img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:66.666666666667%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}You would never guess which unsuspecting state rounds out the top 5 most visited destinations in America.
Though what may be even more shocking is the fact that Texas, New York, and Florida didn’t make the cut…
Speaking of Florida, last summer we at Travel Off Path revealed the Sunshine State’s biggest rival, and in case you missed it, it’s likely not where you envision.
No, it’s not South Carolina, Georgia, or even Alabama with Gulf Shores’ new thriving airport — it’s none other than perhaps America’s most misunderstood state, constantly fighting off its “redneck” reputation and in fact, offering an array of diverse experiences ranging from riverside hideaways, historic storybook towns, and a sprawling white-sand coastline that’s beginning to attract a crowd.
Mississippi Is One Of America’s Most Visited Destinations — Yes, Really!
That’s right — the one state I have trouble spelling and have to sing the song (you know which one) to type it out is not only the South’s trendiest state, but one of America’s most visited.
Who woulda thunk it?!
When you think of Mississippi, what comes to mind?
If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting, chances are you’re getting it all wrong, picturing run-down trailer parks, beat-up trucks proudly flying Rebel flags, and lots of missing teeth.
As a born-and-raised Texan, I can tell you it’s not hard to find all those unsightly things in my former home state, but that wouldn’t deter you from visiting San Antonio, Austin, and Houston, would it?
Well, the same can be said for Mississippi when you have captivating cities like Jackson, rich in history and vibrant architecture, and hidden gems with riverside casinos like Vicksburg, or any of the delightful beach towns dotting the South’s most underrated shores, including an island escape we’ve been hyping up for quite some time — Ship Island.
Though you’ll have to wait ’til spring when it opens back up for tourism…
The point being is there is far more than meets the eye in the “Magnolia State”. For example, right now is one of the best times to hit the beach in Mississippi’s most popular beach town, as Biloxi is far less crowded in the fall and still feels like summer.
This state’s main draw nowadays may be its spotless coastline with up-and-coming towns with new resorts, and of course, the highly anticipated new Amtrak Mardi Gras route; there are dozens of delightful getaways oozing small-town charm you’ve been missing out on.
Discover Mississippi’s Overlooked Gems
Who watched The Kings of Tupelo: A Southern Crime Saga on Netflix?
If you didn’t, don’t worry — I won’t give any spoilers except to say you can skip Tupelo.
What a weird little town! As for aforementioned Vicksburg, as well as Port Gibson, Meridian, Natchez, and Hattiesburg, these are all worthy of adding to your travel wishlist titled: Places I Will Fall In Love With That I Didn’t Know I Needed To Visit.
Let’s start with some European vibes, shall we?
Port Gibson exudes European charm with storybook streets and well-preserved ruins off the beaten path for most travelers — it’s a textbook “hidden gem”.
As for surging Mississippi getaways you likely wouldn’t expect, Natchez and Hattiesburg fit the bill — both perfect for nature enthusiasts away from the coast.
And you can’t skip the world-famous Mississippi River, and the perfect spot for riverside thrills is Vicksburg.
That leaves Meridian, perhaps Mississippi’s most overlooked city. You know Jackson and Memphis in terms of legendary music scenes, but don’t sleep on Meridian for live music and other surprising delights such as cozy bed and breakfasts and scenic lakes.
We’ve covered all these towns, falling in love with them instantly. It goes to show how diverse Mississippi truly is.
The #1 Draw To Mississippi: Gleaming White-Sand Beaches
If the Mississippi Coast holds any household recognition, it’s Gulfport and Biloxi. But just as if you were to visit inland Mississippi by flying into Jackson, there’s far more to experience than what’s right in front of you.
For example, even though Biloxi is always a good time any time of year, there’s another pair of up-and-coming beach towns nearby riding the hype train — literally.
Pascagoula is not only Jimmy Buffett’s hometown that somehow doesn’t have a Margaritaville hotel, but it’s also all the rage now that Amtrak makes a stop here along the thriving Mardi Gras route.
But even more notable is Pass Christian, a virtually unknown beach town to most, but it’s popping up more and more on listicles and guides as the town welcomed the luxe Pass Bungalows, receiving rave reviews.
No matter where you go along the coast, Mississippi tends to offer fewer crowds, phenomenal, fresh seafood, and none of the beach towns will break the bank, whether you’ve heard of them before or not.
Sam SearsSam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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