This is one of the South's finest examples of Greek Revival architecture. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this majestic building was Mississippi's state capitol from 1839-1903. The history of Mississippi, from the dawn of time to the modern day, is outlined here. You will find exhibits that include thorough treatments of Native American history, colonial times, the Big Cotton culture, the Civil War and more. The museum is closed on major holidays.
This area in downtown Jackson stretches from Amite Street to Fortification Street and from Mill Street to Lamar. For more than 100 years, this 125-acre spread has served as the unofficial center of black culture in Mississippi's capital. The neighborhood is home to both residences and businesses, and many of its historic buildings have been in continuous use for more than a century. Farish Street was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 as a neighborhood and contains almost 700 individually recognized Historic Places within its parameters.
Constructed in Beaux-Arts style, this capitol building is not only home to the state's legislature, but also an indelible landmark boasting iconic architecture. Built in 1901, this ornate edifice was fashioned out of rich Italian white marble, ornamented with carefully laid-out metal work. Its dome dominating Jackson's charming cityscape, the capitol ground is embellished with charming flora like aspen and Japanese magnolia. The interiors are just as magnificent, where expansive rooms and chambers (like the Hall of Governors, the State Library and the Supreme Court chambers) are lovingly adorned with Bohemian stained glass and many more artistic and stylized nuances. Proclaimed a Mississippi Landmark as well as a National Historic Landmark, this capitol building is the crowning glory of Jackson.
Located within the scenic LeFleur's Bluff State Park, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science features an expansive aquarium network that is home to over 200 living species of fish and other beautiful aquatic animals. Other equally fascinating exhibits include fossils, soaring waterfowl, and white-tailed deer. A giant tree house, greenhouse, and quirky gift shop complete the fun and immersive experience. A delightful treat for the little ones who can look at and even touch turtles and other friendly reptiles, the museum is an unmissable family attraction in the park.
Not far from downtown Jackson, this zoo was founded more than 85 years ago. From modest origins, the park has expanded over the years to include animals from all over the globe, including a new lorikeet exhibit. In addition to housing the region's most impressive collection of primates and big cats, the park's Discovery Zoo has been recognized by the New York Times Travel Guide as one of the top children's zoos in the Southeast.
The Mississippi Children's Museum is a fun-filled place for kids. This museum believes that every child should get ample opportunities to create, explore, and discover. Multiple galleries are permanently on display at the museum. Spread over a large area, it offers a range of activities and workshops aimed at bringing out the creative best in kids. The various areas of exhibits provide children with an opportunity to understand the key industries of the state and aspects of its heritage, culture, and art. Exhibits on display are immersive and interactive, so kids get to learn in an engaging environment. Group visits and field trips are organized by the museum throughout the year. Research-oriented and innovative professional development workshops are also conducted.
Over the years, the state of Mississippi has proven itself a fertile breeding ground of athletic talent, and this museum pays tribute to this lineage. Archival footage can be viewed at interactive kiosks, while jerseys, trophies, gear and photos are displayed proudly on the walls. Over 500 recorded interviews and biographies feature home state favorites Jerry Rice, Brett Favre, Archie Manning, Ralph Boston and Dizzy Dean. A charming gift shop allows guests to take home a little bit of Mississippi sports history. Reservations required for tour groups.
The unassuming home of Civil Rights activist and martyr Medgar Evers is located northwest of downtown Jackson on Margaret Walker Alexander Drive, a street bearing the name of one who continued the martyr's fight after his passing. This historic location is also the site of Evers' 1963 assassination. Although Evers is buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C., the preserved home stands as a moving memorial to his sacrifice. Inside, relics of his life and work reveal insight into the man and his struggle, while various displays tell the story of the Civil Rights triumphs and tragedies that took place through the years in Mississippi.
These grounds, created by Mynelle Westbrook Hayward as the ultimate home garden, were acquired by the city of Jackson in 1973. The seven acres of quiet countryside feature several distinct gardens, with pathways, pools and reflecting ponds. The estate has been used for garden parties, civic functions and as a retreat for World War II veterans. The facility is now used for a variety of functions including wedding receptions and corporate meetings. A gift shop features the work of Mississippi craftsmen.