Romance on the River: Natchez, Mississippi

One of the crown jewels of the American south is the charming town of Natchez, Mississippi.   Perched on the bluff above the mighty Mississippi River, Natchez is host to a collection of some of the most stately and dignified mansions in America. This little enclave of southern charm is truly one of the most photogenic places we have visited in our travels. It is the perfect getaway for couples.

Stanton Hall, built c. 1858

Stanton Hall0 (ca. 1858)

The Natchez Story

The history of Natchez begins exactly 300 years ago. It was founded by a group of French traders in 1716, making it one of the oldest settlements on the Mississippi River. Its location made it an important stop on the river. In a bit of geographic gerrymandering, the city reverted to Spanish control after the French and Indian War.  It later become a part of the westward expansion of the United States. It once served as the capital of the state of Mississippi, until the city of Jackson replaced it.

Rosalie (ca. 1832)

Rosalie (ca. 1832)

The Natchez Pilgrimage

The pilgrimage to Natchez has become an annual right of passage for the high style southerner. Each spring, and now since it has grown in popularity, each fall as well, the entire town throws open it doors to the public. If dressing up in Antebellum attire, riding in coaches and greeting fellow tourists with “darling” and “kind sir” are your bailiwick, the pilgrimage is just your thing. The pilgrimage is your one chance to get inside one of the amazing manors. The challenge is taking a picture of the homes without throngs of people doing exactly the same thing. A great website for all things pilgrimage is http://www.natchezpilgrimage.com/

Monmouth Plantation (ca. 1818)

Monmouth Plantation (ca. 1818)

Natchez for Couples

Without a doubt, visiting Natchez with your lover is a dream come true. Strolling the main street, or picnicking on the grounds of one of the homes that are open to the public is simply romantic perfection. There are some incredible eateries in town with a focus on both French and southern comfort food. In the evening, a number of horse-drawn carriages can give you and your beau a great tour of the town.

Beautiful Natchez

Beautiful Natchez

Day Trip

We highly recommend the Fighting Couple’s “Oh Brother, Where art Thou” adventure as a day trip.

Natchez for Couples!

Natchez for Couples!

Getting There

The city of Natchez is situated at the end of a beautiful 90 mile drive from Jackson, Mississippi or drive up from Baton Rouge will take you a little over two hours. We chose to drive down from Nashville along the Natchez Trace historic byway. (Highly recommended!)

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7 Responses to Romance on the River: Natchez, Mississippi

  1. DeJavieur L Speller August 25, 2015 at 5:28 pm #

    Looks like a peaceful place that gives the country feeling.

  2. Jess November 29, 2015 at 10:54 am #

    The Mississippi River is on our list for must see soon. Thank you for the beautiful photos and ideas on where to go and what to do .

  3. The Fighting Couple December 1, 2015 at 8:22 pm #

    Thanks Jessica. The Mississippi is a great adventure!

  4. komal December 7, 2015 at 12:02 am #

    Mike and lucy….great discovery it will make me to add this place to my weekend getaways bucketlist….Thank you.

  5. The Fighting Couple December 9, 2015 at 10:54 am #

    Natchez is really special. Great views and food! Thanks for the comment.

  6. Patricia January 10, 2016 at 6:52 pm #

    Mississippi has some of the best scenery this world has to offer. From magnificent rivers views to the awe-inspiring houses, Mississippi is definitely one of the best places you should visit.

  7. Adrenaline Romance April 29, 2016 at 3:50 am #

    That’s a pretty, charming place! :)