Road trips don't have to be about non-stop adventure and excitement. They can actually be very relaxing, too... just look at the Natchez Parkway! The rolling scenic route winds through verdant forests and fields and past sleepy Southern towns. It's also loaded with history, from its origins as a buffalo path and Native American trade route to sites along the way that are important to the Civil War, blues music, antebellum architecture, and more. The speed limit along the way never gets above 50 MPH, but there's so much to see along the way that you won't mind life in the slow lane one bit. Load up the RV and get ready to immerse yourself in the Southern hospitality and history of the Natchez Trace.
The Natchez National Historical Park is must stop spot in your Natchez Trace travels, especially for the history buffs. The group of historic buildings tells the story of the town, from the Natchez Indians to the plantation owners and slaves who inhabited the town during the Civil War to the Civil Rights movement and beyond. Tour the William Johnson House (free) as well as the Melrose Estate ($10) for an insight into the antebellum and Civil War era, and to take in the stunning architecture and well-preserved history here. Tours end at 4 pm, so be sure to get there early!
Only 10 miles north of the historical town of Natchez, this state park offers things to do all year-round. Enjoy a relaxing stop, whether you want to try your hand at fishing (the state's biggest largemouth bass was caught here), boating on Lake Natchez, hiking on the nature trail, a quick picnic, or a round of disc golf. It's a small little park, but it's a great place to take a break from the road and stretch your legs while enjoying the serene beauty of the southern landscape.
The Windsor Ruins are located just off the Parkway, at milepost 30, along the Mississippi Highway 552. They're free to visit from sunrise to sunset. 23 columns, iron stairs and balustrades are all that remain from what once was a sprawling plantation and mansion, that stretched over 2,600 acres. It was built in 1859, and used as a Union hospital during the Civil War. After the war it tragically burned to the ground during a house party in 1890.
Crystal Grill is a local and tourist treasure in the town of Greenwood, Mississippi. Fried catfish, hot tamales, and burgers are menu favorites. It doesn't get much better than real, down-to-earth home cooking that's been part of a community for over 75 years. The retro diner vibes and from-scratch Southern cookin' are sure to win over even the most particular foodie.
About 30 miles southwest of Tupelo, at milepost 323.4, Bynum mounds offer a rich history tracing back to somewhere between 100 B.C. and 100 A.D. when scholars believe the earthworks were built. They were likely used as both a ceremonial spot and a burial ground for the tribes who called this region home, so this site is an important reminder of our past civilizations and all of their advancements. There are also many other Native American sites around the mounds to check out as well as you stroll through this mysterious and ancient place!
There are few road trips quite as relaxing as the Natchez Trace. The rich history, quiet beauty, and leisurely and winding route make for a trip that's sure to create memories of mouthwatering meals shared in friendly local diners, hours spent exploring hidden gems off the route, and late nights camping out under the stars.
