The western United States isn’t the only region brimming with Indigenous travel. In the southeast, Mississippi owes much of its lasting and lively culture to the rich Indigenous heritages that shaped it into the state it is today. From the food to the language to the traditions, Mississippi was once home to the widest variety of Indigenous tribes in the region.

For travelers seeking a meaningful experience celebrating and supporting communities continuing the legacy of Mississippi’s first peoples, consider these enriching experiences:

© Visit Mississippi

In Pearl, the Chahta Immi Cultural Center immerses visitors in the culture and traditions of the state’s most populous tribe, the Choctaw. Here, you’ll see Choctaw pottery and the revitalization of this artform, learn about the Choctaw language, discover other tradition artforms and explore the history and culture of the tribe.

In summer, the annual Choctaw Indian Fair occurs on Choctaw homeland, where the World Champion Stickball Games occurs. The fair also includes tribal music, dancing and the chance to enjoy traditional Choctaw cuisine and crafts.

One of Mississippi’s most well-known sites is the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile route established by the Choctaw, Chickasaw and Natchez peoples thousands of years ago. Near Natchez town, look for Emerald Mound, the second-largest Native American ceremonial mound in the country, constructed about 800 years ago. All along the route, visitors can enjoy scenic drives, go horseback riding and even camp along the parkway to connect with nature.

© Visit Mississippi

In 2024, Tupelo, the homeland of the Chickasaw Nation, welcomes the new Chickasaw Heritage Center. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the Chickasaw Heritage Trail along seven sites, each telling a special part of the tribe’s story and legacy still felt today in Tupelo.