Natchez Mississippi
Poppies in bloom along the Mississippi River, a springtime favorite sight in the city
Brandon Hall, a historic estate turned bed and breakfast
Couple taking in the view from the Bridge of Sighs on the city’s riverfront
An intimate performance at Smoot's Grocery, a live music venue and lounge
The sun setting over the Mississippi River from Bluff Park
A tranquil balcony view from the River Edge Suites in the historic “Under-the-Hill” district
Posing for a photo in front of Stanton Hall, one of the city's museum homes
The ornate interior of St. Mary Basilica, a historic church
A technicolor sunset over the Mississippi River
The African American Museum of History and Culture, home to exhibits highlighting local African American historic sites, important citizens and events
- Major Airports:
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans (MSY)
- Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers (JAN)
- States:
- Mississippi
History, music and Southern hospitality on the Mississippi River
Preserving the Past
Settled by French colonists in 1716, Natchez boasts a colorful history full of unique cultural influences. At the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians, tour the museum, a replica traditional home and three preserved earthen mounds to learn of the area’s original inhabitants, the Natchez Indians. There are numerous 19th-century structures that are must-sees for any visitor including the William Johnson House, a brick home owned by a free man of color in the pre-Civil War South, and the 1845 Melrose Estate, both of which are National Park sites. No visit to Natchez is complete without seeing Longwood, the largest octagonal home in the USA and one of the city’s most popular attractions.
Bring on the Music
Natchez is located within the epicenter of the Americana Music Triangle, the driving trail that leads visitors through a collection of historical, musical and cultural attractions that helped bring rise to nine distinct musical genres. Not surprisingly, Natchez’s live music scene is top-notch. Local favorites include Smoot’s Grocery, a juke joint serving up cold beer and blues music; Biscuits & Blues, known for its Southern comfort food and evening musical acts; and the Under-the-Hill Saloon, beloved for its welcoming locals, great music and fantastic views of the Mississippi River. Find this lively bar in the Under-the-Hill district, a historic river port once known for attracting the rowdiest river travelers. Today, it’s an ideal spot to watch the sunset over the Mississippi River.
Only in Natchez
Looking for more off-the-beaten-path experiences in Natchez? Once named the Most Interesting Cemetery in the South, the Natchez City Cemetery is best toured with a guide to appreciate all the unusual details and unique stories. Visit the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture to learn lesser-known historical details about the city including the infamous 1940 Rhythm Nightclub fire; the history of Forks of the Road, the second-largest slave market in the South; and all about acclaimed author Richard Wright, a Natchez native. For an unexpected lodging experience, reserve a room at Concord Quarters. An original 1820s slave quarters, this historic home offers cozy accommodations, homemade breakfasts and hidden history shared by knowledgeable locals.
Fun Fact
Known as the "Biscuit Capital of the World," Natchez has several restaurants famous for biscuits and even has biscuit cooking classes available.
Photo: Visit Natchez
Natchez is home to #1 New York Times bestselling author Greg Iles. He has written several books set in Natchez, including "Turning Angel" and the "Natchez Burning" trilogy.
Photo: Visit Natchez
In 1870, local Natchez pastor Hiram Revels was elected to the United States Senate, marking the first time that an African American served in the U.S. Congress.
Photo: Historic Natchez Foundation