Greenwood is Blooming
Can’t Miss Attractions This Spring
All around the country, spring is in the air. If you’re like us, as temperatures rise and things turn green again, you’re eager to get back outdoors to take in the fresh air and seasonal beauty! And in our opinion, there’s no better way to experience the great outdoors than in the Heart of the Delta in Greenwood, Mississippi.
Blooming with some of the Mississippi Delta’s most scenic gems, Greenwood invites you to journey through our beautiful landscapes and create your perfect getaway. Our charming town is brimming with outdoor attractions. From our Historic Downtown Walking Tour to the Mississippi Blues Trail, there are several cultural attractions to see while enjoying a delta breeze. But if indoor activities are more your speed, we got you covered there, too! From exploring to simply relaxing, Greenwood abides.
And don’t worry, we’re taking the guesswork out of planning your perfect trip. We’ve put together our Top 10 scenic spots around town that you can’t miss, including our 10 Mississippi Blues Trail markers and peaceful locales around the Yazoo River. Lastly, be sure to also check out our colorful murals around town for that Insta-worthy pic! #travelgreenwood.
Top 10 Scenic Spring Stops
1. Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church
Beautiful trees, including century-old Oaks, provide plenty of shade at the gravesite of legendary Bluesman, Robert Johnson. Nestled next to the white faded, one-room church, this landmark is one of the most popular sites in Greenwood.
Johnson’s actual gravesite was steeped in mystery and folklore for decades, largely because no one knew which Zion Church he was buried at – and there are several throughout the Mississippi Delta. Eventually, in 2002, a gravestone was erected North of Greenwood at the Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church on Money Road. This site, established by an eyewitness to the burial, is considered the most accurate and reliable, making this an officially recognized stop on the Mississippi Blues Trail.
Explore the life and legacy of Robert Johnson and other influential blues artists and other historic sites here.
Want more? Check out our special Robert Johnson blog to learn more about the man who revolutionized playing the guitar and blues music forever.
2. The Yazoo River Bank
There’s a gorgeous stretch of grass overlooking the river, where you can sit and watch the beautiful sunrises. This spot is particularly lovely early in the morning on a spring day when everything is turning green, and the temperatures are divine. Many visitors have been known to bring a picnic basket with homemade goodies and savor the sounds of nature calling.
3. Yazoo River Trail Park
If you’re looking to continue your adventure by the Yazoo River Bank, the River Trail Park offers a cool and tranquil place to go for a walk or hike. The trail twists through 45 acres of forest habitat. You can bring your furry friend (as long as they’re on a leash) and take the bridge or boardwalk as a path.
4. Rail Spike Park
Rail Spike Park Pavilion stretches along the old C&G Railroad. As the site of the Downtown Greenwood Farmers Market, it’s a fabulous place to hang out and pick up local produce to enjoy during your visit. You can get fresh items starting May 25 until the end of September every Saturday from 7:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. If the farmers market isn’t happening on the day you visit, you can enjoy three restaurants in the area — Jeem’s Diner, The Crystal Grill or The Bread and Butter Shoppe.
5. The Alluvian Hotel & Spa
Step into a boutique, cosmopolitan hotel right in the heart of downtown Greenwood. The Alluvian Hotel & Spa’s name has deep roots in this region. Named after the mineral-rich alluvial soil throughout the Mississippi Delta, it’s the perfect place to relax, recharge and reconnect. Book a luxurious treatment in their full-service spa and watch the cares of the world melt away. The Alluvian is also home to Giardina’s restaurant, a fine dining restaurant with a warm and laidback ambiance. Featuring steaks, seafood and Italian flare, prepare to make your taste buds water. Book a room at thealluvian.com.
6. Experience The Viking Cooking School
From the novice to the experienced cook, thousands of students of all ages and backgrounds attend Viking Cooking School’s classes each year. If you love to cook, entertain or simply appreciate the pleasure of great food, the Viking Cooking School is the perfect place to indulge in those passions. It’s all about fun and sharing a great meal with friends and family.
Know before you go:
- The cooking school typically books up a couple months in advance, so start planning now to secure your spot.
- Private events are available. Whether a corporate team-building activity, a supper club, group tour, birthday, or family affair, the Viking Cooking School can accommodate your private event. You can choose your own menu from private events menus or select a currently offered class.
7. Tallahatchie Flats
If you’re planning an overnight stay in Greenwood, consider staying at the Tallahatchie Flats. These unique, old-time farmhouses are located on a delta cotton plantation overlooking the Tallahatchie River. Like taking a step back in time, the rich history of Greenwood is vividly seen. It’s also a picturesque spot for bird watching or just enjoying nature.
8. Explore Our Civil Rights History
Greenwood honors and respects its Civil Rights history through the Trail of Freedom. As the launchpad to a movement, there are multiple historic sites throughout Greenwood. We invite you to join us to learn more about the pivotal role our town played leading up to and during the Civil Rights Movement.
Remembering the Struggle for Civil Rights – The Greenwood Sites.
Read our blog on the Mississippi Freedom Trial here:
Another great tool to explore the legacy of Emmett Till is the Emmett Till Memory Project app (available in the app store). The sign describes what happened at Bryant’s Grocery, which is widely considered the start of the Civil Rights Movement. The app takes users to sites in the Mississippi Delta and beyond. You’re provided with expert-vetted narratives, access to relevant archival documents, and a collection of historic and contemporary photographs. Learn more about the Emmett Till memory project here.
9. Mississippi Blues Trail
Greenwood and the blues share a special relationship that’s deeply embedded in the Delta’s roots. The statewide trail consists of more than 100 historical markers featuring significant people and places who contributed to the birthplace of America’s music. To learn more about the Mississippi Blues Trail markers in Greenwood, visit the official website: msbluestrail.org.
10. The Museum of The Mississippi Delta
At the crossroads of history and art is the Museum of the Mississippi Delta. Learn about the archaeology exhibit that explores Native American culture, including artifacts and furniture from the home of former Choctaw Chief Greenwood Leflore on display at the museum. Immerse yourself into photographs of the Civil War era and walk through a diorama of Mississippi swamps. Learn more about the exhibit and hours.
Come See Us!
Young or old, history buff or music aficionado, bookworm or outdoor lover, there’s something for everyone in Greenwood. This spring we invite you to visit Greenwood to take in all our seasonal beauty and our rich history. Find Your Beat from the Heart of the Delta and download our visitor guide HERE to find places to eat, stay and stray during your upcoming visit or stop by our office at 225 Howard Street.
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