Top 50 best museums in Mississippi

Elvis Presley's birthplace, located at 306 Elvis Presley Drive in Tupelo, Mississippi, is a modest family home that has been transformed into a museum. This is where the American rock 'n' roll legend was born on January 8, 1935, and spent the first two years of his childhood. The house is a typical shotgun house, a style common among modest families in the southern United States.

The Ohr-O'Keefe Museum Of Art, located in Biloxi, Mississippi, is a non-profit art museum that is dedicated to the ceramics of George E. Ohr, who was known as the 'Mad Potter of Biloxi'. This museum is a tribute to his unique and innovative ceramic creations.

The B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center, located in Indianola, Mississippi, is a tribute to the Delta blues and the legendary musician B.B. King. The museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Mississippi Delta and its significant contribution to the world of music.

The African American Military History Museum, also known as the East Sixth Street USO Building, is located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. It was opened to the public on May 23, 2009. The museum is housed in a building that was originally constructed in 1942 as a USO Club for African American soldiers stationed at Camp Shelby.

The Grand Village of the Natchez, also known as the Fatherland Site, is an archaeological site that holds significant historical value. It is located south of the city of Natchez in the state of Mississippi, USA. This site offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the remnants of a prehistoric village and mounds built by the now-extinct Natchez people, who were part of the Plaquemine culture, a branch of the Mississippi civilization.

Vicksburg National Military Park is a significant historical site that preserves the location of the American Civil War Battle of Vicksburg. This battle took place from March 29 to July 4, 1863. The park serves as a reminder of the events that transpired during this period and offers visitors a chance to learn about this crucial part of American history.

Since 2006, the Eudora Welty House & Garden has been open to the public as an author's house museum. Visitors can explore the house and garden, gaining insight into Welty's life and work. The museum offers a unique opportunity to experience the environment that inspired many of Welty's stories.

The Biloxi Lighthouse is a significant landmark located in Biloxi, a city in Harrison County, Mississippi. This historic lighthouse has been a beacon for the city and its visitors for many years, and continues to be a symbol of the city's resilience and strength.

The Old Mississippi State Capitol, also known as the Old Capitol Museum or Old State Capitol, has a rich history as it served as the Mississippi statehouse from 1839 until 1903. This period saw numerous significant legislative events, making it a site of historical importance. Today, it stands as a testament to the state's past and offers visitors a glimpse into the political history of Mississippi.

The Winterville site, located in Washington County, Mississippi, is a significant archaeological site. It features major earthwork monuments, including over twelve large platform mounds and cleared and filled plazas. These structures are a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the Native Americans of the Plaquemine culture who built them between 1200 and 1250.

The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is a significant institution that focuses on the African American Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi from 1945 to 1970. This period was a pivotal time in American history, and the museum provides an in-depth look into the events and individuals that shaped this era. Visitors can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the civil rights movement and its impact on the state of Mississippi and the nation as a whole.

Highland Park, located in Meridian, Mississippi, is a historic site that has been recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979. This park is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in American history.

Stanton Hall, also known as Belfast, is a historic mansion located in the Natchez On-Top-of-the-Hill Historic District at 401 High Street in Natchez, Mississippi. This Antebellum Classical Revival mansion is a significant part of the city's history and offers a glimpse into the opulence of the antebellum era in the southeastern United States.

Rosalie Mansion, a historic pre-Civil War mansion and museum, is located in Natchez, Mississippi. This significant architectural structure was built in 1823 and has since been a major influence on Antebellum architecture in the region. Its rich history and architectural significance make it a notable destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.

Longwood, also referred to as Nutt's Folly, is a historic mansion from the antebellum period. It is uniquely octagonal in shape and is situated at 140 Lower Woodville Road in Natchez, Mississippi. This mansion is a significant part of American history and is a notable landmark in the United States.

The Mississippi Petrified Forest is a unique natural attraction located near Flora in the state of Mississippi. This privately owned forest is open to the public, offering visitors a chance to explore a fascinating piece of natural history. The forest is a testament to the geological processes that have shaped our planet over millions of years.

The Meridian Museum of Art, situated at 628 25th Avenue, Meridian, Mississippi, is not just a museum but also a historic site. The building housing the museum was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and was declared a Mississippi Landmark in 1985. This adds a layer of historical significance to the museum, making it a place where visitors can appreciate both art and history.

The Beauvoir estate, located in Biloxi, Mississippi, served as the post-war home of Jefferson Davis, the former President of the Confederate States of America, from 1876 to 1889. This historic site, now designated as a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service, offers visitors a glimpse into the life of Davis and his family during their time at the estate.

Soul Steam Feed Works is a historic business that was founded in Meridian, Mississippi in 1892. It was incorporated a year later by George Soul. This establishment has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century, making it a significant part of Meridian's industrial heritage.

The Oaks House Museum, also known as The Oaks, is a historic site located at 823 North Jefferson Street in Jackson, Mississippi. This location is easily accessible and is a significant part of the city's history.

The Hattiesburg Zoo, also known as the Kamper Park Zoo, is a quaint 12-acre zoo nestled within the scenic Kamper Park in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. This zoo, operated by the Hattiesburg Convention Commission, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Rowan Oak, located in Oxford, Mississippi, was the residence of renowned author William Faulkner. The house, built in the 1840s, is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture. It was constructed by Colonel Robert Sheegog, an Irish immigrant planter from Tennessee.

The Jefferson College campus has been recognized for its historical significance. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and was designated a Mississippi Landmark in 1985. Today, the site operates as a historic museum and park, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Tunica Museum, located in Tunica, Mississippi, is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Tunica County. Founded in 1997, the museum offers a comprehensive look into the region's past, from its natural setting and Native American prehistory to its social, agricultural, institutional, political, military, and commercial history in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Merrehope is a historic house museum located in a 26-room Victorian mansion. The mansion was originally built in 1858 by Richard McLemore for his daughter Juriah Jackson. Over the years, the mansion has undergone several changes and renovations, but it still retains its original charm and elegance. Visitors to the museum can explore the mansion's many rooms and learn about its rich history.

The University of Mississippi Museum and Historic Houses is a unique cultural institution located in Oxford, Mississippi. Owned and operated by the University of Mississippi, the museum complex includes two historic houses, offering a diverse range of exhibits and collections. Visitors can explore a variety of objects of regional interest, from Southern folk art to Greek and Roman antiquities.

The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS) is a research organization based in Gulfport, Mississippi. The institute is committed to the education, conservation, and research of marine mammals both in the wild and in captivity. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about marine life and the importance of conservation efforts.

Grand Gulf Military State Park is a significant historical site located in Mississippi, 10 miles northwest of Port Gibson. The park is situated in what is now known as the ghost town of Grand Gulf, in Claiborne County. This location offers a unique glimpse into the past, with its rich history and preserved remnants of a bygone era.

Auburn is a Federal mansion located in Duncan Park, Natchez, Mississippi. This historic building was designed and constructed by Levi Weeks in 1812. It stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the early 19th century, introducing academic Classical order architecture to the Mississippi territory.

Magnolia Hall, also known as the Henderson-Britton House, is a historic mansion built in 1858. It is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture, a style that was popular during the mid-19th century. This architectural style is characterized by its grandeur and elegance, making Magnolia Hall a sight to behold for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

McRaven House, located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, is a historic site that dates back to around 1797. It was built by Andrew Glass in a town originally known as Walnut Hills. This house carries a rich history and is a significant part of the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.

Rosemont was officially recognized for its historical significance in 1974 when it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Further recognition came in 1987 when it was designated a Mississippi Landmark, further cementing its place in the state's history.

Enter the magical space of stars, planets and other features. The planetarium's "sky shows" are intriguing and enchanting at the same time.

Simmons Arboretum is a city-owned arboretum located in Madison, Mississippi, United States. Spanning across 10 acres, it offers a serene environment for nature lovers. The arboretum is a work in progress, with ongoing plans for further design, planting, and labeling of species.

The Natchez National Historical Park is a significant site that commemorates the rich history of Natchez, Mississippi. Managed by the National Park Service, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the past and learn about the region's historical events and figures.

The Delta Blues Museum, located in Clarksdale, Mississippi, is a cultural institution dedicated to the preservation and celebration of blues music. The museum houses a comprehensive collection of blues memorabilia, providing visitors with a deep insight into the history and development of this influential music genre. From instruments and records to personal items of famous blues musicians, the museum offers a unique journey through the world of blues.

The Magnolia Hotel, which was built in 1847, holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving hotel on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This historic establishment has seen many changes over the years, but its significance remains intact. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and was designated a Mississippi Landmark in 1985. The hotel was originally constructed for John Hahn, who operated a coffeehouse in New Orleans. Over the years, it has served as a popular resort destination and a winter retreat for guests from northern states.

The Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, established in 1986, serves to preserve and interpret the maritime history and heritage of Biloxi and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This is achieved through a variety of exhibits that cover topics such as shrimping, oystering, recreational fishing, wetlands, managing marine resources, charter boats, marine blacksmithing, wooden boat building, net-making, catboats/Biloxi skiff, shrimp peeling machine and numerous historic photographs and objects.

In 2003, the Pleasant Reed House was relocated to the newly designed campus of the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum Of Art by Frank Gehry. Here, the house was restored and opened to the public for tours, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a piece of Biloxi's rich history.

The Lower Mississippi River Museum is a maritime museum that was established in 2012. It is located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Vicksburg, Mississippi. This museum offers a unique insight into the maritime history of the region and the importance of the Mississippi River in shaping the local culture and economy.

The USS Cairo holds a unique place in naval history as it was the first armored ship to be sunk by a naval mine. This event took place on December 12, 1862, in the Yazoo River. Visitors to the museum can learn about this significant event and its impact on naval warfare.

The Old Courthouse, also known as Warren County Courthouse, is a significant historical site located in Vicksburg, Mississippi. It stands on a hill and was a symbol of Confederate resistance during the Siege of Vicksburg. This makes it a place of interest for those who are keen on learning about the Civil War and the history of the area.

The Mississippi Armed Forces Museum is situated at Camp Shelby, which is about 12 miles to the south of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient destination for tourists interested in military history.

The Corinth Crossroads Museum, originally known as the Corinth Depot, is a historic site located at 221 North Fillmore Street, in Corinth, Mississippi. This structure, which was built around 1917, has a rich history and is a significant part of the Downtown Corinth Historic District. It's a great place to learn about the local history and culture.

The John C. Stennis Space Center, located in Hancock County, Mississippi, is recognized as NASA's most significant rocket engine test benches. This site is of historical and scientific importance, as it has been instrumental in the development and testing of rocket engines for various space missions.

Melrose is a grand mansion located in Natchez, Mississippi. The mansion spans 15,000 square feet and is a prime example of Greek Revival design. This architectural style is characterized by its symmetry, simplicity, and grandeur, all of which are evident in the design of Melrose. The mansion's size and design make it a significant landmark in Natchez.

The Lauren Rogers Museum of Art boasts an extensive collection of Native American baskets, as well as a selection of American art by renowned artists such as Winslow Homer, Albert Bierstadt, and John Singer Sargent. The museum attracts approximately 32,000 visitors annually, making it a popular destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Mississippi Museum of Art is conveniently located at the corner of 380 South Lamar Street and 201 East Pascagoula Street in Jackson, Mississippi. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike, providing an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich art culture of Mississippi.