These 8 Towns Are Mississippi's Best-Kept Secret

Welcome to Mississippi, a fascinating state in the southeastern United States. Between its warm and welcoming hospitality, extensive Civil War history, and rich musical heritage, being the birthplace of the Blues, this is a destination that all travelers will love. However, if you are ready to travel off the well-beaten path and discover hidden gems many have not explored, you are in the perfect place. From Port Gibson to Tylertown, these 8 towns are Mississippi's best-kept secrets.

Port Gibson

Deemed “too beautiful to burn" during the American Civil War, the survival of this city can be attributed to Major General Ulysses S. Grant. After the victory of the Battle of Port Gibson, the General led his troops to Vicksburg to preserve the antebellum architecture of the historic churches and houses. See striking remnants in places like the Windsor Ruins. The 29 expansive columns are the only remains of what was considered to be the state's most extravagant Greek Revival mansion, burned in 1890. From there, head to Church Street to see the First Presbyterian Church. Ponder the golden “Hand Pointing to Heaven," a distinctive feature on this incredible Romanesque Revival style structure. Grand Gulf Military State Park is another spectacular site to see. Travel back in time as you head slightly northwest to discover Civil War artifacts, a Mastodon bone, and paper artifacts ranging from the late 1700s to the 1950s in the museum.

Holly Springs

Combine warm southern hospitality with rich history in Holly Springs, one of Mississippi's best-kept secrets. Set in the captivating rolling hills of the north, you will find a wonderful combination of history, natural beauty, flavor, and art. Start by visiting The Magnolia Mansion, a gorgeous Gothic Revival home circa 1852, with its antebellum charm. Next, see the beauty and grandeur of Rust College. Founded in 1866, this is now the oldest Historically Black College or University in the state of Mississippi. Make sure you explore the breathtaking botanical gardens and natural springs of the Walter Place Garden & Estate, where the General Ulysses S. Grant's family stayed during the Civil War.

Ship Island

While Ship Island may not have a residential population, it is a haven for visitors. Between picture-perfect white sand beaches, an abundance of marine wildlife, and historical landmarks of great significance, you will be blown away by what you will find on one of Mississippi's most beautiful islands, preserved by the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Start with a fascinating tour of Fort Massachusetts, before you dip in the deep blue waters for a refreshing swim. Ship Island is accessible by a one-hour ferry ride with Ship Island Excursions. The journey here is incredibly scenic; you may even spot Bottlenose Dolphins swimming alongside the boat! On the island, Turtles, Ospreys, Hermit Crabs, Herons, and other animals can be seen as well.

Woodville

A hidden gem with a close community, Woodville is a town you need to add to your list. As one of the oldest towns in the state, you can find intriguing Southern architecture and remains of the original 19th-century village. Not to mention, in the Clark Creek Natural Area lies immense natural beauty. With over 50 waterfalls (ranging in height from 10 to 50 feet), vibrant wildflowers, both pine and hardwood forests, and an abundance of wildlife, this is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature. Woodville also has a spot on The Mississippi Blues Trail, dedicated to local musicians who influenced the foundation of blues music in the state where it was born. You can find this landmark along the "road of music" at Royal Oak and Bank Street, in one of Mississippi's best-kept secrets. Stop by Jackie's Hamburger Shop to try their delicious Hazel Burger, topped with coleslaw and BBQ sauce, known for their unique toppings and friendly environment.

Enterprise

Make your way over to Clarke County to discover Enterprise. This historic town, established in 1834, was considered a progressive destination throughout the Antebellum period. Unfortunately, many resources depicting the town's past have since been lost due to natural disasters and Civil War history. However, nowadays, the area offers immense natural beauty. Fuel up with a warm cup of coffee and a delicious breakfast at The French Quarter (previously known as The Coffee Pot Cafe), before you head to the extraordinary Dunn's Falls Water Park. Home to an expansive 65-foot man-made waterfall and the Historic Carroll-Richardson Gristmill, constructed in 1867 (once powered by a waterwheel), this is a site you will not want to miss.

Taylor

Sometimes the best place to uncover the culture of a destination is through the small, quaint towns with tiny populations. While Taylor is quite small (with the entire town stretching for only about four miles), its heart is expansive. Packed with charming shops and restaurants, this is a town your taste buds will thank you for. Taste delicious Southern classics in Taylor Grocery, dubbed by Southern Living to have “The South’s Best Catfish.” From there, spend some time in the Plein Air Farmers Market. This lively spot is known for hosting bustling events in the heart of town. Taylor is also home to the award-winning Wonderbird Spirits distillery, famous for its grain-to-glass gin and gorgeous interior. Take a tour, join an event, or book a tasting for the full experience as you unravel one of Mississippi's best-kept secrets.

Mendenhall

Discover Mendenhall, one of the most scenic small towns in Simpson County. Here, you can see the striking Neo-Classical Style architecture of the Simpson County Courthouse Mendenhall, an expansive yellow-brick building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you prefer to get away from downtown and escape with a dreamy nature retreat, The Johnny Knight Treehouse is the place to be. Surround yourself with the sounds of birds and the rippling creek only a few minutes away, while enjoying the privacy of nature in this fairy-tale-like home. You can also head on a fun family-friendly adventure along the stunning Strong River in D'Lo Water Park, where glamping, cozy cabins, exhilarating outdoor activities, and serene landscapes await.

Tylertown

Prepare for a refreshing small-town escape in Tylertown, one of Mississippi's best-kept secrets. Load up on some scrumptious Southern fried catfish at Stogner & Son Fish Camp, or order their amazing fish and shrimp combo. Music lovers have to visit the Vintage Guitar Emporium. Explore their incredible collection of instruments, vinyl records, CDs, guitar straps, and other treasures as you experience the "vintage state of mind." Last but not least, a trip to Tylertown would not be complete without visiting the Paradise Ranch RV Resort. This spectacular 105-acre campground features the breathtaking Blue Lagoon, a man-made lagoon with an exhilarating zipline that both the kids and adventure seekers will love.

Takeaways

"The Magnolia State" is renowned for its rich Civil War history, mouth-watering culinary flavors, and warm Southern hospitality, paired with extensive natural beauty and charm. From the historic ruins and 1700s artifacts of Port Gibson, to the beautiful white-sand beaches of Ship Island, and the vintage gems and famous distilleries of Tylertown, some of the state's most incredible treasures can be found in these charming destinations. These 8 towns are truly Mississippi's best-kept secrets.