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Vicksburg, Mississippi: The Best & Most Fun Things To Do (Plus Places To Visit If You’re Feeling Adventurous!)

You are in for a good one if you are planning a trip to Vicksburg, Mississippi. This small city on the Mississippi River is deep in history, culture and natural country. History buff, art lover or outdoor enthusiast, Vicksburg has a version of each.

Step back in time and work through the deep past of Vicksburg by visiting its many museums and historical landmarks. From the Vicksburg National Military Park, which commemorates the Civil War Battle of Vicksburg, to the Old Depot Museum, which shows the railroad history of the city, you will find plenty to keep you occupied and to teach you something.

When you are not deep in the history of Vicksburg, take some time for its artistic side. The city is home to a working arts scene, with galleries, theaters and music venues showing the work of local artists and performers. And if you want to get outside, Vicksburg will not let you down. With parks, nature trails and the Mississippi River at the doorstep, the outdoor options run long.

A Peek into Vicksburg’s Past

Start at the Vicksburg National Military Park, because everything else here follows from it. The park preserves the battlefield features exactly as they looked back in 1863. It holds a collection of 1,400 monuments and sculptures across that same ground. The siege it commemorates ran a full 47 days before the city gave in. And that surrender came on July 4, 1863, at the end of it.

Ah, Vicksburg, Mississippi. A city deep in history and character. It is no wonder that tourists come to this town to get a look at its storied past. And what a past it is.

Vicksburg played a serious part in the American Civil War. The Vicksburg Campaign, which ran from March to July 1863, was a turning point in the war. The Union Army, under the leadership of General Ulysses S. Grant, besieged the city for 47 days before the Confederate Army, under General John C. Pemberton, surrendered on July 4, 1863.

Today you can visit the Vicksburg National Military Park to see where the battles were fought. The park preserves battlefield features as they appeared back in 1863 and holds a serious collection of 1,400 monuments and sculptures. It is one to see for any history buff.

But that is not all. The Vicksburg Civil War Museum is another strong place to pick up the part the city played in the war. The museum holds an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the era, weapons, uniforms and personal items from soldiers on both sides of the conflict among them.

For more historic sites to visit, take the Old Depot Museum. This museum is given over to the history of transportation in Vicksburg, with a particular focus on the part the city played in the Civil War. You will see exhibits on everything from steamboats to railroads to the siege of Vicksburg.

So Civil War buff or just after more of the past of Vicksburg, there is plenty to see and do in this small Southern city.

Museums Galore

History buffs will get on with Vicksburg. There are so many museums in the area that you could spend weeks working through them all. Here are just a few of the museums to take during the visit:

Vicksburg National Military Park

You cannot visit Vicksburg without stopping at the Vicksburg National Military Park. This park works to preserve the history of the Battle of Vicksburg in the American Civil War. You will find plenty of exhibits and artifacts that carry you back in time. And the park sits on open ground, so you get some fresh air while you pick up the history.

Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum

Did you know that Coca-Cola was invented in Vicksburg? It is true. And you can pick up the whole story at the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum. This museum is owned by the Biedenharn family, who were the first to bottle Coca-Cola. You get to see some of the original bottling equipment and pick up the history of the best-known soft drink there is.

Lower Mississippi River Museum

The Lower Mississippi River Museum is a strong place to pick up the history of the Mississippi River. You will find exhibits on everything from the geology of the river to its mark on American culture. There is even a full-scale replica of a towboat that you can work through.

Old Depot Museum

The Old Depot Museum sits in an old train depot that dates back to 1899. Inside, you will find exhibits on the history of Vicksburg and the surrounding area. There are exhibits on everything from Native American history to the Civil War.

USS Cairo Museum

The USS Cairo Museum is given over to the history of the USS Cairo, a Civil War-era ironclad gunboat that was sunk in the Yazoo River. The museum sits on the site where the boat was raised from the river in the 1960s. You get to see the boat up close and pick up its history.

Vicksburg Civil War Museum

The Vicksburg Civil War Museum is given over to the history of the Civil War in the Vicksburg area. You will find exhibits on everything from the Siege of Vicksburg to the lives of soldiers during the war. The museum is a strong place to pick up the local mark the war left.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and work through some museums.

Artistic Side of Vicksburg

Are you an art lover? Do you take to works of art that carry some weight to them? Then you are in luck. Vicksburg runs a working artistic community with plenty of chances to take your creative side out for a walk.

Attic Gallery

For somewhere to take in some serious works of art, the Attic Gallery is the destination. This small gallery sits in the heart of downtown Vicksburg and runs a broad spread of works from local and regional artists. From oil paintings to sculpture, something here will suit your taste.

Vicksburg Riverfront Murals

The Vicksburg Riverfront Murals are ones to see for anyone visiting Vicksburg. These works of art show scenes from the history and culture of Vicksburg and sit along the Mississippi River levee. Take a walk along the riverfront and take these murals in.

H.C. Porter Gallery

The H.C. Porter Gallery is another strong destination for art lovers. In a historic building in downtown Vicksburg, this gallery runs the works of H.C. Porter, a renowned artist who works at capturing the character of the Mississippi Delta. You will find a broad spread of works on display, paintings through to photography.

So whether you want to take in some serious works of art, or add to your own collection, Vicksburg has plenty. Take a walk through the Attic Gallery, take the Vicksburg Riverfront Murals, or visit the H.C. Porter Gallery and work through the artistic side of Vicksburg.

Exploring the Outdoors

If you want some fresh air and the natural country of Vicksburg, Mississippi, you are in luck. There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, on land or out on the water.

Mississippi River Adventures

One of the defining features of Vicksburg is the mighty Mississippi River, and there are plenty of ways to work it. You can take a slow walk along the riverfront and take the views, or step it up with a riverboat tour. There are several companies that run tours of the river, and they range from short sightseeing trips to longer dinner cruises.

If you are feeling bold, you might consider renting a kayak or canoe and paddling your way down the river. Just be sure to wear a life jacket and take all necessary safety precautions.

Yazoo River Excursions

For a different kind of river day, consider the Yazoo River. This tributary of the Mississippi is known for its scenery and wildlife, and there are several tour companies that run excursions.

A slow paddle or a high-speed jet boat ride, there is a version of each on the Yazoo River. You might even catch sight of some of the local wildlife, alligators, turtles and a spread of bird species among them.

Parks and Points of Interest

Of course, there is more to Vicksburg than its rivers. The city is also home to several parks and points of interest that repay the time.

One of the busier ones is the Vicksburg National Military Park, which commemorates the Vicksburg Campaign of the American Civil War. The park runs a long stretch of hiking trails, alongside historic monuments and markers.

For something a little more low-key, take the Vicksburg Riverfront Murals. These colorful murals show scenes from the history and culture of the city, and they are a good way to pick up more of the area.

Vicksburg Campaign Trail

History buffs should take the Vicksburg Campaign Trail. This self-guided driving tour takes you through some of the serious sites of the Vicksburg Campaign, battlefields, historic markers and museums among them.

Along the way, you pick up the strategies and tactics used by both Union and Confederate forces, alongside the mark the campaign left on the local population.

However you choose to work through the outdoors of Vicksburg, the day will stay with you. Just be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, bug spray, and a sense of adventure.

The dates on this page stack up quickly once you start reading them. McRaven House was built in 1797 and is one of the oldest homes here. The Old Court House was built in 1858 and served the county until 1939. The Old Depot Museum sits in a train depot dating back to 1899. And the Illinois Monument stands 47 feet of granite and bronze.

Historical Landmarks

Vicksburg, Mississippi is a city deep in history, and it is home to many historical landmarks that repay a visit. Here are a few of the landmarks that carry you back in time:

Old Court House Museum

History buffs will take to the Old Court House Museum. This Greek Revival-style building was built in 1858 and served as the Warren County courthouse until 1939. Today it is a museum holding artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the past of Vicksburg. You can work through the courtroom, the chambers of the judge, and even the jail cells. And if the day goes your way, you might catch sight of the ghost of a former prisoner.

Illinois Monument

The Illinois Monument is a memorial that honors the soldiers from Illinois who fought in the Siege of Vicksburg during the Civil War. The monument stands a towering 47 feet tall and is made of granite and bronze. It carries a statue of a Union soldier on top, and the base is covered with intricate carvings and inscriptions. It is a moving tribute to those who fought and died in one of the serious battles of the Civil War.

McRaven House

The McRaven House is a Victorian-style mansion that was built in 1797 and is one of the oldest homes in Vicksburg. It carries a deep history, having served as a hospital during the Civil War and even as a bordello at one point. Today it is a museum that runs tours of the house and its grounds. You get to see the original furnishings, alongside some of the artifacts that have been collected over the years. And who knows, you might even meet one of the many ghosts of the house.

Vicksburg is home to many other historical monuments and memorials, but these three landmarks are among the more unusual and interesting. Courtroom drama, Civil War battles, or Victorian-era mansions, Vicksburg has a version of each.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Looking for some entertainment and nightlife in Vicksburg, Mississippi? You are in the right place. Here are a couple of places that suit a night out on the town.

Ameristar Casino

Feeling lucky? Head over to the Ameristar Casino for some gambling. With over 1,500 slot machines and 27 table games, you will find a game that suits. And they run live music and entertainment on the weekends, so you can dance the night away after hitting the jackpot.

Downtown Vicksburg

If gambling is not your thing, head to downtown Vicksburg for the night. Washington Street is the place to be, with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Start with dinner at one of the many eateries, then head to a bar for some drinks and live music. LD’s Kitchen is a strong spot for some Southern comfort food, while The Biscuit Company suits a quick breakfast or lunch.

Feeling fancy? Take 10 South Rooftop Bar & Grill for wide views over the city and strong cocktails. And for live music, Bottleneck Blues Bar is the place. With its warm room and its musicians, you will be tapping your feet all night long.

Whatever you are in the mood for, downtown Vicksburg has a version of it. So grab your friends and get ready for a night out.

Unique Vicksburg Experiences

Looking for something out of the ordinary to do in Vicksburg? You are in the right place. Here are two you will not want to miss:

Tomato Place Visit

Anyone who takes to tomatoes (and who does not?) has to take the Tomato Place. This family-owned farm runs a spread of fresh, juicy tomatoes, alongside other local produce and homemade jams and jellies. You can even pick your own tomatoes straight from the vine.

But that is not all, because the Tomato Place also runs tours of their farm, complete with a guide who knows their ground and will teach you the history and cultivation of tomatoes. You get to see the greenhouse, the packing shed, and the tomato fields themselves. And of course, you get to taste some of the tomatoes for yourself.

Ghost Tour

For something a little spookier, why not take a ghost tour of Vicksburg? With its deep history and its many old buildings, Vicksburg is said to be one of the more haunted cities in the South. And there is no better way to take its ghostly past than with a guided tour.

Your tour guide will take you to some of the more haunted locations in Vicksburg, sharing stories and legends of the ghosts that still walk these places. You will visit the McRaven House, said to be one of the more haunted houses in the South, alongside the Cedar Grove Mansion, which is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl. And who knows, you might even have a ghostly encounter of your own.

Traveling to Vicksburg

So you have decided to visit Vicksburg, Mississippi? Strong choice. You are in for a good one. But before you pack the bags and hit the road, let us talk about how to get there.

First off, transportation. Sure, you could drive yourself, but where is the fun in that? Instead, why not take a train? It is the more environmentally-friendly option, and it is also a chance to channel your inner Harry Potter and feel like you are on your way to Hogwarts. And you will not have to worry about traffic or finding a parking spot once you arrive.

If you do decide to drive, do not worry. Vicksburg is easy to reach by car, and there are plenty of parking options available. Just make sure to bring a map or GPS, because trust us, you do not want to get lost in the Mississippi Delta.

Now, what to do once you are in town. Vicksburg is a destination that covers a lot of ground. History buffs will take to the Vicksburg National Military Park, while anyone who eats well will take to the varied culinary scene of the city. And for some outdoor time, you cannot go wrong with a canoe trip down the Lower Mississippi River.

However you choose to get to Vicksburg, one thing is certain: the trip will stay with you. So sit back, relax, and take the ride (or drive, or paddle).

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some free things to do in Vicksburg that won’t leave me broke like a joke?

You do not need to be a baller to have a good time in Vicksburg. There are plenty of free things to do that will not break the bank. Take a walk through the Vicksburg Riverfront Murals and snap some pics for the ‘gram. Or head to the Old Courthouse Museum and pick up the history of the area. You can also take the Vicksburg National Cemetery, where Civil War soldiers are buried.

Are there any restaurants in Vicksburg that will make my taste buds do a happy dance?

Oh, you betcha. Vicksburg runs some seriously strong eating. For some BBQ, head to Goldie’s Trail Bar-B-Que for their finger-lickin’ good ribs. For some Cajun cooking, try Rusty’s Riverfront Grill for their gumbo and po’boys. And for some Southern comfort food, hit up Walnut Hills for their fried chicken and cornbread.

What are the best places to stay in Vicksburg that won’t break the bank?

You do not have to spend a fortune to get a good night of sleep in Vicksburg. Take the Relax Inn Downtown Vicksburg for affordable and comfortable accommodations. For something a bit more upscale, try the Riverwalk Casino Hotel for some Southern hospitality and river views.

What’s the deal with the Vicksburg National Military Park? Is it worth checking out?

Absolutely. The Vicksburg National Military Park is one to see for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Take a drive through the park and see the battlefields and monuments from the Civil War. You can also take a guided tour or hike one of the many trails in the park.

Are there any fun events happening in Vicksburg that I shouldn’t miss?

You betcha. Vicksburg runs some seriously good events throughout the year. Take the Vicksburg Riverfest in September for some live music and carnival rides. Or head to the Red Carpet Classic Car Show in October to see some sweet rides. And if you are in town at the end of the year, do not miss the Christmas in the Park event at the Vicksburg National Military Park.

Frequently asked questions about Vicksburg, Mississippi

Which Vicksburg park is worth a whole day out there?

The Vicksburg National Military Park, comfortably. It preserves the battlefield features as they appeared in 1863 and holds 1,400 monuments and sculptures, and there is a good run of hiking trail through it as well. You can drive the park or take a guided tour instead. The Vicksburg National Cemetery sits nearby and costs you nothing at all. Give the park a full day and give the cemetery an hour.

Which Vicksburg museum should you take on first of all?

The USS Cairo Museum. It is built around a Civil War ironclad gunboat that sank in the Yazoo River and was raised out of it again in the 1960s. The Old Court House Museum is the second stop rather than the first one. That one puts you in the courtroom, the chambers and the old jail cells. Leave the Coca-Cola museum for the point where the children start to flag.

Which Vicksburg river trip is the one worth booking ahead?

A riverboat tour on the Mississippi, easily. Several companies run them, and they range from short sightseeing trips through to longer dinner cruises depending on how much of the evening you want. The Yazoo River is the quieter alternative to that instead. That one runs paddle trips and jet boat rides past alligators, turtles and birds. Rent a kayak only if you have the life jacket.

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