There are lots of ways to explore the Mississippi River in the Magnolia State. We’ve got everything from a Mississippi River museum to a riverfront park. However, not all Mississippi River-related activities require so much, well, activity. Not sure what we mean? You will after traveling the Lower Mississippi Historic Scenic Byway, a scenic route that parallels the Mighty Mississippi for miles, offering lots of great views along the way. And for those craving some activity, there are plenty of places to get out and stretch your legs.
Spanning just over 100 miles, the Lower Mississippi Historic Scenic Byway follows Highway 61 through five counties.
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The byway, which is bookmarked on either end by Warren and Wilkinson Counties, passes through Claiborne, Jefferson, and Adams Counties.
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Along the way, you’ll have plenty of chances to admire the state’s namesake river.
Dave Bowmaster/Google The byway runs alongside the Mississippi River for the entire 100+ miles and is dotted with overlooks.
There’s more to the route than rural landscapes and riverfront views, though. It’s got tons of history, too.
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Local, state, and national historic sites line the byway.
Dave Bowmaster/Google
The abundance of historic sites makes sense when you learn the byway passes through four of the oldest settlements on the Mississippi River: Natchez, Port Gibson, Vicksburg, and Woodville.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Each of the four historic towns has something to offer.
Wayne Hsieh/Flickr Some points of interest include the Vicksburg National Military Park as well as the Windsor Ruins and Grand Gulf Military Park – both in Port Gibson.
In Natchez, there are hundreds of historic buildings, but that’s not all.
InternationalSuz/Trip Advisor Named one of the best small towns in America, Natchez has a little bit of everything, and it’s all easily accessible since Natchez is among the most walkable towns in America.
While passing through Woodville, Clark Creek Nature Area is a must-visit.
Kimberly G/Trip Advisor The 700-acre park is highlighted by dozens of waterfalls.
Offering miles of historic sites, hidden gems, and river views, the Lower Mississippi Historic Scenic Byway just might be one of the best byways in Mississippi.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
So, what do you think? Are you ready to drive along the Lower Mississippi Historic Scenic Byway? Did you already know about this byway? Ever traversed it? If so, did you make any detours? We want to know!
formulanone/Flickr
google.com
Dave Bowmaster/Google
The byway runs alongside the Mississippi River for the entire 100+ miles and is dotted with overlooks.
Whatknot/Flickr
Dave Bowmaster/Google
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Wayne Hsieh/Flickr
Some points of interest include the Vicksburg National Military Park as well as the Windsor Ruins and Grand Gulf Military Park – both in Port Gibson.
InternationalSuz/Trip Advisor
Named one of the best small towns in America, Natchez has a little bit of everything, and it’s all easily accessible since Natchez is among the most walkable towns in America.
Kimberly G/Trip Advisor
The 700-acre park is highlighted by dozens of waterfalls.
This is one of the best scenic byways in Mississippi, but it’s not the only state byway that belongs on your bucket list. The Gulf Coast Scenic Byway is another since it’s one of the best byways in America. There’s also Grenada Lake Loop, which offers lakefront views as well as lots of recreational opportunities.
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