A Day in Jackson: Southern Soul on a Quick Getaway from Birmingham
One thing I love about living in the South is how easy it is to hop in the car and soak up an entirely different city in just a few hours. That’s exactly what I did on my day trip from Birmingham, Alabama to Jackson, Mississippi—a roughly 3-hour drive each way, but worth every minute.
I left Birmingham just after sunrise with a packed playlist, coffee in hand, and a full tank of gas. The stretch along I-20 West is straightforward and scenic in that quietly Southern way—rolling greenery, small towns, and roadside churches dotting the highway.
First Stop: Mississippi Civil Rights Museum
Once I arrived in Jackson, my first destination was the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. It’s impossible to visit this city without acknowledging its deep and complex place in American history. The museum is powerful and deeply moving, tracing the stories of those who fought for justice and equality in Mississippi. The exhibits are immersive—with oral histories, personal artifacts, and multimedia presentations that pull you right into the era.
I left there feeling both heavy with the weight of history and grateful for the courage of those who came before us.
Downtown Stroll & Capitol Views
From the museum, I wandered over to Downtown Jackson, where the stately Mississippi State Capitol building anchors the skyline. I didn’t take a guided tour, but just admiring the architecture from the outside was enough. It’s got that classic Southern charm—columns, domes, and all.
I popped into a few local shops along Capitol Street and took time to talk to a friendly bookseller who gave me tips on some lesser-known landmarks.
Lunch at the Big Apple Inn
For lunch, I headed over to the historic Big Apple Inn on Farish Street. Known for its links to Medgar Evers and its humble but history-rich past, this little spot is a Jackson icon. I went with a smoked sausage sandwich and a side of beans—delicious, simple Southern fare. (And yes, for those who know the menu, I skipped the pig ear sandwich for obvious reasons.)
A Quiet Moment at Medgar Evers Home Museum
Before leaving town, I made time for a visit to the Medgar Evers Home Museum. Though small and unassuming, standing in front of the home where such a pivotal figure once lived (and tragically died) was sobering. The house is preserved as a tribute to his legacy and the ongoing fight for civil rights.
Sweet Goodbye at Brent’s Drugs
To wrap up the day, I stopped for a milkshake at Brent’s Drugs—an old-school diner and soda fountain that’s been serving Jackson since the 1940s. The retro vibes were perfect for a bit of nostalgia before heading back to Birmingham.
By the time I hit the road again, the sun was sinking low over the Mississippi Delta. It was a long day, yes—but the kind that fills you up with culture, history, and appreciation for the resilience and richness of Southern cities.
If you’re in Birmingham and looking for a quick yet meaningful road trip, Jackson, Mississippi is a must.