Mississippi features a unique blend of urban and rural communities that will both take you back in history and satisfy your contemporary tastes. February is mild and there are a variety of attractions and activities to take part in. The Aberdeen Visitors Bureau has arranged a drive of over 50 historic homes in the area. Visitors should stop by the bureau and pick up a brochure that will direct you through this self-guided driving tour. Many of the homes are available for tours as well. Inquire on the homes to see which ones require appointments for viewing.

Brices Crossroads National Battlefield is located in Baldwyn. The Confederate cavalry was under the control General Nathan Bedford when the Union troops defeated them on this battlefield and force them to withdrawal to Tennessee. The visitors center offers information on two battlefield trails, five markers, two cemeteries, flag exhibits and various historical bookstores and galleries. Auto tours are available year round. In Bay St. Louis you will find the Historic Bay St. Louis Depot. This is a circa 1928 mission style two-story building that is surrounded by park grounds. The depot was featured in the 1966 film, This Property is Condemned starring Robert Redford and Natalie Wood. The depot is currently an Amtrak scheduled stop.

Over 200 resident artists call Old Town Bay St. Louis home. The streets of Old Town feature antique shops, art galleries, boutiques, gift shops and a variety of restaurants. Shops are open until 8 pm in the evenings and sponsor live entertainment on Saturdays. The St. Augustine Seminary and Grotto is also located in Bay St. Louis. The church and seminary were relocated from Greenville in 1920. This the oldest Roman Catholic Seminary in the United States used to train and ordain African-Americans for priesthood. Open year round and tours are available by appointment.

In Biloxi you find the impressive 65-foot cast iron Biloxi Lighthouse. The lighthouse has been used since 1848. The lighthouse is one of the most photographed sites in the Gulf. The lighthouse may require appointments for tours. The Cunningham House is the location where the Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest planned the Battle of Brices Crossroads victory. The house is located in Booneville. Movie Museums is located in Canton. The Movie Museums features sets for John Grishams A Time to Kill and Willie Morris My Dog Skip. Located in the Wilbanks Building. The Multicultural Center and Museum is located here as well.

Rob Vrabel
http://mississippi.2havefun.com/