JacksonMississippi

Jackson’s downtown skyline at sunset

Stephen Little

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The Sonic Boom of the South marching band performing at Jackson State University

Jackson State University

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Paddling across the Pearl River

Visit Mississippi

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The powerful This Little Light of Mine installation at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

Visit Mississippi

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The former Greyhound bus station, an important stop on the route of the Freedom Riders in 1961

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Major Airports:
Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers (JAN)
States:
Mississippi

Exploring the heart of “The City with Soul”

Jackson is Mississippi’s capital and largest city. The legacy of the Civil Rights Movement resonates deeply here, preserved and honored at landmarks like the Civil Rights Museum. Beyond its historical significance, Jackson is an epicenter of the arts that span music, literature and film. Rich in history, culture and creativity, Jackson offers Southern charm and unforgettable experiences.

A Legacy of Civil Rights

Jackson's pivotal role in the U.S. Civil Rights Movement has left an indelible mark on the city. At the heart of this legacy stands theMississippi Civil Rights Museum, with powerful exhibits illuminating the stories of lesser-known activists who shaped the movement. Nearby, the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument offers a moving tour of the site where the renowned activist was assassinated. The historic Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center, housed in the city's first Black schoolhouse, rounds out this powerful journey through Civil Rights history.

A Tribute to the Arts

Jackson is widely celebrated for its profound influence on Southern Soul music. Its legendary and diverse music scene offers everything from gospel and blues to rock, jazz, and classical. Catch live performances at beloved spots like Johnny T's Bistro & Blues, Hal & Mal's and F. Jones Corner. For a deeper dive into the city's musical roots, follow stops along the Mississippi Blues Trail, tour the iconic Malaco Records and visit during Jackson Indie Music Week. For book lovers, Jackson is a city steeped in literary history. Begin at the Eudora Welty House and Garden, where you can embark on a guided tour of the property that was once home to this Pulitzer Prize-winning author. Nearby, the Margaret Walker Center showcases the renowned writer’s work through her preserved records and writings. Each September, the annual Mississippi Book Festival draws authors and bookworms to the capital city for a weekend of literary events. The magic of Jackson continues from the written word to the silver screen. Stroll through the streets where films such as "Get on Up" and "The Help" were shot and visit iconic locations you might recognize, including Thalia Mara Hall, Brent's Drugs and the Eudora Welty House and Garden.

A Culinary Hotspot

Nowhere else does Southern cooking quite like Jackson. Enjoy time-honored Southern plates at Walker’s Drive-In, where you can enjoy classics like redfish Anna and fried green tomatoes. Hal & Mal’s masters the art of blending familiar Southern staples with fresh, modern interpretations like their Indian Butter Chicken Nachos. The Walk-In serves inventive bites like hot chicken sliders and deviled eggs with a kick. At Brent’s Drugs, dig into diner favorites like patty melts and hand-spun milkshakes in a retro setting. Together, these spots showcase how Jackson’s culinary landscape continues to evolve while honoring its Southern roots.

The Great Outdoors

Get outside in the Mississippi sunshine and explore Jackson’s great outdoors. The city’s multi-use Museum Trail seamlessly connects Jackson’s green spaces, museums and cultural sites. Be sure to stop by LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, a lovely space known for its winding hiking trails and fish-filled waterways. Highlights include its scenic cypress swamp, a lake, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science and the Mississippi Children’s Museum.