Natchez MississippiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Natchez, Mississippi.
1. Longwood
UNFINISHED OCTAGONAL MANSION
Longwood is a uniquely shaped octagonal mansion constructed in the mid-19th century that stands as one of the most popular attractions in Natchez. The house dates back to 1859, but its construction stopped during the American Civil War, leaving many of its upper floors unfinished. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of this fascinating historical structure that offers a glimpse into the interrupted dreams of the antebellum South.
2. St. Mary Basilica
HISTORIC CATHOLIC CHURCH
St. Mary Basilica is a magnificent religious landmark that showcases exquisite architecture and religious artistry in downtown Natchez. The basilica features stunning stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a soaring interior that inspires awe in visitors. As one of the most highly-rated attractions in Natchez, this historic church offers both spiritual significance and architectural splendor.
3. Stanton Hall
GRAND ANTEBELLUM MANSION
Stanton Hall is an imposing Greek Revival mansion that occupies an entire city block in the heart of historic Natchez. Built in the 1850s, this palatial home features enormous columns, elaborate ironwork, and period furnishings that transport visitors back to the height of Southern prosperity. The mansion offers guided tours that highlight its architectural significance and the fascinating history of its wealthy original owners.
4. Rosalie Mansion
CIVIL WAR HEADQUARTERS
Rosalie Mansion, established in 1823, is a stunning Greek Revival house museum that dramatically overlooks the Mississippi River. The mansion served as the home of wealthy cotton broker Peter Little before becoming a Union headquarters during the American Civil War in 1863. Visitors can admire its grand columns, beautiful flower garden, double-leaf doors, and well-maintained landscape during informative guided tours.
5. Natchez City Cemetery
HISTORIC FINAL RESTING PLACE
Natchez City Cemetery, founded in 1822, offers visitors a unique perspective on the city's rich historical past through its monuments and grave markers. The cemetery serves as the final resting place of many prominent figures, each with their own intriguing stories waiting to be discovered. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunset views highlighted by the Mississippi River while exploring this well-manicured historical landscape.
6. Natchez Trace Parkway
HISTORIC SCENIC BYWAY
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a centuries-old recreational road that was historically used by European settlers, Native Americans, slave traders, and soldiers. The parkway features cascading waterfalls, campgrounds, dense forests, and picturesque scenery that changes dramatically with the seasons. Visitors find it a perfect retreat amidst the beauty of the great outdoors, offering both recreational opportunities and historical significance.
7. Magnolia Bluffs Casino
RIVERFRONT GAMING ENTERTAINMENT
Magnolia Bluffs Casino offers an exciting gaming experience situated along the scenic riverfront in Natchez. The casino features a variety of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms for visitors looking for entertainment beyond historical attractions. With dining options and regular events, the casino provides a modern entertainment contrast to the city's many historical sites.
8. The Emerald Mound
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
The Emerald Mound is a significant archaeological site that was built and used by Native Americans between 1250 and 1600 AD. As the second-largest ceremonial mound in the United States, it represents an important piece of Indigenous heritage in the region. Visitors can climb to the top of this flat-topped ceremonial mound for panoramic views while contemplating the sophisticated ancient civilization that created it.
9. The King's Tavern
HISTORIC HAUNTED RESTAURANT
The King's Tavern is the oldest building in Natchez, dating back to the late 1700s, and now serves as both a restaurant and reputed haunted location. The tavern offers a unique dining experience featuring wood-fired dishes in a rustic, historical setting that maintains much of its original character. Ghost stories and legends about the tavern's past add an element of supernatural intrigue to the dining experience for visitors interested in the paranormal.
10. Natchez Pilgrimage Tours
HISTORIC HOME SHOWCASE
The Natchez Pilgrimage is a celebrated tradition that opens the doors to numerous historic antebellum homes that are not typically accessible to the public. During pilgrimage seasons in spring and fall, visitors can tour multiple historic properties and experience the grandeur of 19th-century Southern architecture and design. Many tours feature period-costumed guides who share fascinating stories about the homes and their former inhabitants.
11. Natchez Ghost Tours
PARANORMAL EVENING WALKS
Natchez Ghost Tours offer visitors a spine-tingling journey through the darker history of this historic Mississippi town. Knowledgeable guides lead evening walks that combine historical facts with supernatural legends and reported paranormal encounters. These tours provide a unique perspective on Natchez's past while visiting reportedly haunted locations throughout the historic district.
12. Natchez Antique Row
VINTAGE SHOPPING DISTRICT
Natchez Antique Row features a charming collection of shops specializing in antiques, collectibles, and vintage treasures in the historic downtown area. Visitors can browse through multiple stores offering everything from fine furniture and decorative arts to unique souvenirs and local crafts. The district provides an enjoyable shopping experience where history enthusiasts can find authentic pieces of the past to take home as mementos.
13. Natchez Under-the-Hill
HISTORIC RIVERFRONT DISTRICT
Natchez Under-the-Hill is a historic riverfront district that once served as a rowdy port area frequented by riverboat men, gamblers, and other colorful characters. Today, the revitalized area offers restaurants, shops, and entertainment with spectacular views of the Mississippi River and passing riverboats. Visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere while learning about this district's transformation from notorious gambling den to charming tourist destination.
14. Biscuits & Blues
SOUTHERN CUISINE MUSIC VENUE
Biscuits & Blues combines authentic Southern cuisine with live blues music in a casual, welcoming atmosphere in downtown Natchez. The restaurant specializes in comfort food classics like fried chicken, catfish, and their namesake biscuits, all prepared with traditional recipes and local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a complete cultural experience with good food and soulful music that celebrates the region's rich culinary and musical heritage.
15. Grand Village of the Natchez Indians
INDIGENOUS CULTURAL SITE
The Grand Village of the Natchez Indians is an important archaeological site that was once the main ceremonial center of the Natchez people from whom the city takes its name. The 128-acre site features a reconstructed Natchez house, three ceremonial mounds, and a museum with exhibits displaying artifacts that illustrate the culture and history of this Indigenous civilization. Visitors can walk interpretive trails and attend special events that provide insights into the sophisticated society that thrived here before European contact.