As you begin making your spring and summer travel plans, make sure you put pins in some of the fabulous small-town destinations around the South. One of our favorites to have on your radar is Vicksburg, MS. From outdoor adventures and a delicious restaurant scene to the charming historic downtown district, we’re breaking down the best reasons to visit Vicksburg this year.
Charming Bed & Breakfasts
Vicksburg is home to 11 beautiful historic houses, many of which have been converted into bed and breakfasts. We recommend booking a stay at one of them to truly immerse yourself in the city’s history and charm.
Oak Hall Bed and Breakfast is a popular option, offering the perfect combination of traditional Southern hospitality and modern amenities. Built in 1910, the Mission Revival-style home offers six private suites that accommodate a total of 12 guests. Be sure to take advantage of Oak Hall’s expansive porches, as they’re the perfect respite for taking in the beauty of the Historic Fostoria neighborhood.
Another standout option is the Bazsinsky House Bed and Breakfast. Established in 1861, the home’s rooms offer comfortable king-size beds, private bathrooms, and sweeping views of Historic Downtown Vicksburg. During your stay, take advantage of the continental breakfast or full Southern breakfast, which includes a variety of eggs, pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, and more.
A picturesque mansion built in 1873, Corners Mansion Inn is another popular lodging option. Offering 16 rooms across the property’s three buildings, you can enjoy plenty of amenities outside of your room, too — including porches that offer views of the Mississippi River.
Referred to as “the crown jewel of Vicksburg,” The Inn at Cedar Grove is known for emphasizing local history — even going as far as having a cannonball in the property’s parlor wall! During your stay, spend the afternoon by the pool, stroll the gardens, or take some time to look at the property’s period antiques.
SB Tip: Many of Vicksburg’s historic homes also offer tours. To see a list of available tour homes, check out visitvicksburg.com.
A Rich Local History
Whether or not you consider yourself a history buff, reserve an afternoon for exploring Historic Downtown Vicksburg’s museums — all six of which are within walking distance of one another.
As the name suggests, the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum offers exhibits that explore Vicksburg’s role in helping the popular soft drink rise to fame. Located in a historic building that once served as the home of a wholesale candy company and shoe store, the museum offers an in-depth look at the Biedenharn family, who first bottled Coca-Cola in 1894 in Vicksburg.
Inside the city’s Christian and Brough Building — which has landed a spot on the National Register of Historic Places — the Catfish Row Museum offers a series of ever-changing exhibits highlighting Vicksburg’s role in the manufacturing, blacksmithing, and automotive industries.
Vicksburg also played an important role in the Civil War, so we recommend visiting the Old Depot Museum to view railroad memorabilia, original paintings, and a diorama highlighting the Siege of Vicksburg, and more.
Another popular attraction, the Vicksburg Civil War Museum offers everything from immersive tours to rare artifacts — all while highlighting Black history. During your visit, you’ll see everything from bullets and breastplates to cannons.
Outdoor Adventures
Whether you’re looking to get out on the Mississippi River, embark on a relaxing hike, or get your blood pumping during a bike ride, Vicksburg offers ample opportunities to get outside.
Quapaw Canoe Company offers river expeditions for those seeking up-close views of Vicksburg’s natural beauty. Offering day, overnight, and multi-day trips, you can expect to travel through adjacent rivers and back channels while taking in views of nearby bluffs and forests.
Anglers can also enjoy an adventure with Blue Cat Guide Service. The local outfitter offers guided fishing trips for catfish and relaxing river tours.
If you’d prefer to remain on land, consider a visit to the Vicksburg National Military Park. Segments range from three to 10 miles, and it’s recommended you start your ride at the Visitor Center, where you can watch a 20-minute movie titled Here Brothers Fought.
For a bike ride with breathtaking river views, the Mississippi River Trail provides more than 3,000 miles for both walkers and cyclists. A portion of the trail weaves through the middle of downtown Vicksburg, offering the perfect opportunity for sightseeing.
The nearby Natchez Trace Parkway includes a total of 444 miles of trails with multiple segments through battlefields and nature trails that make it easy to personalize your ride — whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional.
To enjoy a leisurely stroll, follow one of the five Heritage Walk Trails. Home to 35 informational markers, the trail is another opportunity to learn more about Vicksburg’s history, the Civil War, and more. Trails range from 1.5 miles to three miles in length.
A Diverse Culinary Scene
Once you’ve worked up an appetite during your Vicksburg adventures, the town offers a handful of restaurants fit for all tastes.
Located in Historic Downtown Vicksburg, 10 South Rooftop Bar & Grill is a casual eatery on the roof of the First National Building. Enjoy everything from catfish to shrimp and grits, a fried chicken sandwich, and a burger as you’re surrounded by views of the Mississippi River and Yazoo Canal.
For a meal that is equal parts elevated and casual, head to Restaurant Anchuca, located in the Anchuca Historic Mansion and Inn. Named the top restaurant in Vicksburg, specialties include Mississippi farm-raised catfish and a delicious surf and turf. In addition to dinner, the restaurant also offers a serious brunch spread. Overnight guests can also enjoy breakfast daily from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
A Vicksburg hidden gem, The Tomato Place is tucked away inside a local produce stand. The salads and sandwiches are popular, but be sure to also order one of the eatery’s refreshing smoothies or a freshly squeezed lemonade.
Despite only being open for lunch, Main Street Market Cafe is another can’t-miss spot. Many of the menu items change weekly, but you can always expect scratch-made fare that uses seasonal and local ingredients.
Craft beer connoisseurs will enjoy a visit to Key City Brewing Co. The beverage menu offers a wide variety of options – lagers, stouts, sours, IPAs, cocktails, and more. Be sure to also check out the food menu, which includes small plates and heartier options like pizza and pasta.
For even more information on all there is to see and do in this charming Southern town, pick up a Vicksburg Attractions Passport. The free book allows visitors to collect stamps from various landmarks and attractions. If you collect five stamps, you will receive a free T-shirt.
This article is sponsored by Visit Vicksburg. All photography provided.
