Step Off the Train, Step Into Adventure: A Mile of Jackson's Best Downtown Attractions

Step off the train at Union Station Jackson, and you'll find yourself at the crossroads of Mississippi's past and future.

This historic station brings in the City of New Orleans Amtrak line and places you at the heart of downtown Jackson's renaissance, where you can discover an incredible concentration of restaurants, shops, and attractions tucked between Mill Street and State Street, all within a comfortable one-mile walking distance.

Downtown Jackson Hotels and Dining

Your journey begins just steps from Union Station along West Capitol Street, where the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown awaits in the historic King Edward building—a perfect place to stay while exploring downtown Jackson. Continue east to discover the legendary Mayflower Cafe at 123 W. Capitol Street, a downtown institution serving exceptional Greek-influenced seafood since 1935.

International Cuisine and Local Favorites

As you continue eastward along Capitol Street, tucked behind the parking garage at Farish and Capitol is Sippsi Teas, serving all-natural loose-leaf teas. Further down, Remo's Café at 401 East Capitol Street provides an unexpected Egyptian twist with its signature koshari bowl and aromatic Turkish coffee prepared tableside. The Donut Shop Downtown at 413 E Capitol Street offers an expansive menu beyond its famous donuts—cheesesteaks, burgers, and hot coffee that fuel morning adventures.

The culinary diversity continues with Ray's To Go at 415 East Capitol Street, serving barbecue, loaded fries, and signature dishes like shrimp and loaded broccoli, followed by Taste of the Island Caribbean at 436 E. Capitol Street, where tropical flavors transport you from Mississippi to the islands.

The Lamar Life Building
Credit: Tate Nations

Historic Jackson Mississippi Attractions

Between meals, explore the cultural and architectural heartbeat of this historic district. St. Andrews Cathedral showcases stunning Gothic Revival architecture, while the MS Governor's Mansion displays stately Greek Revival design—notably, it's the second oldest occupied gubernatorial residence in the country.

Offbeat Jxn at 109 North State Street embodies Jackson's alternative culture scene, hosting everything from video game tournaments to album releases. The Old Capitol Museum at 100 South State Street completes your historical journey through downtown Jackson.

Beyond the Main Route: Additional Downtown Jackson Attractions

This historic corridor between Mill and State Streets offers an unparalleled variety of dining, culture, and history all within one mile of your train arrival.

One Block Off

Iron Horse Grill | Smith Park | Welcome to JXN mural | JXN Welcome Center | Aladdin Express | Hal & Mal's | Martin's | The Walk-In

Two or Three Blocks Off (and worth the Detour)

MS Museum of Art | Westin Jackson | Estelle Southern Table | Cathead Distillery

Paul Wolf

Author

Paul Wolf

Paul is the Director of Destination Storytelling at Visit Jackson, managing the website, Soul Sessions podcast, and travel journalism initiatives. Drawing on three decades in communications, he brings expertise in writing, photography, video, and podcasting to showcase what makes Jackson special. When he's not working, Paul explores the local food scene, seeks out great craft beer and coffee, and never passes up good BBQ or a lazy afternoon in his hammock.
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