9 reasons to visit Jackson, Mississippi this spring
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When the weather turns to sunshine and clear skies, it’s time to pack those bags for a spring vacation. For a quick weekend getaway less than four hours from Birmingham, visit Jackson, Mississippi. From cool historic landmarks to must-visit restaurants and bars, here are some things that await you in the City with Soul.
To Do
To love a city, you must first fall in love with its history. Where should you go first on your exploration of Jackson, Mississippi? To the root of its history, of course.
1. Mississippi Civil Rights Museum & Museum of Mississippi History
First stop on your historical journey is the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and Museum of Mississippi History.
With over 15,000 years of history, you’ll discover Jackson’s role in the US as well as important Civil Rights Movement that helped change the nation.
Explore the Museum of Mississippi History’s exhibits here and Mississippi Civil Rights Museum’s events here.
Address: 222 North St, Jackson, MS 39201
2. Mississippi Freedom Trail
Once you’ve been to the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and Museum of Mississippi History, take all that fresh knowledge to the Mississippi Freedom Trail. Created in 2011, the Freedom Trail commemorates the people and places in the State of Mississippi that played a pivotal role in the American Civil Rights Movement. Check out the many markers that make up the trail here.
3. Fondren
For arts and entertainment, you’ll want to ensure a visit to Fondren—an arts district of Jackson, MS.
Overflowing with character and charm, you’ll find everything from live music and art openings to unique boutiques, coffee shops and bakeries. Sounds a bit like downtown Birmingham, don’t you think?
Address: 2906 North State St, Jackson, MS 39216
Ready to plan your spring vacation? Check out the Visit Jackson website to safely plan a trip to the must-visit city of Jackson, Mississippi.
Eat & Drink
Birmingham is known for its great restaurants and bars. So when we venture away from home, we take our love of a good meal and tasty drinks with us. Here are two spots in Jackson, MS where any Magic City local will fit right in.
4. Brent’s Drugs
Enjoy an old fashioned soda shop at Brent’s Drugs in Jackson, MS. Photos via Visit Jackson
For the old-fashioned fun of a soda shop, Brent’s Drugs is a must-visit for anyone who travels to Jackson, Mississippi. While there’s plenty to nosh on the menu, there’s nothing better than hitting up the original 1946 soda fountain for a shake, float or sundae. Delish!
Address: 655 Duling Avenue, Jackson, MS 39216
5. The Apothecary
Located at Brent’s Drugs, The Apothecary has been wowing travelers since 2013 with its pre-prohibition speakeasy vibe.
Inspired by the soda fountain and pharmacy history, this classic cocktail bar offers prescription cocktails, temperance drinks (non-alcoholic), wine, bottled beer and provisions.
Address: 655 Duling Avenue, Jackson, MS 39216
6. Johnny T’s Bistro & Blues
Johnny T’s Bistro & Blues in Jackson MS serves up delicious drinks and food. Photo via Jackson, MS
The legend of early 1900’s blues player Johnny T lives on in this special Jackson, Mississippi restaurant. At Johnny T’s Bistro & Blues, you’ll indulge on delicious southern cuisine from its internationally and seasonally inspired menu.
Before you leave, venture upstairs to The Renaissance Room—one of downtown Jackson’s premiere entertainment and rental venues. Experience drinks from the lux bar, a performance stage, dance floor and more.
Address: 538 N Farish St, Jackson, Mississippi 39202
7. The Iron Horse Grill
From Elvis Presley to Robert Johnson, Mississippi is known as the “birthplace of America’s music.” Experience the state’s love of music along with a tasty meal at The Iron Horse Grill—a local landmark in the city of Jackson.
Here you’ll find Southern-style pub fare, unique cocktails and live music. There’s even a museum tour where you can travel from the 1800s to the present music scene and witness life-size models of famous Mississippi musicians.
Address: 320 West Pearl St, Jackson, MS 39203
Ready to plan your spring vacation? Check out the Visit Jackson website to to safely plan a trip to the inspiring city of Jackson, Mississippi.
Enjoy your Stay
After an exhilarating day out and about in Jackson, Mississippi, you’ll need a comfortable place to rest your head. Here are two of the coolest places to kick back and relax—and they all have a interesting historical fact or two:
8. Old Capitol Inn
Named for the Old Capitol Museum which is within quick walking distance, the Old Capitol Inn offers a quaint, home-away-from-home experience. Each morning, treat yourself to a complimentary Southern-style breakfast then venture on a self-guided tour of Jackson, Mississippi—it’s just outside the Inn’s front doors.
Best-Kept Secret: the Old Capitol Inn features a New-Orleans-style serenity garden and rooftop bar with a spectacular view of downtown Jackson.
Cool Fact: the Old Capitol Inn was once home to an Olympic-sized swimming pool, which became the first integrated pool in the state of Mississippi.
Address: 226 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39201
9. The Fairview Inn
You’ll be swept away by the elegance and charm of this boutique hotel. Nestled in the Belhaven neighborhood, The Fairview Inn is steeped in Jackson’s rich history. From trendy retail areas and unique boutiques to art galleries, theaters and museums, The Fairview Inn’s central location also makes it a prime spot to explore the many exciting things the city has to offer.
Best-Kept Secret: The Fairview Inn is home to the original library of the Fairview mansion, built in 1908. Transformed into The Library Lounge and themed around Mississippi authors, you’ll find hidden gems like a Civil War book collection and contemporary fiction/nonfiction works by famous writers like William Faulkner, John Grisham and Tennessee Williams.
Cool Fact: The Fairview Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Address: 734 Fairview St, Jackson, MS 39202
Are you ready to plan your spring vacation? Check out the Visit Jackson website and follow @visitjacksonMS on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to learn even more about the exhilarating city of Jackson, Mississippi.
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