Mississippi is full of hidden gems. Even if you’ve lived in the Magnolia State your entire life, there’s bound to be a great attraction (or two) that you have yet to explore. So, if you’re ready to take in all the state has to offer, read on for 11 underrated places that some natives have never even heard of.
1. Yokna Sculpture Trail (Oxford)
Highlighting different parts of Oxford, this trail is the perfect way to explore the city. The loop, trail, which features about 15 - 20 sculptures, starts at the Powerhouse Sculpture Garden and passes through the Rebel Sculpture Park and Lamar Park before coming to an end at the University of Mississippi’s museum. And since the sculptures are rotated annually, the trail always has something new to offer – even if you’ve visited before.
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2. Sciple’s Water Mill (525 Sciples Mill Rd., De Kalb)
Sciple’s Mill has been in business since the late-1700s and is one of only a few water-powered grist mills still in operation. Guided tours are offered on Saturdays, and even if you get there after hours, you’ll still be able to purchase some of the mill’s grits, flour, and corn meal thanks to an "honor box." During your visit, be sure to wander across the street to the Water Mill Opry, a local hangout known for live music, dancing, and potluck meals.
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3. Nitta Yuma
Mississippi is full of abandoned sites and forgotten places, but none are quite as interesting as Nitta Yuma. Basically, part ghost town and part time warp, the tiny town consists of only a handful of buildings – some of which are in complete disarray, others perfectly preserved. Eerily frozen in time, exploring Nitta Yuma is sure to be an experience like no other.
4. Fishbone Alley (Gulfport)
While in Gulfport, Fishbone Alley is a great place to spend the day. Described as a "funky little destination," the alley offers access to several restaurants, features original artwork by local artists, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
5. The Mississippi House (Florence)
Dubbed "the little red house where ghosts live," the Mississippi House is no stranger to paranormal activity. Considered one of the most haunted sites in all of Mississippi, it’s attracted a slew of paranormal investigators, psychics, and mediums. And now, it’s open for tours, so you can experience the local haunt for yourself. An overnight ghost hunt, which includes an informative tour, is $75. Don’t think you could survive the entire night? There’s also a 2-hour evening tour for $25.
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6. Palestine Gardens (201 Palestine Garden Rd., Lucedale)
In 1960, Reverend Walter Harvell Jackson decided to bring the Bible to life. So, just how did he do it? By building a completely accurate scale model of the Holy Land. The utterly unique roadside attraction is a must see, and the best part? There’s no admission charge.
7. Hattiesburg Zoo (107 S. 17th Ave., Hattiesburg)
Spanning just 12 acres, this zoo may not be huge, but it’s packed with fun! Aside from nearly 100 species of animals, the Hattiesburg attraction includes a splash pad, the Asbury Discover Center, which is described as a "room of wonders and oddities," and the High Ropes Adventure Course. Unlike other zoos, a trip to this one won’t break the bank – admission is just $5 per person (children under 2 are free).
8. Cowboy Jim’s Riverside Restaurant (186 Highway 35, Prentiss)
Tucked away "out in the middle of nowhere" on a certified wildlife habitat, this is one of the most unique restaurants in the entire state. Serving up incredible food paired with stunning riverfront surroundings, a visit to this hidden gem is sure to be remembered.
9. Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum (1107 Washington St., Vicksburg)
This one-of-a-kind museum includes all sorts of exhibits and a variety of memorabilia, telling the story of the classic drink and how it came to be bottled in Mississippi. There’s even a restored candy store, complete with furnishings and displays from the 1890s.
10. Casey Jones Museum (105 Railroad St., Water Valley)
Learn about Water Valley’s rich railroad history at the Casey Jones Railroad Museum. The free-of-charge museum is located inside the town’s train depot and houses an array of historic railroad items, photographs, and documents.
11. Brushy Creek Ranch (5939 East Homochitto Rd., Gloster)
Nestled in the middle of the Homochitto National Forest, this hidden gem includes rustic cabins, a serene lake, miles of riding trails, a lakeside pool, volleyball court, swimming hole, and beach. By far one of the state’s best kept secrets, a visit to Brushy Creek Ranch is sure to be an enjoyable one.
So, how many of these hidden gems have you visited? Know of another that should’ve been included? Tell us in the comments section!
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