Jackson Mississippi Travel Information
In 1821, the legislature named Jackson as the seat of government
for the state of Mississippi. Named in honor of Major General Andrew
Jackson, the town was situated on a bluff on the west bank of the
Pearl River. During the Civil War, Jackson was burned on three
occasions by troops under the command of General Sherman. Remarkably,
the city hall of Jackson remains and this gorgeous, massive building
still serves as the seat of government. The Governor’s Mansion is
listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is proudly the
second oldest residence of its type in the US. Today, the
capitol of Mississippi is bursting with marvelous museums, superb
shopping, excellent eateries, down-home blues, and a massive quantity
of history. The Mississippi Museum of Art houses art from the
1800s and 1900s, as well as a noteworthy collection of African
American folk art. The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is a
simply incredible place. In addition to housing extensive collections
and scientific data, the museum features a 100,000-gallon aquarium,
and is home to hundreds of species of native aquatic life. A huge
greenhouse provides a resting place for turtles, alligators, and a
vast amount of lush native plants. As if this weren’t enough, there
is also a well-maintained 2.5-walking trail to enjoy. The Mississippi
Sports Hall of Fame and Museum is a sports-lovers dream. Interactive
exhibits help visitors feel what it’s really like to be a big sports
star. The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum boasts a 1920s
living history town and farm, and makes for a perfect stop for those
with little ones. Jackson has maintained a rich African American
heritage. From incredible blues, to entertainment at the Alamo
Theater, and Farish Street Historical District, a remarkable 125-acre
neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Jackson’s Civil Rights Driving Tour invites visitors to explore and
understand the city’s roots. One of Jackson’s most unique
features is the Mississippi Petrified Forest. Petrified logs, some 6
feet in diameter, were deposited in the area by a prehistoric river.
A self-guided nature trail and museum help educate and entertain
visitors. This is another sure bet for those traveling with
children. Jackson hosts a few festivals of note. The Dixie
National Livestock Show and Rodeo, held in February of every year, is
the largest livestock show east of the Mississippi River. March 18th
brings the Mal’s St. Paddy’s Parade and Festival, one of the largest
in the country. Jackson is located near the center of the state,
at the intersections of Interstates 20 and 55.
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