72 Hours in the Capital/River Region
Explore (and eat) your way through Jackson and Vicksburg
If you’ve got a long weekend to spend in the Capital/River region, consider spending your first two days exploring Jackson and its surrounding areas, then round out your trip with a third day to Vicksburg.
Day 1: Jackson
What to See and Do: Jackson has many must-see museums. Stop into the Mississippi Museum of Art, the state’s largest fine art museum, which houses thousands of notable works. The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is another cultural landmark no visitor should miss. For the kids, there’s the Mississippi Children’s Museum.
Where to Eat (and Wander): In the Fondren District, Walker’s Drive-In is a classic Jackson landmark, where Chef Derek Emerson serves upscale favorites made with top-notch ingredients. Another Fondren favorite is Brent’s Drugs, where the original soda fountain from 1946 and retro finishes will transport you into a old world wonderland. Stop in for a lunchtime burger, or drop in after hours when the back transforms into a speakeasy-style bar, The Apothecary. While in Fondren, save time to shop through the district’s locally-owned boutiques. Locals will insist you visit Keifer’s in Belhaven for a gyro.
Where to Stay: The Fairview Inn. A quintessential Jackson spot, the Fairview offers classic, luxurious lodging, and has hosted many VIPs in its day (Mick Jagger’s room of choice at the Fairview happens to be the presidential French Suite). The Fairview’s old library has been transformed into the aptly-named Library Lounge. Patrons pay homage to classic Mississippi authors while enjoying a cocktail or nosh in the sophisticated, moody space, or lounge outdoors beneath the sprawling branches of the inn’s massive magnolia tree.
Day 2: Canton and Ridgeland
Once you’ve gotten your taste of Jackson, head out on a day trip to see Canton and Ridgeland.
Your first stop is the Canton Movie Museum. Situated downtown in “Mississippi’s Film Capital,” the museum houses props from notable movies filmed in Mississippi. Due to renovations, the museum is currently by appointment only. Be sure to call ahead to book your spot.
Then head to Ridgeland for a bite and some outdoor adventures. Have lunch at Cock of the Walk, which New York Times food critic Craig Claiborne hailed as home to “possibly the best catfish in the nation.”
If you choose to stick to land, head out on one of Ridgeland’s many bike trails. From a self-guided bike tour to a BMX track, there’s a route suitable for all. Should you prefer to take to the water, head for Barnett Reservoir to fish, boat, sail, or paddle.
Day 3: Vicksburg
Now that you’ve checked the boxes in the Jackson area, take the quick hour drive to Vicksburg, where you’ll find a town chock-full of fascinating history, and more good food.
• If you decide to stay the night, make a reservation at Anchuca, the oldest B&B in Vicksburg, which dates back to the early 1800s.
• For your daily dose of history, visit the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum, the first place in the world to bottle Coca-Cola®. While you’re in the area, take a stroll around to explore the nearby galleries and shops.
• For lunch, stop by Solly’s Hot Tamales or the classic Walnut Hills Restaurant, which has had its share in the spotlight thanks to an appearance on Good Morning America.
• Also on your list should be the Vicksburg National Military Park, where you’ll learn more about Vicksburg’s deep involvement in the Civil War.
• For dinner, check out the views from 10 South Rooftop Bar and Restaurant, or enjoy the intimate atmosphere of Cafe Anchuca.