There Are More Than 100 Historic Buildings In This Special Mississippi Town
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published August 28, 2018
×
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.
When it comes to historic buildings, no other town in the Magnolia State quite compares to Natchez. The charming city dates back to 1716, making it one of the oldest settlements along the Mississippi River. By the 19th century, it was home to a bustling river port and more millionaires than any other city in the nation. With such a long, rich history, it should come as no surprise that Natchez is home to more than 1,000 structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Luckily, many of the historic structures are open for tours, making Natchez a perfect day trip destination. Keep reading to learn about the different ways to see Natchez’s best sites from the past.
Natchez is synonymous with antebellum mansions – and for good reason. It has more antebellum homes than any other town in the South. There are several ways to take in the impressive homes from the past. Visit on a nice day, and you can simply walk around and admire the homes from the outside. Or, if you have more time, you can take individual tours of the homes.
The Natchez Historic City Tour is also a great option. Ride the double-decker bus to over 40 of Natchez’s historic buildings, homes, and churches. Even better, it’s a "hop on, hop off" tour, so you can get off and explore any site that catches your eye.
The Towers, Choctaw Hall, and St. Mary Basilica are just a few of the interesting sites you’ll see on the tour. A one-day ticket is $20; while a two-day ticket can be purchased for just $22.
To really experience the best of historic Natchez, make plans to attend the city’s pilgrimage, which is held twice a year – in the fall and the spring. Each pilgrimage lasts several weeks and offers visitors the chance to step inside privately-owned antebellum mansions that aren’t open any other time of the year. In addition to daily tours, the festival includes hosts dressed in period costumes, re-enactments, music, and more.
Can’t make it to the pilgrimage? No problem; the same organization offers year-round tours. These tours offer access to some of Natchez’s best sites from the past. Longwood, Stanton Hall, Rosalie, Linden, and Dunleith are just a few of the antebellum mansions that can be toured throughout the year.
Limited on time? Pay a visit to the Natchez National Historical Park, which is made up of three properties – the Melrose Mansion, the William Johnson House, and Fort Rosalie site. Melrose is the most popular of the three sites, which probably has something to do with it being the most intact antebellum estate in the country.
Guided tours of Melrose are offered daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. During the 45-minute tour, you’ll get an up close look at the 1st and 2nd floors, which are filled with antique furnishings and décor.
While in Natchez you can do more than tour historic buildings, you can actually dine in them. A few of the city’s antebellum homes include restaurants. There’s also King’s Tavern – a restaurant housed in a building that dates back to the 1780s. Over the centuries, the building served as a tavern, inn, and the city’s first post office. Visit today, and you can fill up on flat breads and hand crafted cocktails.
Don’t want the historic fun to end when the sun goes down? You’re in luck. Several mansions have been transformed into inns. With antique furnishings and décor, it’s a stay you’re sure to remember.
While in town, don’t forget to explore Natchez "Under the Hill." The historic district once had an infamous reputation as the rowdiest river port on the Mississippi. No longer a hangout for criminals and murderers, it now includes shops, eateries, and great riverfront views.
So, did you know Natchez was filled with so many historic buildings? Ever toured any of them? Tell us in the comments sections.
This isn’t the only Mississippi town loaded with history. Learn about others here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
