photo by Vicksburg Convention and Visitors Bureau
Long known for its Mississippi River views and historic Southern homes, Vicksburg, Ms., has made a name for itself as a favorite spot for those who want to enjoy some outdoor fun. Trails through a one-of-a-kind landscape and fishing on the most legendary river in the country are only the beginning of the ways to get outside and enjoy this historic river city. Vicksburg is located on the banks of the Mississippi River and sits just 45 miles west of Jackson and 75 miles north of Natchez at the intersection of Interstate 20 and the famed U.S.
Highway 61, known as the Blues Highway.
For both outdoor enthusiasts and those who just want to soak up some Southern sun, Vicksburg has options to please. A walking tour of the city is a great way to start. The
Vicksburg Heritage Walking Trails offer five different themed routes featuring 35 markers throughout the downtown and historic districts. The routes range from 1.5 to three miles and bring vital pieces of Vicksburg history to life.
For
cyclists, the trail doesn’t stop at the city limits. The
Mississippi River Trail, which follows the entire path of the mighty river, runs through Vicksburg’s downtown district. This is also home to the
Vicksburg National Military Park (3201 Clay Street, Vicksburg, Ms. 39183), where the Battlefield Tour Road takes cyclists along an 18-mile loop with amazing views. Bring your own bike, or rent one from local mobile bicycle rental company,
Battlefield Bicycle (908 Cherry Street, Vicksburg, Ms. 39183).
Birders know Vicksburg as a spot on the National Audubon Society’s Great River Birding Trail. Vast numbers of both native and migratory bird species can be found here and many birders come to add sightings to their life list. Vicksburg’s
Nature Guide is a wonderful resource to locate wildlife viewing areas as well as other nature tourism opportunities in and around the city. It lists opportunities for activities from horseback riding to hunting, as well.
Of course, on-the-water activities are popular on this river city, too. Guided fishing trips and canoe adventures on the Mississippi offer fun ways to get on the water.
Blue Cat Guide Service takes anglers on the adventure of a lifetime in search of a trophy catfish catch. And paddlers will enjoy a guided trip from the
Quapaw Canoe Company outpost. Both operate on the Vicksburg riverfront and offer exciting ways to add a Mississippi River experience to any Vicksburg visit. There are also nearby public boat ramps for those who choose to bring their own boat.
For those who prefer the links, golf is a year-round sport here at two outstanding courses.
Clear Creek Golf Course (1566 Tiffentown Road, Vicksburg, Ms. 39183) is a popular public 18-hole, par 72 course and the landmark
Vicksburg Country Club (127 Country Club Drive, Vicksburg, Ms. 39180) is private, but has reciprocal arrangements with other clubs in the region, allowing for guest play.
Vicksburg’s lodging options are as varied as its outdoor experiences. There are plenty of
campgrounds from which to choose and if a
cabin in the woods is in order, Vicksburg has those, too. Add to those, some unique
bed and breakfasts, four
casino hotels and a full slate of national
hotel properties, and you’ll find there is a spot for all visitors to lay their heads.
If you go:
Dining and nightlife add to the fun of any Vicksburg adventure. The downtown entertainment district is the perfect spot to take in the riverfront views, friendly atmosphere and the excellent cuisine that Vicksburg has to offer. Local favorite dining and entertainment spots include: