Vicksburg, Mississippi: 10 Must-Do Attractions and Nearby Experiences

10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Vicksburg, Mississippi

If you’re planning a trip through Mississippi, Vicksburg in Warren County is absolutely worth a stop. This historic river town sits high on the bluffs overlooking the mighty Mississippi River, and it’s packed with history, great views, and Southern charm. Whether you’re into Civil War history, riverfront sunsets, or just good food and small‑town vibes, there are plenty of things to do in Vicksburg, MS. Below are 10 easy, fun things to do near Vicksburg to help you plan your visit.

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1. Explore Vicksburg National Military Park

If you know even a little bit about Vicksburg, you’ve probably heard of the Vicksburg National Military Park. This is the big one—people come from all over the country to see it. Here you’ll find:

• Over 1,300 monuments and markers
• Miles of driving and walking trails
• The restored ironclad gunboat USS Cairo
• Beautiful rolling hills and views

You can drive the main tour road (about 16 miles) and stop at marked spots, or book a licensed battlefield guide at the visitor center. If you’re short on time, even a 1–2 hour drive-through gives you a sense of how big and important this place was. Tip from the road: bring water and good walking shoes—those hills look gentle, but they sneak up on you in the Mississippi heat.

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2. Walk the Vicksburg Riverfront Murals

Down by the river, you’ll find the colorful Vicksburg Riverfront Murals painted along the floodwall. This is one of the most photogenic spots in town. Each mural tells a piece of Vicksburg’s story:

• Steamboats and river trade
• Civil War history
• Blues music and local culture
• Famous local people and events

It’s an easy, flat walk—great for families, strollers, or anyone who just wants to stretch their legs after a long drive on I‑20. If you like taking photos, come close to sunset when the light is softer and the river looks golden.

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3. Tour Historic Downtown Vicksburg

Just uphill from the riverfront murals is historic downtown Vicksburg, with brick streets, old buildings, and plenty of local flavor. You can:

• Browse antique shops and local boutiques
• Grab coffee or ice cream at small cafes
• Check out street art and historic markers
• Visit art galleries featuring local artists

Downtown is very walkable, and parking is usually easy. It’s a nice place to slow down, wander, and see what you find. If you like history, look up at the buildings—many have dates from the late 1800s and early 1900s.

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4. Step Back in Time at the Old Courthouse Museum

If you’re curious about Vicksburg history beyond the battlefield, the Old Courthouse Museum is a must-see. The courthouse itself, built in the 1850s, survived the Civil War and now holds:

• Artifacts from the Siege of Vicksburg
• Period clothing, furniture, and photos
• Native American items and early town history
• Displays about local life in the 1800s and early 1900s

The building sits up on a hill, so you also get a nice view of the city. The creaky floors and old wooden staircases make it feel like you’re stepping straight into the past.

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5. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Mississippi River

One of the simplest but most relaxing things to do near Vicksburg is just to drive along the Mississippi River and explore the back roads of Warren County. Consider:

• Heading south out of town for river and bayou views
• Stopping at small pull-offs to watch the barges
• Keeping an eye out for herons, egrets, and other wildlife

The river feels huge and powerful here. On a quiet day, you can roll down your windows, listen to the water and the birds, and just let the pace of life slow down. If you’re coming from the USA’s bigger cities, the calm of these roads might surprise you in the best way.

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6. Visit the USS Cairo Museum & Gunboat

Inside Vicksburg National Military Park, but worth its own mention, is the USS Cairo Museum. The USS Cairo is an ironclad gunboat that was sunk during the Civil War and later raised from the Yazoo River. Here you can:

• Walk around (and under) the restored gunboat
• See cannons and original parts of the ship
• Explore a museum with personal items from sailors

Even if you’re not a big history buff, the size and shape of the ironclad are impressive. It almost looks like something out of a movie. Kids usually love this stop because it feels like a giant, real-life pirate ship fused with a tank.

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7. Tour Vicksburg’s Historic Homes

If you enjoy old architecture, Vicksburg has several historic homes that offer tours. These houses give you a glimpse of how people lived here before, during, and after the Civil War. You might visit:

• McRaven House – often called one of the most haunted houses in Mississippi, with layered history from different eras.
• Cedar Grove Mansion – a grand home with a cannonball still lodged in one of the walls.
• Other local bed-and-breakfasts in restored mansions.

Each home has its own story, from war tales to family drama. If you like ghost stories or old Southern legends, ask your guide—they usually have a few good ones.

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8. Try Classic Southern Food in Vicksburg

You can’t talk about things to do in Vicksburg without mentioning food

Fried catfish and hush puppies

Barbecue and ribs

Fried chicken and biscuits

Soul food sides like greens and mac and cheese

If you’re not sure what to order, ask your server what locals love most. I once asked that in a small Vicksburg restaurant and ended up with a plate so full I could barely see the table underneath it—no regrets. Bonus tip: Save room for dessert. Homemade pies and cobblers are common here, and they’re worth it.

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9. Enjoy Gaming and Dining at the Riverfront Casinos

If you’d like a little nightlife or entertainment, Vicksburg has riverfront casinos that offer:

• Slots and table games
• On-site restaurants and buffets
• Bars and live music on some nights

Even if you’re not a big gambler, casinos can be fun for:

• A late dinner after a day of sightseeing
• People-watching
• Indoor fun when the weather is hot or rainy

Just set a budget and treat it like an entertainment expense, not a way to make money. Think of it like paying for a show or theme park.

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10. Catch a Sunset Over the Mississippi River

One of the simplest and most memorable things to do in Vicksburg is to watch the sunset over the Mississippi River. You can:

• Head to a river overlook or park
• Walk near the historic bridges
• Watch barges push up and down the river as the sky changes color

On clear evenings, the sky often glows with shades of orange, pink, and purple, and it reflects off the water. It’s a peaceful way to end the day and really feel the rhythm of this river town. If you’re traveling with someone, bring a couple of folding chairs and just sit for a while. It’s one of those simple travel moments that sticks with you.

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Planning Your Trip to Vicksburg, Mississippi

To make the most of your visit to Vicksburg in Warren County:

• Allow at least one full day for the National Military Park and downtown.
• Two days gives you time for museums, historic homes, and a slower pace.
• Summer can be hot and humid, so bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Check hours for museums and homes—some close earlier on Sundays or weekdays.

Vicksburg is easy to reach off Interstate 20, making it a perfect stop on a road trip across the South or between Texas and Georgia.

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What Will You Do First in Vicksburg?

From battlefield tours and historic homes to riverfront murals and catfish dinners, Vicksburg offers a mix of history, scenery, and true Southern hospitality. Which of these 10 things to do in Vicksburg, Mississippi sounds best to you?

• Are you more excited about the history?
• Or are you here for the river views and food?

Share your plans or experiences in the comments—have you been to Vicksburg before, or are you just starting to plan a trip? If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who might be traveling through Mississippi. It helps more people discover what makes Vicksburg such a special stop along the river.