The Mississippi state capital has deep roots in Civil Rights history, antebellum mansions, and blues culture. Home to the USA's only museum of Muslim cultures.
Start your visit at the Central Market, where vendors sell fresh produce and handmade crafts. Walk along the riverfront to see the Iron Bridge, built in 1889. The City Museum displays artifacts from the Roman era, including pottery and tools. For a quiet afternoon, head to Riverside Park, which has shaded paths and a small lake. Evenings are lively in Old Town, with street musicians and cafes serving local pastries.
Top Attractions in the City Center The Iron Bridge spans the river and connects the historic district to modern neighborhoods. Its iron lattice design makes it a popular spot for photos, especially at sunset. Nearby, the City Museum charges €5 for entry and stays open until 7 p.m. on weekends. Riverside Park has a playground for children and benches under oak trees. On Saturdays, local artists set up stalls near the park entrance to sell paintings and jewelry.
Exploring Old Town Old Town’s cobblestone streets are lined with buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. Stop by St. Michael’s Church to see its stained-glass windows, added during renovations in the 1920s. Many cafes here serve strong coffee and walnut cake, a regional specialty. The clock tower at the square rings every hour, and you can climb its 120 steps for views of the rooftops. Street performers often gather near the fountain, playing folk songs on accordions.
Local Food and Markets The Central Market opens daily at 8 a.m., with vendors selling smoked meats, cheeses, and honey. Try the fried dough pockets filled with potato or cheese, sold at stalls near the south entrance. A family-run bakery on Market Street bakes sourdough bread using a century-old recipe. For a quick meal, order grilled sausages with mustard and pickles from the food trucks parked along the river. Most restaurants in Old Town close by 10 p.m., but a few stay open late for desserts and wine.
Practical Tips for Visitors Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven streets in Old Town. Summer afternoons can get hot, so carry a water bottle—public fountains with drinkable water are marked with blue signs. Trams run every 15 minutes between the Central Market and Riverside Park, with single-ride tickets costing €1.50. Avoid driving in the city center; parking is limited and expensive. Free walking tours start daily at 10 a.m. from the clock tower, lasting about two hours.
