21 Best Things To Do In Jackson, The City With Soul

Alright, let’s get one thing straight: Jackson, Mississippi, isn’t boring. If someone told you it was, they just didn’t know where to look. This city has soul for days—like, you can feel it the second you roll in. It’s in the music, the murals, the food that’ll ruin you for anything else, and the people who’ll talk your ear off like you’ve known them since fifth grade. There’s history here, sure, but Jackson isn’t stuck in the past—it’s loud, alive, and way more interesting than most people give it credit for.

So if you’re Googling "things to do Jackson, MS," and expecting a short list of museums and “cute coffee shops,” nah, you’re about to find juke joints, killer eats, powerful stories, and probably end up singing with strangers before the night’s over.

Jackson is one of those places that gets under your skin, and once you feel it, you’ll want to come back for more.

1. Visit the Mississippi State Capitol

📍 Location: 400 High St, Jackson, MS 39201

You don’t have to be a politics nerd to appreciate the Mississippi State Capitol—this architectural gem tells its story through soaring domes, intricate marble work, and the timeless glow of antique chandeliers. Every detail speaks to the grandeur and ambition of Mississippi’s early 20th-century spirit.

Free guided tours pull back the curtain, revealing not just political milestones but colorful legislative moments that make history feel personal. Still a working government building, the Capitol feels alive, buzzing with the energy of decisions being made today.

2. Explore the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

📍 Location: 222 North St, Jackson, MS 39201

This museum doesn’t just present history—it punches you in the gut, and then makes you think about what you’re going to do with it. The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is powerful, unfiltered, and unforgettable. It pulls no punches while honoring the lives, voices, and struggles that shaped the Civil Rights Movement in the South.

The space is immersive and emotional. You’ll walk through rooms filled with powerful quotes, interactive exhibits, and stories that’ll stop you in your tracks. It’s heavy—but necessary—and incredibly well done. If you're looking for attractions that matter, that stay with you long after you leave, this place delivers every time. Bring tissues. Bring time. And don’t rush through it.

3. Stroll Through LeFleur's Bluff State Park

📍 Location: 2140 Riverside Dr, Jackson, MS 39202

Sometimes you just need to walk it off. LeFleur's Bluff State Park gives you the space and the scenery to do exactly that. Smack in the middle of Jackson, this park is part forest escape, part fishing hole, and part family hangout zone—all without needing to leave the city limits.

There’s a little bit of everything here—nature trails, a lake where you can fish or paddle, picnic spots, and even a playground if you’ve got kids tagging along. It’s peaceful without being boring, and just active enough to feel like you’ve earned that post-hike burger.

4. Discover the Mississippi Museum of Art

📍 Location: 380 S Lamar St, Jackson, MS 39201

If your idea of art museums is all “please don’t touch that” vibes and sleepy gallery walks, this place might change your mind. The Mississippi Museum of Art is surprisingly fresh, grounded in Southern culture, and honestly kind of fun to explore. There’s contemporary stuff, historical works, rotating exhibitions, and outdoor sculptures that are just begging for a photo or two.

The museum also knows how to keep things engaging—community events, art nights, live music, and even food trucks show up from time to time. It’s not just about looking at art; it’s about experiencing it in a way that actually feels human. You’ll find everything from bold, modern installations to works rooted in the Deep South’s storytelling traditions. Great vibe, great curation, and no snobby energy.

5. Enjoy a Performance at Thalia Mara Hall

📍 Location: 255 E Pascagoula St, Jackson, MS 39201

Thalia Mara Hall is Jackson’s go-to spot for big performances, and it’s got some serious character. Think Broadway shows, concerts, ballet, stand-up—basically, if something major is happening on stage in the city, it’s probably going down here. The space itself feels classic without being stuffy, with great acoustics and surprisingly comfy seats (important detail, right?).

The lineup changes throughout the year, so one weekend you’re catching a symphony, the next it’s a touring musical or a local artist lighting up the stage. It’s one of those places that turns an average night out into a full-on experience.

Check their event calendar. There’s always something worth grabbing a ticket for—and yeah, you’re gonna want to get those early.

6. Wander Through the Fondren District

📍 Location: Fondren District, Jackson, MS 39216

Fondren doesn’t try to be cool—it just is. It’s the part of Jackson that’s full of personality, color, and all the local flavor you could ask for. You’ve got quirky boutiques, record stores, street murals, and more coffee shops and bars than you’ll have time to visit in one weekend.

On any given day, you might find a pop-up market, live music on the sidewalk, or people just vibing on patios like it’s an art form. Among all the things to see in Jackson, Fondren is the one that feels most alive. Wear comfy shoes and plan to stay longer than you thought.

7. Take a Tour of the Old Capitol Museum

📍Location: 100 S State St, Jackson, MS 39201

This building looks like it came out of a movie set, but it’s very real—and very important to Mississippi’s past. The Old Capitol Museum gives you a firsthand look at where some of the state’s most pivotal moments took place. From debates to legal decisions to history-making speeches, this place has seen it all.

It’s not just about old documents and portraits on walls, either. The exhibits dive into state history in a way that’s interactive and surprisingly engaging. The building itself, with its towering columns and echoing chambers, adds to the vibe. It’s a quick tour, but if you’re into stories that shaped the South, this one’s got layers. Put it on your list of things to see in Jackson, Mississippi, that actually leave you thinking.

8. Visit the Eudora Welty House and Garden

📍Location: 1119 Pinehurst St, Jackson, MS 39202

You don’t have to be a bookworm to appreciate the magic at the Eudora Welty House. This was home base for one of the South’s literary icons, and stepping inside feels like entering a writer’s quiet, messy genius zone. Her books are here, her letters, her furniture—like she just stepped out for coffee and might be back any minute.

The house tour is thoughtful and well-paced, but don’t skip the garden. Welty was just as obsessed with plants as she was with prose, and the blooms are straight out of one of her stories. It’s peaceful, personal, and totally different from your typical tourist stop. If you want something a little offbeat, this is one of the best Jackson spots to visit.

9. Get Inspired at the Jackson Arts Complex

📍 Location: 825 N Congress St, Jackson, MS 39202

The Jackson Arts Complex is where creativity explodes—in the best possible way. This isn’t your typical gallery where everyone whispers and stares. This space is alive with workshops, interactive installations, pop-up theater shows, indie film nights, and collaborative events that blend art, music, and performance into one electric experience.

The artists here aren’t afraid to push boundaries, and visitors are encouraged to participate. You might walk in for a gallery opening and end up making your own piece of art or joining a live discussion on social change through creative expression. It’s welcoming, it’s raw, and it’s the kind of place where community actually means something.

10. Dine Like a Local at the Iconic Mayflower Café

📍 Location: 123 W Capitol St, Jackson, MS 39201

If you know, you know—and locals definitely know about the Mayflower Café. This place has been feeding Jackson for over 80 years and hasn’t lost an ounce of its charm. You walk in and feel like time paused somewhere around 1955, in the best way possible. Green booths, neon signs, handwritten specials, and that warm “we’ve got you” kind of service.

But let’s talk food. The menu leans hard into Greek-inspired seafood, think buttery broiled snapper, crab claws drenched in lemony goodness, and shrimp remoulade that hits every flavor note. And don’t leave without trying their signature Comeback Sauce. People bottle that stuff in their memories. The vibe here is old-school, no-frills, and all flavor. It’s not just about eating; it’s about being part of something that’s been running long before Yelp was even a thing.

Among all the restaurants in Jackson, this one holds a spot of honor. It’s where generations have gone after graduations, dates, and downtown errands. It’s the kind of place that turns out-of-towners into loyal fans and keeps locals coming back out of sheer respect.

11. Dig Through Treasure and Street Food at JXN Flea

📍 Location: 3000 Old Canton Rd, Jackson, MS 39216

The JXN Flea isn’t your average flea market—it’s a full-on cultural experience. Think curated chaos. You’ve got vinyl collectors digging through crates next to someone selling handmade candles and vintage denim jackets that look like they came straight out of a fashion editorial. It’s not the kind of market you pass through in five minutes. It’s the kind you wander, snack, chat, and end up walking away with a bunch of cool stuff you didn’t know you needed.

The vibe changes depending on the venue. Sometimes it’s held at The Ecoshed with plants everywhere and sustainability themes; other times it pops up at Duling Hall and leans more toward music and art. No matter where it lands, you’ll find live DJs spinning vinyl, local artists doing pop-ups, and food trucks handing out tacos, lemonade, or something deep-fried and impossible to resist.

If you're looking for the more alternative side of Jackson, this is where it lives and breathes. It’s creative, energetic, and packed with stuff that feels one-of-a-kind. Among the cooler places to visit, JXN Flea stands out for being unique and somehow different every time you go.

12. Go Wild with the Whole Crew at the Jackson Zoo

📍 Location: 2918 W Capitol St, Jackson, MS 39209

Let’s be honest, finding something that keeps both toddlers and grandparents entertained isn’t always easy. But the Jackson Zoo? It absolutely delivers. This isn’t just cages and signs; it’s a full-on experience with more than 200 animals, shady walking paths, interactive exhibits, and a splash pad that saves lives during those Mississippi summers.

You’ll see everything from lions and lemurs to reptiles and birds that look like they time-traveled from another planet. The enclosures are thoughtfully designed, the layout’s easy to navigate, and there’s space for everyone to move at their own pace. The zoo also puts a big focus on conservation and education, so it’s fun and sneakily educational, which is known as the parenting sweet spot. There’s even a petting zoo and feeding stations for hands-on moments.

They host events year-round, too—like Boo at the Zoo, holiday lights, and animal birthday parties. Add in the gift shop, snack stands, and stroller-friendly paths, and you’ve got yourself a win.

13. Stand Where History Was Made: Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument

📍 Location: 2332 Margaret Walker Alexander Dr, Jackson, MS 39213

You don’t just visit the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home—you feel it. Walking up to this modest home, you’re met with the quiet gravity of one of the most pivotal sites in American civil rights history. It’s where Medgar Evers lived, organized, and ultimately lost his life for the cause of justice. Inside, it’s been preserved just as it was in the 1960s, and every corner tells a story that’s not just powerful—it’s personal.

This isn’t a museum with long, glassed-in hallways. It’s real. The kitchen, the living room, the driveway—all of it forces you to stop and reflect. Guided tours are available and absolutely worth it. The guides don’t just recite facts—they share the weight, emotion, and legacy of the Evers family.

14. Explore the Soul of the City on Farish Street

Farish Street doesn’t just exist—it lives. This historic district has been a cultural nerve center in Jackson for over a century, and it's still pulsing with creativity, color, and character. Walk a few blocks, and you’ll find record stores spinning deep cuts, barbershops full of storytelling, street art that speaks, and food that sticks with you long after the last bite. It’s equal parts nostalgia and next-gen cool.

Live music pours out of old venues, fashion meets funk in vintage stores, and you’ll find locals who’ve called this block home for decades chatting it up with college kids discovering it for the first time. It’s raw, real, and full of energy that doesn’t ask for attention; it earns it.

15. Get Wild at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

📍 Location: 2148 Riverside Dr, Jackson, MS 39202

This isn’t your standard “read the sign and move on” museum. The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science knows how to keep things interesting. You’ve got giant aquariums, realistic dioramas, fossil displays, live snakes (yeah, live ones), and trails that take you straight from the exhibits into actual Mississippi wilderness. It’s like the best field trip you never got as a kid.

Perfect for kids, grown-ups who still act like kids, or anyone who just likes nature in its coolest, weirdest forms. There’s also a planetarium and outdoor spaces where you can stretch your legs after a couple of hours geeking out inside. If you're into Jackson's tourism that isn’t all buildings and plaques, this is a refreshing break. Bonus points: there’s air conditioning and plenty of photo ops that don’t feel forced.

16. Soak Up Southern Architecture at Hinds County Courthouse

📍 Location: 407 E Pascagoula St, Jackson, MS 39201

Old buildings aren’t boring when they’ve got this much swagger. The Hinds County Courthouse in downtown Jackson isn’t just functional—it’s flat-out gorgeous. Towering columns, stone staircases, grand interiors... It’s got the kind of design that reminds you somebody really cared about how buildings looked back in the day.

You don’t have to be on jury duty to check it out, either. History buffs will love the deep roots this place has in Mississippi's legal and political past, and architecture fans can spend a good chunk of time just admiring the craftsmanship. Pop in during a quiet weekday, take some photos, and imagine the stories this place could tell. If you're planning around Jackson weather, a courthouse stop gives you a cool, shaded break on those hot days while still soaking in some serious culture.

17. Step Into Glory at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame

📍 Location: 1152 Lakeland Dr, Jackson, MS 39216

This place is a full-on shrine to Mississippi’s greatest athletes—and trust me, there are more of them than you think. The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame takes you on a walk through decades of hometown legends, pro stars, and underdogs who went big. The museum is clean, interactive, and packed with memorabilia that’s equal parts inspiration and nostalgia.

You’ll find jerseys, trophies, game balls, and video reels that put you right in the middle of unforgettable moments in football, baseball, and Olympic history. There are even sections where you can test your skills, like how fast you can throw a pitch or how high you can jump. It’s fun, educational, and sneaky competitive if you bring the right crew.

18. Feel the Beat at the Eubie Blake Cultural Center

📍 Location: 847 N Howard St, Baltimore, MD 21201

Named after jazz legend Eubie Blake, this place hits different. The Eubie Blake Cultural Center isn’t just a museum; it’s an active, vibrant hub where Jackson’s creative scene comes alive. Think poetry nights, jazz jams, pop-up galleries, and spoken word that cuts deep. There’s a steady flow of events, and no two visits feel the same.

You’re not just observing art here—you’re stepping right into the rhythm of the city. Exhibits highlight Blake’s legacy and Jackson’s contribution to music and cultural storytelling, but the real power is in the people. You’ll meet local artists, musicians, and creatives just doing their thing. It’s inclusive, unapologetic, and real. You won’t find velvet ropes or “quiet please” signs here. You will find some of the most honest, raw talent anywhere in the state. Keep your eye on the Jackson's events calendar—because this spot stays busy, and it’s always worth showing up.

19. Honor Heroes at the African American Military History Museum

📍 Location: 305 E 6th St, Hattiesburg, MS 39401

This is one of those museums that hits you right in the chest—in the best way. The African American Military History Museum tells the stories you didn’t get in school: the real-life accounts of Black soldiers from every major U.S. conflict, dating all the way back to the Revolutionary War. The building itself used to be a USO center during WWII, so you’re walking through a piece of living history.

The exhibits are personal. You’ll see uniforms, handwritten letters, wartime photographs, and hear the voices of service members whose legacies deserve the spotlight. It’s more than just dates and facts—it’s about courage, resilience, and sacrifice. This is one of those under-the-radar stops that leaves a huge impression, and it’s an important part of understanding the broader story of Jackson's tourism. If you want substance, this place delivers it in full.

20. Get Loud at Ruby Red’s Music Lounge

📍 Location: 394 Wightman St, Jackson, MS 39209

If you’re looking for a night that doesn’t end with awkward bar music and overpriced drinks, head to Ruby Red’s Music Lounge. This is where Jackson’s music scene comes alive—like, shoulder-to-shoulder, shout-over-the-guitar-solo alive. Ruby Red’s keeps it real with a mix of local bands, underground artists, open mic madness, and the kind of random magic you only find when you’re not looking for it.

There’s no dress code, no pressure, just good drinks, good sound, and a crowd that’s into the music. From blues to indie to funk, you didn’t know you loved—everything gets a turn on stage. You’ll probably end up dancing with strangers, chatting with the band at the bar, and walking out with someone’s Instagram handle and zero regrets.

Conclusion

Jackson offers visitors an unparalleled mix of history, culture, and Southern hospitality. This city invites you to dive deep into its rich past while enjoying its modern flair. For nature lovers, outdoor gems like LeFleur’s Bluff State Park provide a serene escape within the city limits, while foodies will revel in Jackson’s diverse culinary offerings, especially at places like The Farmer’s Table.

As you explore Jackson, you'll find it to be a city of contrasts—where old meets new, and where the weight of history is balanced by the lightness of a vibrant, forward-looking culture. This is a city that lives up to its nickname, 'The City With Soul', offering every traveler a unique and unforgettable experience.

Planning to visit? Karta has some amazing deals on Jackson vacation rentals for you.

FAQ

1. How far is Jackson, MS from New Orleans?

Jackson, MS, is approximately 186 miles north of New Orleans, Louisiana. The drive typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it an easy road trip between the two vibrant Southern cities.

2. What is Jackson, MS, known for?

Jackson is best known as the state capital of Mississippi and for its rich historical significance, particularly in the Civil Rights Movement. The city is also celebrated for its diverse cultural scene, including music, art, and Southern cuisine, earning it the nickname “The City With Soul.”

3. Is Jackson, MS, worth visiting?

Absolutely! Jackson offers a mix of historical landmarks, museums, arts, music, and food that provide a unique and enriching experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring civil rights history, enjoying local art, or discovering the city’s culinary scene, Jackson is a fascinating destination for travelers of all interests.

4. What are the best things to do in Jackson, MS with kids?

Jackson is packed with family-friendly attractions. Top choices include the Mississippi Children’s Museum, where kids can enjoy hands-on exhibits, and LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, which offers outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The Jackson Zoo is also a favorite for children, featuring a variety of animals from around the world.

5. When is the best time to visit Jackson, MS?

The best time to visit Jackson is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summers can be hot and humid, while winter remains mild, though some outdoor attractions might have reduced activities during colder months.

6. What is the weather like in Jackson, MS?

Jackson experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the high 80s and 90s °F (30–35°C). Winters are mild, with average lows around 40 °F (4°C) and occasional dips into the 30s °F (0–5°C). Rain is fairly consistent throughout the year, with spring and early summer seeing the highest rainfall.