Take This Hidden Gems Road Trip When You Want To See Some Little-Known Places In Mississippi
By Daniella DiRienzo|Updated on November 15, 2022(Originally published November 09, 2022)
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
Think you’ve seen everything there is to see in Mississippi? Think again! There are tons of hidden gems in the Magnolia State. And just to prove it, we mapped out a route that leads to some of the best hidden gems in Mississippi.
The route we mapped out spans just over 500 miles and will take about 8-1/2 hours to complete.
However, you don’t have to commit to the whole route. You can always select just a few destinations or break it up into a multi-day road trip. To alter the route, click here.
1. Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum (Gulfport)
Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum, 522 Pass Rd, Gulfport, MS 39507, USA
Start off your hidden gems road trip with a stop at the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum. Inside, you’ll find over 200 years of railroad history, more than 80 model train layouts, one of the largest LEGO railroad displays in the state, interactive layouts, outdoor displays, and multiple riding trains. For more info, click here.
Of all the hidden gems in Mississippi, the Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument might just be the most surprising. An amazing piece of rock ‘n roll history, the monument pays tribute to the band members who lost their lives in the infamous 1977 plane crash. For more info, click here.
Mississippi is full of surprises, including the "world’s largest" small scale model. Hidden in Buddy Butts Park, the massive model spans 200 acres and can only be seen in its entirety from the air! Oddly enough, the model was abandoned after just six years in use. For more info, click here.
One of the state’s most amazing natural wonders, the Mississippi Petrified Forest is filled with ancient trees that have been transformed into stone. Not only is the forest an amazing sight, but it’s unique, too. The Mississippi Petrified Forest is the only petrified forest in the eastern U.S. For more info, click here.
Revered as the 2nd spookiest cemetery in the nation, Glenwood Cemetery is a must-visit for thrill-seekers. The cemetery’s most notorious grave belongs to the Witch of Yazoo, who, according to legend, cursed the town long ago. Today, the cemetery offers tours, keeping the local legend alive. For more info, click here.
History comes to life at the Oren Dunn City Museum! Inside, there are a ton of interesting exhibits, which cover everything from fossils to railroads. Outside, there’s an eclectic village comprised of historic buildings. For more info, click here.
A must-visit for history buffs and Coca-Cola fans of all ages, the Corinth Coca-Cola Museum celebrates the 110+ year history of America’s favorite beverage. Inside, there’s a ton of memorabilia, including vintage drink machines, signage, and an old-fashioned soda fountain. For more info, click here.
So, did you know about these secret spots? Ever visited any of the places mentioned above? Did we miss your favorite hidden gem? Tell us!
These aren’t the only hidden gems worth seeking out. Click here to read about other secret spots only locals know about.
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More to Explore
Places To Visit In Mississippi
William Suphan|November 14, 2022
What are some of the top-rated educational attractions in Mississippi?
These are some of the top-rated educational attractions in Mississippi:
The USS Cairo Museum. Located in Vicksburg National Military Park, this museum houses a restored ship that was rediscovered after being buried in mud for over 100 years.
B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center. This museum’s focus is the life and work of legendary blues musician B.B. King and educates the public about the birth of blues music in the Mississippi Delta.
What are some of the best natural attractions in Mississippi?
These are some of the best natural attractions in Mississippi:
Strawberry Plains Audubon Center. This nature sanctuary covers several thousand acres and has 15 miles of trails to stroll on. Locals come here for wildlife viewing and the fields of wildflowers.
Red Bluff. The Pearl River eroded to create this canyon which is nicknamed “Mississippi’s Little Grand Canyon”.
Tishomingo State Park. This is considered to be one of the top-rated parks in Mississippi. It contains rapids to navigate, mountains to climb, and options to learn about Native American history.
What are the best small towns to visit in Mississippi?
Here are the best small towns to visit in Mississippi:
Biloxi. This popular town is home to Biloxi Beach, Biloxi Lighthouse, Biloxi Bay Bridge, and many other popular tourist attractions. It is also known for its lively casino scene.
Flowood. Located just outside of Jackson, this town has several top-notch museums and a ton of Southern charm.
Natchez. Known for antebellum-style architecture and lots of nearby natural attractions, this is one of the top small towns in the state.