Best Summer Activities in Jackson, MS

Jackson, Mississippi, is the capital city of our state and has both modern and historic attractions. There are so many different activities for visitors and locals to enjoy in Jackson during the warm summer months. Whether you’re looking for good food or want to explore museums, there is something for everyone. Here is a list of some of the best summer activities in Jackson, Mississippi.

Visit Historic Sites

Landscape photography of white and brown concrete buildings under cloudy sky by Andrew Welch is licensed by Unsplash License

As a historic American city, Jackson has several preserved historic sites you can visit. The Boyd House is one of the few structures that survived the burning of Jackson during the Civil War. Now, it’s a state and national landmark and home to The Oaks Museum. Another historic house is the Manship House, the family home of Charles Henry Manship, who built it in 1857. Charles Henry Manship was mayor of Jackson during the Civil War, and his family home has since been turned into a museum.

Learn some History

There are plenty of places you can visit to learn more about the history of Jackson, Mississippi. One of these places is the Mississippi State Capital building, built in 1903. This is the third capital building to exist in Jackson, and it was funded by the Illinois Central Railroad. You could also visit the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion, which was the residence of the state’s governors from 1842 to 1975 when it became a National Historic Landmark. The mansion is a great place to learn more about past and present governors in Mississippi.

You can learn about African-American history at the Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center, which is committed to increasing the understanding of the historical and cultural experience of African-Americans in Mississippi. There are permanent exhibits as well as events that take place within the cultural center.

Head to the Fondren District

If you want to spend a relaxing day out in the city, you should head to the Fondren District. This urban area is a hotspot for shopping, eating, and soaking in the modern spirit of Jackson. You can admire the modern architecture as you visit delicious restaurants and shops, or visit art galleries throughout this popular district.

Location: 2906 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216

Visit the Museums

Jackson, Mississippi, is home to several contemporary museums. You can take your family to the Mississippi Children’s Museum, which features interactive and family-friendly activities. The museum also hosts several events you can sign up for so both you and your kids can have fun while learning. The Natural Science Museum and Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum cater to an audience that is interested in science and discovery. The Natural Science Museum features an incredible exhibit on space exploration, while the Agriculture Museum teaches visitors about Mississippi’s agriculture and forestry.

You can visit the Mississippi Museum of Art, and marvel at the permanent and rotating art exhibits. You can admire all types of art created by local and national artists. Another fun museum is the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, which celebrates accomplished athletes from around the state. These great museums are located in the LeFleur Museum District. You can hang out in this district all day long by purchasing a district pass that gives you full access to the four museums in this area.

Location: I-55 and Lakeland Drive, Jackson, Mississippi

Stroll Through the Petrified Forest

If you want a break from the bustling city, you can stroll through the Mississippi Petrified Forest, which is just a short drive outside the city. This nature trail is six blocks long and is lined with petrified wooden logs that have turned to stone. Experience the unique prehistoric atmosphere of this site within a predominantly urban area. Near the end of the trail is the Earth Science Museum, which you can visit after your walk to learn more about petrification, fossils, and the phenomenon that is the Petrified Forest.

Location: 124 Forest Park Road, Flora, Mississippi 39071

Head to the Zoo

If you want to spend the day outdoors, consider visiting the Jackson Zoo. The zoo is home to 380 animals and 202 species, including some that are endangered. It is involved in several species survival programs to help to protect these animals from further endangerment. The zoo is planning to open new exhibits on a regular basis so they can continue to house and care for a wide range of animals.

Location: 2918 West Capitol Street, Jackson, Mississippi 39209

Get Outdoors

If you want to enjoy the great outdoors in Jackson, you can visit the LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. This is a 305-acre lush green expanse that offers fishing, hiking, and camping. With all this, you can spend several days enjoying everything that the park has to offer.

If you’re looking for a different type of outing, consider visiting the extinct Jackson Volcano which lies under the Mississippi Coliseum. Located 2,900 feet beneath the city, the underground volcano forms the Jackson Dome, an uplifted rock formation.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

Jackson, Mississippi, has great restaurants for everyone, whatever your tastes. If you want Mediterranean food for lunch and soul food for dinner, you’ve visited the right city. If you want a drink, you can visit the breweries and distilleries in downtown Jackson and taste the different drinks and brews that Jackson has on tap. You can find restaurants, pubs, and more in Midtown, Belhaven, Fondren, North Jackson, and Downtown Jackson.

Whether you live in Jackson or are just visiting this summer, you can find plenty to do to fill your time in the city. There are several museums that will suit everyone’s interests, and you can visit historic sites to learn about the city’s history. There are activities for people of all ages, so you can always find something to do in this great city.

Is there another summer activity that you love? Contact us so we can add it to our list of best summer activities in Jackson, Mississippi.