If your dog is attached at your hip or you’re one of the many people who adopted a pandemic puppy, you’ve probably considered bringing Fido along on vacation with you. Luckily, more and more places are becoming dog-friendly, and Vicksburg, Mississippi is no exception. With plenty of parks and open spaces, as well as dog-friendly shops and cafes, this Mississippi River town is opening its doors to humans and furry friends alike. Here are our recommendations of some dog-friendly places to take your four-legged companion.
WHAT TO DO
Vicksburg National Military Park: With 1,800 acres to explore at this historic battlefield, there is plenty for both you and your pup to see and do. Wander a portion of the 16-mile pedestrian trail and keep an eye out for the 1,321 monuments and markers within the park. If your dog is up for a bit of a challenge, there also are wilderness hiking trails in the park.
Explore Downtown: Stroll the streets of historic downtown Vicksburg with your pooch in tow. Some of the shops and cafes are dog-friendly, just be sure to ask before entering. You can follow one of the five self-guided, downtown walking tours to learn more about the area while your dog enjoys some exercise. While you’re downtown, snap some photos of your pup in front of the riverfront murals.
Catfish Row Art Park: Have a puppy picnic and watch the sunset from the Catfish Row Art Park. You’ll have a great view of the Vicksburg murals on the Levee Street floodwall. There are also walking trails and historical sites in this area as well.
Vicksburg Dog Park: Take your dog somewhere that was meant specifically for him—the Vicksburg Dog Park. This park has fenced in grassy areas where dogs can run around off-leash and interact with other dogs. Your pup will be worn out after playing with all of his or her new friends!
Tara Wildlife: This 9,000-acre lodge and outdoor recreation center has plenty of space for Fido to run around in the fresh air and a scenic setting. If your dog is a hunting dog, Tara Wildlife is also a great place to hunt.
WHERE TO EAT
Most restaurants with patios will allow you to bring your dog to dine outside with you. Sit outside The Tomato Place and chow down on the best tomato sandwich you’ll ever have. Have a drink and some Southern cuisine while you sit on the large deck or in the beer garden at Martin’s at Midtown. Enjoy a craft beer on the patio at Cottonwood Public House. When you’re ready for a sweet treat, Bop’s Frozen Custard and Bohemia Bakery offer outdoor seating.
WHERE TO STAY
When it’s time to turn in for the night, you’ll be happy to discover a host of hotels and bed and breakfasts in Vicksburg that allow you to bring your pet. Here is a listing by type of accommodation:
Hotels/Motels/Inns:
- Best Western
- Candlewood Suites
- Dixiana Motel
- Econo Lodge
- Holiday Inn Vicksburg
- LaQuinta Inn and Suites
- OYO Hotel
- Quality Inn
- Relax Inn
- Rodeway Inn
- Scottish Inn
- Travel Inn
RV Parks and Campsites:
- Chotard Landing Resort
- Tara Wildlife
- Magnolia RV Park
- Sunset View RV Park
Bed and Breakfasts:
- Anchuca Historic Mansion and Inn
- Annabelle Bed and Breakfast
- Corners Mansion and Inn
- Steele Cottage
Get out and about in Vicksburg with your four-legged BFF to explore a charming, historic city with so many stories to tell. Document your dog-friendly visit by posting your favorite moments to Insta and using the hashtag #VisitVicksburg and #VisitMSResponsibly.
