Brandon, Mississippi: 10 Fun Things To Do Near This Charming Town

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Brandon, Mississippi (Rankin County)

Planning a trip to Brandon, Mississippi or just moved to Rankin County and wondering what to do for fun? You’re in luck. Brandon may have that small-town Mississippi charm, but it sits in the middle of a surprisingly lively area filled with parks, trails, music, and great food. Whether you’re traveling with kids, hanging out with friends, or looking for a laid-back weekend date, here are 10 things to do in and near Brandon, MS that are worth your time.

1. Catch a Show at the Brandon Amphitheater

If there’s one place that has put Brandon on the map lately, it’s the Brandon Amphitheater. This modern outdoor venue hosts:
  • Big-name country, rock, and pop concerts
  • Comedy shows and special events
  • Seasonal festivals and community gatherings
The amphitheater sits inside the Rankin County Multipurpose Pavilion area, just off I‑20, so it’s easy to reach from Jackson or Flowood. Tips:
  • Parking is usually straightforward, but arrive early for popular shows.
  • Check the venue rules about bags, chairs, and outside food before you go.
  • Grab dinner at a nearby restaurant in Brandon or Flowood before the concert to avoid long concession lines.
If you love live music, this is one of the top things to do in Brandon, MS.

2. Stroll and Shop Around Downtown Brandon

Downtown Brandon feels like a classic Southern small town, with historic buildings, local shops, and friendly faces. It’s not huge, but that’s part of the charm. Plan a casual morning or afternoon and:
  • Walk by the Rankin County Courthouse and check out the architecture
  • Pop into local boutiques for gifts, décor, and clothing
  • Try a local café, bakery, or diner for lunch
If you enjoy slower-paced travel, downtown Brandon is a great place to just wander and soak up the atmosphere. It’s also a nice break on a road trip along I‑20 if you need to stretch your legs.

3. Enjoy the Outdoors at Lakeshore Park on the Reservoir

Just a short drive from Brandon, near Flowood, you’ll find one of the area’s star attractions: the Ross Barnett Reservoir, known by locals simply as “the Rez.” On the Rankin County side, Lakeshore Park is a convenient spot to enjoy the water without owning a boat. Here you can:
  • Walk or jog along the lakeside paths
  • Let the kids play on the playground
  • Have a picnic with a water view
  • Watch birds, boats, and sunsets over the reservoir
On a warm evening, the breeze off the water feels great. If you’re staying in Brandon, Lakeshore Park makes a simple, easy outdoor escape that doesn’t require a full day commitment.

4. Hit the Trails at the Natchez Trace Parkway (Ross Barnett Reservoir Area)

If you like light hiking, biking, or just scenic drives, you’ll love the Natchez Trace Parkway, which runs close to Brandon. Near the Ross Barnett Reservoir, you can:
  • Walk short nature trails
  • Enjoy scenic overlooks of the water and woods
  • Ride bikes along stretches of the parkway
The Natchez Trace is a historic travel route that once carried Native Americans, traders, and early settlers. Today, it’s a peaceful two-lane road where the speed limit is lower, the trees hang over the pavement, and life feels a little slower. If you’re coming from out of state, this is one of the most unique things to do near Brandon, Mississippi because it mixes history, scenery, and fresh air in one place.

5. Explore Winner’s Circle Park in Flowood

Just west of Brandon in neighboring Flowood, Winner’s Circle Park is a family favorite. At this well-kept park, you’ll find:
  • Nice playgrounds for kids
  • Walking trails and open green space
  • Tennis courts
  • Pretty landscaping and shaded benches
It’s the kind of place where you can:
  • Let the kids burn energy for an hour
  • Take a quiet walk after work
  • Meet friends for a low-key afternoon
If you’re looking for kid-friendly things to do near Brandon, MS, this park should be on your list.

6. Go Shopping and Dining at Dogwood Festival Market

For a mix of shopping, food, and people-watching, head to the Dogwood Festival Market and Promenade area in Flowood, just a quick drive from Brandon along Lakeland Drive. You’ll find:
  • Big-name stores and national brands
  • Plenty of restaurants, from sit-down to fast-casual
  • Coffee shops and dessert spots
This area is especially handy if:
  • You’re visiting from out of town and forgot something (shoes, jacket, toiletries).
  • You want an easy place to spend a rainy afternoon.
  • You’re meeting family or friends and need lots of dining options in one place.
It might not be “scenic,” but for everyday travel needs and a relaxed night out, Dogwood makes life simple.

7. Spend a Day at Shiloh Splash Park in Brandon

When Mississippi’s summer heat kicks in, water is your friend. In Brandon, Shiloh Splash Park is a fun way to cool off, especially with kids. Here you’ll find:
  • Interactive splash pads and water features
  • Shaded areas and seating for parents
  • Nearby green space to run around
If you’re traveling with children, this is one of the best family activities in Brandon, Mississippi. It’s more relaxed, affordable, and hassle‑free than a full-size waterpark, but just as exciting for younger kids. Be sure to:
  • Check seasonal hours before you go.
  • Bring towels, sunscreen, and extra clothes.
  • Have a backup plan for lunch in town afterward.

8. Visit the Mississippi Agricultural & Forestry Museum (Jackson)

While technically in Jackson, this museum is an easy drive from Brandon and makes a great half‑day trip, especially for families or history lovers. The Mississippi Agricultural & Forestry Museum includes:
  • A recreated small town with historic buildings
  • Exhibits on farming, forestry, and rural life
  • Old tractors, tools, and equipment
  • Occasional special events and festivals
If you grew up in the country, some parts may feel familiar. If you didn’t, it’s an eye‑opening look at how much work went into life before modern technology. This is a nice indoor/outdoor option, so it works well when the weather isn’t perfect but you still want to get out of the house or hotel.

9. Discover the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (Jackson)

Another short drive away in Jackson, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is a hit with kids, but adults usually enjoy it too. Inside and around the museum, you’ll find:
  • Live fish, reptiles, and other animals in large aquariums
  • Exhibits on Mississippi’s rivers, forests, and wildlife
  • Nature trails outside that wind through the woods
If your kids like dinosaurs, animals, or anything outdoorsy, this is one of the best things to do near Brandon, MS with children. And if you’re just a curious adult, you’ll probably learn something new about the state’s natural side.

10. Try Local Eats and Classic Southern Comfort Food

You can’t talk about things to do in Brandon, Mississippi without mentioning the food. Around Brandon and Rankin County, you’ll find:
  • Barbecue joints serving ribs, pulled pork, and smoked chicken
  • Cafés and diners with biscuits, grits, and sweet tea
  • Local spots for catfish, burgers, and meat‑and‑three plates
One of the best ways to explore a new place is simple: eat where the locals eat. A few tips:
  • Ask your hotel front desk or a gas station clerk, “Where’s your favorite place to eat around here?”
  • Try at least one plate of catfish or barbecue while you’re in the area.
  • Leave room for dessert—banana pudding or cobbler if you can find it.
Food may not show up in every guidebook, but it’s often what you remember most from a trip.

Planning Your Visit to Brandon, MS

Brandon and Rankin County sit just east of Jackson along I‑20, making them:
  • Easy to reach on a cross‑country road trip
  • Convenient for weekend getaways from nearby states
  • A relaxed home base for exploring central Mississippi
From the Brandon Amphitheater and downtown shops to the Ross Barnett Reservoir, parks, and nearby museums, you’ll find plenty of ways to fill your days without fighting big‑city traffic. If you’re searching for:
  • Things to do in Brandon MS
  • Fun activities in Rankin County
  • Family-friendly attractions near Jackson MS
this list should give you a solid starting point.

What Would You Add to the List?

Have you spent time in Brandon, Mississippi or somewhere nearby?
  • Did we miss your favorite park, restaurant, or hangout?
  • Do you have a go‑to spot at the Rez or a must-visit local café?
Share your tips in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. If you found this guide helpful, please:
  • Share it with friends or family planning a trip through Mississippi.
  • Save it for your next road trip across the South.
Your recommendations and stories help keep this guide fresh, useful, and local‑approved.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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