Take a Spring Break Road Trip Through Mississippi’s Musical Roots

Mississippi invites family travelers to take a break this spring and embark on an exciting, educational trip through the “Birthplace of America’s Music.” If this sounds like something your family will love, check out this sample itinerary highlighting all the must-see stops.

Stop 1: Tupelo

Start off the trip with a stop in Tupelo where you can visit these iconic locations:

• Elvis’ Tupelo Self-Guided Bicycle Tour: Bikers stop at 14 spots, including Elvis Presley’s Birthplace, as significant to Elvis’ early years in Tupelo; Lee County Courthouse; Lee County Library; Lyric Theatre; and Tupelo Hardware Company, where he purchased his first guitar.
• Mississippi Hills National Heritage Areas: Explore Tishomingo County, located in the extreme northeast corner of the state. This county offers a variety of outdoor adventures in Natchez Trace Parkway, Tishomingo State Park, Pickwick Lake and more.
• Johnnie’s Drive-In: This drive-in once hosted Elvis Presley in his youth. Since 1945, the all-American diner has served delicious comfort food while showcasing photos and exclusive memorabilia from Elvis’ visits.

Stop 2: Cleveland

Continue your trip with a visit to Cleveland:

• GRAMMY Museum Mississippi: Discover the state’s influence on the global music scene. This museum celebrates its history with innovative programming and interactive exhibits. Let the kids produce and mix their own music tracks and learn new moves at the History of Dance area. Taylor Swift fans won’t want to miss the museum’s Taylor Swift: Through the Eras exhibit.
• Mississippi River: Stop along the Mississippi and hop in a canoe to paddle your way through the watered wilderness of the Mississippi. Plan a single- or multi-day trip with Quapaw Canoe Company. These customized excursions are led by expert guides and let travelers discover an archipelago of the Mississippi River’s islands and wildlife.
• Hey Joe’s: Don’t let your trip pass by without a stop at Hey Joe’s for quality food, craft beers and live music.

Stop 3: Meridian/Columbus

Stop three brings can’t-miss attractions such as:

• The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience: These immersive exhibits take visitors on a behind-the-scenes journey at the birthplace of the stars.
• Mississippi Country Music Trail: Fall in love with county music and learn more about the history of the iconic genre along the Mississippi Country Music Trail in Meridian. This region is also the birthplace of Jimmie Rodgers, often referred to as the Father of Country Music.
• Lake Lowndes State Park: Located in Columbus, Lake Lowndes State Park offers ways to get outdoors and fish, camp, have a picnic, play tennis and explore hiking trails.
• Weidmann’s Restaurant: Dine at Mississippi’s oldest restaurant, Weidmann’s. This restaurant is known for its high-quality, affordable Southern cuisine in a historic setting. Don’t leave without trying a piece of the famous black bottom pie.

Stop 4: Jackson

End the trip in Jackson and visit:

• Hal & Mal’s: Check out Jackson’s most iconic music venue and restaurant. This must-visit gathering place offers a lively bar atmosphere with a family-friendly dining experience. Hal & Mal’s has welcomed some of Mississippi’s most legendary artists such as Willie Dixon, B.B. King, Ike Turner and Albert King.
• LeFleur’s Bluff State Park: Explore this beautiful park, home to nature trails, a public nine-hole golf course and driving range, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a lake for fishing.
• The Iron Horse Grill: Stop by The Iron Horse Grill for live music and a Tex Mex-inspired menu created by Chef Pierre Pryer.