Pearl, Mississippi (Rankin County) 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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

If you’re road-tripping down I‑20 or flying into Jackson and looking for a friendly, easygoing place to explore, Pearl, Mississippi is a great base. It’s right across the river from Jackson, but it has its own laid‑back charm, plenty of shopping, and quick access to outdoor spots and family fun. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, passing through on a long drive, or visiting friends and family, here are 10 things to do in and around Pearl in Rankin County that are worth your time.

1. Catch a Game at Trustmark Park – Home of the Mississippi Braves

If you love baseball, Trustmark Park is the heart of entertainment in Pearl. This modern minor league stadium is home to the Mississippi Braves, the Double‑A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. It’s right off I‑20, easy to find, and has that classic small‑town ballpark feel.
  • Fireworks nights in summer
  • Affordable tickets (great for families)
  • Ballpark food like hot dogs, nachos, and funnel cakes
Even if you’re not a die‑hard baseball fan, there’s something special about sitting in the stands on a warm Mississippi evening with a cold drink in hand. If you’re planning a trip to Pearl, check the Mississippi Braves schedule and see if you can catch a home game.

2. Shop, Dine, and Stroll at Outlets of Mississippi

Right next to Trustmark Park, you’ll find the Outlets of Mississippi, one of the largest outlet shopping centers in the state. Here you can:
  • Score deals on clothing, shoes, and accessories
  • Pick up outdoor gear and travel basics
  • Grab a quick bite or sit down for a casual meal
It’s a good spot to stretch your legs if you’ve been on the road for hours. Families like it because kids can walk around safely, and there’s usually something going on, especially around holidays. Travel tip: This is a handy place to stock up on last‑minute items before heading to a game, a concert, or out exploring Rankin County’s outdoor spots.

3. Explore Nature at the Pearl River and Nearby Trails

The Pearl River runs just west of town, and while parts of it feel wild, that’s exactly what makes it interesting. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to get outside, this area offers chances to:
  • Go fishing along local access points
  • Enjoy peaceful river views
  • Spot birds and other wildlife
Some locals like to take short walks along unofficial riverside paths or use small boat ramps in the wider Jackson metro area to get on the water. Ask around at your hotel or a local bait shop if you’re looking for a simple place to cast a line. Is it the most polished tourist attraction? No. But if you enjoy quiet, unpolished nature instead of crowds, the Pearl River area can be surprisingly relaxing.

4. Visit the Mississippi Children’s Museum (Just Across the River)

Technically, this one is in nearby Jackson, but it’s only a short drive from Pearl and totally worth crossing the river for if you’ve got kids. The Mississippi Children’s Museum is packed with hands‑on exhibits. Kids don’t just look at stuff; they actually do things:
  • Interactive science and health exhibits
  • Art and creativity stations
  • Reading and literacy areas
If you’re on a family road trip through Mississippi, this is a great way to burn off energy while still sneaking in a bit of learning. Plan to spend at least two to three hours here. Then, after you’re done, you can head back to the quieter side of the metro area in Pearl to relax.

5. Experience State History at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

If you’re interested in history, you’re in luck. Just a 10–15 minute drive from Pearl, in downtown Jackson, sits the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, one of the most powerful stops in the entire state. This museum shares the story of the Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi through:
  • Emotional exhibits
  • First‑person stories
  • Historic artifacts and photos
Some travelers say they planned to “check it out for an hour” and ended up staying half the day. It’s that impactful. If you’re staying in Pearl, you can easily:
  • Spend the morning at the Civil Rights Museum
  • Grab lunch in Jackson
  • Head back to Pearl in the afternoon
It’s a meaningful way to connect your trip to the deeper story of Mississippi.

6. Enjoy Local Eats and Southern Comfort Food in Pearl

One of the best things about visiting small cities like Pearl is the food. You’ll find plenty of national chains along Highway 80 and near I‑20, but don’t skip the local spots. In and around Pearl and Rankin County, you can find:
  • Barbecue slow‑cooked the right way
  • Meat‑and‑three style lunches with sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens
  • Catfish, hushpuppies, and sweet tea
If you’re not sure where to go, ask: “Where do you go for lunch on a Friday?” Locals usually light up with at least one or two suggestions. That’s often how you find the best fried chicken or dessert around.

7. Shop Local and Support Small Businesses in Rankin County

Pearl sits in Rankin County, and the area has more than just big‑name stores. Around town and in nearby communities, you’ll find:
  • Small boutiques with gifts and home décor
  • Local hardware and outdoor shops
  • Mom‑and‑pop diners and bakeries
If you enjoy traveling “like a local,” try this simple plan:
  • Grab coffee at a local shop instead of a chain
  • Pick up a small souvenir at a local boutique
  • Ask the staff where they like to eat or relax
Not only does this support the local Pearl economy, but it also makes your trip feel more personal and real.

8. Take a Day Trip to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

Just across the river in Jackson, but still an easy ride from Pearl, you’ll find the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science tucked inside LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. This is a great option if you:
  • Love nature and wildlife
  • Are traveling with kids who like animals
  • Want something educational that’s still fun
Inside, you’ll see:
  • Huge aquariums with native fish and turtles
  • Exhibits on Mississippi’s forests, swamps, and wildlife
  • Walking trails outside through wooded areas
You can easily pair this with the Mississippi Children’s Museum for a full, family‑friendly day, then head back to Pearl in time for dinner.

9. Enjoy Outdoor Time at Local Parks in Pearl and Rankin County

You don’t have to stray far from Pearl to find a playground, ball field, or green space. Around the city and county, you’ll find local parks that are perfect for:
  • Short walks after a long drive
  • Letting kids run and play
  • Casual picnics under the trees
The Pearl area has several community parks with:
  • Sports fields
  • Walking paths
  • Picnic tables
If you’re staying in a nearby hotel, ask at the front desk for the closest park or walking trail. Sometimes those simple, low‑key stops end up being some of the best memories from a trip.

10. Use Pearl as a Base for Exploring the Jackson Metro Area

One of Pearl’s biggest strengths is location. It’s close to just about everything in the Jackson metro area, but it tends to be a little quieter and often more budget‑friendly than staying downtown. From Pearl, you can take easy day trips to:
  • Downtown Jackson for museums, food, and music
  • LeFleur’s Bluff State Park for hiking, fishing, and picnics
  • Other Rankin County communities for a small‑town Mississippi feel
Think of Pearl as your home base. Spend the day out exploring, then come back to a comfortable hotel, local restaurants, and an easy drive to the interstate when it’s time to move on.

Final Thoughts: Why Pearl, Mississippi Deserves a Stop

Pearl, Mississippi isn’t trying to be a flashy tourist town. And honestly, that’s part of its charm. You get:
  • Big‑league fun in a small‑town stadium at Trustmark Park
  • Convenient shopping at Outlets of Mississippi
  • Easy access to powerful museums and outdoor adventures nearby
  • Friendly locals and classic Southern food
If you’re planning a trip through central Mississippi, consider spending a night or two in Pearl, exploring Rankin County, and using it as a jumping‑off point for the rest of the Jackson area.

Share Your Pearl, Mississippi Experience

Have you been to Pearl in Rankin County? Did you catch a Mississippi Braves game, grab a great meal, or find a hidden gem nearby? Share your favorite things to do near Pearl in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. And if you found this guide helpful, please:
  • Share it with a friend who’s planning a trip through Mississippi
  • Post it to your travel group or social media
Your tips and stories help other people see just how much there is to enjoy in and around Pearl, Mississippi.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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