Mississippi is a true embodiment of Southern charm, with historic towns, tranquil riverscapes, a vibrant musical heritage, and lush green forests. Whether you’re a long-time Mississippi resident or are considering moving to the Magnolia State, you may be wondering: What is Mississippi known for?
From soulful blues and mouth-watering cuisine to historic plantations and scenic drives, Mississippi has a lot to offer. Read on to learn why living in Mississippi is so appealing, whether you’re buying a home in Jackson, renting in Oxford, or just passing through.
Agriculture and emerging industries are booming
Mississippi’s economy is deeply rooted in agriculture and it is known for its fertile land and significant contributions to the agricultural sector. The state is a major producer of crops such as cotton, soybeans and rice. In addition to agriculture, Mississippi has made great strides in diversifying its economic base by expanding into manufacturing, aerospace and technology.
Key cities for economic development
- Jackson: State capital, hub for healthcare, manufacturing and retail.
- Tupelo: The birthplace of Elvis Presley, it is famous for its thriving furniture manufacturing industry.
- Gulfport-Biloxi: Coastal cities focus on tourism, shipping and seafood processing.
Best Employers in Mississippi
- ingalls shipyard
- Nissan North America
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- international paper
- Tyson Foods
Must-visit tourist attractions
Mississippi is home to numerous attractions, from historical landmarks to natural wonders, where you can get a glimpse of the state’s rich heritage and beautiful scenery.
- Vicksburg National Military Park: The park commemorates key battles of the Civil War and offers historical tours and reenactments.
- Natchez Trail Boulevard: The scenic drive stretches 444 miles and offers picturesque scenery and recreational opportunities.
- Elvis Presley’s Birthplace, Tupelo: Discover the humble beginnings of the King of Rock and Roll at this historic site and museum.
- Biloxi Lighthouse: An iconic symbol of resilience that has stood the test of centuries and hurricanes.
- Mississippi Petrified Forest: This is a unique natural attraction with ancient logs turned into stone over millions of years.
Delicious southern food
Mississippi’s cuisine reflects its deep Southern roots, offering a culinary journey filled with hearty, delicious dishes. From catfish and grilled pork ribs to delicious desserts, the state’s cuisine is a testament to its rich agricultural heritage and cultural influence.
famous mississippi dishes
- catfish: Usually fried to perfection and served with quesadillas and coleslaw.
- barbecue: Known for its slow-cooked meats, especially pulled pork and ribs.
- Tamales: This classic dish has a Delta twist, is often spicy, and is wrapped in corn husks.
- Pecan Pie: A sweet staple made with locally grown pecans.
- Biscuits and Gravy: Breakfast favorites include fluffy biscuits and delicious sausage gravy.
Best Mississippi Restaurants to Try
Rich musical heritage and cultural influence
Mississippi is the birthplace of blues music, a genre that has influenced music around the world. The state’s cultural scene is vibrant, with deep roots in literature, music and the arts.
- Mississippi Delta: Known as the “Home of the Blues,” it hosts numerous blues festivals and museums.
- Mississippi Grammy Museum: Located in Cleveland, it celebrates the state’s contribution to music history.
- William Faulkner’s Rowan Oaks in Oxford: The Nobel Prize winner’s historic home gives you an insight into his life and work.
- BB King Museum in Indianola: Dedicated to the legendary blues musician, exhibits and his personal artifacts are on display.
- Eudora Welty Villas in Jackson: A literary landmark showcasing the life and works of this famous author.
Well-known educational institutions
Mississippi is home to several renowned colleges and universities that provide quality education and promote innovation and research.
top universities in mississippi
- University of Mississippi (Ole Miss): Known for its beautiful campus and strong academic programs.
- Mississippi State University: A leader in agricultural and engineering research.
- Jackson State University: A historically black university with a vibrant campus life.
- University of Southern Mississippi: Offers a diverse curriculum and a strong emphasis on research.
- Alcorn State University: One of the oldest historically black land-grant universities in the United States.
Amazing natural resources and outdoor activities
Mississippi’s natural landscape is diverse and charming, from rolling hills and forests to tranquil river valleys and Gulf Coast beaches. The state offers numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mississippi’s Best State Parks
- Tishomingo State Park: Known for its rugged beauty and excellent hiking trails.
- LeFleur Bluff State Park: Located in Jackson, offers fishing, hiking and camping.
- Clarkco State Park: Featuring scenic lakes, trails and picnic areas.
- Percy Quinn State Park: Known for its golf courses, lakes and camping facilities.
- Pirate State Park: It is popular with beachgoers of all ages for its water park and beach access.
Interesting facts: Mississippi is home to the Mississippi River, the second longest river in the United States, and has been an important waterway for commerce and travel for centuries.
Become a sports paradise
Mississippi’s passion for sports is evident in its love of football, baseball and the outdoors. The state is home to college teams and recreational sports opportunities.
professional and collegiate sports teams
- Mississippi State Bulldogs (NCAA)
- Miss Rebellious(NCAA)
- Miss Southern Golden Eagle (NCAA)
- Mississippi Braves (MiLB)
- Biloxi Shuckers (MiLB)
Interesting facts: The Mississippi State Bulldogs baseball team has a rich history and passionate fan base, and their home games are major events in the state.
Unique Mississippian Phrases and Expressions
- “Bless your heart.” – A typically Southern expression used to express sympathy or affection.
- “you.” – Abbreviation for “all of you”, often used to address a group of people.
- “Fixed to.” – means to prepare or prepare to do something.
- “complain.” – Refers to a small valley or rural area, often used to describe where someone lives.
- “Gulf Shores.” – refers to the Mississippi coastline, known for its beaches and seafood.
More things Mississippi is famous for
- Literary legend: Mississippi produced famous writers such as William Faulkner, Eudora Welty and Richard Wright.
- Cultural festivals: Events like the Pilgrimage to Natchez and the Delta Blues Festival celebrate the state’s heritage.
- Culinary influences: In addition to traditional dishes, Mississippi is known for its flavors and cooking techniques that influenced Southern cuisine.
- Monuments: From the antebellum homes of Natchez to the Civil War battlefields, Mississippi’s history is richly preserved.
- Craftsmanship: Mississippi is known for its craftsmanship, especially in furniture and pottery.
