1. Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is a 70,000 square foot complex teeming with history and educational installations that provide information about the state's natural landscapes and its inhabitants. Be sure to visit the wildlife exhibits and the aquarium, which contains over 200 species.
This museum cares immensely about the preservation of Mississippi's nature, so it is only natural they have an outdoor center as well. The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is one of the best things to do in Jackson MS. Taking a stroll down the nature trails and breathing in the fresh air is the perfect way to end your trip.
2148 Riverside Drive, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-576-6000
2. Old Capitol Museum
The Old Capitol Museum is housed in one of the most historic buildings in the state, and a trip here will surely take you back in time on an informative and exhilarating journey.
This National Historic Landmark is home to some of the most meaningful moments for both Mississippi and the entire nation. It was at this very location in which the 1839 Married Women’s Property Act was passed, and the 1868 and 1890 constitutions were drawn up here as well. Furthermore, Mississippi officially seceded from the Union here in 1861.
There are several multimedia exhibits that portray and explain the roles the legislation and the high court play in governmental processes. This museum has been beautifully restored, and to this day, it maintains its authentic grandeur.
100 S State St, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-576-6920
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
3. Mississippi Museum of Art
The Mississippi Museum of Art is housed in an beautiful building with sleek and modern aesthetics. There are many windows, allowing natural light to illuminate the inside. Arthur B. Davies, Robert Henri, Reginald Marsh, and Thomas Sully are just a few American painters whose works are featured at this museum.
The museum also displays stunning prints of several photographers along with the works of acclaimed sculptors. These are just a few of the permanent collections you will find at this fine museum. After your visit, spend some time relaxing on the patio and terrace.
You will find that you have developed a much greater appreciation for American art after a trip to the Mississippi Museum of Art.
380 South Lamar Street, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-960-1515
4. Eudora Welty House and Garden
A National Historic Landmark, the Eudora Welty House and Garden was the home of internationally acclaimed author Eudora Welty. She wrote much of her work in this house until she passed away in 2001.
Upon entering, you will find yourself transported back to 1986, when Eudora Welty bequeathed the house to Mississippi along with many of the items inside. Her home is adorned with paintings, linens, furniture, rugs, and photographs, just to name a few of the things you will see on your visit. Visitors are particularly interested in her impressive collection of books, of which there are thousands. She was, not surprisingly, an avid reader of great literature.
Before beginning the tour of her home and the beautiful gardens, visitors will watch a film to give them some important background information. After, they are welcome to wander through the museum and admire the many exhibits.
1119 Pinehurst Street, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-353-7762
5. Mississippi Governor's Mansion
The Mississippi Governor's Mansion is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture from the 1840's. This stunning building is the second oldest continuously occupied governor’s residence in the country, and a National Historic Landmark.
Governor Tilghman Tucker and his family were not able to move into the residence until a few years after its construction due to the depression caused by the Panic of 1837.
Today, this landmark stands tall and represents one of the most exquisite examples of Greek Revival architecture in the nation, designed by architect William Nichols.
300 E Capitol St, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-576-6850
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
6. Russell C Davis Planetarium
The Russell C Davis Planetarium is one the top planetariums in the South. The dome features a digital cinema that provides viewers with a full dome visual experience.
You can learn all about astronomy, celestial navigation, and voyages through space. This is one of the largest facilities of its type in the country, and it is equipped with the most sophisticated and innovative gadgets and accessories.
If you are looking for fun things to do in Jackson, Mississippi with kids, this is a great place to visit. The planetarium plays host to other events such as film screenings, festivals, and fashion shows. The cinema screens films that are both educational and entertaining – examples include films about marine life or dinosaurs.
201 E. Pascagoula Street, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-960-1552
7. Mississippi Children's Museum
The Mississippi Children's Museum, one of the top attractions in Jackson, consists of over 50,000 square feet of fascinating and educational exhibits.
Stop by and spend an exciting day looking at the displays and getting some hands-on learning experiences with the interactive exhibits.
Visitors have the opportunity to learn about health and nutrition, discover the fields of science and technology, and even delve into culture and the arts at this comprehensive museum. Since the establishment is located in Mississippi, it’s only natural for the museum to include exhibits and displays related to the culture and heritage of the state, as well as its history and geography.
The Mississippi Children’s Museum provides its visitors with a memorable and informative educational experience.
2145 Museum Boulevard, Jackson, Mississippi, Phone: 601-981-5469
8. Brent's Drugs
Brent's Drugs is an historic malt shop and former pharmacy and drugstore in Jackson, originally opened to the public within the Woodland Hills Shopping Center in October of 1946 by Alvin Brent. Since its purchase by Fondren resident Brad Reeves in 2009, the business has no longer operated as a pharmacy, though it retains its classic bar, soda fountains, and old-school diner vibe housed within its former pharmacy area. The neighborhood gathering place serves up breakfast and lunch fare daily, including its signature Brent Burgers, melt sandwiches, and Texas-style chili. Classic shakes, floats, sundaes, and fountain beverages are also served, with cocktails served at its Apothecary cocktail bar, named as one of the South's best bars by Southern Living.
655 Duling Ave, Jackson, MS 39216, Phone: 601-366-3427
9. Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum
The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum is sure to attract any and all sports enthusiasts. This museum houses a prestigious collection of impressive sports memorabilia specific to Mississippi.
Remember, the state of Mississippi boasts the leading scorer and receiver in NFL history, Jerry Rice, as well as the leading passer in NFL history, Brett Favre. Mississippi can even brag about its ties to Archie Manning, the patriarch of the first family of football.
The state has several Super Bowl MVP trophies, a nice collection of Olympic gold medals, and even titles from NBA Championships and the World Series. Come see the compelling memorabilia of the various sports and their players, which can be found all throughout the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.
1152 Lakeland Dr, Jackson, MS, Phone: 601-982-8264
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