Why Natchez, MS, Belongs on Your Summer Travel List

Steeped in history and Southern charm, Natchez, MS, offers a memorable weekend getaway. Perched along the Mississippi River, this picturesque city invites visitors to slow down and soak in its rich culture, beautifully preserved historic homes, and welcoming local scene. Here’s how to spend a weekend exploring one of the South’s most enchanting destinations!

SB Tip: If you need help planning your Natchez trip, head to the Visit Natchez office at the Depot Visitor Center on Broadway Street, and don’t miss the film Natchez: From Past to Present. The staff can help you purchase home, tour, and attraction tickets. 

DAY ONE

Kick off your stay by booking a room at The Big Muddy Inn & Blues Room. The recently renovated bed-and-breakfast is conveniently located near some of Natchez’s best restaurants and attractions, and they offer a variety of musical events throughout the year. In addition to six beautifully appointed guest rooms, the communal areas are equally breathtaking, serving as the perfect place to cozy up and read, work, or simply relax at the end of the day.

Once you’ve unpacked and settled into your room, grab lunch at Fat Mama’s Tamales. A beloved local favorite since 1989, the eatery is known for its tamales, links of boudin, Fire & Ice Pickles, and specialty margaritas.

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After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring some of the area’s historic homes. Natchez Pilgrimage Tours is a great resource for mapping your adventures, offering nine museum homes to explore. Don’t skip Stanton Hall, a stunning 1850s historic mansion directly across the street from The Big Muddy Inn.

Another standout estate is Longwood. Roughly 10 minutes away from Stanton Hall, this is the largest octagonal home in America, but its construction was never completed. During your tour, you’ll see the only finished level of the home, as well as unfinished upper levels.

SB Tip: You can purchase discounted tickets for both home tours HERE.

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For more local history, visit the Natchez Museum of African American History & Culture. In addition to literary works from local author Richard Nathaniel Wright, the museum also hosts an exhibit spotlighting the infamous Rhythm Nightclub fire. Taking place in 1940, the fire is said to have killed more than 200 African American Natchez citizens.

For more African American history, the Forks of the Roads Monument and the Proud to Take a Stand Monument are worth a visit.

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When you’re ready for dinner, Natchez Brewing Company is a great option (and it’s within walking distance of The Big Muddy Inn!). Beyond its craft beer selection, the restaurant is known for its extensive pizza menu, which includes everything from classic Margherita to Hawaiian, BBQ chicken, and specialty pies.

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DAY TWO

Stop by The Little Easy for a hearty breakfast to kick-start your second day in Natchez. Located in a quaint building, the eatery is known for its “Boozy Brunch” dishes, including the Stump Jumper, Berry Good Ricotta Toast, and avocado toast.

SB Tip: The Little Easy is also within walking distance to the Mississippi River Overlook — ideally situated if you didn’t get a chance to visit on your first day of exploring.

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Next, make your way to Downtown Natchez to spend the afternoon perusing its local shops and boutiques. Popular stores for clothing and accessories include Silver Street Gallery & Gifts, A Gallerie, and Soirée Boutique.

Don’t leave downtown without popping into Darby’s for a box of their famous fudge! Mother’s Natchez is also a great spot for gifts, offering a variety of bath and body products, crafted by local artisans, along with a selection of home goods.

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Antique lovers will enjoy exploring the shelves at Franklin Street Relics, Lower Lodge Antiques, and Mrs. Holder’s Antiques.

After all that shopping, fuel up with a light bite or caffeinated pick-me-up at local favorites like Steampunk Coffee/Papi Y Papi and Natchez Coffee Company. Both are conveniently located downtown and can give you that extra energy you need to continue exploring attractions.

Start with Natchez in Historic Photographs, located in the Stratton Chapel Gallery behind the First Presbyterian Church. Here you will find 500 historic photographs — some dating back to 1860. It’s a fantastic place to get an up-close look at Natchez’s rich history.

Then head to The Grand Village of the Natchez Indians. The family-friendly 128-acre farm includes three prehistoric Native American mounds, a nature trail, and a “Touch Table” for children.

For dinner, make reservations at The Castle Restaurant & Pub inside the Historic Dunleith Inn. The dining room offers a more elevated experience, or you can visit the downstairs pub for a more laid-back vibe.

The pub offers its own menu as well as the same dishes served in the primary dining room. You’ll find everything from BBQ shrimp and grits to pecan-crusted redfish, a smash burger, and lamb chops.

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From its rich history to a vibrant local retail scene and delicious restaurants, Natchez, MS, epitomizes Southern hospitality.

This article is sponsored by Visit Natchez.