• Enjoy a fun-filled weekend in one of Mississippi's major cities.Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  The state of Mississippi has a mainly rural landscape full of scenic countrysides with quaint towns and small cities in between. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is a popular vacation destination, with beaches and gulf-front hotels. Between quiet country roads, historical cities and the Gulf Coast, there are plenty of places to get away for a fun weekend in Mississippi.
  
  

Natchez, Mississippi

• Visit the historic town of Natchez, Mississippi, for the weekend. This nearly-300-year-old town is the epitome of Southern charm and values. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Natchez is full of pre-war, antebellum-style homes, historical attractions and classic Southern dining options.
  
  Visitors to the area can take a hike or bike ride in Natchez National Park. You can also take a step back in time on a Natchez Pilgrimage tour, where 30 antebellum mansions are open for tours with costumed tour guides. Enjoy Southern jazz on the Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise, or head to Cock of the Walk for Southern fried chicken and fried catfish. At night, Biscuits and Blues offers more food options and live blues.
  
  

Mississipi Gulf Coast

• Those looking for fun can head south to the Gulfport and Biloxi, Mississippi, area for a weekend of fun on the beach. With more than 62 miles of shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico, visitors can go swimming, fishing or just lie around on the white sand beaches for a while. Other options for fun include racing a jet ski, going kayaking or taking a schooner boat cruise at sunset.
  
  If you're looking to double your money, there are 11 casinos in the area from which to choose. Visitors can enjoy Gulf Coast seafood at restaurants like Back Bay Seafood Restaurant and Catfish Charlie, a local favorite. At night the Lava Bar has dancing and drinks, and Ledge Bar in the Hard Rock Casino is popular among the younger crowd.
  
  

Jackson, Mississippi

• Spend the weekend in Jackson, also known as the City with Soul. Visitors can tour the historical attractions of Jackson, such as the Smith Roberson Museum and Cultural Center, which highlights the struggle for civil rights, and the War Memorial Building, honoring Mississippi soldiers. You can also visit the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, honoring athletes from the state.
  
  For a night out, Farish Street has music and entertainment. You can catch a show at the historic Alamo Theater, where music legend Nat King Cole once played, or check out local favorite Julep Restaurant and Bar, which offers upscale soul food.