Located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River, Natchez offers endless opportunities to discover its storied past while enjoying its modern amenities and culture. Well-known for its antebellum homes, dozens of which provide insights into the lavish world of cotton planters from times past, Natchez is also replete with culinary delights, shopping, and views of the river that provide peaceful, gorgeous sunset views.
Any visit to this historic river city must include a historical tour. Natchez is home to 13 National Historic Landmarks and more than 1,000 structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While seeing them all during one visit might feel impossible, many can be viewed in the walkable downtown area. During the annual Spring and Fall Pilgrimages, more than 30 homes are open for tours. A tradition dating back to the 1930s, homeowners offer exclusive insights into their magnificent homes, including manicured gardens, opulent furnishings, and tales that lure in visitors of all ages. Suppose your trip doesn’t take place during one of these events; not to worry. Several homes are open for tours year-round, including Longwood, the largest octagonal-shaped home in the country. When construction was halted on this home in 1861, the exterior was nearly complete, but the interior was far from finished. Today, the top five stories remain incomplete, allowing the imagination to flourish about what could have been.
Another impressive home and grounds is Rosalie, which boasts numerous artifacts and furnishings that are original to its owners. It was one of the first house museums in the state, and it was built on the location of the original Fort Rosalie, which was established by the French in 1716. While Rosalie is a perfectly manicured location for weddings and other events, it also hosts the annual Natchez Balloon Festival. It features world-class music, entertainment for all ages, and colorful hot air balloons lifting high into the skies.
Of course, some of the most breathtaking views in Natchez are those of the Mississippi River. Bluff Park is the place to enjoy a nature walk along the path before sitting back and enjoying a mesmerizing sunset. You can find shade in the park’s gazebo, or, weather permitting, pack a blanket and picnic to enjoy in the park.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and natural landscapes, it’s no wonder the city inspires artists from all genres. Several galleries feature works by local artists and craftsmen, including the Arts Natchez Gallery on Main Street. Filled with paintings, jewelry, pottery, and more, the gallery is a wonderful place to discover the talents of the local arts community.
A resurgence of business in the downtown area has generated even more opportunities for locals and visitors alike to enjoy delicious dining experiences and a lively local music scene. Lined with historic storefronts, the downtown area is full of friendly establishments to fulfill your shopping and culinary wishes. As you peruse local shops featuring pieces of history, crafts, clothing, and jewelry, you’ll also find plenty of great spots for coffee and lunch. Start with a custom-roasted coffee or Italian-style espresso at Steampunk Coffee Roasters, where you’ll also soak in good vibes in the brick building that dates back to the late 1800s. Later in the day, explore an array of flavors as you nibble on an artisan pizza and explore the craft brew menu at Natchez Brewing Company.
It’s impossible to take in all of the history that Natchez has to offer without experiencing a quintessential piece of food history—the hot tamale. While the story of how the tamale found its way to the Mississippi Delta—and eventually to other river towns, including Natchez—involves tales as winding as the river itself, one thing is certain: the tamale is as intriguing as it is delicious. Once a popular handheld food among field workers, the tamale is celebrated with its own Tamale Trail through Mississippi. At Fat Mama’s, you can indulge in the rich flavors of the tamale, tacos, sandwiches, and more from the extensive menu and sip on one of their famous Knock-You-Naked margaritas, the perfect accompaniment to any menu item.
To really feel connected to the roots of this river city, visit the area where it all began for Natchez: the riverside strip of land known as Natchez Under-the-Hill. It is this area where French colonists first established themselves in the early 1700s. A place of constant change and with a more raucous reputation than most of the serene town, Natchez Under-the-Hill is now an entertainment district featuring shopping, food, and libations. Located in the only row of brick buildings to survive the river’s floods, Silver Street Gallery and Gifts is a quaint shop boasting a wide array of clothing, jewelry, and gift items. One of the oldest establishments on the river, Under the Hill Saloon, exudes all of the history this riverside area has to offer, complete with live music and a modern-day menu of food and beverages.
How you choose to explore Natchez is truly up to you. You can walk through any area of town and discover its gems on your own, or take a guided tour and explore the history, literature, haunted sites, and other areas of interest while an expert weaves fascinating and mostly factual tales. Choose to hike, bike, or ride in a motorized vehicle through history.
When it comes time to relax, options for comfort abound. Many historical homes offer guest accommodations, including luxurious suites and Southern cuisine that surround you with Southern hospitality. Clifton House is the only functioning guest house located on the Mississippi River Bluff Walk, putting you steps away from downtown and offering unparalleled views of the river from its impressive wrap-around porch. For a truly unique experience, the Stone House Musical B&B offers live classical piano music with wine, a hot breakfast served on antique Limoges china, an antebellum billiard hall, and a Gallery of Antique Maps and Prints. It’s a destination within itself.
The historic homes, haunted tales, and captivating landscapes of Natchez make it a popular destination wedding location. They attract writers and filmmakers from across the country and invite curious explorers from places near and far. Whether you’re invited to visit while sharing in the nuptials of friends or family or planning an exploration all your own, you’ll find yourself feeling right at home in the charm of Natchez’s history and beauty.
See our May/June issue for a complete list of restaurants, shops, and accommodations in Natchez.
Visit visitnatchez.org.
