Explore Vicksburg, Mississippi for a Quintessential Southern Experience!
Vicksburg at first blush comes with some hard truths. It’s crime statistics are something that shouldn’t be ignored with distinct areas within the city that are ripe with issues, similar warnings echoed amongst locals we encountered when determining what and where to visit. However, in our exploration of the area, we found this quaint, quintessential southern town to be a true gem and worthy of any tourist’s visit!
Vicksburg boasts a delightful variety of museums that are sure to pique your interest. From fascinating explorations of the vibrant music, delicious food, and rich cultural movements that have shaped the region, to engaging exhibits about the significant historical events that unfolded along the Mighty Mississippi River and the most-often visited Civil War battlefields of the south, there’s something for everyone. What truly hits the spot in Vicksburg, however, is the impressive amount you can see and experience in just one day, as many attractions are conveniently located within easy walking distance or just a short 20-minute drive away, making your visit both enjoyable and accessible. We recommend starting along the waterfront with a stroll along their historic mural wall which explains the history of Vicksburg. After taking in the busy river happenings, head over to the Mississippi IV Museum and Train Depot to learn more!
If you started early and are ready for lunch you MUST stop at Rusty’s Riverfront Grill. Note their odd hours and ensure you arrive early to secure a table at this very popular hot spot. Their website claims to be “best in Vicksburg, and one of the best in south” and we have to agree! We always ask for the signature dishes of any place we visit and the staff quickly chose fried green tomatoes for me and a grilled grouper sandwich for Aaron. WOW is all I can say! After lunch take a stroll downtown to the heart of Vicksburg to explore the Catfish Row Museum, the Bidenharn Coca-Cola Museum, and the variety of boutiques, art galleries, and other fun finds along Washington Street.
After your stomach has settled and you’re ready for adventure - we recommend a drive to the McRaven Tour Home to explore the pre-civil war estate situated on 3-acres of lush gardens. If you are history buffs like we are you’ll enjoy the tour of this historic, haunted estate which houses a pioneer kitchen and numerous antiques. You can book the evening haunted tour if you desire but we chose the day excursion as we still had much more to see!
No trip to Vicksburg is complete without a tour of the Vicksburg National Military Park and that was our next stop! We highly recommend you take in all you can at the visitor’s center, watch the short movie which explains the Siege, then head along the Tour Road to visit the monuments along the way. Make sure to stop and walk inside the Illinois Memorial to take in the grandeur of the building.
I won’t spoil all the goodies you’ll encounter as you drive around the park, but just know the road meanders along taking you to the next must-see, the USS Cairo Museum. Who doesn’t love seeing an 1861 era gun ship and it’s recovered contents artfully displayed?
Be sure to walk the short distance to the adjacent cemetery to read the inscriptions - AND you must go find the grave of Old Douglas the Confederate Camel!
After a fun-filled day of exploring Vicksburg and learning all about the Siege we were ready for an early dinner! If you know us, you know we are foodies and love sampling local favorites and several told us to sample the unique offerings at Key City Brewery. The wait staff recommended their world famous corn fritters (heavenly) and who can pass up a collard green pizza? It was delicious!
After enjoying a delightful early dinner together, we decided to take one last leisurely stroll along the beautiful waterfront before heading back to the coach to rest. How fun it was to unexpectedly discover a majestic Mississippi cruise ship pulling into shore! Be sure to check out our video below for a more in-depth glimpse of all the wonderful sights and experiences you can find in this charming, clean, little city!
