Think there aren’t any perks that come along with living in Mississippi? Think again! From the world’s best fried chicken to one of the best historic small towns in the nation, the Magnolia State has a lot to offer its residents. And just in case you need more convincing, here are 11 privileges Mississippians have that the rest of the U.S. doesn’t.
1. The Catfish
With a booming catfish industry, a city that’s been dubbed the "Catfish Capital of the World," and hundreds of fish houses, it’s safe to say that catfish is a big deal here in Mississippi. We tend to take the fish for granted, but think about how awful it’d be living in a place where it wasn’t served in practically every restaurant, grocery, and gas station.
2. The Little Grand Canyon
Angela Lofton
There’s only one "Little Grand Canyon" and it’s right here in Mississippi. Also known as Red Bluff, it stands at about 400’ above sea level. Unlike its famous counterpart, this amazing site is forever growing as it continues to naturally erode. Check out the Little Grand Canyon for yourself at Highway 587 (locally known as Red Bluff Rd.), Foxworth, MS 39483.
3. Slugburgers
Anyone who’s not from Mississippi will probably turn up their nose at the mention of this oddly-named sandwich. However, residents aren’t fooled by the name and will gladly accept the honor of indulging on the deep fried creation.
4. And Tamales
Forget travelling south of the border for incredible tamales. Heck, Mississippians don’t even have to leave the state. Instead, we can just head to the "most southern place on earth" - the Mississippi Delta. Over the years, the culinary creation has become a staple in the region and even spurred the creation of the Hot Tamale Trail.
5. One of the Nation’s Best Historic Small Towns
Mississippi is full of historic towns that are perfect for delving into the nation’s past. And it looks like one of those towns is in the running for being named the "Best Historic Small Town" in the country. That’s right; Natchez is one of 20 nominees in the USA Today contest. Learn more
here .
6. Home of the "Only Real Donut"
Opened since the 1960s, the TatoNut Donut Shop serves up some of the best – and most unique – donuts in the country. Located in downtown Ocean Springs, the shop is famous for its signature donuts, which are made from potato dough – hence the name. Head to the local favorite, and you’ll find everything from traditional glazed donuts to custom creations. Visit TatoNut at 1114 Government St., Ocean Springs, MS 39564.
7. Birthplace of the Blues and the King
Not only is our state the birthplace of the blues, which practically every other genre is based off of, but the King of Rock and Roll was born here. No other state has contributed to the world of music like the Magnolia State. Even better, there are a ton of significant sites related to Mississippi’s rich musical heritage scattered throughout the state. A great place to start is the
Mississippi Blues Trail .
8. The Country’s 2nd Spookiest Cemetery
Not everyone can say they live in a state that’s home to the country’s 2nd spookiest cemetery but Mississippians can. The historic Glenwood Cemetery, which dates back to at least 1856, includes several interesting gravesites, including a mass grave that holds the bodies of countless Confederate soldiers as well as one belonging to a vengeful witch. Visit Glenwood Cemetery at Potters Field Rd., Yazoo City, MS 39194.
9. The Nation’s 3rd Most Haunted House
Head to Vicksburg, and you’ll find McRaven – the "most haunted house in Mississippi" and the "3rd most haunted in the country." The paranormal activity at the historic home has been documented by A&E, The Travel Channel, and 48 Hours. Brave enough to experience the state’s most haunted home for yourself? For touring information or to be a part of a paranormal investigation at McRaven, click here.
here .
10. World Famous Fried Chicken
Dine on "world famous" fried chicken without ever leaving the state with a visit to the Old Country Store in Lorman. The perfectly fried chicken, which is served via an all-you-can-eat buffet that’s loaded with southern classics, has been featured in countless publications and raved about by customers and critics alike. Visit the Old Country Store at 18801 US-61, Lorman, MS 39096.
11. The Best Coastal Small Town
Another USA Today contender, Ocean Springs is in the running for the "Best Coastal Small Town." And whether or not it wins, us residents know the town is well deserving of the title. Dubbed the "gem of the Gulf Coast," Ocean Springs is the epitome of picture perfect. Between a historic district that’s filled with quaint shops and great restaurants to thriving art and music scenes, it’s no wonder the seaside town has won over the hearts of both locals and tourists. Learn more about the contest
here .
So, what are some other privileges that come along with life in the Magnolia State? Tell us in the comments section.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.