S. National Park Service (NPS).  

Tupelo National Battlefield

  The site of the last Civil War battle in Mississippi, Tupelo National Battlefield is now protected by NPS. Over 20,000 Confederate and Union soldiers fought here, and at the time, Union forces also included soldiers from the United States Colored Troops. The battlefield is located in Tupelo.  

Vicksburg National Military Park

  Vicksburg is one of the most popular destinations in the state for Civil War and history buffs. Vicksburg National Military Park is home to 141 cannons and carriages, 15 historic bridges, nine fortifications, and the USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum, among a host of other attractions that commemorate this time in history. Visitors can also pay their respects at Vicksburg National Cemetery and view over 1,400 memorial monuments.  

Find Our State’s Historic Civil War Sites with Visit Mississippi

  Whether you’re planning on visiting several Civil War battlefields in Mississippi or just want to know which ones to highlight on your trip, the team at Visit Mississippi is standing by to help you plan your itinerary. For more information, contact us today. You can also request a tour guide or utilize our helpful trip planner online.