Road Trip Mississippi Itinerary: Clarksdale, Tupelo and More!

If the state of Mississippi isn’t road trip territory, I don’t know what is! I’ve had a few places marked on Google for a while, and now it was time to tick them off as part of the epic road trip in Mississippi itinerary.

So, what is Mississippi known for? Let’s start with its rich music history (in particular the Blues), the mighty Mississippi river, and delicious mud pies. Oh, and throw in some Southern hospitality for good measure.

Bordered by Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Tennessee (along with the Gulf), there are endless road trip options in and around the Magnolia state.

Although the capital city of Jackson is the most-visited destination in Mississippi, there are tons of hidden gems (and some not-so-hidden ones) just waiting for you to explore.

This Mississippi road trip takes us all the way from the Gulf Coast to the city of Tupelo. It includes the popular Natchez Trace Parkway, Blue paradise Clarksdale, Vicksburg and the white sandy beaches of Gulfport.

Curious to know more? Let’s get started!

Road Trip in Mississippi Itinerary – Overview

Here is the road trip I did, and that I recommend you do too, as it offers a mix of adventure, landscapes, and culture. With a hefty chunk of the Mississippi Blues Trail thrown in for good measure!

• Stop 1: Memphis
• Stop 2: Clarksdale
• Stop 3: Tupelo and Oxford
• Stop 4: Cleveland
• Stop 5: Greenwood
• Stop 6: Natchez Trace
• Stop 7: Ridgeland / Jackson
• Stop 8: Vicksburg
• Stop 9: Natchez
• Stop 10: Gulfport

If the Mississippi road trip isn’t convenient north to south, then reversing the above itinerary might be a good alternative starting at the Gulf Coast, finishing in Memphis.

From Mississippi you can cross into Louisiana and swing by Baton Rouge for a taste of another side of the South.

Bonus: Save this page as a favourite on your phone to always have access to the map below on your trip. Many creators charge for their maps but enjoy this one absolutely free! It has all my favourite hotels, restaurants and key stops in Mississippi.

Alternative Mississippi Road Trip route – the Memphis Loop

Covering all the spots above will mean you zig-zag all over Mississippi. If you’re not bothered about the Gulf Coast, why not try this Memphis Loop? Starting and finishing in Memphis

• Stop 1: Memphis
• Stop 2: Tupelo and Oxford
• Stop 3: Natchez Trace Parkway
• Stop 4: Ridgeland / Jackson
• Stop 5: Vicksburg
• Stop 6: Greenwood
• Stop 7: Cleveland
• Stop 8: Clarksdale
• Stop 9: Memphis

Best Time for a Road Trip in Mississippi

The best time for a road trip in Mississippi is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild and comfortable, perfect for exploring and enjoying outdoor activities.

Summer months (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, which might be less comfortable for extended outdoor excursions. Winters are generally mild, but some attractions might have reduced hours or even be closed.

Also, consider visiting during local festivals for a unique Mississippi experience. Festivals like the Natchez Balloon Festival in October add special flair to your road trip to Mississippi.

How Long to Plan for a Mississippi Road Trip?

The ideal length for Mississippi road trips can vary depending on what you want to see and do, but generally, planning for 7 to 10 days is a great idea.

This timeframe gives you enough flexibility to explore key attractions like the Gulf Coast, Natchez, and Tupelo while also enjoying leisurely drives along scenic routes like the Natchez Trace Parkway. You can also make a detour and head to New Orleans, which is worth visiting.

If you’re focusing on a specific region, like the Blues Music Trail or the Gulf Coast, you might be able to cover your highlights in a shorter time, say 3 to 5 days.

I booked a lot of my Mississippi road trip, flights and car hire with America As You Like It and you too can create a very similar itinerary with them!

MUST-READ POST: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for New Orleans

How Much to Plan for a Mississippi Road Trip?

Planning a budget for Mississippi road trips depends on several factors, including your travel style, accommodation preferences, and the activities you plan to do.

In terms of accommodation, budget hotels or inns might cost $70-$100 per night, while mid-range hotels could be $100-$200. Luxury or unique accommodations like historic inns could go higher.

Casual dining and local eateries might cost around $20 to $30 per meal. If you include a few fine dining experiences or specialty restaurants, budget more.

Lastly, factor in car rental costs if you’re not using your own. Daily rental rates vary but expect around $30-$60 per day, plus fuel and insurance costs. Mississippi’s fuel prices are generally lower than the national average but budget for $2-$3 per gallon.

Mississippi Road Trip Itinerary

Let’s now talk about the itinerary in a bit more detail, starting in Memphis.

Start in Memphis

Kick off your Mississippi road trip in Memphis, of course it’s not in Mississippi but it’s usually a good starting point. As it’s not Mississippi, I’m just focusing on a few things to do here, for the full list head over to my Tennessee Road Trip article.

Memphis is packed with soul, blues, and great BBQ. There’s good food, interesting history, and live music on almost every corner. What a great start for this Mississippi road trip! Here are the attractions you can enjoy in town.

Graceland

If you’re even slightly into music history, Graceland should be high on your list. This was Elvis Presley’s home, and it’s now a huge complex with museums, exhibits, gift shops, and places to grab a bite.

Sun Studio

You haven’t really done Memphis unless you’ve checked out Sun Studio. This is where legends like Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded. It’s pretty much the place where rock and roll got its start.

The best way to visit Sun Studio is to book your tickets online, which also include a Music history bus Tour. That said, I recommend booking early as this tour sells out often.

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music was once a tiny movie theatre until the late 1950s when it became a popular recording studio.

Inside, you’ll find everything from vintage recording gear to original records and stage outfits. There’s even a reassembled church inside. It’s crazy to think how many artists recorded here. Without Stax, we’d be missing some serious classics.

Where to Stay in Memphis

There are many hotels worth staying at in Memphis, but here below are the best ones you’ll want to consider for one night or more.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

Luxury: Hotel Napoleon (Rated 8.6/10)

Mid-Range: DoubleTree by Hilton Memphis Downtown (Rated 7.8/10)

Budget: La Quinta by Wyndham Memphis (Rated 9.2/10)

Stop in Tunica on the Way to Clarksdale

Just about a 45-minute drive from Memphis, Tunica is a small town with a big personality. It’s known for its casinos, but there’s more to it than just slot machines and poker tables. If you do like casinos though, try your luck at big-name spots like Horseshoe or Gold Strike.

Tunica makes for a solid stop on your Mississippi road trip and you get history, nice museums, and a change of pace compared to Memphis. You don’t need to stay long, just a few hours will do. Even if all you do it grab this iconic shot, it’s worth the stop!

Clarksdale, the Birthplace of the Blues

Clarksdale is small, but its impact on the world music stage is massive, and that’s a great stop for any road trip. This is where the blues was born, raised, and still lives loud. Legends like Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, and John Lee Hooker all have roots here. You can feel it the moment you get into town.

There’s live music at different bars most nights and great museums to learn about the city’s history. The locals are super friendly and definitely keep the blues alive.

This list is just a few ideas, for my full list of things to do in Clarksdale have a read below:

MUST-READ GUIDE: 15 Best Things to Do in Clarksdale, MS

Catch Live Blues in Clarksdale

Clarksdale’s all about the blues. Places like Ground Zero, Red’s, and Blues berry Café are worth checking out, they have live shows nearly every night.

Ground Zero has solid food too, which is a nice bonus. Red’s is gritty and real, while Hambone mixes art and music. Wherever you end up, it’s all heart and as authentic as it gets.

Ask for the local music guide when you check into your hotel. Live gigs are on every week, 365 days a year!

Paddle the Mississippi River

Want a break from the blues? Go paddling. Quapaw Canoe Company runs guided trips down the Mississippi. They have different tours, from a few hours to overnight on a sandbar (which is the one I did).

They’ve got the gear and know the river like the back of their hand. I did a multi-day tour and camped out under the stars. It was an unreal experience, and I can only recommend them, you’ll have an incredible time.

Visit the Delta Blues Museum

This museum is small, but packed. You’ll see old guitars, stage gear, and Muddy Waters’ actual cabin. The museum is inside a train depot and really shows how the Delta shaped the blues.

It’s a nice place to spend a couple of hours, and it’s open Monday to Saturday, and the entry fee is only $15.

Visit the Crossroads & eat at Abe’s Bar-B-Q

Abe’s has been a Clarksdale staple since 1924, sitting right by the famous Crossroads. It’s the kind of old-school joint that doesn’t try too hard, and it’s perfect this way. The food speaks for itself.

The menu is simple but amazing, pulled pork, smoked ribs, beef brisket, and tamales that locals swear by. I tried the tamales and chicken tenders, both were fresh and full of flavour.

Prices are low for the quality, perfect for this road trip around Mississippi. If you’re anywhere near Clarksdale and want proper Southern BBQ, this is your stop.

You’ll find a lot more of Clarksdale in the YouTube video below!

Where to Stay in Clarksdale?

Clarksdale is full of character, and so are the places to stay in and around the downtown area. Here are the best hotels in this part of Mississippi. My pick is the Travelers Hotel.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

Travelers Hotel (My Top Pick – Rated 9.8/10!)

Clark House Inn (Rated 9.1/10)

Hampton Inn Clarksdale, MS (Rated 8.2/10)

Oxford and Tupelo

Tupelo is just over 2 hours’ drive from Clarksdale, with Oxford around halfway in between. It’s 3 hours from Jackson if you’re coming that way. It’s the largest city in Northeast Mississippi and is most famous for being the birthplace of Elvis Presley, yep, the iconic ‘King of Rock & Roll’.

Tupelo is also known for its live music, history, culture, and fantastic cuisine. In fact, there are over 200 restaurants to choose from, so you certainly won’t go hungry.

Stop by Oxford, MS

On your way through northern Mississippi, stop by Oxford for a dose of charm and culture. This college town is home to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), a lively square full of shops and cafés, and the famous Square Books (a must for any book lover).

Grab a coffee downtown, stretch your legs, and if there’s enough time before continuing to Tupelo, drive past Rowan Oak, the former home of writer William Faulkner.

Things to do in Tupelo

Elvis’ Birthplace

Exploring Elvis’ Birthplace (the museum, church and childhood home) is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Tupelo! If the name didn’t give it away, this is where Elvis was born, so is a must-visit for any music fan.

Today, this place is now a museum where you’ll get to learn all about Elvis’ early life. His childhood church has even been moved to this site and has a re-enactment of a ceremony and choir performance from that time period, so there’s a lot to see!

Murals Tour

There are some fantastic murals to be found in Downtown Tupelo. For the Elvis fans out there, you’ll want to visit the Jailhouse Rock Mural, the 1950s Elvis Mural, and the Icehouse Elvis Mural.

Of course, there are plenty of others to see as well. For the best experience, allow some time to take yourself on a self-guided mural walking tour.

Elvis Guitar Trail

Another quirky attraction in the city of Tupelo is the Elvis Guitar Trail! Even if you’re not a musician or fan of the ‘King of Rock & Roll’, you’ll still appreciate the 25 Elvis-themed guitars that are found throughout Downtown.

These guitars are a funky photo opportunity, so hunt down your favourite ones and snap some awesome photographs. They are all placed in an area of significance in the Elvis Presley story.

Don’t miss: The Tupelo Hardware Store, where Elvis bought his first guitar. This is still a functioning hardware store today, but let the staff tell you the story about Elvis’s visit. Check it out in the video below!

Elvis Tupelo Driving Tour

Lastly, there’s the Elvis Tupelo Driving Tour which you can do self-guided. If you’ve got a rental car, you can visit many of the places Elvis visited in his younger days. This includes Johnnie’s Drive-In, Mud Creek Swimming Hole, and Lyric Theatre.

If you can’t drive, you can also do a self-guided tour by bicycle. Just make sure you allow more time.

Tupelo Buffalo Park

Covering an area of 210 acres and home to over 260 animals, Tupelo Buffalo Park is another great place to include on your Mississippi road trip!

The large herd of American Bison here must be a highlight, but there are plenty of other species to see in this part of the United States. This includes giraffes, monkeys, kangaroos, ostriches, and highland cows.

Enjoy Your Time at Jobos Restaurant and Crave

Jobos Restaurant & Bar is one of the city’s trendiest eateries and you’ll find it within Hotel Tupelo. This place is especially known for its surf and turf!

There’s also Crave, a charming coffee shop which is a great place to grab breakfast. Aside from the delicious coffee, there’s also a selection of tasty breakfast items and pastries to choose from.

Gumtree Art & Wine Festival

Depending on the time of year, you should visit Gumtree Art & Wine Festival. This market usually takes place in spring (May) and is currently in its 51st year (as of 2023).

The festival runs for 2 days and is full of visual and performing arts. You’ll be offered the chance to talk with artists and purchase pieces, along with indulging in wines and spirits. What more could you ask for?

Where to Stay in Tupelo

There are so many things to do in Tupelo, and I highly recommend spending the night here. Here’s a selection of hotels in town.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

Hotel Tupelo (Rated 9.6/10)

Red Roof Inn Tupelo (Rated 8.2/10)

Cleveland

Cleveland, where blues meets culture. Cleveland might fly under the radar a little, but it’s easily one of the best stops in the Mississippi Delta. It has deep blues roots, yet it has a modern, creative energy.

You can spend the day here. You’ve got music history, great food, local art, and one of the most impressive music museums in the South.

Grab Lunch and Explore Downtown Cleveland

Start your visit with lunch at Hey Joe’s. This a cool burger and beer spot that locals love. It’s right in the heart of the city centre, so once you’re done eating, take a stroll around.

The area’s full of public art, indie shops, and that walkable, small-town feel that’s hard to beat. A little similar to Clarksdale, full of character.

Visit the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi

You don’t need to be a hardcore music fan to enjoy this place. The GRAMMY Museum has very interesting exhibits, rare footage, and stories related to some of the biggest names in music.

It also pays tribute to the Delta’s influence on everything from rock to hip hop. Plan for at least 90 minutes here, because it’s a lot more engaging than your typical museum.

Sunset Drinks, Pizza & Live Tunes

Back in Cleveland for the night! Catch the sunset with a drink at Bar Fontaine, a rooftop bar with a great view and an even better cocktail list.

After that, grab dinner at Leña Pizza, which got a shoutout from The New York Times as one of the best in the country.

Cap off the night with live music at 8 West Grille. It’s nothing fancy, but they play solid tunes, and the locals are super friendly. They also serve great food there, in case you’re not in the mood for pizza.

Dockery Farms

Dockery Farms, where blues legends like Charley Patton and Robert Johnson helped shape the music genre. This is possibly where the blues really started.

It’s quiet, atmospheric, and one of the most important spots in blues history.

You’ll see old, historic buildings, weathered signs, and blues trail markers. Please don’t expect a gift shop or modern amenities, because this is a historical place.

There’s not much else to do in the area, but you can quickly stop by Ruleville to see more of the Deep South.

BB King Museum & Indianola (on the way to Greenwood)

If you enough time on this stop, head to Indianola to visit the B.B. King Museum. It’s a powerful, personal look at the life of a blues icon. B. B. King who was very much loved in this part of Mississippi.

In my opinion this is a stop that can’t be missed for anyone interested in the Blues. You can also visit Club Ebony, an important African American nightclub where many legendary artists played.

Bonus stop – Leland

If you have time detour to Leland to see the birthplace of Kermit the frog and grab an olive Po’boy from Fratesi’s Gas station! Don’t ask questions, just do it and thank me later.

Where to Stay in Cleveland, MS

There are several places to stay in Cleveland but here below are the ones I highly recommend for a night in town.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

Cotton House, Cleveland (Rated 9/10)

Holiday Inn Express Cleveland Downtown by IHG (Rated 8/10)

Motel 6 Cleveland, MS (Rated 8/10)

Greenwood

Greenwood is one of those historic sites you’ll want to give a little more time. You can spend 2 days one night in town if you can.

Bryant’s Grocery, on the way to Greenwood

On the way into Greenwood, drive through Money, MS to see the remains of Bryant’s Grocery, where 14-year-old Emmett Till was accused in 1955.

The building’s ruins still stand, marked with an important Freedom Trail marker that tells the story. It’s a powerful and sobering stop.

Start with the Museum of the Mississippi Delta

First stop in Greenwood is the Museum of the Mississippi Delta on US 82. It’s a great intro to the history of the region, and it covers Native American culture, the Civil War, agriculture, and of course, the blues.

It’s not huge, however, you’ll leave with a better sense of where you are and why it matters to learn more.

See Robert Johnson’s Grave

Make a stop at Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church, just outside town. This is where blues legend Robert Johnson is buried. It’s a simple, quiet spot, but one that holds a lot of weight in music history. Simply put, it’s a must-do.

Stay at Tallahatchie Flats

Just outside of Greenwood, and right up the road from the Robert Johnson gravesite (one of them), why not try something different? Spend the night at Tallahatchie Flats, a row of rustic sharecropper cabins right by the river. They’re cosy, full of character, and perfect for slowing down.

If rustic isn’t your thing, check out my other options below for places to stay in Greenwood.

Dinner suggestion: head downtown for dinner at Fan and Johnny’s. Try the catfish, it was amazing.

Where to Stay in Greenwood

There are several places to stay in Greenwood but here below are the ones I highly recommend for a night in town.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

Luxury: The Alluvian Hotel & Spa (Rated 9.4/10)

Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Greenwood (Rated 8.4/10)

Budget: Motel 6 Greenwood, MS (Rated 7/10)

Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a recreational road that stretches for 444 miles (715 km). This scenic drive follows the ‘Old Natchez Trace’, which was once a travel corridor used by everyone from American Indians to future presidents.

First things first, you’ll have to decide which part you want to drive. I drove from Ridgeland to Tupelo, but that doesn’t work with every route.

The Natchez Trace Parkway links the city of Natchez with Nashville, and will take you through three different states; Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama. Along the way, you’ll get to admire 10,000 years of history!

As this road is open all year round, it doesn’t matter when you plan your Mississippi road trip either. Here are some ways to explore the Natchez Trace.

Cycling the Natchez Trace from Ridgeland

For the best experience on your road trip Mississippi, I’d recommend cycling this scenic route with Bicycle Revolution. Now, you’ve got the option of cycling on the road or using a multi-use path.

Cycling on the road is for experienced cyclists only. No matter which one you choose, make sure you keep yourself visible.

There’s also a huge rehabilitation project currently underway (as of Sep 2023), so you’ll find that there are some closures and detours.

Drive the Natchez Trace Parkway

If you’re short of time, then driving the Natchez Trace Parkway is your best option. Just allow for some stops along the way, with highlights including the Mount Locust Historic House, Cypress Swamp, and Jackson Falls.

Just be aware that traffic in this area can be heavy and wildlife do like to hang around by the parkway (especially deer).

Eat at Sombra Mexican Kitchen, Ridgeland

Honestly, who doesn’t enjoy delicious Mexican food? Whether you’re after enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, or tacos, Sombra Mexican Kitchen is the best place to be. Don’t forget about their tasty nachos either!

And what better drink to pair Mexican food with, than a delicious margarita? No matter what you fancy, this place is sure to have something to your liking.

Jackson

At the moment, I do not have any tips or suggestions for Jackson. So I plan to come back soon and update this article. For now, please feel free to send me your recommendations!

Where to Stay in Ridgeland

If you plan to spend the night in Ridgeland for a quick break from driving, then the hotels below are great options.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

AC Hotel by Marriott (Rated 9/10)

Wingate by Wyndham Jackson Ridgeland (Rated 7.6/10)

Vicksburg

Vicksburg played a huge role in the Civil War, but there’s more to it than the civil war battlefields. There are interesting museums, colourful murals, classic Southern food, and some of the best river views in the state.

I couldn’t write everything about Vicksburg, MS in this road trip guide, but please take a moment to read the full post here below.

MUST-READ GUIDE: The 10 Best Things to Do in Vicksburg, MS

Discover Vicksburg National Military Park

This massive Civil War site covers over 1,800 acres and includes more than 1,300 monuments. The most important stops include the USS Cairo Gunboat, the National Cemetery, and the Shirley House.

You can take a self-guided drive or book a local guide in advance. The park’s artwork is incredible, and the visitor centre film gives helpful background. The entry fee is only $10 per person or $20 per vehicle. Highly recommended.

Eat at Walnut Hills

Walnut Hills is set in a historic home and it’s perfect for classic Southern comfort food. The fried chicken is a local favourite, and the blue plate (meat and 3 vegetables) is a great choice.

It’s a cosy, relaxed spot that feels properly Southern. And it’s where the locals go, which says a lot!

Take Photos of the Riverfront Murals

Right along the river in downtown Vicksburg, you’ll find over 30 massive murals that are very photogenic. These murals tell the story of the city, and there’s everything from Civil War battles and steamboats to everyday life and Black history.

Most were painted by muralist Robert Dafford, known for his work across the US, but the very first one was done by local artist Martha Ferris in 2001.

Each mural is beautifully detailed and very unique. It’s a relaxing, self-guided walk that’s easy to fit into your day. Take your time, grab a coffee, and enjoy the art while learning a bit of Vicksburg’s story.

Take the Passport Walking Tour

This self-guided walk takes you through Vicksburg’s top spots. The must-do here include the Coca-Cola Museum (where Coke was first bottled), the Lower Mississippi River Museum, Old Courthouse, and Old Depot Museum.

Don’t miss the Civil War Museum and Catfish Row Museum for food, music, and culture. Take your time and explore but do keep in mind that each museum has its own small entry fee.

Sunset Drinks at 10 South Rooftop

10 South Rooftop Bar & Grill is the go-to spot for dinner with a view. You get a wide, open look over the Mississippi River and the Delta landscape, and that’s amazing especially stunning at sunset.

It’s relaxed and they serve great drinks as well as Southern-inspired dishes. Local favourites include the whiskey ribeye, which is rich and full of flavour, and the Caesar salad, which is anything but boring. They’ve also got small plates if you’re just in for a quick bite and a drink.

Where to Stay in Vicksburg?

Vicksburg has a mix of historic inns, casual B&Bs, and cosy spots to spend a night or more. Here are the best hotels in the city for a good night’s sleep.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

Luxury: Oak Hall Bed and Breakfast (Rated 9.8/10)

Mid-range: Bazsinsky House (Rated 9.7/10)

Budget: Studio 6 Vicksburg, MS (Rated 7.6/10)

Natchez

Next stop on our Mississippi road trip is the charming city of Natchez. Steeped in history, Natchez sits perched on the bluffs above the Mississippi River, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the past.

As you stroll through the city, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time with its well-preserved antebellum homes and historic streets.

Don’t miss the chance to tour some of these grand mansions, like the famous Stanton Hall or Longwood.

But Natchez’s history has a darker side too, reflected in its past as a slave market. That’s right, Natchez was once the capital of Mississippi, and that’s why the slave market was popular.

You can stop and see the Forks of the Road Slave Market, where there’s a sign explaining the history of that market.

Before leaving, don’t forget to pay a visit to Natchez National Historical Park, you’ll get an in-depth look at both the opulence and the hardships of the 19th century. The park offers a poignant, educational experience that brings to light the complex history of the region.

Where to Stay in Natchez

You could easily spend a full day around Natchez, and I recommend staying for the night before heading to the Natchez Trace Parkway the day after. Here are excellent accommodation options.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

Luxury: The Guest House Historic Mansion (Rated 9.2/10)

Mid-Range: Concord Quarters (Rated 10/10)

Budget: Excellent Inn & Suites (Rated 7.8/10)

Gulfport – Coastal Mississippi

The last or first part of this Mississippi road trip we explore the city of Gulfport. It’s the state’s second-largest city and is known for its variety of eateries, recreational activities, and popular attractions.

This bustling city is located along the coastline so offers plenty of coastal excursions and adventures. Not to mention, there’s a fantastic entertainment district in this city, so there’s something for everyone!

Whether you’re looking to relax, explore the Gulf of Mexico by boat, or win some cash at a casino, you’re in luck. Here are some of my top things to do in Gulfport, MS.

Go Fishing in the Gulf

There are tons of fantastic things to do in Gulfport, but I’d recommend heading out on an afternoon charter fishing trip. These will see you explore the Mississippi Sound.

I went with Captain Ronnie Daniels, a licensed captain with plenty of fishing experience (20 years of it in fact). He is the most knowledgeable around and you’re in for a real treat with him!

Ask Ronnie about his TV series and see if you can take your catch to Shaggy’s to cook it for lunch or dinner. You can’t get fresher fish than that!

Least Tern Conservation with Audubon Delta

If you’re a keen birdwatcher, then no Mississippi road trip is complete without this experience. Here, you’ll get to witness a variety of birdlife, many of which are endangered, and learn about the protected Least Terns.

Although you won’t be able to get close to the colony (the area is protected), you’ll be able to observe them through a spotting scope.

Visit the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies

If you’re a fan of marine life, the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport is a must-visit! It’s a place where fun meets learning and adventure.

It’s perfect for families or anyone who loves animals and wants to know more about ocean conservation. So, get ready for an unforgettable experience filled with smiles and new discoveries!

Eat at Shaggy’s Pass Harbor

The great thing about Shaggy’s Restaurant is that they’ll clean and cook your fresh catch (as mentioned above). It doesn’t get much better than that.

Of course, if the fish don’t bite on your fishing trip you’ll still have a wealth of options to choose from. This includes fresh seafood, tasty burgers, pasta dishes, and sandwiches.

Where to Stay in Gulfport

I recommend spending the night in Gulfport before continuing your road trip in Mississippi, and these are the best hotels in this charming town.

If you’d rather pick your own place to stay, you can browse all the hotels on Booking or Expedia and choose the one that suits you best.

Luxury: Centennial Hotel at Centennial Plaza (Rated 9.2/10)

Mid-Range: Best Western Seaway Inn (Rated 8.6/10)

Budget: Super 8 by Wyndham Gulfport (Rated 6.8/10)

Conclusion – Road Trip in Mississippi Itinerary

I really hope you’ve enjoyed learning about my favourite spots on our Mississippi Road Trip, if you have any suggestions or recommendations, please drop them in the comments below.

In addition, make sure you take a look at the rest of the Deep South Road Trip articles; The Ultimate Tennessee Road Trip, Things to do in New Orleans, Louisiana Road Trip and the best Alabama State Parks.