Know All About Jackson, Mississippi

The capital of Mississippi, Jackson is one of the America’s most musically, culturally, historically and recreationally rich destinations. It is one of the fascinating cities of USA steeped in Americana music, history, food and Southern culture. With plenty of attractions, unique lifestyle and musical atmosphere, Jackson is sure to please and amuse just about anyone So, plan your trip to Jackson, lose yourself in the mesmerizing charm and the beauty of the city, and get ready to create some wonderful memories that you will cherish forever. 

In 1821, Jackson was founded and was situated at the site of a trading post on the western banks of the Pearl River. The trading post was managed by a French-Canadian trader- Louis LeFleur, and the town was referred as the “LeFleur’s Bluff”. In the same was year, Jackson was authorized to be the permanent seat of the Mississippi government and was named Jackson, in honor of General Andrew Jackson, who was the 7th U.S. President. In April, 1822, the Jackson city was originally planned. The Constitution of 1831 was adopted that confirmed that Jackson would serve as a permanent capital of the U.S. state of Mississippi. In 1840, the city was connected to several other cities by railroad. While the city flourished in the following decades, it also was affected greatly by the American Civil War. During the Civil War, the town was burned thrice by the Union troops.  The town served as a manufacturing strategic center for the Confederate States of America.  The city became popular for the “Freedom Riders” during the Civil War. Several buildings were laid out that played a key role in the history of Mississippi, like the Governor Mansion in 1842, Old Capitol building, Jackson’s City Hall in 1846, and many more. In the twentieth century, the city started to develop.  

Today, the city is home to several beautiful attractions that reflects its rich and historic past.  It is a city with diverse culture, friendly citizens and high spirit and energy, thus making it one of the most livable cities in America. 

Architecture buffs, history lovers and art aficionados will find plenty to get their fix. 

Mississippi Museum of Art: Admire the art at the Mississippi Museum of Art. It features a beautiful collection of modern and contemporary art that represents the Mississippi’s artistic past. Works by Mississippi natives like Walter Anderson, Birney Imes and William Dunlap is on display.  Some of the world’s renowned artist’s work is also on display at this museum. The stunning architecture and wonderful permanent collection of American art, including sculpture, paintings, prints, works on paper and photography makes it a great place for art lovers!

Mississippi Old Capitol Museum: Originally known as the State House, the Old Capitol Museum was in use from 1839 to 1903 as a state capitol, from 1917 to 1959 as a state office building, and 1961 to the present day as a state historical museum. Today, the restored building has a museum that features the history and events that shaped the state. It houses a vast collection of Native American period artifacts from the colonial era to the present day that reflect the diversity of Mississippi. 

Mississippi State Capitol: Take a tour of the Mississippi State Capitol that is filled with rich materials, a replica of the original Liberty Bell and a statue built in memory of the Confederate soldiers. Marvel at the Beaux-Art style architecture and get an up-close look inside the State Library, Hall of Governors, Governor’s office, and chambers of House of Representatives and the Senate.  

Mississippi Governor’s Mansion: Constructed in 1839 in Greek revival structure, this stately mansion is one of the historic antebellum houses in the south. It reflects the historic past of the city. The mansion is adorned with sumptuous Greek Revival-style elements. Browse this elegant mansion, and observe its magnificent details, architecture and artifacts that tell the story of its past governors-residents. 

Mississippi Children's Museum: The Mississippi Children’s Museum features interactive, hands-on exhibit on arts, science, history and health. Kids and child wannabe’s rejoice at this museum!

Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum: The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum highlights the story of the sports legends of Mississippi through exhibits and memorabilia. Interactive kiosks are available at the museum. Visitors can browse the sports exhibits, and check out the sports footage, interviews and other sports-related memorabilia. The interactive exhibits housed in the museum lets you kick a soccer ball, play a round of golf, or hit a baseball. 

Mississippi Museum of Natural Science: Located in the historic LeFleur’s Bluff state park, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science features the natural heritage of Mississippi. It has indoor and outdoor exhibits, 2.5 miles of nature trails, beautiful landscapes and an al-fresco amphitheatre. Exhibits include a life-size display of the diverse habitats of Mississippi, a greenhouse, a touch tank and an aquarium with more than 200 living species. 

Jackson Zoo: Come and get up-close with more than 125 species of animals, birds and reptiles at the Jackson Zoo.  See a African Elephant, Malayan Tapir, Sumatran Tiger, Orangutan, Spider Monkey and more exotic animals. Explore the Jackson Zoo on the train ride.

Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center: Know about the contribution made by the African Americans Mississippians at the Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center. It features the art, photography, lifestyle and artifacts of the African Americans of Mississippi. 

International Museum of Muslim Cultures: The International Museum of Muslin Cultures is United States first and only cultural and history museum. The museum features the Islamic culture and history, and also highlights the contribution of the Muslims to the U.S. state of Mississippi, Jackson and the country. 

Russell C. Davis Planetarium: Located in downtown Jackson, the Russell C. Davis Planetarium is a stunning hemisphere theatre where visitors can experience the outer world- Universe. It features laser shows, astronaut photos, exhilarating large-format films, space and sky scenes, and several events. 

Mynelle Gardens Arboretum & Botanical Center:  Stroll through the winding pathways and soak up the beautiful nature at the Mynelle Gardens Arboretum & Botanical Center.  It has cascading pools and 7-acres collage of several botanical gardens.

Eudora Welty House: The Eudora Welty House  features the story of the very well-known novelist Eudora Welty. The house features original furniture, plenty of books, art and personal items. Browse the artifacts and memorabilia that depict the life of this popular author.

 

Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum: The Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum features the agricultural past and present of the state and how it molded the heritage and the history of the state. 

Jackson offers multitude of cultural opportunities in theater, art and music. The city is home to some of the great gospel, jazz and blues artists. It is a thriving city with art and culture all around.  The city has several cultures living together peacefully. Residents of this charming city are known for their Southern hospitality and charm.  The city’s population is a mix of Whites, black, Asian, Indians, Americans, Native Hawaiian, Hispanic, Pacific Islander and several other races. 

UTC-GMT Offset: Jackson is GMT/UTC-6hours during Standard Time; and GMT/UTC-5 hours during Daylight Saving Time

Daylight Saving Time Usage: Jackson uses Daylight Saving Time

Time Zone Abbrev.: CST is abbreviated for Central Standard Time and CDT is abbreviated for Central Daylight Time

Jackson Area Code: 601 and 769

The best time to visit Jackson is spring and fall, when the nature is in full bloom and the heat is mild. Rain showers occur all year-round, irrespective of the time of the year. The city is spoilt for choices with plenty of events and festivals held throughout the year. 

When Modern Was Contemporary: Selections from the Roy R. Neuberger Collection(April to October)

Mississippi Farmers Market (April to December)

International Ballet Competition  (July)

Jackson Rhythm and Blues Festival  (August)

CelticFest Mississippi (September)

Mississippi State Fair (October)

Crossroads Film Festival  (April)