I’ve taken two trips to Mississippi in the last couple of weeks to visit family. The first time, we did the 10-hour drive from my parents’ house in North Carolina to Jackson and the second time I flew from LA. My family lived in Jackson when I was a toddler and we have taken many trips there over the years. This is my list of top things to do, see and eat!

Kiefer’s: This is my top recommendation for spot to eat in Jackson. It’s a Mediterranean restaurant that we’ve gone to on every Jackson trip that I can remember. The pitas are out of this world. I highly recommend the gyros and the falafel, and be sure to grab a stack of pitas to go!

Natchez Trace Parkway: This is a beautiful and scenic drive with lots of easy places to pull over and see the historic areas. There is also a nice biking/walking path if you need to get out and exercise.

Scrooge’s: For incredibly delicious southern fare, you have to check out Scrooge’s. Go through the door on the left to get to the bar area vs. eating in the restaurant, they still have tables but the vibe and decor are more fun.

Mississippi Museum of Art: If you have enough time, be sure to check out the Mississippi Museum of Art. They have great exhibits that rotate so there are great things to see each time you come back. One of the best things about this attraction is that it’s free!

Brent’s Drugs: this is a fun and easy movie location to visit on your trip. This burgers and milkshakes spot is featured in the movie The Help.

Eat Caramel Desserts. Caramel is just better in Jackson. If you see caramel pie or caramel cake or caramel anything on the menu, order it! One of my favorites is at Primos cafe. They also sell them to go (frozen) so that you can take it with you.

Other things to know about Jackson…

Yes, it’s true, there are potholes everywhere. I read about this in another blog post before the trip and thought it was such an odd thing to bring up but as soon as I got there I couldn’t help but notice it.

NOLA is only a short drive away! It takes about 2 hours to get to New Orleans from Jackson, so if you are taking a trip to the south, be sure to plan extra time to see the big easy.

Everyone is so nice, welcome to the south!

Movies set in Mississippi to watch before you go!

Anyone else been to Jackson recently? Any favorite spots?