Exploring the Heart of the Deep South: Mississippi & Alabama Part II

Exploring the Heart of the Deep South: Mississippi & Alabama Part II The Deep South is a region steeped in soulful music, rich history, mouth-watering cuisine, and a warm hospitality that stays with you long after you leave. The hospitality here really is next level. I visited Jackson, Natchez, Bay St. Louis, Ocean Springs, Orange Beach/Gulf Shores, Mobile, and Montgomery. I can’t wait to share some of the highlights with you. Jackson, Mississippi As the capital of Mississippi, Jackson is a soulful city that feeds both your appetite and your curiosity. Beyond the plate, Jackson is rich in history and culture. I explored downtown on a guided tour and visited the Eudora Welty House, a stop on the Mississippi Writers Trail and a beautiful tribute to one of America’s most celebrated literary voices. Equally unforgettable was visiting the home of Medgar and Myrlie Evers, a powerful and moving site that honours their courageous legacy. The journey continued with a visit to the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the Museum of Mississippi History. Two deeply impactful spaces that bring the state’s complex past to life. Jackson is a city that nourishes the body, heart, and soul and leaves you with a deeper understanding of the people and stories that shaped the South. I stayed in the Old Capitol Inn Jackson.

Natchez, Mississippi Set on the Mississippi River, Natchez feels like stepping into a Southern novel or movie set. This is one of the oldest towns on the Mississippi, with breathtaking mansions, moss-draped oaks, and sweeping river views. I’d recommend taking a hop on hop off bus here as loads of brilliant places included. Wandering through homes like Longwood was like walking through living history. The Longwood Octagonal House is the largest Octagonal house in the United States and if had been finished would have been even more impressive. Evenings in Natchez are magical the sunsets over the river are golden, and the downtown has a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Whether you're sipping a cocktail on a balcony or enjoying Southern fare in a local bistro, Natchez invites you to slow down and savour every moment. I stayed in the Dunleith Historic Inn.

Bay St. Louis, Mississippi Bay St. Louis is the kind of place you want to keep secret as it’s a quirky, artistic seaside town that effortlessly blends beach life with bohemian charm. Colourful cottages, funky art galleries, and waterfront cafes make it feel more like Key West than Mississippi. The town is small enough to explore on foot, and every street offers something unique from boutiques filled with local crafts to live music echoing from tucked-away patios. The laid-back vibe makes it a perfect stop for couples or solo travellers looking for a more creative and peaceful coastal escape. I stayed in the Hilton Garden Biloxi.

Ocean Springs, Mississippi Just east of Biloxi, Ocean Springs is often overlooked, which makes discovering it even more special. This artistic little town is packed with galleries, independent shops, and some truly impressive cuisine for its size. I also had a casino evening which was great fun! I enjoyed my first ever try of Oysters here and were beautiful, they were cooked with Cheese on top so I was sold! Ocean Springs has a charming walkable downtown and a community that clearly loves and supports the arts. The beaches here are quieter, more natural, and perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic. With no casinos or high-rise hotels, Ocean Springs feels untouched, genuine, and incredibly relaxing. I stayed in the Hilton Garden Biloxi.

Orange Beach/Gulf Shores, Alabama

After the emotion of the civil rights trail, I found time to relax on the sugar-white beaches of Gulf Shores. Alabama’s coast is an underrated gem calm waters, fresh seafood, and warm sunshine made it a perfect escape. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, unplug, and truly breathe. We enjoyed breakfast at Tacky Jacks where there is nothing like it and even tried my first baby Bushwacker which was delicious. A little boat trip took us out dolphin spotting to, what a place to enjoy its superb for families to enjoy. I stayed at the lodge at Gulf state park.

Mobile , Alabama Home of the very first Mardi Gras celebration in the united states. It has many hidden gems, natural beauty and lots of attractions. I thought the food here was amazing. We enjoyed a Foodie Tour with Bienville Bites which got me enjoying the finest local dishes. Mobile Pedal Tour was great fun. I opted for a Guinness on one of the pub stops. I stayed in the Admiral Semmes Hotel.

Montgomery, Alabama As Alabama’s capital city, Montgomery is steeped in history, particularly the story of America’s civil rights movement. From the Rosa Parks Museum to the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, you’re walking in the footsteps of true changemakers. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Legacy Museum are two of the most powerful, thoughtful spaces I’ve visited anywhere in the world. They don’t shy away from the painful past, but instead honour it with dignity and purpose. Montgomery also has a growing food and arts scene, with a mix of old-South tradition and new-South creativity. It’s a place for reflection, growth, and connection. I got to see the Montgomery biscuits play baseball to which was good fun. I stayed in the Doubletree by Hilton

Traveling through Mississippi and Alabama reminded me why I love what I do. I get to help people discover places with deep roots, authentic culture, and unforgettable hospitality. These two states may not always top the typical holiday wish list, but they offer something rare: a journey that moves you, teaches you, and stays with you long after your return.

Whether you're a music lover, history buff, foodie, or just craving a new kind of adventure, the Deep South always delivers. Ready to explore the soulful South? Let’s start planning your own unforgettable road trip through Mississippi and Alabama.