Standing atop the bluffs overlooking the mighty Mississippi River, Vicksburg is a city where history, culture and Southern charm intertwine. Known for its pivotal role in the Civil War, soulful blues and exquisite cuisine, this Mississippi gem offers the perfect destination for travelers seeking respite and exploration.

As Vicksburg nears its 200th birthday, the city’s dynamic legacy comes alive through community spirit and local pride. Nestled near the Louisiana-Mississippi border, Vicksburg’s residents exude Southern hospitality, and local businesses foster a thriving, interconnected community. The upcoming bicentennial celebrations honor this resilience, growth and enduring significance in American history, making it a perfect time to reflect on the past while looking toward the future

Bicentennial Celebration Events

Make your plans now to visit Vicksburg in 2025! As part of its Bicentennial Celebration, the city will host a range of exciting events throughout the year. Key events include the Music & Culture Festival on April 26, which will showcase regional music, theater and Delta traditions in collaboration with the Alcorn State University Jazz Festival. 

From July 4-6, the city will host its grand Independence Weekend, featuring Mississippi’s longest and most spectacular fireworks display to mark the bicentennial in style. For a full calendar of events, check in with Visit Vicksburg.

Getting There

Vicksburg, Mississippi, is conveniently accessible by both car and plane. If you’re driving from Dallas, the journey is approximately five hours and spans about 350 miles. The most direct route is via I-20 E, which takes you through picturesque landscapes of East Texas and Louisiana before reaching Vicksburg.

For those preferring to fly, the nearest major airport is Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN), located about 45 miles away. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Vicksburg.

Where To Stay

After a day of travel, unwind at one of over 10 charming bed-and-breakfasts, many near historic downtown. The Inn at Cedar Grove, nicknamed “The Crown Jewel of Vicksburg” and listed on the National Historic Register, stands out as a premier choice. New owners Harley Caldwell and Dr. Steven & Kendra Reed have lovingly restored the mansion, originally built in 1840, offering guests a taste of Old South charm with period furnishings.

During my stay in John Klein Jr.’s room, the antique furniture, king-size half-canopy bed and courtyard view provided an exceptionally comfortable experience. Kendra’s hospitality made my stay even more memorable, as she ensured every guest felt valued. After a delightful breakfast, a 30-minute mansion tour was offered that featured captivating stories about the Klein family and visible Civil War cannonball holes. Kendra also shared exciting plans for transforming the mansion’s basement, once a morgue, into a wine cellar.

While staying at The Inn at Cedar Grove, be sure to indulge in their dinner offerings at the Chandelier Bar & Lounge. Recently added, the dinner service feels well-established, thanks to Chef Chris, who delivers an impressive fine-dining experience. The mouthwatering food, paired with antique décor and thoughtful design, adds to an elevated dining experience.

Vicksburg’s Significance in the Civil War

After settling into your cozy accommodations, you’ll find it’s the perfect time to delve into what makes Vicksburg such a pivotal location in American history. Known as “The Key to the South,” a phrase coined by Abraham Lincoln, Vicksburg’s strategic importance in the Civil War lay in its control over the Mississippi River, a vital supply line for the Confederacy. The Union’s relentless Siege of Vicksburg lasted 47 days, ending on July 4, 1863. This pivotal victory gave the Union complete control of the river, effectively splitting the Confederacy and marking a turning point in the Civil War.

Vicksburg National Military Park

Today, Vicksburg’s Civil War history is preserved at the 1,800-acre Vicksburg National Military Park. Each year, about 600,000 visitors walk the grounds where the Siege took place.

Highlights include the Vicksburg National Cemetery — the largest Civil War gravesite in the U.S. — with over 17,000 graves and 1,400 memorials. The USS Cairo Gunboat Museum is another must-see, displaying the restored vessel along with Civil War artifacts.

The park offers various ways to explore, including a 16-mile self-guided driving tour with historical signage at key battle sites, and guided tours by licensed battlefield experts. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy the 12.5-mile Al Scheller Trail through the park’s scenic terrain. A visit to Vicksburg National Military Park combines a journey through history with the serenity of nature.

Exploring Downtown Vicksburg

On your second day, head to Downtown Vicksburg, where unique boutiques, art galleries, museums and cafes reflect the city’s spirit. As one of Mississippi’s original Main Street towns, Vicksburg preserves its historic character while supporting local businesses. Enhance your visit with the City Attractions Passport, a free booklet that allows you to collect stamps from museums and landmarks. Collect five stamps to redeem it at the Vicksburg Visitors Information Center for a complimentary #VisitVicksburg t-shirt.

The downtown area is safe and walkable, offering stunning river views. With intricately designed buildings and charming brick-paved streets, it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. Many attractions, including those along Washington Street, are within walking distance of one another, making it easy to explore. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout, as the hills will keep you in shape!

Must-See: The Civil War Museum

Located on Washington Street and founded by Charles Pendleton in 2020, the Civil War Museum is a fantastic attraction. As the first African-American owner of a Civil War museum, Pendleton provides a raw and honest portrayal of slavery and the war’s impact on Black history. His collection, which evolved from a personal hobby into a museum, includes rare artifacts with an extensive display of weapons and ammunition.

Through immersive tours, Pendleton emphasizes the bravery of Black soldiers, freedmen and abolitionists, offering a unique perspective often overlooked in traditional narratives. “Our goal is not to educate you but to inspire you to become more educated,” he says, letting the artifacts convey their powerful stories.

Other Notable Museums to Explore:

• Jesse Brent Lower Mississippi Museum: Discover life along the Mississippi through interactive exhibits, including an aquarium and an outdoor flood model. Tour the Motor Vessel Mississippi IV for a look at vintage equipment and the impressive pilot room.

• Old Courthouse Museum: Once Warren County’s courthouse, this historic landmark features Civil War memorabilia, antique furniture, and Confederate flags. It also houses the McCardle Research Library, which has over 1,400 historical volumes.
• Old Depot Museum: Housed in a beautifully restored train depot, this museum showcases detailed Civil War dioramas, railroad memorabilia and early transportation exhibits, including model railroad layouts and video footage.
• Biedenharn Coca-Cola® Museum: Discover the fascinating history of how Coca-Cola® was first bottled in Vicksburg in 1894 at this beautifully restored 1890s building. Don’t leave without getting a Coke® Float!
• Catfish Row Museum: Explore Vicksburg’s cultural heritage through exhibits on African American history, blues music  and local culinary traditions. The vision of the museum is to transfer the civil cultures, culinary practices and values of the community to visitors.

Where To Eat

For breakfast, try Bohemia Cafe and Bakery, a charming European-style cafe in Downtown Vicksburg. They offer a variety of freshly baked breads, muffins and beignets. I had a sausage and egg biscuit sandwich, and the biscuit was soft and flaky. Outstanding coffee and delicious food in a quaint dining space makes this the perfect spot to start your day.

For lunch, head to The Tomato Place, a cozy eatery located off U.S. Highway 61 with a “southern grandma’s back porch” vibe. This quirky cafe sells produce and serves delicious food, best known for its Fried Green Tomato BLT. The fried green tomatoes are thick, and the breading is wonderfully seasoned. The Queen Anne Sandwich was recommended by staff, and it did not disappoint. The Mississippi Fever sauce complemented the combination of chicken, cheese, and peppers on swirled rye and pumpernickel bread. The freezers are stocked with frozen fruit, and the staff will blend a smoothie for you.

For dinner, make reservations at Anchuca, TripAdvisor’s #1 restaurant in Vicksburg. This elegant yet casual spot serves award-winning Southern dishes in generous portions. The Paneed Catfish was seasoned and cooked to perfection, while the peach cobbler was just the right amount of sweet. Soft piano music accompanied the meal, enhancing the atmosphere of the beautiful historic home.

Key City Brewery Co. 

For a night of brews and good times, head to Key City Brewery Co. Since opening in 2018, it has become Vicksburg’s only brewery. They offer a variety of beers, from trendy New World styles to classic lagers and romantic Belgian varieties. With 20 taps pouring fan-favorite core brews and a selection of small-batch options, there’s always something new to try. They even sell their own cold brew coffee in cans,  perfect for re-energizing the next morning.

Key City also serves fantastic food, especially its unique pizzas, such as the Collard Greens pizza. The rooftop offers stunning views, making it an ideal spot for sunset gazing and relaxation. Be sure to check out their songwriter events on Thursday nights and enjoy live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

Art Galleries

Vicksburg’s art scene invites visitors to immerse themselves in the soul of Mississippi through several notable galleries.

The Attic Gallery, established in 1971, is the oldest independent art gallery in Mississippi. Visitors ascend a staircase to a charming attic-like space, where tables overflow with handmade pottery, jewelry, textiles and blues-related items. Don’t forget to stop by the Highway 61 Coffeehouse next door for freshly brewed coffee and espresso.

H.C. Porter Gallery features the evocative work of Mississippi visual artist H.C. Porter, showcasing her photographs, limited edition prints, and original paintings that capture the essence of everyday life in the region. Many of her subjects are prominent blues artists, reflecting Mississippi’s musical heritage.

The Jackson Street Gallery at the Mulberry is a visual art gallery highlighting original works by Mississippi artists. Housed in a beautifully renovated space within the Mulberry property, a boutique hotel, it provides an attractive venue for art lovers to explore regional art.

Historic Home Tours

Visiting Vicksburg’s historic homes is a must on your itinerary. With over 12 homes to explore, each showcases unique architectural styles popular during their era. In addition to Cedar Grove, I toured several others that highlight the city’s rich heritage.

One home that truly stood out was Oak Hall. Built in 1910, this bed and breakfast features 32 original stained glass windows and spans 8,000 square feet. Originally a refuge for widows until the 1960s, Oak Hall is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Its Mission Revival style reminded me of the historic homes in South Texas. The wide staircases and spacious doorways create a stark contrast to the narrowness found in many other homes I toured.

The Church of the Holy Trinity

Include The Church of the Holy Trinity in your tour of homes. Established in 1869, this stunning Episcopal church took ten years to build, holding its first service in 1880. The church’s breathtaking architecture features a roof made of Belgian slate, Italian marble floors and elegant walnut wood.

Visitors are left awe-struck by the six exquisite Tiffany stained glass windows that surround the church. A unique architectural highlight is the ceiling, designed to resemble Noah’s Ark, showcasing exceptional artistic craftsmanship. The intricate details of the church not only enhance its beauty but also invokes a vivid connection to the past.

McRaven Ghost Tour

Known as the “Time Capsule of the South,” McRaven is the oldest home in Vicksburg, with its first section built in 1797. Due to its lingering spirits, this historic residence has earned the title of “Mississippi’s Most Haunted House.”

While several tour options are available, I opted for the Haunted Tour, which lasts about an hour and 15 minutes. Led by a theatrical guide in period costume, the tour begins with a brief history of the families who lived there before delving into ghost stories, ranging from the Civil War to the peculiar lives of the reclusive McMurray sisters in the mid-twentieth century.

Even for skeptics, the experience is worthwhile. The guide’s engaging storytelling brings the home’s past occupants to life, while the eerie exterior enhances the spine-tingling atmosphere.

Vicksburg Riverfront Murals

After exploring Vicksburg’s stunning architecture, take a moment to appreciate the amazing art that decorates the city. The Vicksburg Riverfront is adorned with 32 lifelike murals created by Robert Dafford, each depicting significant moments in the city’s history. Among them is an abstract mural that highlights three essential elements of Vicksburg’s identity: the river, the railroad and the highway. 

Exploring the Mississippi River

To further immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, consider exploring the Mississippi River. As North America’s second-longest river, it stretches 2,350 miles from Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its size, habitat diversity and biological productivity, it serves as a crucial commercial route and migration corridor for birds and fish.

For a unique experience, consider the Quapaw Canoe Company, which offers guided canoe and kayak adventures along the Lower Mississippi River. These trips typically include paddling, island exploration, birdwatching and swimming.

Book Your Getaway Now

Whether you’re planning to attend one of Vicksburg’s bicentennial events or wish to explore the town’s unique charm, Vicksburg is a one-of-a-kind city that will leave an indelible impression on travelers. Explore historic homes, appreciate eclectic art, savor Southern cuisine, and paddle the mighty Mississippi River. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of history — plan your visit today and celebrate Vicksburg’s 200 years of resilience and beauty. For more information on events, accommodations and attractions, head to Visit Vicksburg and make memories of a lifetime in this historic Southern gem.

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Cover photo courtesy Visit Vicksburg.

Sara Aguinaga is a dedicated massage therapist and editorial contributor at Texas Lifestyle Magazine. She loves indulging in spa treatments, exploring diverse cuisines, and traveling. Follow her on Instagram @sweetsaraadventures.