Things to do in Vicksburg

Whether you want to try your luck at a slot machine, or you're a history buff who finds more payback in soaking up Civil War lore, this historical town has something to keep you satisfied. The delicious, authentic Southern cooking in Vicksburg will satisfy your appetite as well!

On the Battlefield

A standing testament to the Civil War battle and regional campaign that saw Confederate control of the mighty Mississippi fall to the mightier Union forces, Vicksburg National Military Park walks you through those tide-changing moments. Stop first at the visitor center for a park brochure and a map of the 16-mile road that winds throughout the park—the locations of where the Confederate and Union lines stood are marked. Good walking shoes are recommended to fully experience every stop on the route. Some of the Civil War sites are separate from the main park, such as Lt. General Pemberton's Headquarters (Willis-Cowan House) in downtown Vicksburg, where Confederate commanders unsuccessfully strategized to defeat the Union siege.

Roll the Dice

Nestled along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Vicksburg's casinos not only give you plentiful buffets, live entertainment, and the thrill of potentially hitting the jackpot, they also give you panoramic views of the water and stunning sunsets. The Ameristar, DiamondJacks, Lady Luck and Riverwalk Casinos offer slots, video poker, roulette, craps and table games. Do you know when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em?

Haunted History

You didn't think that the only fun after dark in Vicksburg was illuminated by neon casino lights, did you? Haunted Vicksburg tours walk you through the spookier side of the Old South, with options for your favorite kind of frights. Weekend evening ghost walk tours take you to the sites of the town's most infamous supernatural sightings, while tour leaders send shivers up your spine with tales of the dark history behind the haunts. Pick the weekday evening driving tour to drop in on Civil War grave sites and peek inside a reputedly haunted Victorian mansion. If you'd rather explore old homes and hear tales of yesteryear with the lights on, book a Historic Vicksburg City Tour with Principal Tours of Vicksburg, LLC.

Finger-Lickin'-Good Cooking

You may have to wait for a table at the saloon-style Rusty's Riverfront Grill, but when your plate of fried green tomatoes and po' boys arrives, you’ll understand why the place is packed! If you're looking for a heaping plate of no-frills, all-flavor Southern home cooking, head on over to Bovina Cafe, where you can enjoy such daily specials as catfish or beef tips accompanied by mac-n-cheese, homemade mashed potatoes, biscuits, and made-from-scratch desserts. For home-cooking with a Creole twist, take your appetite to the Main Street Market Cafe for hearty gumbo, blackened grilled meats, and mouthwatering pies in a cozy setting that also offers handmade quilts for sale.

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