Mississippi in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Just a short drive south of Jackson, the state capital, the quaint town of Greenwood offers a fascinating glimpse into Mississippi’s cinematic past. This area is best known for the filming of “The Help,” the acclaimed film adaptation of Kathryn Stockett’s novel, which took advantage of Greenwood’s well-preserved antebellum homes and historic downtown. Visitors can stroll along the town’s charming streets, admiring the elegant architecture featured in the film, and even take guided tours that delve into the locations and stories behind the scenes. The town’s quiet, tree-lined avenues and verdant settings transport visitors back to the 1960s, making it a unique spot for those fascinated by the civil rights era and Southern storytelling. Springtime, when azaleas bloom and the weather is mild, provides the most picturesque backdrop for visitors exploring the filming sites.
Heading southeast to Natchez, perched on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, you find a city where history and film intertwine beautifully. Natchez was a key filming location for the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” thanks to its authentic antebellum architecture and riverfront charm. Visitors can wander the Natchez National Historical Park, which preserves several historic homes and landmarks featured in the film. The scenic Natchez Trace Parkway runs nearby, offering a peaceful drive through rolling hills and ancient forests. This blend of river views and well-preserved history gives Natchez a cinematic atmosphere that feels both timeless and evocative. Early fall, with its crisp air and colorful foliage, is the perfect season to experience the city’s blend of film history and natural beauty.
About 30 minutes east of Tupelo, the birthplace of Elvis Presley, lies the town of Booneville, which was used as a stand-in for various Southern small towns in the movie “In the Heat of the Night.” The Booneville Depot, a restored train station, and several surrounding residential neighborhoods capture the mid-20th-century vibe that made the film’s setting so authentic. Visitors can explore local landmarks and imagine scenes from the Oscar-winning thriller that tackled themes of race and justice. Booneville’s slow pace and rustic charm offer an immersive experience, especially during cooler months when outdoor exploration is most comfortable. Participating in a local history tour adds depth to understanding the town’s role both in film and Southern culture.
In southeastern Mississippi, near Hattiesburg, the historic district of downtown Hattiesburg served as a backdrop for the film “This Christmas.” The area’s preserved early 20th-century buildings and festive small-town atmosphere made it an ideal location for the holiday-themed story. Visitors can enjoy walking tours of the district, stopping by local shops and cafes that embody the warm community spirit seen on screen. The Hattiesburg Depot and nearby Paul B. Johnson State Park offer additional insights into the setting’s natural and cultural environment. Winter, when the film’s Christmas themes come alive through local seasonal events, is the best time to appreciate this place’s cozy charm.
Moving westward, the Mississippi Blues Trail winds through Clarksdale, a town famed for its deep ties to the blues and its occasional cameo in music-related films and documentaries. The Delta Blues Museum here provides exhibits on legendary musicians and the cultural roots of the blues, some of which have been featured in films exploring the genre’s impact. Visitors can walk the lively downtown streets, visit historic juke joints, and even catch live performances at venues like Red’s Lounge. Clarksdale’s dusty streets and soulful music culture offer a vivid, authentic experience that sets it apart from generic tourist stops. Late spring and early summer are ideal for catching outdoor music festivals that further bring the blues’ cinematic stories to life.
About an hour north of Jackson, the town of Raymond holds another cinematic treasure in the form of its courthouse square, featured in several films that highlight Mississippi’s complex social history. The historic Hinds County Courthouse, with its grand columns and period details, was notably used in the production of “Mississippi Burning.” Visitors can tour the courthouse and nearby historical markers, gaining a deeper understanding of the civil rights struggles depicted in the film. The town’s quiet streets and preserved 19th-century buildings provide a striking visual contrast to the intense themes of justice and conflict portrayed on screen. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable and scenic weather for exploring Raymond’s historic film sites.
Down on the Gulf Coast, the city of Biloxi has been the scene of many movies thanks to its coastal charm and lively casinos. The Biloxi Lighthouse and the beachfront areas have appeared in several productions, including parts of “Double Jeopardy.” Visitors can tour the lighthouse museum, walk the sandy beaches, and enjoy the blend of maritime history and modern entertainment that gives Biloxi its unique cinematic appeal. The Gulf Coast’s humid subtropical climate means that late winter and early spring provide the best conditions for exploring the scenic shoreline and film locations without the summer heat and crowds.
Finally, in the northern reaches of the state near Oxford, Rowan Oak is the historic home of William Faulkner, a literary giant whose works have inspired numerous film adaptations. The house and grounds, managed by the University of Mississippi, offer tours that reveal the environment that shaped Faulkner’s stories, many of which have been brought to the screen. Visitors can wander the oak-shaded grounds and explore the preserved interior, filled with period furnishings and personal artifacts. Oxford’s vibrant town square, full of bookstores and cafes, complements the visit with a lively cultural scene. Autumn, when the leaves turn golden and campus events are in full swing, is the most evocative time to connect with Faulkner’s legacy and its cinematic echoes.