Jackson, Mississippi

Jackson is the capital of Mississippi and the largest city in the state. The city was established in 1822 on the site of a trading post known as LeFleur's Bluff, which was set on the bluffs above the Pearl River. Jackson was named for Major General Andrew Jackson, who would sit as President of the United States between 1829–1837.

The city has an interesting history. On a dark note, it was burned three times by Union troops during the Civil War. As a result of the burnings, there are few antebellum buildings left in town, but some include the Boddie Mansion, governor's mansion, and the city hall. But Jackson was also a trailblazer, for in 1839, it saw the passage of the first state law that permitted married women to own and administer their own property.

History can be explored at area museums, including: Medgar Evers Home Museum, home of the assassinated Civil Rights leader; the Oaks House Museum, which dates to around 1850 and is probably the oldest in the city; and the Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center, which celebrates the contributions of African Americans. You can also stroll the Farish Street Historical District, which is located in the center of Jackson, and includes a variety of businesses and homes in styles including antebellum, Creole, Queen Anne, shotgun and bungalow cottages, as well as the historic Alamo Theater.

Other museums include the Mississippi Museum of Art, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, and the International Museum of Muslim Cultures.

Those who like the performing arts will never be bored in Jackson. The city is not only the home to Ballet Mississippi, but to the USA International Ballet Competition, which is held every four years, and is a two-week, "Olympic-style" competition. Other local groups include Polarity Dance Theatre, The Mississippi Chorus, the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, the Mississippi Opera, New Stage Theatre, and for the younger set, the Community Children's Theater.

And since I've mentioned kids, they're also sure to love the Jackson Zoo, which is set on 110 acres (46 hectares) and is home to 120 species, including 18 which are endangered.

For those who feel that life doesn't get any better than when you're strolling through a garden, there's good news. Jackson is home to Mynelle Gardens, a seven-acre (three-hectare) greenspace with gardens, paths, pools, and bridges, and to the Eudora Welty House and Garden.

Jackson has 54 city parks and facilities, which cover about 2,300 acres (931 hectares) of land. The city is also home to the urban LeFleur's Bluff State Park, which includes a nine-hole golf course and driving range. And outside of town, you can enjoy Roosevelt State Park, about 37 miles (60 kilometers) east, Holmes County State Park, about 65 miles (105 kilometers) north, and Lake Lincoln State Park, about 46 miles (74 kilometers) south.

And what's more, Jackson was named one of America's Most Livable Cities in 2004! Come and see for yourself why Jackson is the "Best of the New South."

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