Mississippi, USA
Vicksburg, MS (approx. 1 hour west of Jackson, off Trace): Home to the Vicksburg National Military Park, a Civil War battlefield and national cemetery. It also features a historic downtown and river views.
Memphis, TN (approx. 1.5-2 hours west of Tupelo, off Trace): This music city has Graceland and Beale Street. It also holds significant civil rights history at the National Civil Rights Museum and famous BBQ.
The Parkway itself presents continuous scenic beauty. Detours lead to more rugged or unique landscapes not directly on the Parkway.
Homochitto National Forest (near Natchez, MS): Offers hiking, camping, and fishing within a vast forest setting.
The Parkway itself presents varied scenery. Explore detours for different terrain. Spring wildflowers and fall foliage are prominent seasonal natural attractions along the Trace.
The Parkway passes through many agricultural landscapes. Stopping in small, unincorporated communities off the Trace gives a glimpse into rural Southern life.
Drive sections of the Mississippi Blues Trail, many markers west of the Parkway in the Delta, insight into blues music origins.
Visit significant sites in Jackson, MS, and Birmingham, AL, which are part of the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.
Stopping in small, unincorporated communities off the Trace gives a glimpse into rural Southern life.
The Natchez Trace has much history. For spiritual or historical pilgrimages, sites like Vicksburg National Military Park or historic churches in Natchez serve as profound stops.
Support small businesses, engage with locals respectfully, and learn about regional traditions.
Adding 1-3 days to the itinerary transforms your trip into a broader regional exploration.
Pair the Trace with 1-2 days in Vicksburg and 2-3 days in New Orleans from the southern end.
Combine the northern Trace with 2-3 days in Nashville and 2-3 days in Memphis, exploring music history.
Focus on the northern Trace and 2-3 days exploring battlefields like Franklin, Shiloh, and Stones River (near Nashville).
Consider combining the Trace with longer stays in cultural hubs like Nashville, Memphis, or New Orleans to explore regional history and music.
Extend your journey to other famous scenic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway or explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more outdoor adventures.
From the southern end of the Trace, a logical extension is to the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches of Mississippi and Alabama, or further into Florida.
