ABOUT JACKSON
In the heart of the Magnolia State, you'll find Jackson, a place where Mississippi's Southern hospitality brings family and friends together. From the city's outdoor parks and attractions to its countless museums and historic sites, Jackson's warm weather and rich history are on full display everywhere you go, so get ready to explore Jackson!
Hot, Hot Jackson
You can plan on sweating a bit if you visit Jackson in summer—highs from June through August are usually in the high 80s or low 90s—but milder temperatures prevail in winter. A sweater or light jacket is all you need to keep warm on the average winter day. You probably won't need an umbrella either, though it doesn't hurt to pack one. Around 4 or 5 inches of rain fall most months of the year, but summer tends to be the most volatile season, with much of its precipitation arriving on the heels of thunderstorms and the occasional hurricane. If moderate conditions are what you're after, plan a trip during spring or fall.
Outdoor Fun
With such an agreeable climate, it's not surprising that some of Jackson's most exciting attractions are in the great outdoors. You can spot more than 100 animal species at the Jackson Zoo, which has been providing thrills since 1919. If you're really into the outdoors, take a trip to Roosevelt State Park, just 35 minutes outside Jackson, for a quiet family picnic or fishing trip. When you're ready to get in out of the sun, stop at the Mississippi Children's Museum to try your hand at some interactive science experiments, or swing by the Russel C. Davis Planetarium and learn a little bit about the stars that dot the Mississippi sky.
Jackson Industries
Jackson's diverse economy has helped it dodge the economic downturn that has affected other parts of the state. You'll notice a lot of universities and hospitals in Jackson, and they're all major employers, but the biggest of all is the state of Mississippi itself—not a huge surprise, since Jackson is the state capital. Take a free tour of the capitol building any weekday, or drop by the Old Capitol Museum for a revelatory look at Mississippi's rich history. Back in the day, Jackson was a major player in the South's music industry as well, and you can follow the Mississippi Blues Trail through Jackson to explore hot spots like the Alamo Theater and Trumpet Records.
Around Town
You can say one thing for sure about Jackson: You won't have any trouble getting there. A steady stream of families arrives by air at the Jackson International Airport, 15 minutes from downtown. The airport is a major hub for half a dozen airlines, including Continental, Delta and Northwest. Not a fan of air travel? No problem. Just hop on a bus or train. Either way, you'll be arriving at 300 West Capitol Street, home to the city's centrally located Amtrak and Greyhound station. If you'd rather drive, Interstate 55 plunges right through the heart of the city from north to south, while Interstate 20 runs east and west.