The Historic Small Town That Every Mississippian Should Visit At Least Once
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
With the start of a new year, it’s the perfect time to explore some new places. (Learn about some must visit spots here.) It’s always exciting to visit a new town, site, or attraction. Luckily, Mississippi is full of great day trip destinations, and Natchez is definitely one of them. Situated on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi, it’s practically overflowing with charm, unique pieces of history, and plenty of other hidden gems. Take a look:
A great place to visit, Natchez offers incredible riverfront views, a variety of historic sites, and Southern cuisine. It’s also been named one of the nation’s "Friendliest Cities," so you’re sure to feel right at home during your visit.
Natchez has a rich culture and heritage, which has been shaped by people of African, French, British, and Spanish descent.
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Begin your visit at the Natchez Visitor Center. In addition to information on the history of Natchez, you’ll find maps, brochures, and tour schedules for the town’s sites and attractions.
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Longwood (pictured above) is by far one of Natchez’s most intriguing homes from the past. The start of the Civil War put an abrupt end to its construction, and as a result, only the basement was completed. The rest of the home’s interior remains unfinished to this day.
Pictured above is the William Johnson House. The historic home offers a unique glimpse into the life of William Johnson – a slave who gained freedom and went on to become a prominent business man.
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Built in 1842, St. Mary Basilica (pictured above) is the oldest Catholic building still in use in Mississippi. Considered an architectural masterpiece, it’s open daily for tours.
Established in 1837, Natchez's Rose Hill Baptist Church is the oldest African American Baptist church in the state.
Established in 1837, Natchez's Rose Hill Baptist Church is the oldest African American Baptist church in the state.
Established in 1822, Natchez City Cemetery sits high on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, providing gorgeous views, especially at sunset. Its occupants reveal the "history, grandeur, mystery, and tragedy that tell the story of Natchez." The cemetery opens daily at 7 am, and for those who don’t want to miss a thing, guided tours are available.
Free to tour, the 128-acre site features ancient mounds, a reconstructed Indian house, nature trail, and museum.
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Editor's Note: Sadly, the King's Tavern is now permanently closed.
Dating back to the 1780s, the building that houses King’s Tavern is steeped in history, and over the years, has served as a tavern, inn, and the city’s first post office. Today, it’s a popular restaurant known for wood fired flat breads and hand crafted cocktails.
Dating back to the 1780s, the building that houses King’s Tavern is steeped in history, and over the years, has served as a tavern, inn, and the city’s first post office. Today, it’s a popular restaurant known for wood fired flat breads and hand crafted cocktails.
Known as the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of the South," Natchez has more than 45 authentic antebellum and Victorian homes have been transformed into bed and breakfasts!
So, have you ever visited Natchez? If so, what’d you think? What were your favorite sites? Tell us in the comments section!
The state is full of historic towns. Learn about others in “7 Historic Towns In Mississippi That Will Transport You To The Past.“
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