It’s no secret that we love exploring small Southern towns here at StyleBlueprint. We recently spent a weekend diving deep into the unique culture and history found throughout Natchez, MS. From breathtaking historic homes to unforgettable meals and a vibrant downtown scene, here’s how to spend a weekend in this picturesque city!
SB Tip: If you need help planning your Natchez trip, visit the newly opened 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. PinBeautifully decorated homes abound in Natchez, MS. Image: Brianna Goebel
DAY ONE
Tracy and Amy Alderson-Allen, the owners of The Big Muddy Inn & Blues Room, were gracious enough to open their doors to us for a few days. The 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. You can view the lineup HERE.
PinAs the name suggests, The Big Muddy Inn & Blues Room’s ‘Muddy Waters Suite’ was inspired by the famous musician. Image: Brianna Goebel
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. Plus, the Blues Room, located right in the living room, is known to sometimes host live music — including performances by owner Tracy!
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.
PinThe Gringo Pie from Fat Mama’s Tamales features three tamales topped with chili, shredded cheese, onions, and jalapeños. (Pro tip: Don’t skip the street corn!) Image: Brianna Goebel
After lunch, spend the afternoon discovering some of the area’s historic homes. Natchez Pilgrimage Tours is a great resource for mapping your adventures, offering nine museum homes to explore. One such home is Stanton Hall, a stunning 1850s historic mansion directly across from The Big Muddy Inn.
PinStanton Hall is a stately Greek Revival mansion said to have been built between 1851 and 1857. Image: Brianna Goebel
Another standout estate is Longwood, a roughly 10-minute drive from Stanton Hall. Not only is this the largest octagonal home in America, but its construction was never finished. During your tour, you’ll see the only completed level of the home, as well as the upper levels that remain unfinished.
SB Tip: You can purchase tickets for both home tours HERE for a discounted price.PinThe Civil War halted the construction of Longwood, which you’ll see firsthand during your tour of the home. Image: Brianna Goebel
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 about the infamous Rhythm Nightclub fire. Taking place in 1940, the fire is said to have killed over 200 African American Natchez citizens.
Additional African American history sites worth visiting include the Forks of the Roads Monument and the Proud to Take a Stand Monument.
When you’re ready for dinner, Natchez Brewing Company is a great option. 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.
PinJack of the Wood from Natchez Brewing Company is topped with pesto sauce, fontina, red peppers, mushrooms, black olives, and balsamic reduction. Image: Brianna GoebelPinAfter dinner, walk across the street to the Mississippi River Overlook for an evening stroll. As you look across the water, you’ll see all the way to Louisiana! Image: Brianna Goebel
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.PinThe Stump Jumper from The Little Easy is an open-faced biscuit topped with fried chicken, spicy honey, gravy, cheddar, and pork belly collards. Image: Brianna Goebel
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, My Shoe Kloset, and Soirée Boutique.
Be sure to also stop into Darby’s and grab a box of the famous fudge! Mother’s Natchez is also a great spot for gifts, offering a variety of bath and body products crafted by local artisans, as well as home goods.
Meanwhile, antique lovers will enjoy exploring the shelves at Franklin Street Relics, Consignment & More at Jacob’s, Lower Lodge Antiques, and Mrs. Holder’s Antiques.
PinYou can find fresh-cut flowers and unique homewares at Moreton’s Flowerland in Downtown Natchez. Image: Brianna GoebelPinMother’s Natchez offers everything from candles to skincare products, tea, and herbal supplements. Image: Brianna Goebel
When you’re ready for a light bite or caffeinated pick-me-up, local favorites like Steampunk Coffee/Papi Y Papi and Natchez Coffee Company are both conveniently located Downtown.
We also recommend stopping by Natchez in Historic Photographs. Located in the Stratton Chapel Gallery behind the First Presbyterian Church, the building houses 500 historic photographs — some of which date back to 1860. It’s a fantastic place to get an up-close look at Natchez’s rich history.
The Grand Village of the Natchez Indians is another popular attraction. The 128-acre farm includes three prehistoric Native American mounds, a nature trail, and a “Touch Table” for children.
PinPerfect for your last night in town, you’ll feel like royalty walking into The Castle Restaurant & Pub. Image: Brianna Goebel
For dinner, make reservations at The Castle Restaurant & Pub inside the Historic Dunleith Inn. The dining room is an excellent option for 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.
PinThe pecan-crusted redfish is served alongside asparagus and a delicious andouille-BBQ potato hash. Image: Brianna GoebelFrom its rich history to a vibrant local retail scene and delicious restaurants, Natchez, MS, epitomizes Southern hospitality.This article is sponsored by Visit Natchez.
Brianna is StyleBlueprint’s Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. She is an avid fan of iced coffee and spends her free time reading romance novels.
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