Clinton, Mississippi (Hinds County): 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Clinton, Mississippi (Hinds County)

Looking for an easy weekend getaway or a fun day trip near Jackson, Mississippi? Clinton, MS (in Hinds County) is a friendly small town with a relaxed vibe, plenty of history, and surprisingly fun things to do. Whether you’re road-tripping down I-20, visiting family nearby, or just hunting for a new spot in Central Mississippi, this guide will walk you through 10 things to do in and around Clinton, Mississippi that are worth your time.

1. Stroll the Historic Brick Streets of Olde Towne Clinton

If you want to feel the heart of Clinton, start in Olde Towne Clinton. The brick streets, old storefronts, and cozy shops give this area a classic small-town Southern feel. It’s the kind of place where you can park your car, walk around, and just wander without any real plan.
  • Pop into local boutiques for gifts and home decor.
  • Check out small cafes for coffee, sandwiches, or a sweet treat.
  • Look for seasonal events like markets and festivals.
On my last visit, I spent almost an hour just walking the streets, ducking into a bookstore and chatting with a local shop owner about how Clinton has changed over the years. That kind of slow, friendly pace is exactly what makes Olde Towne special. Travel tip: Visit in the late afternoon, then stay for dinner at a local restaurant. The area feels extra charming when the lights come on in the evening.

2. Explore the Mississippi College Campus

Right in Clinton, you’ll find Mississippi College, the oldest college in the state. Even if you’re not a student or alumni, the campus is a peaceful place to walk, especially on a sunny day. What to do on campus:
  • Take a self-guided walk among the older buildings and shaded sidewalks.
  • Check out the Gore Arts Complex for student art exhibits or performances (if any are scheduled during your visit).
  • Enjoy the green spaces for a quiet break or quick picnic.
If you enjoy college towns, Clinton has that “college-next-door” feel—small, friendly, and easy to navigate.

3. Walk, Run, or Bike the Clinton Community Nature Center Trails

If you want a quick nature escape without driving far, head to the Clinton Community Nature Center. Here you’ll find:
  • Shaded walking trails through the woods
  • Boardwalk sections over low, swampy areas
  • Native plants and wildlife (great for kids who like exploring)
The trails aren’t long or challenging, but that’s part of the appeal. You can spend 30 minutes or a couple of hours, depending on your mood. It’s a simple, peaceful spot right in town—perfect for stretching your legs after a long drive on I-20. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. After a rain, some parts of the trail can be a little muddy.

4. Enjoy Clinton’s Local Parks and Splash Pads

Traveling with kids or just want to be outdoors? Clinton has several family-friendly parks that are worth a stop. Some popular choices include:
  • Traceway Park – Multiple sports fields, walking areas, and playgrounds. You may catch a local baseball or soccer game.
  • Kids Towne Park – A fun, themed playground that younger children love.
  • Seasonal splash pads (check the city website or social media for open times).
These parks are ideal if you’re on a road trip and need a place where kids can burn off energy, or if you just want a casual place to sit, read, or relax under a tree.

5. Step Back in Time Along the Natchez Trace Parkway

One of the biggest perks of visiting Clinton is how close you are to the Natchez Trace Parkway, a beautiful, historic scenic drive that runs through several states. Clinton sits near an access point to the Trace, and from there you can:
  • Take a slow, scenic drive with little traffic.
  • Stop at overlooks, historic markers, and short walking trails.
  • Enjoy the changing seasons—from spring flowers to fall colors.
Even a short drive of 20–30 miles on the Natchez Trace feels like a deep breath after busy city highways. If you love road trips, this is one of the best things to do near Clinton, Mississippi. Good to know: The Natchez Trace has a lower speed limit than the interstate, and commercial vehicles aren’t allowed, which helps keep it quiet and relaxing.

6. Visit the Mississippi State Capitol in Nearby Jackson

Clinton is only about 10–15 miles west of Jackson, MS, so it’s easy to pair small-town charm with big-city sights. One of the best attractions in Jackson is the Mississippi State Capitol. What makes it worth a visit?
  • Beautiful architecture—inside and out.
  • Guided or self-guided tours that explain the building’s history.
  • A chance to learn more about Mississippi’s government and political past.
Even if you’re not a “history person,” the building itself is impressive and makes for great photos. Plus, it’s free to admire from the outside if you’re short on time.

7. Learn Local History at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum & Museum of Mississippi History

Just a short drive from Clinton, these two museums in Jackson are side by side and can easily fill half a day:
  • Mississippi Civil Rights Museum – Powerful, moving exhibits that walk you through the state’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Museum of Mississippi History – Covers a wide sweep of state history, from early Native American cultures to modern times.
If you care about understanding the deeper story behind the towns you visit, these museums are a must. Travel tip: Give yourself at least 2–3 hours. There’s a lot to take in, and some of the exhibits at the Civil Rights Museum are emotional and heavy—but incredibly important.

8. Tour the Old Mississippi Governor’s Mansion & Old Capitol Museum

If you’re already in Jackson while staying in Clinton, add a couple more historic stops to your list:
  • Old Mississippi Governor’s Mansion – A beautiful white-columned home with guided tours that share stories of former governors and life in the 1800s.
  • Old Capitol Museum – Housed in Mississippi’s former state capitol building, with exhibits focusing on political and social history.
These sites pair well with the current State Capitol visit. Together, they give a fuller picture of how Mississippi has changed over time.

9. Enjoy Local Eats and Southern Comfort Food

You can’t talk about things to do near Clinton, Mississippi without mentioning the food. While specific restaurants may change over time, you’ll usually find a mix of:
  • Down-home Southern cooking (think fried chicken, catfish, greens, cornbread).
  • Burger and barbecue joints.
  • Cafes and bakeries in Olde Towne.
One of my favorite simple travel habits is asking a local, “If I only have one meal in town, where should I go?” In a place like Clinton, you’ll usually get an honest answer—and sometimes a story about why that spot matters to them. Tip: Try to eat at least one meal at a local, non-chain restaurant. It’s one of the easiest ways to support the community and taste something unique.

10. Catch Festivals, Markets, and Community Events

Small cities like Clinton shine during local events. Depending on the season, you may find:
  • Farmers markets with local produce and crafts.
  • Holiday parades and Christmas events.
  • Outdoor concerts or movie nights.
  • Art walks or Olde Towne celebrations.
These events are some of the best ways to experience Clinton like a local instead of just passing through. Check:
  • The City of Clinton website
  • Local tourism pages
  • Facebook or event listings
for updated schedules before your trip.

Planning Your Trip to Clinton, Mississippi

Here’s a quick rundown to help you plan:
  • Location: Clinton is in Hinds County, just west of Jackson, along I-20.
  • Best for: Weekend getaways, day trips, family-friendly travel, and history lovers.
  • Pair with: A visit to Jackson or a longer drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway.
You can easily spend a full day just in Clinton, or stretch your stay into a long weekend by adding Jackson and Natchez Trace stops.

Have You Been to Clinton, Mississippi?

Clinton may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Mississippi travel, but that’s part of its charm. It’s relaxed, friendly, and close to big attractions while still feeling like a true small town.
  • Have you visited Clinton or Hinds County before?
  • Do you have a favorite restaurant, park, or hidden gem in the area?
Share your tips and stories in the comments—they help other travelers discover new places and plan better trips. If you found this guide to things to do in and around Clinton, Mississippi helpful, please share it with a friend or on social media. It might inspire someone’s next laid-back Southern getaway.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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