Mississippi Vacation Rentals
Explore 171 rental homes and villas in Mississippi for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay with locations in Oxford, Gulfport and Bay St. Louis. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $72 per night with homes containing as many as 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
Types of vacation rentals in Mississippi
Where to stay in Mississippi
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Mississippi Overview
Mississippi, affectionately known as the "Magnolia State," offers an intimate glimpse into the soul of the American South, with its rich history, rhythmic blues, and mouthwatering cuisine. This destination is not just a place to visit, but a vibrant tapestry of experiences that resonate with the spirit of cultural authenticity and southern charm.
The state's musical legacy is a cornerstone of its allure, with the Mississippi Blues Trail inviting visitors to walk in the footsteps of musical giants like B.B. King and Muddy Waters. The Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale is more than a museum; it's a sanctuary for the rhythm and soul that gave birth to an entire genre. Here, the blues are not just heard; they're felt in the very air you breathe.
Mississippi's narrative is also etched in the annals of the Civil Rights Movement. The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson is a profound testament to the resilience and courage of those who fought for justice. The state's antebellum architecture, especially in the historic havens of Natchez and Vicksburg, stands as a testament to a bygone era, with majestic mansions and stories etched in every column and cornice.
Imagine waking up in your own private home, nestled in the heart of Mississippi, where you can sip your morning coffee on a sun-drenched porch overlooking a sparkling pool—a common feature in many of the state's home rentals. These private havens offer a serene escape, with the added joy of being pet-friendly, ensuring that your furry companions can join in on the adventure.
For those drawn to the call of the water, the Gulf Islands National Seashore is a jewel of the coast. Here, you can stroll along untouched beaches, feel the gentle Gulf breeze, and watch the sunset over the water, all just steps away from your private retreat. The allure of Mississippi's waterfront is undeniable, offering both tranquility and the simple pleasures of beach life.
The culinary landscape of Mississippi is a feast for the senses, with flavors that tell the story of its diverse heritage. Indulge in the smoky essence of barbecue, the crisp bite of fried catfish, and the fresh zest of Gulf Coast seafood. And for a sweet finale, treat yourself to the decadent delight of Mississippi mud pie or the spicy surprise of a homemade hot tamale.
Throughout the year, Mississippi's festivals, like the World Catfish Festival and the Mississippi State Fair, invite visitors to partake in the jubilant expressions of local culture and hospitality. These events are more than mere entertainment; they are a celebration of the state's vibrant community spirit.
Mississippi beckons travelers to immerse themselves in a place where every corner has a story, where the music stirs the soul, and where the flavors linger long after the last bite. It's a destination that promises not just memories, but a heartfelt connection to the land and its people.
Cultural Attractions in Mississippi
Mississippi, nestled in the heart of the Southern United States, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences that beckon the arts, history, and local customs aficionado. With its deep-rooted history and vibrant arts scene, Mississippi offers a unique blend of traditional Southern charm and rich cultural heritage.
Begin your cultural journey in the state capital, Jackson, where the Mississippi Museum of Art awaits. This museum is the largest in the state and showcases an impressive array of exhibits ranging from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary works, highlighting the state's artistic diversity. The museum's permanent collection features works by Mississippi artists, providing insight into the state's cultural landscape.
History enthusiasts will find the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum to be a profound experience. The museum offers an unflinching look at the struggle for civil rights in Mississippi and the broader United States, with immersive exhibits that tell the stories of those who fought for equality.
For a taste of local customs and the arts, the annual Mississippi Delta Blues and Heritage Festival in Greenville is a must-attend event. As the oldest blues festival in the state, it celebrates the rich musical heritage of the Mississippi Delta, known as the birthplace of the blues. Live performances by legendary and up-and-coming blues musicians create an electrifying atmosphere that is quintessentially Mississippi.
In Oxford, literature buffs can explore the world of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner at Rowan Oak, his historic home. The town also hosts the Oxford Film Festival, which showcases independent films and promotes the arts within the community.
The city of Biloxi, on the Gulf Coast, offers a blend of history and the arts with its Mardi Gras Museum, which delves into the history of the carnival in the city, and the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art, which celebrates the innovative spirit of Mississippi potter George E. Ohr. The museum's campus, designed by architect Frank Gehry, is a work of art in itself.
Mississippi's cultural offerings extend to its culinary scene, which is an integral part of its local customs. The state's food is a fusion of Native American, African, and European influences, resulting in a cuisine that is rich and diverse. From soul food to seafood, culinary explorations in Mississippi provide a delicious complement to its cultural attractions.
In Mississippi, every note of blues music, every artifact in a museum, and every historic site tells a story of the state's past and present. It's a place where culture is not just observed but felt, making it an ideal destination for those who seek to immerse themselves in the arts, history, and local customs.
Family friendly activities in Mississippi
Mississippi, United States, is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that will delight children and provide educational experiences in a fun and engaging way. From its rich history to its natural beauty, Mississippi offers a variety of attractions that cater to the curiosity and energy of young travelers.
Begin your adventure at the Mississippi Children's Museum in Jackson. This vibrant and interactive museum is designed to inspire and educate children through hands-on exhibits. Kids can explore the wonders of Mississippi's cultural heritage, dive into literacy adventures, and even climb through a giant brain to learn about the human body.
For those who love the great outdoors, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, also in Jackson, is a must-visit. The museum features an extensive collection of native animals in their habitats, an aquarium network housing over 200 species, and a delightful nature trail that winds through a 300-acre natural landscape.
Take a step back in time at the Vicksburg National Military Park, where history comes alive. Children can learn about the Civil War through living history demonstrations, explore the USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum, and even earn a Junior Ranger badge.
For a splash of fun, Gulf Islands Waterpark in Gulfport offers a cool respite from the Mississippi heat. With its slides, wave pool, and lazy river, it's a perfect spot for family entertainment. Nearby, the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center provides another interactive experience with indoor and outdoor exhibits that encourage children to touch, play, and learn.
Animal lovers will enjoy the Hattiesburg Zoo, where they can get up close with exotic animals, ride the carousel, and embark on a miniature train journey around the park. The zoo's interactive splash pad is also a hit during warmer months.
For a unique experience, visit the Infinity Science Center, affiliated with NASA's Stennis Space Center. Here, children can learn about space exploration, experience a simulated space mission, and even meet an astronaut.
Mississippi's rich musical heritage can be explored at the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, where even kids can appreciate the interactive exhibits and the stories behind the music that shaped America.
With its combination of educational museums, historical sites, natural parks, and fun-filled water attractions, Mississippi offers a diverse array of activities that will keep children entertained, engaged, and eager to learn more about the world around them.
Outdoor activities in Mississippi
Mississippi, a state rich in natural beauty and outdoor adventure, offers a wealth of experiences for those who love to immerse themselves in nature. From the rolling hills in the north to the coastal landscapes in the south, Mississippi's diverse ecosystems provide a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile scenic drive that traverses Mississippi from the northeast corner to the southwest, is a haven for cyclists, hikers, and history buffs. Along the route, travelers can explore trails, waterfalls, and historic sites. The Parkway also offers numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially in areas like the Cypress Swamp, where alligators and turtles can be spotted.
For water sports enthusiasts, the Mississippi River and the Gulf Coast present endless possibilities. Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are popular on the mighty Mississippi, while the Gulf Coast's warm waters are ideal for boating, sailing, and saltwater fishing. The Pascagoula River, one of the last unimpeded rivers in the contiguous United States, offers serene paddling experiences through lush wetlands.
Nature lovers will find solace in the state's numerous state parks, such as Tishomingo State Park, where the Appalachian Mountains begin. Here, visitors can hike through rocky outcrops and over swinging bridges, or go rock climbing and bouldering. The park's Bear Creek also provides opportunities for canoeing and fishing.
The Gulf Islands National Seashore is another gem, with pristine barrier islands that are only accessible by boat. These islands offer unspoiled beaches, dunes, and maritime forests, perfect for bird watching, hiking, and beachcombing. Visitors can also explore historic Fort Massachusetts on West Ship Island.
For a unique Mississippi experience, the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge protects one of the largest populations of the endangered sandhill crane. The refuge's wet pine savannas are a rare ecosystem, offering a chance to see these majestic birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Lastly, the De Soto National Forest provides a vast expanse of pine forests for camping, hiking, and mountain biking. The Black Creek Wilderness area within the forest is particularly known for its scenic beauty and the Black Creek, which is a designated Wild and Scenic River.
Mississippi's natural wonders and outdoor activities are as rich and varied as its cultural heritage. Whether you're paddling down a quiet river, hiking through ancient forests, or enjoying the coastal breeze, Mississippi offers an authentic connection with the great outdoors.
Weather in Mississippi
Mississippi, nestled in the southern United States, is characterized by a humid subtropical climate, which means you can expect hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. The state's weather patterns are influenced by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, which helps to moderate temperatures year-round.
During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures often soar into the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37°C), with high humidity levels that can make the heat feel more oppressive. This is also the time when Mississippi experiences the majority of its thunderstorms and rainfall, contributing to the lush green landscapes but also potentially impacting outdoor activities.
As autumn rolls in from September to November, the heat begins to subside, with temperatures ranging from the high 70s to the low 60s Fahrenheit (25-15°C). This season is appreciated for its cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it a more comfortable time for visitors to explore the state's rich cultural heritage and outdoor attractions.
Winter, from December to February, is generally mild compared to northern states, with daytime highs averaging in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10-20°C), though nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing. Snow is rare, but not unheard of, particularly in the northern parts of the state. This season is quieter in terms of tourism, offering a peaceful experience of Mississippi's charm.
Spring, from March to May, is a delightful time to visit, as the state bursts into bloom with azaleas, dogwoods, and other flowering plants. Temperatures are pleasant, typically ranging from the 60s to the 80s Fahrenheit (15-27°C), and the humidity is not as intense as in the summer. This is also the time when Mississippi's festivals begin to kick off, offering a glimpse into the state's vibrant culture and traditions.
The most popular weather conditions are prevalent in the spring and fall when the climate is especially pleasant. These seasons strike a perfect balance, offering warm days and cool evenings, ideal for enjoying Mississippi's outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and visiting historical sites. Whether you're looking to soak in the state's musical heritage, savor its culinary delights, or simply relax in its natural beauty, these are the times of year when the weather is most likely to cooperate with your plans.
Transportation in Mississippi
Mississippi, with its rich cultural heritage and warm Southern hospitality, offers a variety of transportation options for visitors looking to explore the Magnolia State.
Travelers typically arrive in Mississippi by air, with the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport in Jackson serving as the state's primary airport. It provides connections to major cities across the United States. Other regional airports, such as Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport and Tupelo Regional Airport, offer additional gateways to different parts of the state.
For those who enjoy road trips, Mississippi is well-connected by interstates and highways. Interstate 55 runs north-south from Memphis to New Orleans, while Interstate 20 cuts across the state from east to west. Driving allows visitors to take in the scenic beauty at their own pace, with the famous Natchez Trace Parkway being a particularly picturesque route.
Within cities like Jackson, Biloxi, and Gulfport, public transportation options include buses operated by local transit authorities. However, the frequency and coverage may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas, so it's advisable to check schedules in advance.
Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in urban areas and can be convenient for short trips. For those looking to explore the Gulf Coast, the Coast Transit Authority offers a trolley service that connects major attractions and hotels, providing a charming way to see the sights.
Mississippi is also served by Amtrak with the City of New Orleans line, which runs between New Orleans and Chicago, stopping at small towns and cities like Greenwood and Brookhaven, offering a unique and leisurely way to travel.
While some historic districts and downtown areas, such as those in Natchez and Ocean Springs, are walkable and offer a delightful array of shops, restaurants, and galleries, overall, Mississippi is not known for being a walkable destination. To fully experience the state's diverse attractions, from the Delta blues museums to the Gulf Coast beaches, having access to a car is highly recommended.
In summary, while Mississippi has a range of transportation options, the best way to experience its charm is with the flexibility of a car, allowing visitors to explore the state's hidden gems and scenic byways at their leisure.