Gulf Islands National Seashore in MIssissippi
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5 Fantastic Reasons to Visit Mississippi With Your Kids

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Besides its mesmerizing delta and being the birthplace of American music, Mississippi has a lot to offer for kids and adults who want to have some fun.

The Magnolia State has amazing beaches, impressive wildlife, adventurous water parks, and a deep historical significance for the US entertainment and cultural industry.

So what are you waiting for? As soon as vacation time starts, pack the bags, get the kids, and head toward the old Deep South for a few fun days of adventure and exploration. 

If you’re still on the fence about it, here are a few reasons why Mississippi is a great destination for a family trip.

Reasons to Visit Mississippi

child feeding a giraffe at the zoo

1. Family-Friendly Attractions

Kids are often difficult to satisfy, especially after a long trip in the car. But if you plan your family vacation well, you’ll be able to keep them contained until you reach your destination (at least). 

The good news is that once you’re done with the lodging formalities, you can start your adventurous times in Mississippi with a few attractions designed to keep them happy and entertained.

The Gulf Islands Waterpark, located in Gulfport, is a great starter as there are plenty of water slides, lazy rivers, and pools where everyone can have some quality time.

Kids can also play in the park’s splash pad and enjoy snacks and drinks at the park’s concessions.

Another great attraction that has kids’ attention is the Jackson Zoo . Here, kids can see and learn about animals from all over the world, such as tigers, gibbons, flamingos, chimps, giraffes, and many more.

There’s also a fun train ride and a playground with a picnic area where kids can roam around while the parents enjoy a few moments of silence.

2. Mississippi’s Music History

Small kids may not be able to appreciate Mississippi’s rich music history and culture, but school-age kids and teenagers may find it extremely captivating.

The Magnolia State is the birthplace of blues and gospel music, which went on to become the foundations of many other musical genres, such as rock and roll or jazz.

You can explore Mississippi’s music history and culture by visiting the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale or the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum in Tupelo.

You can also enjoy live music performances at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum or the BancorpSouth Arena.

3. Outdoor Activities

If you like to stay active (or the kids have extra energy they need to burn), why not explore the many outdoor activities Mississippi has to offer?

Attractions like the Tishomingo State Park in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains or the Gulf Islands National Seashore in Ocean Springs offer plenty of room to move around and explore nature.

There are beautiful hiking trails and lots of options for various sports, such as biking, fishing, swimming, or kayaking. 

Also, you must visit the Natchez Trace Parkway in Tupelo. This one is a scenic drive that stretches over 440 miles from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee.

While you can easily drive, we recommend taking your bikes for a nature ride on one of the many hiking trails. 

There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing that you can’t miss.

4. Southern Cuisine

If you like fried foods that taste like your grandmother’s cooking, you’ll fall in love with Southern cuisine.

Mississippi is famous for its fried catfish, barbecued ribs, and sweet potato pie but there are other dishes you won’t be able to forget. 

Plus, the state has lots of local farms and markets that can provide you with fresh produce and dairy products. 

5. Deep Historical Significance

Between the Civil Rights Movement and the Civil War, Mississippi’s history is long and tumultuous. As a result, today, there are many tourist attractions with a powerful historical significance that history buffs love to explore.

The Vicksburg National Military Park is one of them. Here, you can explore and learn about the Civil War by visiting monuments and exhibits that tell the story of the Siege of Vicksburg. 

You should also visit Beauvoir, in Biloxi, where you get to explore the home and museum of Confederate President Jefferson Davis.

Have Fun!

Mississippi has a lot to offer to its visitors, so make sure to plan your trip well, and don’t forget to have fun while you’re there!