25 Things To Do In Vicksburg That You Probably Haven’t Heard Of
Perched along the majestic Mississippi River, Vicksburg offers visitors a journey through time. This city seamlessly combines its rich Civil War history, vibrant culture, and Southern charm into an unforgettable destination. From exploring historic landmarks to enjoying scenic riverfront views, Vicksburg invites you to uncover its stories and savor its experiences.
1. Explore the Vicksburg National Military Park
The Vicksburg National Military Park commemorates the pivotal Siege of Vicksburg, offering a deep dive into Civil War history. Visitors can drive or bike along a 16-mile tour road lined with over 1,400 monuments, learning about the battle that shaped America’s future. Highlights include the restored USS Cairo gunboat, a museum showcasing recovered artifacts, and breathtaking views of rolling hills and the Mississippi River.
Fun Fact: The park has more monuments than any other Civil War battlefield, earning it the title “America’s Monument Park.”
2. Take a Cruise on the River
A Mississippi River cruise is a must for those seeking a serene perspective of Vicksburg’s beauty. Glide along the iconic waterway aboard a paddlewheel or modern cruiser, soaking in views of scenic parks, lush bluffs, and historic bridges. Narrated cruises provide fascinating insights into Vicksburg’s role during the Civil War and its cultural evolution. Evening cruises, especially during spring or fall, offer stunning sunset vistas.
3. Try Lady Luck at the Riverfront Casinos
For excitement and entertainment, Vicksburg’s riverfront casinos deliver an unforgettable experience. Venues like Riverwalk Casino and Ameristar Casino offer gaming, fine dining, and live entertainment, all set against the Mississippi River’s picturesque backdrop. Beyond gambling, these establishments host events and concerts, adding a dynamic layer to your visit.
Fun Fact: Revenue from Vicksburg’s casinos supports local schools, infrastructure, and community projects, ensuring your fun contributes to the city’s growth.
4. Relive History in Downtown Vicksburg
Downtown Vicksburg is a treasure trove of history, featuring well-preserved architecture, Civil War sites, and modern attractions. Visit the Old Court House Museum to see artifacts from the Civil War era, then stroll through streets adorned with the Vicksburg Riverfront Murals, which depict key moments from the city’s past. Enjoy Southern cuisine at local restaurants and shop for antiques in this vibrant, historic district.
5. Tour the Many Historic Homes
Vicksburg's historic homes offer a captivating glimpse into the elegance and charm of the South during the 19th century. These antebellum residences, preserved with care, showcase stunning Southern architecture and the city’s rich historical tapestry.
Cedar Grove Mansion: This beautifully preserved home features original furnishings and offers guided tours and overnight stays, giving visitors a taste of antebellum life.
Anchuca Historic Mansion: Known for its role during the Siege of Vicksburg, Anchuca combines history with architectural beauty, complete with period artifacts and poignant stories.
Many of these homes host special events like historical reenactments and seasonal celebrations, making them vibrant parts of Vicksburg’s cultural fabric.
Fun Fact: Many of Vicksburg’s historic homes, including Anchuca, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring their stories endure for generations.
6. Visit the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum
The Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum celebrates the birthplace of Coca-Cola bottling, a groundbreaking innovation that began in Vicksburg in 1894. Located in a charming downtown building, the museum showcases an extensive collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia, including vintage ads, early bottles, and the original bottling equipment. Visitors can admire a fully restored soda fountain, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the drink's early days.
This iconic museum offers an enriching experience for history buffs and soda enthusiasts alike, and its location makes it a perfect pairing with a stroll through downtown Vicksburg.
Fun Fact: The museum houses one of the first glass bottles used to package Coca-Cola, marking a pivotal moment in the drink’s history.
7. Admire the Vicksburg Riverfront Murals
The Vicksburg Riverfront Murals bring the city’s rich history and culture to life through stunning large-scale art. Painted by renowned artist Robert Dafford, these murals span the floodwall along the Mississippi River, depicting significant moments from Vicksburg’s past, including its Civil War history and its days as a steamboat hub.
With over 30 paintings, the murals are not only a visual treat but also an engaging history lesson. They’re especially captivating at sunrise or sunset, offering a magical ambiance against the riverfront’s scenic backdrop.
Fun Fact: These murals are one of the largest outdoor art collections in the South and serve a dual purpose as functional flood barriers.
8. Tour the Old Court House Museum
The Old Court House Museum, built in 1858, is a remarkable Greek Revival structure that has witnessed Vicksburg’s most pivotal moments. Surviving the Siege of Vicksburg, this historic building now houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including Civil War relics, antique furniture, and original documents.
Highlights include a hand-sewn Confederate flag and rare photographs from the era, while the preserved courtroom and sweeping hilltop views enhance the experience. The museum’s exhibits offer visitors a deeply immersive journey through Vicksburg’s storied past.
Fun Fact: Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederacy, once delivered a speech from the museum’s steps.
9. Wander Through Cedar Hill Cemetery
Cedar Hill Cemetery, established in 1858, is one of the South's largest historic cemeteries, offering a reflective journey through time. The Soldiers’ Rest section holds the remains of over 5,000 Confederate soldiers who perished during the Siege of Vicksburg, making it a significant Civil War site. The cemetery spans over 100 acres, showcasing intricate Victorian-era grave markers, mausoleums, and monuments. Its hilltop location provides peaceful views, making it both a historical and serene destination.
Cedar Hill Cemetery is not only a place of reflection but also a beautiful spot for those who appreciate history and architecture. The cemetery’s hilltop location offers peaceful vistas, adding to its serene atmosphere.
Fun Fact: Cedar Hill Cemetery is among the oldest continuously operating cemeteries in the United States.
10. Experience Catfish Row Art Park
Located near the Mississippi River, Catfish Row Art Park is a lively, family-friendly space filled with colorful murals, sculptures, and interactive art installations. Splash fountains provide fun for kids, while the park's artistic features reflect Vicksburg's creativity and cultural heritage. Regular events, live performances, and festivals transform this park into a vibrant community hub. Its location along the riverfront adds scenic charm, making it perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration.
Fun Fact: The park’s name honors Vicksburg’s history as a port city and its ties to Mississippi River fishing culture.
11. Discover the Lower Mississippi River Museum
The Lower Mississippi River Museum offers an engaging look into the ecological, cultural, and economic significance of the Mississippi River. Interactive exhibits delve into river navigation, flood science, and conservation efforts. A highlight is the retired steam-powered Mississippi IV towboat, which visitors can explore. The museum combines education with fun, making it an excellent stop for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Fun Fact: The Mississippi IV was the last steam-powered vessel used by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
12. Visit Anchuca Historic Mansion
The Anchuca Historic Mansion is a beautifully preserved antebellum home that provides an immersive glimpse into Southern history. Featuring Greek Revival architecture, period furnishings, and lush gardens, Anchuca served as a hospital during the Siege of Vicksburg and now operates as a charming bed-and-breakfast. Visitors can tour the home or stay overnight to experience its elegance and historical significance.
Fun Fact: Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederacy, addressed a crowd from Anchuca’s balcony after the war.
13. Explore Pemberton’s Headquarters
Pemberton’s Headquarters, a Greek Revival home, was the command center for Confederate General John C. Pemberton during the Siege of Vicksburg. Visitors can tour the historic interiors, filled with period furnishings, and learn about the pivotal Civil War strategies planned here. This site also marks where surrender terms for the Confederate army were negotiated, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Fun Fact: The surrender at Pemberton’s Headquarters marked a turning point in the Civil War, leading to Union control of the Mississippi River.
14. Check Out Duff Green Mansion
The Duff Green Mansion, built in 1856, stands as a testament to Vicksburg's antebellum elegance and rich history. This stately home has served as a Confederate hospital, a Union respite, and a private residence, offering visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past. Guided tours showcase original features like heart-pine floors, intricate moldings, and period furnishings, while storytelling highlights its unique role during the Civil War as a neutral zone treating soldiers from both sides. Visitors can also stay overnight, as the mansion operates as a charming bed-and-breakfast.
Fun Fact: The mansion’s Civil War neutrality made it a safe haven for both Confederate and Union soldiers.
15. Play at Ameristar Casino
Located along the Mississippi River, Ameristar Casino is a lively destination offering a dynamic mix of entertainment, dining, and gaming. Spanning over 70,000 square feet, the casino features slot machines, table games, and a sportsbook for sports enthusiasts. After gaming, indulge in Southern cuisine at Bourbon’s, one of its on-site restaurants, while enjoying scenic river views. Ameristar also hosts live entertainment, making it a top spot for a vibrant night out.
Fun Fact: Ameristar Casino is one of the largest casinos in Mississippi!
16. Browse the Southern Cultural Heritage Center
The Southern Cultural Heritage Center celebrates the rich artistic and historical tapestry of Vicksburg. Housed in a historic complex featuring Gothic Revival and Romanesque architecture, the center offers exhibitions, workshops, and events ranging from art classes to cultural festivals. Visitors can explore the preserved convent and school buildings while engaging with Vicksburg's creative and historical legacy.
Fun Fact: The center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing architectural styles spanning multiple eras.
17. Attend a Show at the Strand Theatre
The Strand Theatre is a charming historic venue offering a cozy atmosphere for live performances. From plays and concerts to independent films and comedy acts, the Strand is a hub for arts and entertainment in Vicksburg. Its classic marquee and vintage ambiance add to the allure, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking cultural experiences.
Fun Fact: Originally opened as a movie house in the 1930s, the Strand Theatre has been restored to host a variety of performances today.
Conclusion
Vicksburg, Mississippi, encapsulates the perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment, offering visitors a journey that spans centuries. Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of the Duff Green Mansion, learning about Coca-Cola’s origins at the Biedenharn Museum, or enjoying the scenic Mississippi River, every corner of the city tells a story.
From its Civil War battlefields to vibrant art parks and cultural hubs, Vicksburg welcomes history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and families with open arms. Dubbed the “Key to the South” during the Civil War, Vicksburg remains a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences waiting to be unlocked.
FAQs
1. What is Vicksburg, Mississippi, known for?
Vicksburg is renowned for its pivotal role in the Civil War, its historic landmarks like the Vicksburg National Military Park, and its location along the Mississippi River, which shaped its cultural and economic history.
2. What are the top attractions in Vicksburg?
Must-visit attractions include the Vicksburg National Military Park, Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum, Vicksburg Riverfront Murals, Anchuca Historic Mansion, and the Lower Mississippi River Museum.
3. What are some family-friendly activities in Vicksburg?
Families can enjoy exploring the Catfish Row Art Park, interactive exhibits at the Lower Mississippi River Museum, and scenic outdoor fun at Riverfront Park.
4. When is the best time to visit Vicksburg?
The best time to visit is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the Vicksburg weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites.
5. How far is Vicksburg from Jackson, Mississippi?
Vicksburg is approximately 45 miles west of Jackson, Mississippi, about a 45-minute drive via I-20.
6. What activities are available along the Mississippi River in Vicksburg?
Visitors can take river cruises, enjoy fishing or kayaking, explore the scenic Riverfront Park, or learn about the river's history at the Lower Mississippi River Museum.
7. Are there casinos in Vicksburg?
Yes, Vicksburg is home to several casinos, including Ameristar Casino and Riverwalk Casino, offering gaming, dining, and live entertainment.
8. Is Vicksburg a good destination for history buffs?
Absolutely! With attractions like the Vicksburg National Military Park, Old Court House Museum, and Pemberton’s Headquarters, the city is a treasure trove of Civil War and Southern history.
