Natchez, Mississippi, is a hidden gem in the southern United States, offering a plethora of unique experiences for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. While the city is known for its rich history and stunning antebellum architecture, there are also plenty of unusual things to do in Natchez Mississippi that will make your visit truly memorable. From exploring mysterious ghost tours to indulging in decadent southern cuisine at quirky local eateries, Natchez has something for everyone looking to step outside the ordinary tourist attractions. So, if you’re ready to uncover the unconventional side of Natchez, read on to discover the top offbeat activities that this charming city has to offer.
Visit the historic Longwood mansion
Essential Information
– Address: 140 Lower Woodville Rd, Natchez, MS 39120
– Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
– Fee: $15 for adults, $8 for children
– Visit duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts and architecture lovers
Why is it so unusual
The historic Longwood mansion in Natchez, Mississippi, stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its unique architectural design and intriguing history. Unlike traditional antebellum homes in the area, Longwood Mansion remains unfinished, frozen in time with only the first floor completed. Visitors are captivated by the striking octagonal shape of the mansion, a rare sight in the Southern architectural landscape.
Exploring Longwood offers a glimpse into the grandeur that could have been, with its elaborate Islamic-style onion dome crowning the structure. The interior showcases the contrast between the unfinished upper floors and the meticulously decorated completed rooms on the ground level. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of the Persian-style carpets, ornate plasterwork, and hand-painted ceilings that hint at the opulence intended for the entire mansion.
One of the most unusual activities at Longwood is imagining the bustling life that could have filled its halls, had the Civil War not intervened. The mansion’s history is a poignant reminder of the impact of historical events on grand aspirations. Walking through the unfinished upper levels, visitors can’t help but ponder the what-ifs and contemplate the stories left untold within Longwood’s walls.
For travelers seeking a unique experience that combines history, architecture, and a touch of mystery, a visit to the historic Longwood mansion is a must. Uncover the secrets of this unfinished masterpiece and immerse yourself in a different era, where dreams of grandeur met an unexpected halt, leaving behind a captivating legacy for curious explorers to discover.
Explore the eerie Natchez City Cemetery
Essential Information
– Address: 2 Cemetery Rd, Natchez, Mississippi
– Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
– Fee: Free admission
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, paranormal enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Natchez City Cemetery in Mississippi may seem like a typical burial ground at first glance, but a closer look reveals its eerie and unusual attractions. One of the most intriguing aspects of this cemetery is the presence of the Turning Angel statue, a hauntingly beautiful monument that has sparked numerous ghost stories and legends among visitors.
Visitors to the Natchez City Cemetery can also explore the graves of prominent historical figures, including soldiers from the Civil War and yellow fever victims. The cemetery’s unique architecture and tombstone designs offer a glimpse into the past, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
For those interested in the paranormal, the Natchez City Cemetery is rumored to be haunted by restless spirits. Many visitors have reported strange occurrences and unexplained phenomena while wandering among the tombstones, adding to the eerie atmosphere of this historic site.
Whether you’re drawn to the cemetery for its historical significance or its mysterious aura, a visit to the Natchez City Cemetery promises a unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Take a ghost tour of haunted locations
Essential Information
– Address: Natchez, Mississippi
– Opening hours: Evenings, check website for specific times
– Fee: Varies depending on the tour company
– Visit duration: Typically 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
When it comes to exploring the historic city of Natchez, Mississippi, one of the most unusual yet intriguing activities you can partake in is taking a ghost tour of its haunted locations. This eerie experience takes you on a journey through the city’s dark past, where you’ll hear chilling tales of paranormal encounters and unexplained phenomena.
As you walk through the dimly lit streets of Natchez, your guide will regale you with stories of restless spirits and haunted houses that have left even the most skeptical visitors questioning the supernatural. From the infamous King’s Tavern, rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a murdered woman, to the eerie Longwood mansion with its tragic history, each stop on the ghost tour offers a glimpse into a world beyond the veil.
But what sets this ghost tour apart from your typical historical excursion is the interactive nature of the experience. Visitors may have the opportunity to use ghost-hunting equipment such as EMF meters and EVP recorders to try and capture evidence of the paranormal. This hands-on approach adds an extra layer of excitement and mystery to the tour, making it a truly unforgettable adventure for those brave enough to delve into the unknown.
So if you’re looking for a spine-tingling adventure that combines history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural, don’t miss the chance to take a ghost tour of Natchez’s haunted locations. Who knows, you may just encounter something otherworldly that will leave you questioning the boundaries between the living and the dead.
Discover the hidden gem of Emerald Mound
Essential Information
– Address: 1600 Emerald Mound Road, Natchez, Mississippi
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday
– Fee: $4 per person
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, outdoor explorers
Why is it so unusual
Emerald Mound in Natchez, Mississippi, stands out as a unique tourist attraction due to its intriguing history and unusual features. Unlike traditional museums or parks, Emerald Mound offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the remnants of an ancient Native American civilization. The mound itself is a massive earthen structure, believed to have been built by the Plaquemine culture around 1200 AD. Its sheer size and historical significance make it a must-visit for those interested in archaeology and indigenous cultures.
One of the most unusual activities at Emerald Mound is the opportunity to climb to the top of the mound and take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This vantage point provides a glimpse into the strategic importance of the site for its original inhabitants, as well as a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, visitors can explore the various smaller mounds and earthworks that dot the site, each offering clues to the complex society that once thrived here.
For those seeking a hands-on experience, Emerald Mound also features interpretive trails that lead through the surrounding forest, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural environment while learning about the history of the area. The combination of outdoor exploration and historical education makes this site a truly one-of-a-kind destination for travelers looking to delve into the lesser-known aspects of American history.
In conclusion, the hidden gem of Emerald Mound offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a chance to engage with a culture that has long since vanished. Its unusual blend of history, archaeology, and natural beauty make it a standout attraction in the Natchez area, perfect for those seeking a unique and enriching travel experience.
Experience the unique African American history at the Forks of the Road
Essential Information
– Address: Intersection of Liberty Road and St. Catherine Street, Natchez, Mississippi
– Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
– Fee: Free
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, cultural explorers
Why is it so unusual
The Forks of the Road in Natchez, Mississippi, stands as a poignant reminder of the African American history deeply rooted in the region. What makes this site truly unique is its historical significance as one of the largest slave markets in the antebellum South. Visitors can explore the remnants of the market where enslaved individuals were bought and sold, gaining a somber insight into this dark chapter of American history.
Unlike traditional tourist attractions, the Forks of the Road offers a raw and unfiltered look at the harsh realities faced by African Americans during the era of slavery. Walking through the site, visitors can almost feel the weight of the past as they stand on the same grounds where countless lives were forever altered.
In addition to its historical significance, the Forks of the Road also serves as a place of reflection and remembrance. Visitors can pay their respects to those who suffered and struggled for freedom, honoring their resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of African American history and a chance to connect with the past in a meaningful way, a visit to the Forks of the Road is a truly unusual and enlightening experience.
Tour the historic Rosalie Mansion
Essential Information
– Address: 100 Orleans St, Natchez, MS 39120
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM daily
– Fee: $10 for adults, $5 for children
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, architecture buffs
Why is it so unusual
The historic Rosalie Mansion in Natchez, Mississippi, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the antebellum South with its intriguing blend of history and mystery. While many historic homes focus solely on the grandeur of the past, Rosalie Mansion stands out for its unusual collection of antique dolls that line the halls and rooms of the estate. These dolls, each with their own story and charm, add a touch of whimsy to the otherwise stately atmosphere of the mansion.
Visitors can explore the mansion’s rooms and corridors, marveling at the intricate architecture and period furnishings, all while being watched over by the unblinking eyes of the antique dolls. The juxtaposition of elegance and eccentricity makes Rosalie Mansion a truly unique destination for those seeking a one-of-a-kind historical experience.
In addition to the doll collection, the mansion also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Stroll through the manicured grounds, taking in the fragrant blooms and serene fountains that transport you back in time to the days of Southern charm and hospitality.
For a truly unusual experience, be sure to visit Rosalie Mansion during one of their special events, such as ghost tours or Victorian tea parties. These events offer a different perspective on the mansion’s history and provide a memorable and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
So, if you’re looking for a historic attraction with a twist, make sure to add the Rosalie Mansion to your travel itinerary. With its fascinating doll collection and enchanting gardens, this hidden gem in Natchez is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Explore the mysterious Windsor Ruins
Essential Information
– Address: Alcorn State University, Rodney, MS 39150
– Opening Hours: Daily from sunrise to sunset
– Fee: Free
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, photographers, curious travelers
Why is it so unusual
The Windsor Ruins in Natchez, Mississippi, stand as a haunting reminder of a bygone era. What makes this site truly unusual is the eerie beauty that emanates from the crumbling remains of what was once a grand antebellum mansion. Visitors are drawn to the haunting allure of the 23 standing Corinthian columns, the only remnants of the majestic home that was destroyed by fire in 1890.
Exploring the Windsor Ruins offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the grandeur and tragedy of the past. Visitors can wander among the towering columns, imagining the opulence that once graced this site. The sense of history and mystery that permeates the air is palpable, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
One of the most unusual activities at the Windsor Ruins is to capture the site’s haunting beauty through photography. The stark contrast of the white columns against the backdrop of the Mississippi landscape creates a striking visual spectacle that is sure to captivate any photographer’s lens.
For those with a penchant for the paranormal, the Windsor Ruins are rumored to be haunted by the spirits of the past. Many visitors have reported strange occurrences and unexplained phenomena while exploring the site, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this already mysterious destination.
In conclusion, the Windsor Ruins offer a truly unique and unusual experience for those willing to delve into the history and mystery of this captivating site. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to the Windsor Ruins is sure to leave a lasting impression.
