Set in a storied landscape of the Mississippi Delta, Greenwood, MS, welcomes you with the sounds of the blues, the flavors of the South, and a powerful legacy of history and heart. From Civil Rights landmarks to soulful eats and historic shops, this charming town invites visitors to slow down and tune in. Here are eight reasons why Greenwood should top your must-visit list this season.
1. Arrive by Train: Let the Journey Set the Rhythm
Start your Greenwood experience the moment you board the Amtrak train. This historic route connects travelers to Civil Rights destinations like Memphis, TN, Jackson, MS, and New Orleans, LA — and Greenwood is a proud stop along the way. The train winds through scenic routes, offering glimpses of cotton fields, river bends, and rural towns, making the journey just as memorable as the destination.
2. Stay at The Alluvian: Boutique Luxury, Delta Style
After your train ride, drop your bags off and check in at The Alluvian. The beautifully restored boutique hotel offers elegant guest rooms and curated local art. Plus, its sense of calm sophistication sets the tone for a relaxing stay.
Need to unwind? Book a service at the hotel’s luxurious 7,000-square-foot spa, which offers massages, facials, body scrubs, and manicures.
After your spa treatment, visit the hotel’s restaurant, Giardina’s, for a delicious meal. With scenic courtyard views and a state-of-the-art kitchen designed by world-renowned architects, it’s the perfect blend of elegance and modern comfort. Standout menu items include the eight-ounce burger, chicken parmigiana, Delta catfish filet, and pan-roasted mahi. And don’t forget the expertly crafted cocktails!
The Alluvian is also home to the Viking Cooking School, where guests of all skill levels can sharpen their culinary talents using state-of-the-art Viking equipment. Whether you’re a beginner, an experienced chef, or just love to entertain, classes offer something for everyone — from basic techniques to hosting tips and hands-on courses in global cuisines, baking, and more.
3. Dine at Serio’s Italian Steakhouse: A Southern Take on Old-World Elegance
For a fine-dining experience, book a table at Serio’s Italian Steakhouse. Set in a classic, white-tablecloth atmosphere, the restaurant serves delicious filets and ribeye alongside Italian favorites like fettuccine alfredo, ravioli, lasagna, and shrimp scampi. Or, if you’re feeling creative, you can build your own pizza or pasta dish. (Pro tip: Save room for dessert!)
4. Discover Delta Flavors at Fan & Johnny’s
Another fantastic local dining option is Fan & Johnny’s, the brainchild of James Beard-nominated Chef Taylor Bowen-Ricketts. The restaurant serves weekday lunch and offers a mouthwatering dinner menu Wednesday through Friday. They are also known for their unique BYOB (bring-your-own-beverage) policy.
Here, Southern staples receive a creative and modern twist. The menu includes everything from po’ boys to catfish and tamales. And the house-made bread pudding? Worth the trip alone.
5. Step Into the Past at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta
History buffs will enjoy spending an afternoon at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta, which takes a deep dive into local art, history, and nature. In addition to permanent exhibits that explore military and agricultural history as well as the life of the town’s founder, Greenwood Leflore, the museum recently introduced a new exhibit, The Guitar and a Changing Nation.
Running through the end of September 2025, the exhibit invites visitors to learn about the guitar’s impact on musical genres like rock ‘n’ roll and the blues. It also dives deep into the famous blues legend of “The Crossroads,” which suggests musicians would sell their souls for fame and wealth.
6. Explore Trail Markers That Changed the Nation
Greenwood sits at the intersection of powerful trails: the Mississippi Blues Trail, the Mississippi Country Music Trail, and the Mississippi Freedom Trail. For example, the B.B. King Birthplace marker honors the legendary blues musician, highlighting his early childhood in Mississippi’s Leflore County and continuing through the height of his musical career.
Part of the Mississippi Country Music Trail, the Bobbie Gentry marker offers a glimpse into the legendary musician’s life and legacy. She spent most of her childhood growing up in Greenwood and went on to create multiple number-one hits, including “Ode to Billie Joe,” as well as popular albums like The Delta Sweete.
Bryant’s Grocery, located about 10 miles outside of town, is also a frequent stop along the Mississippi Freedom Trail. Here, you’ll find the ruins of Bryant’s Grocery & Meat Market, where, in 1955, the store’s owner falsely claimed that 14-year-old Emmett Till whistled at her and touched her waist. This set off a series of events that led to Emmett’s brutal murder, which ultimately became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement.
7. Visit the Emmett Till Memorial Statue: A Place for Remembrance
Back in downtown Greenwood is a statue honoring Emmett Till. Unveiled in 2022, the statue is the only official U.S. statue that honors Till. This powerful memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the struggle for civil rights and the lasting impact of Emmett’s story.
8. Enjoy an Afternoon of Shopping in Downtown Greenwood
Be sure to carve out an hour or two to stroll through Greenwood’s historic downtown. Home to a diverse collection of unique local shops, boutiques, and eateries, you’ll find everything from clothing to accessories, home goods, and more. Popular stores include Delta Boutique & Gifts, The Mississippi Gift Company, Monograms & More, Delta Emporium & Events, and Fincher’s Inc.
From historic markers and moving memorials to memorable meals and hands-on experiences, Greenwood is more than just a stop on the map — it’s a place to feel the pulse of the Delta. And with Greenwood’s custom interactive map, you can easily explore over 300 curated attractions within an hour’s drive. Stay in Greenwood and discover the stories that shaped the South.
This article is sponsored by Visit Greenwood, MS.
