Jackson served as a drum major for many moments in history that had a significant impact on the scope of America.

When you visit The City With Soul during STS 2023, arrive early to walk in the footsteps of those who lead a movement that changed a nation.

Notable Sights

The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum shares the stories of a Mississippi movement that changed the nation. The museum promotes a greater understanding of the Mississippi Civil Rights movement and its impact by highlighting the strength and sacrifices of its peoples.

Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center, recognized as one of CNN’s 50 States 50 Spots to see, served as the first public school for African-American students. It is now the home for thousands of artifacts.

The Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home is one of the first five designated sites on the Mississippi Freedom Trail. Designated a National Monument by the National Park Service, the house belonged to slain Civil Rights leader Medgar Evers and his family. He served as the state’s first field secretary of the NAACP.

Both an archive and museum open to the public, the Margaret Walker Center is dedicated to the preservation, interpretation, and dissemination of the African-American experience. Permanent and rotating exhibits are on display.

The campus of Tougaloo College has a storied past and is recognized as “The Cradle of the Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi“ because of the fundamental principles of freedom, equality, justice and America’s promise. Visit Woodworth Chapel on the school's campus.

Farish Street, circa 1947

Explore the Farish Street Historic District, a 125-acre late-nineteenth-century grid-patterned neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is where you'll find over 100 years of rich African-American heritage. Visit the newly renovated Alamo Theater then stop in for a drink or meal at Johnny T’s (formerly known as The Crystal Palace Night Club) where the likes of Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton and Louis Armstrong once performed. You'll also want to visit Big Apple Inn - a spot frequented by Medgar Evers and other leaders of the movement - for tamales, smokes and pig ear sandwiches.

Other sites will have you singing along at one of our historic churches: Christ Temple Church of Christ Holiness, U.S.A. Old Mt. Helm Baptist Church, Central United Methodist Church or Farish Street Baptist Church.

Explore More

CIVIL RIGHTS DRIVING TOUR Learn More
Explore the Jackson Convention Complex Neighborhood Learn More
Explore Jackson’s Downtown Architecture Learn More