Moss-draped oaks and sweet magnolia blossoms form the backdrop of an easy summer getaway to Natchez, whose many charms are luring more and more visitors in search of a refreshing change of scene. The oldest city in the country on the Mississippi River offers fascinating historic tours, sultry music, tasty festivals, bucolic scenery, an expanding culinary scene, and so much more.
Couples, girlfriends, families, and anyone who needs a spirited diversion from the heat will love the sensory delights and easy vibe of this hip and historic Southern city. Book a room at the nationally renowned Historic Oak Hill Inn, an eight-time Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice winner, known for impeccable service, fine cuisine, and stately beauty. Or opt for the Natchez Grand Hotel in the heart of the downtown historic district for sweeping river views that will lull you into a state of easy relaxation. Enjoy some retail therapy among the city’s locally owned gift shops, antiques stores, and fashion forward boutiques, many located downtown and reachable on foot.
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Nicole Kossum Photography
Shopping and strolling historic downtown Natchez
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At Natchez's iconic Malt Shop, soft-serve deliciousness comes by the coneful
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High on the Natchez Bluff, everyone's welcome.
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Nicole Kossum Photography
Discovering exhibits at Natchez's African American History Museum
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Sunset drinks on the Natchez Bluff
Beat the heat with the perfect restorative—locally brewed beer from the Natchez Brewing Company and Kitchen. This fun and funky setting serves up a panorama of craft suds, which pair nicely with the taproom’s house-made brick oven pizza and artisan pub grub. For something more luxurious, enjoy a white tablecloth dinner at Restaurant 1818 in the majestic Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens. The early 18th century mansion and its surrounding 26 acres provide a storybook setting for a romantic evening out.
There’s no shortage of activities and entertainment in beautiful Natchez, which boasts one of the Gulf South’s most interesting topographies. Drive through the rolling hills that await at the southern tip of the Natchez Trace parkway, whose many shaded hiking trails wind through mature hardwood forest alive with birdsong. The Trace is also a renowned cycling route, with cycling enthusiasts stopping or starting their Trace tour in graceful, elegant Natchez. If water’s more your thing, enjoy a day of calm and peaceful kayaking on a placid lake with a guide from downtown nature education center, OutsideIN MS.
Magnolia Hall was built around 1858. The name was inspired by the plaster magnolia blossoms incorporated into the design of the parlor ceilings. The home was restored by the Natchez Garden Club as a house museum and is operated by the club today.
Summertime's a great time to explore Natchez’s many historic properties and sites, too. For a window into historic architecture and antique furnishings, reserve a tour at Stanton Hall, Magnolia Hall, Rosalie Mansion, or another of the city’s superbly preserved antebellum properties. Another gem awaits at Natchez National Historical Park, a National Park System site that features exhibits that capture the experiences of the diverse people whose toils, pain, triumphs, and successes have shaped Natchez.
Cap off your experience with some local entertainment. After all, what’s better on a hot night than some cool music? On weekends, the live music pouring from stylish spots like Smoot’s Grocery, Locust Alley and Natchez Brewing Company reflects the rich musical traditions that have long run through Natchez. From blues to country to pop, there’s no shortage of soulful sounds here on the bluffs to set the mood.
All this is just a taste. Visit visitnatchez.org to start planning your perfect escape.
