Through the centuries travelers have come to Mississippi for many reasons. Some like Hernando de Soto came in search of riches. Others such a Ulysses S. Grant, marched through on their way to glory and fame. Today visitors still find that a trip to Mississippi yields great rewards. From the antebellum mansions of Natchez to the bustling excitement of metropolitan Jackson. From the sultry sea breezes and sun-drenched beaches of the Coast to the bright lights and fast-paced action of Tunica. It all adds up to one great experience. With its unique blend of cities and countrysides, history and contemporary appeal, porch swings and riverboat gaming, Mississippi has something for everyone. Combined with the legendary hospitality of the state, visits here are sure to be memorable. The following areas are just a short drive from Madison County and are a perfect getaway for a weekend or a week-long vacation!

The Capital-River Region

The Natchez Trace Parkway, one of our most treasured scenic routes, meanders through the heart of the Capital/River region. Along its historic path are Canton, with its giant Canton Flea Market, Jackson, the capital city and state cultural center, Port Gibson, a town with an unusual sight adorning the steeple of one of its many churches, and Natchez - the oldest permanent settlement on the Mississippi River. History, heritage and culture abound in this region's magnificent antebellum architecture, Indian ceremonial mounds, and Civil War monuments, parks and battlefields. Lincoln called Vicksburg the "key" to winning the war, and Edwards is the site where the Battle of Champion's Hill became the turning point in a conflict that ripped apart a nation. Near Woodville is Rosemont, the boyhood home of Jefferson Davis. Fans of Jerry Clower will enjoy his museum, at Liberty. McComb offers the Percy Quin State Park, and Brookhaven features a wonderful tour of homes and gardens. At Monticello, enjoy music festivals at the Atwood Water Park. Look for non-stop casino action and world-class entertainment along the Mississippi River.

The Pines Region

Picturesque farming communities surrounded by pine and hardwood forest, are just part of The Pines region. Here, championship golf courses - of award winning designs, are scattered across the landscape and offer the ultimate in the "green" experience. Not only are there ample opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, but visitors will be amazed by all there is to see and do. At Brooksville, visit the Ole South Bakery, for a culinary treat. In Amory discover the Railroad Museum, and attend their famous railroad festival. Aberdeen is offers, among other things, pre-Civil War homes, as does Columbus. Kosciusko, resting along the Natchez Trace Parkway, is where you'll find a festival that commemorates this historic 8,000 year-old trail. Near Philadelphia visit the reservation of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, and the Pearl River Resort with two casinos and two championship golf courses. Nearby is the Nanih Waiya Historic Site, said to be the birthplace of the Choctaw tribe. Farther south is Meridian, where the life of Jimmie Rodgers, "Father of Country Music" is celebrated with numerous festivals and events.

The Coastal Region

Along the southern most reaches of Mississippi lies the Gulf Coast, where the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico, unique attractions, and bright lights of the new South's gaming mecca, provide one of the world's top tourist destinations. Kick off your shoes and walk along the beach past beautiful sea-front homes, antique shops, and art studios. Stroll the picturesque streets of Ocean Springs, Pass Christian, and Long Beach, or spin the roulette wheel, play the slots and hit the card tables in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport and Biloxi. Ferry out to Ship Island for the day, and tour a historic fort built before the Civil War. Just for the fun of it, check out the many festivals, historic reenactments, and music events going on year-round. Sub-tropical breezes, sandy beaches and some of the world's most beautiful sunsets are only part of the allure of this well known "Playground of the South". To the north, the Highway 49 corridor takes you through small communities and fragrant pine forests, with trees that seem to touch the clouds. Here, like the hub of a large wheel, with interstates and highways intersecting to form giant spokes, rests Hattiesburg, one of the state's largest cities and educational centers. Visitors will enjoy a walk through the All American Rose Garden, on the campus of the University of Southern Mississippi, and attending Hub Fest, one of many popular events.

The City of Jackson

Just minutes from Madison County, the state capitol of Jackson offers residents all of the amenities of a major metropolitan area. There’s no better way to sample the South than Jackson, Mississippi. A blend of the old and the new, Jackson offers glimpses of the past while looking ahead to the future. From fabulous history, art and science museums to world-class exhibits and performances, Jackson is a secret full of surprises! Mississippi’s Capital City is conveniently located at the crossroads of Interstate 55 (north-south) and Interstate 20 (east-west) in the heart of our “ Hospitality State.” As the center for the Metro Jackson area, home to more than 425,000 people, the city of Jackson is steeped in history, music, performing arts, sports, and our truly Southern way of life. Although less than 8,000 people lived in the Jackson area at the turn of the century, its population began accelerating rapidly after 1900, and it is now one of the dynamic growth areas of the Sunbelt. In 1990, the population of the Metropolitan area rose to 395,396. It is a major distribution center with a prime location equal distance between Memphis and New Orleans, north-south, and between Dallas and Atlanta, east-west. As a major distribution center, efficient transportation facilities are a must. Eight major air carriers -- American Eagle, ASA, Comair, Continental Express, Delta, Northwest Airlink, US Airways Express, and Southwest Airlines provide service in the Jackson International Airport and Hawkins Field. The Illinois Central Gulf Railroad and scores of major truck lines provide freight service to all parts of the nation. Jackson boasts two regional shopping malls and numerous multi-store centers. One is so uniquely designed that it is also a favorite tourist attraction. Eleven hospitals, including the nationally renowned University of Mississippi Medical Center, provide diagnosis and treatment for nearly every possible physical and emotional ailment. Jackson is on the forefront of technology, particularly in the telecommunications field. The Southeast's most advanced, state-of-the-art conference center is underway in downtown Jackson, Mississippi. Offering video conferencing, wireless data services, and more, this 74,000 square-foot center will change the way you do business forever when it opens in the fall of 2004. Every major church denomination is represented in the city and there are more than 400 houses of worship scattered throughout the 105 square miles of community. An excellent public school system is an integral part of the area, and seven colleges and junior colleges are located within 15 miles of Jackson's center. Residents are extremely proud of their Southern hospitality and "quality of life." Community support is strong for a symphony orchestra, an opera company, two professional theater groups, and the Jackson Senators baseball club.