Vicksburg travel guide

Vicksburg travel guide

National Airports

Vicksburg does not have a national airport. The closest airport to Vicksburg is the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN), which is located approximately 50 miles east of Vicksburg in Jackson, Mississippi.

The Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport is served by several major airlines, including Delta, American, and United, and offers nonstop flights to many destinations across the United States, including Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, and Charlotte.

From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi or shuttle service to Vicksburg. The drive from Jackson to Vicksburg takes approximately one hour, depending on traffic.

Trains in Vicksburg

Vicksburg is served by Amtrak, the national rail passenger service in the United States. The Amtrak station in Vicksburg is located at 1295 South Frontage Road, just south of the downtown area.

The City of New Orleans line runs through Vicksburg, connecting the city with New Orleans to the south and Chicago to the north. The train runs daily in both directions, stopping in Vicksburg in the early morning hours.

Amtrak offers several seating options, including coach and business class, as well as private sleeping accommodations for longer journeys. Onboard amenities include Wi-Fi, food and beverage service, and electrical outlets.

Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the station, and it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a seat. The Amtrak station in Vicksburg has limited amenities, including restrooms and vending machines, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Buses in Vicksburg

Vicksburg is served by Greyhound, the national bus service in the United States. The Greyhound bus station in Vicksburg is located at 820 South St, just south of the downtown area.

Greyhound offers several bus routes to and from Vicksburg, connecting the city with destinations across Mississippi and the United States, including Memphis, Jackson, New Orleans, and Dallas.

The buses offer comfortable seating, air conditioning, and onboard restrooms. Wi-Fi is also available on many routes.

Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the station, and it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a seat. The Greyhound station in Vicksburg has limited amenities, including restrooms and vending machines, so travelers should plan accordingly.

How to get to Vicksburg

Vicksburg is located in western Mississippi, approximately 45 miles west of Jackson and 180 miles north of New Orleans.

By Car: Visitors can drive to Vicksburg via several major highways, including Interstate 20, US Route 61, and Mississippi Highway 27. If coming from Jackson, visitors can take I-20 west to exit 4B and then follow US-61 south to Vicksburg.

By Plane: The closest airport to Vicksburg is the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN), located approximately 50 miles east of Vicksburg in Jackson, Mississippi. From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi or shuttle service to Vicksburg.

By Train: Vicksburg is served by Amtrak, the national rail passenger service in the United States. The City of New Orleans line runs through Vicksburg, connecting the city with New Orleans to the south and Chicago to the north.

By Bus: Vicksburg is also served by Greyhound, the national bus service in the United States. Greyhound offers several bus routes to and from Vicksburg, connecting the city with destinations across Mississippi and the United States.

Once in Vicksburg, visitors can get around by car, taxi, or public transportation. There are also several walking and biking trails in the city, as well as historic trolley tours.

What is the best time to travel to Vicksburg

The best time to travel to Vicksburg largely depends on personal preferences and interests. However, generally, the best time to visit Vicksburg is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months when the weather is mild and comfortable.

During the spring, the city is in bloom with colorful flowers and lush greenery, making it a great time to explore the city’s parks and outdoor attractions. The annual Vicksburg Spring Pilgrimage also takes place during this time, offering visitors a chance to tour historic homes and experience the city’s culture and heritage.

In the fall, the foliage in the area turns into a beautiful array of colors, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and sightseeing. The city also hosts several festivals and events during the fall, including the Vicksburg Riverfest, which features live music, food, and art.

Summer (June to August) in Vicksburg can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching into the 90s. However, this time of year also offers many outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports. Winter (December to February) can be mild, but there is a chance of occasional cold snaps and frost.

It’s important to note that the summer months can also be peak tourist season, so if you’re looking for fewer crowds and lower prices, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

How to get around Vicksburg

Vicksburg is a relatively small city, and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, visitors may find it convenient to use one of the following modes of transportation to get around the city:

Car: Visitors can rent a car from the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport or in Vicksburg from various rental agencies. Having a car is convenient for exploring the surrounding area and visiting attractions outside of the city center.

Taxis: There are several taxi companies in Vicksburg that offer transportation services within the city. Taxis can be hailed on the street, or visitors can call for pick-up.

Ride-hailing apps: Services such as Uber and Lyft are available in Vicksburg and can be accessed via their respective apps on a smartphone.

Vicksburg Transit System: The Vicksburg Transit System operates several bus routes throughout the city, offering an affordable and convenient option for getting around. Fares are low, and the buses run daily from early morning to late evening.

Bicycles: Visitors can rent bicycles from local shops and explore the city on two wheels. The city also has several bike trails, including the Vicksburg National Military Park bike trail.

Historic Trolley Tours: Visitors can take a ride on a historic trolley tour that offers a narrated tour of the city’s historical sites and attractions. The trolley tours typically run daily during the peak tourist season.

Accommodations in Vicksburg

Vicksburg offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

Historic Bed and Breakfasts: Vicksburg has several historic bed and breakfasts that offer a unique and authentic experience. These properties are often restored mansions or homes that offer period decor and architecture.

Hotels and Motels: There are several chain hotels and motels in Vicksburg that offer affordable and comfortable accommodation. These include popular brands such as Hilton, Best Western, and Comfort Inn.

Vacation Rentals: Visitors can also rent vacation homes or apartments through websites like Airbnb or VRBO. This option is ideal for families or groups of friends looking for more space and privacy.

RV Parks and Campgrounds: For those traveling in an RV or camping, Vicksburg has several RV parks and campgrounds that offer facilities such as electric and water hookups, restrooms, and showers.

Casino Resorts: Vicksburg is home to several casino resorts that offer a range of amenities such as restaurants, bars, and entertainment. These resorts often offer luxurious rooms and suites, as well as access to casino gaming.

It’s a good idea to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Visitors should also consider the location of their accommodation, as some attractions may be more accessible from certain areas of the city.