Known for its natural wonders, preservation of historical places, and delightful cuisine, you can nourish your body and soul in Mississippi. With the mighty Mississippi River forming the state's western boundary and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, you're equally likely to find fresh shrimp, fried catfish, and barbecued ribs on the menu. Burn off some of those calories by walking the Freedom Trail, which commemorates the Civil Rights movement in the 1950s and ’60s. Then celebrate the state's deep musical history on the Mississippi Blues Trail and Country Music Trail. Stop at the church where Elvis Presley's love for Southern gospel music began, and be sure to snap a photo of your pet with the life-sized statue of the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll” at his birthplace and childhood home in Tupelo. It will be a wonderful reminder of your unforgettable trip to Mississippi.
Best Time To Visit
If you're planning a pet friendly trip to Mississippi, shoot for the shoulder seasons in March, October, and November. March delivers lovely daytime highs in the 70s and fewer rainy days than other times of the year. Summer, while popular with tourists, is hot and humid unless you're on the coast, and the state sees an increased chance of hurricanes in August and September. After hurricane season has passed, October and November are lovely, with weather similar to March. If you're heading to the Gulf beaches, fall and the late winter months are ideal. You'll also find good hotel rates during these shoulder seasons, though Mississippi doesn't have a clear-cut high or low travel period.
Things Not To Miss
Explore the pet friendly exhibits, hiking trails, and spectacular scenery of the Natchez Trace Parkway. Blissfully quiet and billboard-free, the highway begins in Natchez and runs 444 miles to Nashville, Tennessee.
Learn about the Civil Rights movement and visit important sites like Medgar Evers’s house, the location of the Woolworth’s sit-in, and Fannie Lou Hamer's gravesite on the Mississippi Freedom Trail.
Canoe Haynes Lake, hike Bear Creek Canyon's magnificent sandstone outcroppings, or play a round of disc golf at Tishomingo State Park.
Enjoy antebellum homes and churches, beautiful parks, historic walking trails, southern home cooking, and city tours in the historic city of Natchez.
Wander Oxford's 29-acre Rowan Oak estate, built in 1844 and home to William Faulkner and his family for over 40 years.
Discover the historical significance of the Seige of Vicksburg at the Vicksburg National Military Park. Drive through the park on a self-guided tour, hire a Licensed Battlefield Guide to gain a better understanding of the events, or hit the trails to experience the features up close. During your visit, don’t forget to ask how your pup can earn his BARK Ranger badge!
