12 Amazing Field Trips Every Mississippian Took As A Kid... And Should Retake Now
By Daniella DiRienzo
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Published March 10, 2016
While in school, the only thing that was more exciting than hearing the final bell was hearing a teacher utter the phrase “field trip.” And since there’s nothing better than reliving your childhood, we decided to put together a list of must-see places that most Mississippians originally visited while on a field trip. From homes of famous residents to a historic village that will transport you straight to the past, here are 12 places you absolutely must re-visit as an adult.
1. Mississippi State Capitol Building, Jackson
Even if you visited this governmental gem on a field trip, a return trip as an adult is a must. Not only will you have a greater understanding of the capitol’s significance but you’ll undoubtedly be able to appreciate the building itself, which has been referred to as an "architectural masterpiece." For touring information, click
here .
2. Old Capitol Museum, Jackson
You probably also had the chance to tour the Old Capitol Museum at some point during your school years. Not only is the building a National Historic Landmark, it is also one of the country’s premier examples of Greek Revival public architecture. Get more information on the museum
here .
3. Landrum’s Homestead and Village, Laurel
When learning about pioneer life, you most likely took a class trip to the nearest historic village, like Landrum’s Homestead and Village. A replica of a standard 1800’s settlement, this Laurel gem offers visitors an experience like no other. History comes to life at this attraction thanks to over 60 buildings and displays. The historically accurate village includes a general store, smokehouse, shooting gallery, trading post, Indian village, schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, a chapel, and more. Get more information on Landrum’s
here .
4. The Old Warren County Courthouse Museum, Vicksburg
One of Vicksburg’s most historic structures, this courthouse played a significant role in the Civil War. By 1948, it had been transformed into a museum, housing an interesting collection of artifacts that includes the tie worn by Jefferson Davis at his inauguration as Confederate President, fine portraits, china and silver, and exquisite antique furniture – all of which can be appreciated much more now that you’re an adult. For more information on the Old Courthouse Museum, click
here .
5. Crosby Arboretum, Picayune
Encompassing 104 acres, the Crosby Arboretum features several exhibits that display plants native to the local ecosystem in addition to hosting a variety of events. And while it’s the kid-friendly events, such as Bugfest and Wildlife Day, that put this Picayune treasure at the top of every teacher’s list of go-to field trip destinations, the arboretum offers activities for people of all ages. From festivals and plant sales to providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxing stroll, the Crosby Arboretum is definitely worth adding to your adult bucket list. Click
here for more information on the Crosby Arboretum.
6. Mississippi Children’s Museum, Jackson
With a motto like, "We take fun seriously," how could you not want to visit this place? The award-winning museum attracts thousands of people annually. And with exhibits that focus on things such as careers and industries that are vital to Mississippi’s economy and the diversity of Mississippi’s geography, history, and culture, adult visitors will be just as entertained as the younger ones. Click
here for more information on the Mississippi Children's Museum.
7. Jackson Zoo, Jackson
As a child, there was nothing more exciting than a class outing to the local zoo, and as it turns out, the zoo can be just as (if not more) exciting as an adult thanks to events like Jackson Zoo’s "Zoo Brew." The annual event features dozens of craft beer samplings, food tastings, live entertainment, and a wing eating contest. Want more information? Click
here .
8. Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg
Sean Smith
One of the state’s top attractions, the Vicksburg National Military Park is definitely worthy of at least one trip as an adult. The popular military park includes over 1,000 historic monuments and markers, several miles of reconstructed trenches and earthworks, a tour road, antebellum home, emplaced cannon, a restored Union gunboat, and the Vicksburg National Cemetery, which is second in size only to Arlington. Get more information
here .
9. The William Johnson House, Natchez
Significant homes of yesteryear, like the William Johnson House, were always popular field trip destinations. This house, in particular, tells the story of William Johnson - a Natchez resident who started his life as a slave only to become one of the city’s most prominent citizens. This significant home sheds a whole new light on the south of the past. For more information on the William Johnson House, click
here .
10. John C. Stennis Space Center, near Bay St. Louis
Sara Goughenour
As an official NASA visitor center, the Infinity Space Center offers an experience like no other, making it a must-do for both children and adults. The science museum provides guests with a "fun and fascinating learning experience," which includes a behind-the-scenes tour of Stennis Space Center, live presentations, digital movies, and tram tours. Ready to travel to infinity and beyond? Click
here .
11. Beauvoir, Biloxi
Once the home of Jefferson Davis, Beauvoir is easily one of the most well known structures in the state, which is why it’s worth a visit no matter your age. Self-guided tours of the Beauvoir grounds, Memorial Cemetery, and Presidential Library can be taken year-round (excluding some holidays), seven days a week. Click
here for more information.
12. Rowan Oak, Oxford
Another home of a famous Mississippi resident, Rowan Oak was once occupied by the legendary writer William Faulkner and his family. Yes, Rowan Oak is a popular field trip destination, but the famous home also attracts a variety of visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re a history buff, literary enthusiast, or just curious about the past, a visit to Rowan Oak definitely won’t disappoint. Get more information
here .
What other places have you visited on a field trip that you’d like to check out now?
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