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Vicksburg’s Rich Cultural Heritage Meets Modern Downtown Revitalization

Downtown Vicksburg's rich historical heritage and Civil War history has converged with its revitalized and modern cityscape and pastimes.

By Kaitlyn Chow on January 23, 2014

The Attic Gallery in Downtown Vicksburg, MS
Vicksburg / Staff Photographer
The Attic Gallery features contemporary art, crafts and more in downtown Vicksburg.

Vicksburg’s eclectic past and vibrant present converge in its recently rejuvenated downtown. Rich in Civil War history, the local heritage is unmistakable as you pass by its antique shops, museums, galleries and renovated infrastructures.

Visiting Downtown

Kristen Meehan, who has lived downtown since 2007, loves the location for many reasons, one being its undeniable historical legacy.

“You can stand on the bluffs that overlook the Yazoo Diversion Canal and the Mississippi River on one side, then turn around and see the Old Court House Museum and know every step in between something was taking place during the Civil War,” Meehan says.

Main Street is the place to be for shopping, touring, munching and sightseeing.

“If you’re into food, do part of the tamale trail – start at Solly’s,” Meehan says. “If you want the blues, go to Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar when they have live music. If you love art, especially folk art, you must go by Attic Gallery.”

Meehan also suggests kayaking, biking, hiking, running or picnicking in Vicksburg National Military Park, where you’ll also see the occasional Civil War re-enactment. There’s really no limit to activities in the area, with a wide scope of dining experiences, specialty shopping and entertainment. 

“Vicksburg is great in that it is not one size fits all, it is what fits you,” Meehan says. 

Check into one of Bazsinsky House’s guest rooms for a cozy night or weekend stay. Records date the property as early as 1840, and with full-scale remodeling completed in 2009, these private suites complete with Jacuzzi tubs will have you sinking into pure bliss. The attached Olga Douglas Lewis Gardens are no shabby sight to behold either.

“Bazsinsky House has this warm and inviting feeling, and the owners went to great lengths to pay incredible attention to detail when remodeling the home,” Meehan says.

Downtown Living

Vicksburg’s revitalized downtown has eclipsed its mark as just a great travel destination and is becoming additionally noted for its livability.

Pristine views of the Mississippi River and downtown compliment 20 fully furnished apartments with private balconies at The Valley. Originally built in 1881, this beautiful five-story brick building has been remodeled with modern architectural structures and interior furnishings. You can enjoy the aged aspects of the city without sacrificing today’s comforts or technology.

Vicksburg has provided ample comforts for its senior citizens, too. While maintaining its rich culture by remodeling a 1924 certified historic structure, the newly opened Aeolian offers 60 apartment spaces. The $8 million renovation has transformed the senior apartments into a thriving community where there’s never a dull moment between the fitness center, salon, theater, library and mix of social events.

Additional support services, provided by Better Mississippians, include free computer classes, credit counseling, fire safety, and health and nutrition counseling for all Aeolian residents. 

So whether you are scouting for your next home or your next adventure, Vicksburg has something for everyone. 

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