There’s no shortage of fascinating things to do in Vicksburg, and one of those is the immersive Jesse Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum. Located in downtown Vicksburg, this free museum is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It is designed to educate visitors about life on the river, the role of the Corps, and how communities have lived with and adapted to the river over time.
Among its standout features is a 1,515-gallon aquarium displaying native river species, as well as interactive exhibits like the Mississippi Trail, which lets guests explore the impact of the 1927 flood through the eyes of a family who lived through it. Visitors can also learn how farming, engineering, and environmental efforts have shaped the river and the communities along its path. Outdoors, the Jesse Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum showcases a large-scale model of the Mississippi River watershed, demonstrating how various natural and manufactured factors affect flooding and river dynamics.
There are plenty of museums in Vicksburg to add to your itinerary, but first, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and our bed and breakfast in Mississippi is one of the best places to stay. Oak Hall is as unique as they come! Our historic mansion-turned-boutique Inn offers spacious accommodations, elegant shared spaces to relax, and even a beautiful outdoor pool area for lounging in the sunshine. Check out our upcoming availability and book your lodging today!
James Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum & More Things to do in Vicksburg
Part of the joy of visiting Vicksburg is discovering hidden gems like the James Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum. Visitors of all ages can explore the river’s history, its environmental impact, and the role of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in managing it. With hands-on displays and a unique outdoor river model, the museum offers an engaging and educational experience that highlights why the Mississippi is such an essential part of American life and history.
Another highlight is the M/V Mississippi IV, a decommissioned workboat and flagship of the Mississippi River Commission, now permanently docked on-site and open for self-guided tours. The vessel has been carefully staged to offer a glimpse into life on the river and the operations of the Corps. Whether you’re a history buff, science enthusiast, or curious traveler, the museum provides an engaging and educational stop in Vicksburg.
More Ways to Explore the Mississippi River:
While the James Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Vicksburg, there is also a handful of ways to experience the beauty of this waterway up-close and personal! From kayaking tours or fishing excursions, here are the best ways to get out on the water:
- The Quapaw Canoe Company has an outpost in Vicksburg for adventurous travelers who want to explore the Lower Mississippi River firsthand. They offer immersive, guided tours, including day trips, Sunset/Sunrise/Full Moon trips, and overnight or multi-day expeditions via river kayak or canoe. This is one of the best things to do in Vicksburg to experience the wild power and vitality of the Lower Mississippi River! Paddlers will enjoy breathtaking views of towering bluffs, endless forests, and expansive sandbars.
- Fishing is another popular pastime in Vicksburg, MS. Blue Cat Guide Service, led by experienced US Coast Guard-licensed Captain Bob Crosby, offers thrilling fishing adventures on the Mississippi River in Vicksburg, specializing in catching trophy blue catfish. With over 20 years of expertise, Bob guides guests through deep holes, channels, and ledges using top-of-the-line equipment aboard a spacious 21-foot G3 Sportsman boat. In addition to fishing, the service also offers scenic river tours, complete with fascinating local history and the option of a freshly prepared shore lunch on a sandbar.
More Historical Sites and Museums in Vicksburg
While the James Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum is a must-do for those who enjoy history, ecology, and more, but the learning doesn’t stop there! There are so many intriguing historical sites and fascinating museums in Vicksburg to add to your itinerary. Vicksburg is also home to the Vicksburg National Military Park, which is always a great place to visit.
- The Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum is located in the building where Coca-Cola was first bottled in 1894. It showcases vintage memorabilia and the history of America’s most iconic soft drink.
- The Catfish Row Museum is a cultural heritage museum that focuses on African American history and the creative contributions of the people who shaped Vicksburg. It features rotating exhibits and interactive displays.
- The Old Courthouse Museum, housed in an 1858 courthouse, contains thousands of artifacts, including Confederate flags, antebellum clothing, and President Jefferson Davis’s personal items.
- Part of Vicksburg National Military Park, this USS Cario Museum features the restored Civil War-era ironclad gunboat USS Cairo, which was sunk in 1862 and later raised from the Yazoo River.
- One of the best things to do in Vicksburg is visit the Vicksburg Civil War Museum, the first of its kind owned by a local African-American man. The museum has an extensive private collection of Civil War artifacts, weapons, and uniforms, as well as educational displays detailing Vicksburg’s role in the conflict and the lesser-known tales of the black soldiers who fought valiantly for freedom.
As you start planning your trip to Vicksburg, as you can see, there is so much to discover, including the free James Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum and the other historical spots. First, you’ll want to secure your overnight lodging, and our bed and breakfast in Vicksburg is the perfect place to stay. If you’re a history buff, you’ll especially be drawn to our Inn for the beautiful and restored architecture. With a blend of sophistication and Southern hospitality, you’ll feel right at home in your cozy guest room, on the expansive porch with a cup of coffee, or soaking up the sun by our outdoor pool. Book your lodging today!
