Are you looking for unique Southern towns to explore during your stay in Jackson, Mississippi? Of course, our lovely area offers plenty to see and do, but there are several towns nearby that are worth exploring, too! For example, when you visit Greenwood, you can see expansive cotton fields, dine at delectable restaurants, experience world-class shopping, and marvel at tree-lined boulevards. Take a look at our list of things to do in Greenwood, MS, and pick an activity to try first! Don’t forget to download our free Vacation Guide for even more suggestions.
Everything You Need to Know About Greenwood, MS
How to Get to Greenwood
The drive from Jackson to Greenwood is an easy one. All you need to do is head north on I-49. Take your time and enjoy the ride past the Hillside National Wildlife Refuge and the Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge. Bring your camera and snap some photos before you arrive at your destination!
1. Shopping in Greenwood
One of our favorite ways to unwind is to go shopping! You’ll see a variety of boutiques and specialty stores in this quintessential Mississippi town. Indulging in a little retail therapy is a great way to get the feel for the area, and downtown Greenwood is a wonderful place to start. Here are some of our favorite shops.
The Delta Emporium
The Delta Emporium is a premier market that offers a lavish selection of merchandise from local artisans and vendors. From jewelry to handbags to pottery, you’re sure to find a one-of-a-kind gift when you walk through this vintage warehouse!
Smith and Company Outfitters
Smith and Company Outfitters is at the heart of downtown Greenwood. This outdoor-oriented store has hunting essentials as well as apparel and accessories for men and women. Explore designer brands like Fish Hippie, Southern Tide, Patagonia, and North Face, just to name a few!
Fincher’s
From fine china to beautiful garments, Fincher’s luxury boutique has something for everyone. If you want to start or add to your china collection, you’ll find an array of classic pieces and restored antiques. Fincher’s is also known for its exceptional bridal registry and exclusive selection of upscale children’s clothing.
Greenwood Park Mall
Whether you are searching for designer labels or top brands, we suggest walking around the Greenwood Park Mall. Here, you’ll find high-end boutiques as well as exceptional bars and restaurants. It’s a shopper’s paradise!
2. Museums in Greenwood
Greenwood has played a unique role in Mississippi’s history, and there’s no better place to learn about it than at one of our museums! This beautiful town on the Delta was the backdrop for some of our nation’s most well-known events. It’s also the birthplace of famous Blues musicians, Olympians, and more. Greenwood is truly a historical gem!
What Makes Our Museums Unique?
Greenwood, MS, was originally formed as a trading post in the 1800s. Soon after, it became a settlement and was named “Greenwood” after Chief Greenwood LeFlore. Due to the rich soil and ideal location on the Delta, Greenwood was known as one of the best places in the world to grow cotton. The demand for Greenwood cotton caused the city, and the slave trade, to grow immensely. Before the Civil War, more than one million slaves had been moved into the Greenwood area to work the plantations. Our museums document this history and show the effect it had on Greenwood and the world.
What Can You Expect at Our Museums?
Greenwood is home to two different museums, each focusing on a unique aspect of the town’s history. Plan on learning more about our rich cultural past in each of these places. Finding out more about the town you are visiting adds so much depth to your trip!
What Museums Are In Greenwood?
Museum of the Mississippi Delta
The Museum of the Mississippi Delta, formerly known as the Cottonlandia Museum, offers a glimpse into the intricate past of Greenwood. Begin by exploring Greenwood’s beginnings, starting with the Native Americans who lived here first. There are even artifacts and furniture that belonged to Chief Greenwood LeFlore! The artifact collection doesn’t end there. You can see an immense selection of agricultural relics as well, like plows, blacksmith tools, and more. Military artifacts from the Civil War are also highlighted at the museum. Be sure to check out the largest assortment of Native American trade beads in the southern United States!
The Museum of the Mississippi Delta is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s closed on Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults 18 and over, $7 for seniors, $5 for college students, and $4 for children ages 5 to 17. Children under 5 are free.
Back in the Day Museum
The Back in the Day Museum is a community museum that explores the history of the Blues, African American culture, and Baptist Town in Greenwood. A small facility with a big heart, it’s owned and run by Sylvester Hoover. Travel back in time and learn about Blues legends like Robert Johnson and many more!
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. You can also schedule an appointment. A trip to Back in the Day Museum is a great way to see Greenwood’s past from the eyes of a local citizen.
3. Restaurants in Greenwood, MS
During your day trip to Greenwood, you’re bound to get a little hungry. Luckily, there are more than 30 restaurants to satisfy your cravings! Here are three top spots that will add some flavor to your day.
Serio’s Restaurant
In between shopping trips and museum visits, we suggest you stop and grab lunch at Serio’s Restaurant. Previously known as Delta Bistro, this delicious eatery offers fresh, flavorful meals every day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The menu features tasty soups, crisp salads, warm sandwiches (order Serio’s meatball sandwich!), Italian-inspired entrees, and yummy desserts. Try it yourself and thank us later!
Crystal Grill
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, order a slice of pie from the Crystal Grill downtown. Their “Mile High Meringue” is a show-stopper, and we highly recommend you leave some room for the coconut pie! It’s the treat you need during your vacation.
Giardina’s Restaurant
Looking for a date night spot or something a little fancier? Giardina’s Restaurant is for you. Enjoy an upscale dinner in this beautiful, 19th-century-inspired eatery. The large dining room opens up to a beautiful courtyard, and the interior is decorated with white tablecloths, fine crystal, and dark wood furniture. The dinner menu includes a large selection of appetizers, salads, and hot entrees as well as a high-quality wine list.
Stay in the Best B&B Near Greenwood!
After experiencing some of the best things to do in Greenwood, take the scenic, 1.5-hour drive back to the Fairview Inn and relax in one of our luxurious rooms. Since you’re planning to explore the Magnolia State, you may want to stay in our Magnolia Suite! It offers a spacious king bedroom with a working fireplace, a separate sitting room, and deluxe bathroom with a whirlpool tub and double vanity. No matter what brings you to the Fairview Inn, our boutique hotel allows you to relish in some much-deserved personal time.
Plan your getaway with us today!