The state of Mississippi can be roughly translated into "Father of Waters" from Chipewa and Algonquin tribe words. Appropriately so as the Mississippi River defines the west boundary and hits the Gulf of Mexico as its waters empty into the vast ocean. The incredible amount of diverse things to do in Mississippi beckons many visitors year after year wanting to explore the state in further depth. Mississippi attractions abound and they can be found from the north in Tunica all the way south to Biloxi and along coastal highway.

Riverboat Tours

One of the great attractions in Mississippi is the river itself and many opt to discover the riverside with Mississippi riverboat tours. Step back in history and imagine a time when the pace of life was much less hectic. Hop on board a paddle-wheeled steamboat and soak in the Victorian era charm. Mississippi attractions include the "showboat style" vessels that whisk people off for a night of lively entertainment along the river.

Mississippi Casinos

Head south to the exciting cities of Biloxi or Gulfport where Casino Row will pull you in with its colorful blinking lights, thousands of square feet of gaming thrills and world class hotels, dining and incredible entertainment. The most up-to-date slots machines and table games grace huge floors with players ready to reap the rewards. Gaming is one of the biggest attractions in Mississippi so try favorites like Imperial Palace or the Hard Rock Casino for am exceptional experience. If you find yourself north try the many great Tunica casinos.

Natchez

Beautiful historic homes, fine bed and breakfasts and a wealth of history are just a few of the Mississippi attractions found in the historic riverfront city of Natchez. Things to do in Mississippi while visiting include taking a tour of the magnificent antebellum homes that line the streets. Tour sacred land that once belonged to the Natchez Indians or make a few bets at some of the Mississippi casinos at Under-the-Hill.

Events and Festivals

Mississippi has a huge array of festivals and events happening all through the year. The fantastic calender of events includes the Choctaw Indian Fair, Mississippi State Fairgrounds, Jimmie Rodgers Music Festival, Elvis Presley Festival, Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, Vicksburg Riverfest and much more. Casinos also offer many shows highlighting famous musicians and exciting stage performers.

Gulf Islands National Seashore

The Gulf Islands National Seashore is one of the biggest Mississippi attractions in the coastal region. Filled with gleaming waters, gorgeous island beaches and many other fun things to do in Mississippi by the sea, you won't want to miss little slice of paradise. Grab a ferry to Ship Island and discover amazing wildlife and diverse landscapes.

Dixie National Rodeo and Livestock Show

The Dixie National Rodeo is at the top of things to do in Mississippi highlighted by some of the most exceptional cowboys in the area and is a favorite event for locals and visitors. The event spans over 24 exciting days filled with every type of livestock available, exciting concerts and competitions.

Geyser Falls Water Park

Splish, splash and float your way through the most incredible of family attractions in Mississippi at Geyser Falls Water Park. Philadelphia, Mississippi is home to the biggest theme park in the state at Pearl River Resort. Take the kids and see them delight in cooling off with the huge amount of fun activities while you enjoy some excellent Mississippi golf or one of the great concerts offered at the park.

Jackson Zoo

When touring through Jackson Mississippi make sure to head over to the Jackson Zoo for more great family fun. Take in the many wildlife exhibits, discover more through educational events such as the zoo "sleepovers" and have fun with the many other Mississippi attractions found in the Jackson Zoo.

Stennis Space Center

Get some astronomical insight while visiting the famous Stennis Space Center in Mississippi.If you've ever wondered what it's like to be close to a rocket launcher, or how rockets and other spacecraft engines are tested or work, make sure to visit the space center and learn about universal travel. Take a tour of the facility and get the complete run down on what it's actually like to be an astronaut.

Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

Get a better understanding of Mississippi's biological diversity at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. Life size exhibits exemplify the rich assortment of the state's heritage and history. The 1,700 square foot greenhouse filled with luscious native plants, turtles fish and more is definitely the highlight of the museum.