Last Updated on: 21st September 2021, 11:01 pm
Jackson is an incredibly beautiful and charming city, and you can’t come to town without snapping a pic or two. Here are (what I consider to be) some of the best places to take pictures in Jackson and the best Jackson Instagram spots.
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My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2023
These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.
Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing
Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viator.
Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com.
For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.
For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars.
Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.
For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon.
Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).
For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.
Note: We were guests of Visit Jackson, who I reached out to after deciding we wanted to see Jackson on our Big Southern USA Road Trip. As always, all opinions are my own.
The Most Instagrammable Places in Jackson, Mississippi
Whether this is your first time to visit Mississippi or you’re a long-time resident, the natural beauty of the capital city of the Magnolia State can be overwhelming. There’s so much to see here, which means there are tons of great Jackson photo spots to choose from.
These are my personal favorite Instagrammable places in Jackson, and I also have a few more options listed below along with places that are outside of the city but still nearby.
Pro Tip: Planning a Jackson getaway? Check out my 3-day Jackson itinerary which includes a detailed guide for a long weekend in Jackson.
Good to Know: These are all easy photography spots in Jackson for someone coming into town looking for vacation pics.
However, if you are looking for professional photoshoot locations in Jackson, note that you will need to confirm with any private businesses if they have rules on how and when photos can be taken and if there is pricing available to close down for a photography shoot.
Good to Know: Love Instagram as much as I do? Follow me @historyfangirl to see my pics from my travels – both past and present!
Alamo Theatre
This landmark historic theater has been open since 1942. Alamo Theatre was originally a movie theater for Black Americans to use during the Jim Crow era of the South.
It is now a film and live music venue.
The outside of the theater has been lovingly maintained, and the building is a stunning example of contemporary cinema architecture.
Keep in mind the theater’s importance and history when taking pictures here. Make sure anything you do is done in a respectful manner.
Address: 333 N Farish St, Jackson, MS 39202
Belhaven University
Originally Belhaven College for Young Ladies, today’s Belhaven University is located in the historic Belhaven neighborhood.
Both the Belhaven Fountain and Preston Hall are beautiful places in Jackson to take pictures.
Address: 1500 Peachtree St, Jackson, MS 39202
Birdhouse Gardens
This Jackson hidden gem is located in the Fondren neighborhood. The Birdhouse Gardens are a private residence whose lawn is decorated with dozens of unique wooden birdhouses!
It might be strange to think that one of the best places for photography in Jackson is the yard of a private home, but they are listed on the Public Art Map.
While I adore this place, keep in mind that when you come you need to be respectful to both the owners and the rest of the neighborhood.
Address: 1016 Avondale St, Jackson, MS 39216
Brent’s Drugs
This isn’t just one of the most popular photography locations in Jackson, it’s actually one of the most popular cinematography places as well! It was even one of the filming locations for the movie The Help.
This iconic Jackson restaurant Brent‘s Drugs is decked out inside like a mid-century pharmacy-meets-diner. The interior colors are vibrant, the fonts are original, and the ambiance cannot be matched.
Keep in mind that if you want to do a full photoshoot here (as in more than just a selfie or quick pic), you’ll need to be mindful of the other patrons.
This is one of the great places to take family pictures in Jackson since everyone is happier when ice cream (and mimosas) can be the treat when the pics are done.
Address: 655 Duling Ave, Jackson, MS 39216
Coca-Cola Mural
The faded Coca-Cola mural on Farish Street would make a lovely place to take engagement photos in Jackson. There’s something so special about faded paint on brick that gives the pictures an instant vintage feel.
This is technically called a ghost sign, where you can see the remaining paint but it’s not actively in use as an advertisement and is not being maintained.
Sometimes ghost signs are given new life with a fresh coat of paint, but for now, I just love the look as it is.
Address: Farish Street
Eudora Welty House and Garden
One of my favorite pretty places in Jackson, the Eudora Welty House and Garden features beautiful beds of roses and lilies and a Tudor-style historic home. It’s an almost pastoral escape inside of the city.
While you can’t take pictures inside, you can take tons of pictures of the house and gardens. This is another great place for a family picture in Jackson.
Address: 1109 Pinehurst St, Jackson, MS 39202
Farish Street
Some of the most beautiful pictures of Jackson I have from our trip are our time on Farish Street. While some of the buildings are faded, you can tell that this historic African American business district was once wealthy and thriving.
Address: Farish Street
Fine & Dandy
This restaurant in LeFleur East, Fine & Dandy has an elegant-yet-fun decor with lots of Instagrammable spots and corners for pictures. Everything from the bar to the food has been crafted with this in mind.
While it may seem silly to some, the idea that the “phone has to eat before the mouth” is ingrained in today’s restaurant industry.
This is a great restaurant if you want to have beautiful pictures to remember your brunch, lunch, or dinner by.
Address: 100 District Blvd E, Jackson, MS 39211
Fondren Corner
The iconic Fondren Corner is one of the most beautiful places in Jackson. The typography is striking, and your photos will look different depending on the angle you choose. Play with lenses, poses, angles, and locations to get your own take on this famous Jackson Instagram spot.
There are also tons of colorful murals and fun buildings in Fondren, so once you’re here, branch out and see what other great takes you can find!
Address: 2906 N State St, Jackson, MS 39216
Greenwood Cemetery
Dating back to before the Civil War, this antebellum cemetery is still in use. Greenwood Cemetery is home to Eudora Welty’s grave, but if you love old cemeteries, this is also home to two hundred years of Jackson history.
If you’re looking for unique picture locations in Jackson, there are so many different gravesites, memorials, and historic corners here to choose from. Just please make sure to be respectful of the living and the dead while you’re here.
Address: North West Street at George Street Jackson, Mississippi
Hal & Mal’s
At Hal & Mal’s the food is great and so is the music, but photography lovers will find the neon lights and decor to be too tempting not to snap. This might be one of my favorite indoor photoshoot locations in Jackson that we visited.
I have candids of a couple on a romantic date, pics of the amazing bar, the interesting murals, and about two dozen pics of my toddler trying to dance with other patrons and lay down on the floor. #momlife
Address: 200 Commerce St, Jackson, MS 39201
Hotel King Edward
I love roof signs, and the one above the Hotel King Edward is just marvelous. It reminded me of the Peabody Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee, but I never could get a good picture of that one!
Today the hotel is a Hilton Garden Inn, but it retains its original majesty as a historic hotel.
Pro Tip: I’m going to list the address, but the best IG spot is going to be away from the hotel. If you start photographing down the street, you’ll get a better view of the roof sign.
Address: 102 N Mill St, Jackson, MS 39201
The JXN Icons Mural
Located across the street from the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, the JXN Icons Mural contains portraits of four famous Jacksonians: Pulitzer Prize-winning author Eudora Welty, Civil Rights icon Medgar Evers, prima ballerina Thalia Mara, and rapper and activist David Banner.
The mural is by Artist Reshonda Perryman and was funded by Visit Jackson.
Address: Across the street from the front entrance of 222 North St #2205, Jackson, MS 39201
Union Station
I just love train stations, especially the signs that call out the city! Union Station, the Jackson Train Station would be the perfect vintage Jackson photoshoot location if you want something outdoors.
Address: 300 W Capitol St, Jackson, MS 39201
Lamar Life Building
Another great Downtown Jackson landmark, the Lamar Life Building is one of the most recognizable Jackson landmarks and is a great spot for someone looking to make a fine art print of their Jackson pictures once they get home.
Lemuria Books
One of Jackson’s best hidden gems, Lemuria Books can easily be touted as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the US. From its wooden shelves that go all the way up to the ceiling to its velvety couches that you want to sink right into, this is a great place to read and relax.
This is one of the best places to take photos in Jackson if you’re looking for a beautiful (yet wonderfully nerdy) photoshoot idea. Just make sure to get permission if you’ll be doing more than a quick snap.
Lott Furniture
While Lott Furniture in Jackson may be permanently closed, the sign is one of the most lovely vintage signs and this spot is one of my favorite places to take pictures in Downtown Jackson.
Address: 216 W Capitol St, Jackson, MS 39201
Mississippi Museum of Art Art Garden
This beautiful sculpture garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art is free and open daily. Full of beautiful works of art, including a colorful rainbow arch, the Art Garden is one of the most colorful places to photograph in Jackson!
Address: 380 S Lamar St, Jackson, MS 39201
Mississippi State Capitol
The golden rotunda that reaches above the city, the Mississippi State Capitol is one of the most popular photography places in Jackson.
As an aside, how beautiful are state capitol buildings? I adore them, and the ones we saw on this road trip, from Nashville to Atlanta to Alabama, were just so lovely!
You can snap a pic of the capitol building from various angles, and there are different views depending on which street you photograph it from.
I love seeing it with the Fertile Ground Ground Notations street mural leading the way to it.
Of all the iconic Jackson views you’ll find in the city, this one might be the most well-known outside of Mississippi.
Pro Tip: Look for unique ways to frame your shot to make it truly your own!
Address: 400 High St, Jackson, MS 39201
North Midtown Arts Center
The sculpture of a fish on a bicycle above the door of the North Midtown Arts Center is one of my favorite quirky Jackson photography locations.
Referencing the phrase coined by Australian feminist Irina Dunn, “A woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle,” I absolutely adore the facade of this unique building in midtown Jackson.
Address: 121 Millsaps Ave Jackson, MS, MS 39202
Old Greyhound Station
One of the most iconic spots in Jackson, you’ve definitely seen Jackson pics of this bright blue Art Deco masterpiece. Of course, the history of the Old Greyhound Station is incredibly powerful and moving since this was where many Freedom Riders were arrested after arriving in the city.
Make sure to only take and use photographs of the station in a manner that is respectful to the history of the building. Don’t just use it as a generic Jackson scenic spot since it’s instantly recognizable.
Address: 219 N. Lamar St., Jackson, Mississippi
State Street
One of the most scenic places in Jackson for those looking for a slice of historic Jackson charm, a stop on North State Street is a can’t-miss. I’ll be honest that I found it hard to get the photo angle that I wanted, but take the challenge yourself and find your own take!
Address: 101 N State St, Jackson, MS 39201
Sun-n-Sand Motor Hotel Sign
This mid-century retro sign is a Jackson landmark. The Sun-N-Sand Motor Hotel might be gone and the site is now a construction zone, but the sign is still standing in all its Jacksonian glory.
Address: Downtown Jackson
The Slab (Mill Street Skate Park)
If you are looking for good places to take pictures in Jackson that have some action and adrenaline to them, check out The Slab. Officially known as the Mill Street Skate Park (AKA Mill Street DIY) this spot is technically privately owned yet anyone is welcome.
This park is not full of natural wonders, rather it’s a concrete jungle complete with some beautiful street art and graffiti. Even if you don’t plan on skating yourself or photographing skateboarders, there are still tons of great photo opportunities here.
Alternative Idea: If you are looking for more ideas for parks in Jackson to take pictures, but want something with more greenery, LeFleur’s Bluff State Park is an excellent place to take pictures of nature trails and adventure sports.
Address: 455 N Mill St, Jackson, MS 39202
Urban Foxes
Belhaven and Belhaven Heights are full of beautiful historic homes, which makes them great neighborhoods to come for a photo walk. However, the restaurant Urban Foxes is the only place I can think of that answers both the questions of where to take pictures in Jackson and where to get pie in Jackson.
Two crucial quests for any traveler in the South.
The house the restaurant is located in is a beautifully restored craftsman, with amazing woodwork. Coffee and pastries have never had a prettier setting in which to be photographed.
Address: 826 North St, Jackson, MS 39202
Welcome to Jackson Mural
One of the most popular places to take pictures in Jackson is the giant Welcome to Jackson Mural. The mural was painted by Scott Allen/ A Plus Signs & Creative.
Address: 200 S President St, Jackson, MS 39201
Zorro
If giant friendly foxes are your thing (and they are definitely my thing) stop by Zorro, one of the sculptures on the Midtown Sculpture Walk.
The piece is by Jeffie Brewer. You can download the app Otocast if you want to go on an audio tour of the area.
Address: Hinds County Human Services, 152 Millsaps Ave, Jackson, MS 39202
More Jackson Photography Spots
I have lots of places to visit in Jackson on my Jackson itinerary. Many of these spots that are on the itinerary but aren’t listed above would make great Jackson IG spots. Here are a few more ideas:
Golf Course at the Country Club of Jackson
Hiking Trails at LeFleur’s Bluff State Park
Mynelle Gardens Arboretum & Botanical Center
Views of the Pearl River
Places to Take Pictures Near Jackson
These Mississippi photography spots are all less than an hour from Jackson!
Brandon
Mississippi Petrified Forest
Old Capitol Building
The Mississippi River to get those Mighty Mississippi pics
The Natchez Trace Parkway
Vicksburg National Military Park
Other Mississippi Photoshoot Ideas
These are iconic Mississippi photography spots, but you’ll have to trek since they are all an hour or more (or much more) away.
Anywhere along the Mississippi Gulf Coast (though I have a few Gulf Coast spots picked out separately).
Biloxi Lighthouse
Clark Creek Natural Area
Gulf Islands National Seashore and the Davis Bayou Area
Clarksdale
Greenville Cypress Preserve to see the Cypress Trees at this “natural treasure in the Mississippi Delta.”
Gulfport
Hattiesburg
Ocean Springs
Out on the Gulf of Mexico
The Bluff Lake Boardwalk at Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge
Tishomingo State Park
Windsor Ruins in Port Gibson
Where to Stay in Jackson
We stayed at the Homewood Suites by Hilton, which is located in Fondren, a really fun and colorful neighborhood that touts itself as Jackson’s Arts District.
Because it has this artistic vibe, the neighborhood is vibrant and full of some of the best hidden gems in Jackson.
We found Fondren to be the perfect base during our weekend in Jackson. Beyond the great street art and the wonderful food scene, there’s an ambiance in Fondren that I can’t quite put my finger on. It has a secret sauce that you don’t want to miss out on.
The Homewood Suites themselves were really lovely. The hotel is new, and you could feel the love poured into the decor. All the art has been inspired by the city (and a lot of it has been inspired by the neighborhood).
The rooms are large-yet-still-cozy. I would definitely stay here again.
Address: 2815 N State St, Jackson, MS 39216
Check Rates and Book Your Stay at the Homewood Suites by Hilton
5 Things to Pack for Your Trip to Mississippi
Whether you’re going on a Mississippi honeymoon or a family vacation, there are a few things that everyone will want to bring with them.
A local guidebook. It’s very difficult to find guidebooks once you are already on the ground. Pick up a copy of Lonely Planet Louisiana & the Deep South to help you plan ahead of time and keep with you once you’re here.
A camera. While it’s great to have a cell phone with you for quick pics, if you want to do more serious photography or take more videos, I find it nice to travel with a separate dedicated camera as well.
If I will be wrestling with my toddler on the trip, I’ll grab my Sony ZV-1, which is a powerful compact camera with great video capabilities as well. If it’s just me, I’ll take my Nikon (though if you’re buying a new camera I have my eye on this Sony).
A Backup Charging Bank. This is for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS, and general travel genie. The mountains can drain your battery since it will take more power to continually check for signal where the signal gets spotty.
A Great Day Bag so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc).
My current favorite is the Pacsafe Citysafe, which is especially great for tourist destinations because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets plus RFID technology to keep your credit card digits safe.
It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day.
A Pair of Comfortable Closed-Toed Walking Shoes. I use boots like these or like these. Pack hiking shoes if you’re planning on hiking. Otherwise, any closed-toed shoes will work. This itinerary is packed and you’ll be on your feet a lot. Make sure to take care of them!
More Mississippi Travel Resources
Heading to Mississippi? Here are all the Mississippi travel resources on my blog!
Mississippi State
A guide to Mississippi’s National Parks.
The best quotes about Mississippi.
Jackson
Here is my itinerary for Jackson for three days (will also work for 1, 2, 4, and 5 days) plus my favorite Jackson Instagram spots and reasons to visit Jackson!
Included in these Round-Ups
Guidebooks I Used to Plan My Trip Around the South
These are the travel guidebooks that I used to plan my entire 5-week Southern USA road trip. I highly recommend each of them!
This is My South – written by my friend Caroline Eubanks of the eponymous blog, this book is a must-read if you plan on visiting a few places on your trip.
Lonely Planet Florida & the South’s Best Trips – this book was essential for me when I was trying to plan our road trip and understanding what was near each other and what absolutely not to miss.
Moon U.S. Civil Rights Trail: A Traveler’s Guide to the People, Places, and Events that Made the Movement – we did a lot of Civil Rights and Civil War historic sites on our trip, and if you’ll be doing any of this kind of travel, make sure to get this.
It was invaluable for finding off-the-beaten-path sites and can’t miss Black-owned historic businesses.
Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance
Before you leave for Mississippi make sure you have a valid Travel Insurance Policy because accidents happen on the road. I like to use World Nomads when I travel, and I happily recommend them.
It’s especially important to get travel insurance whenever you are more than one hundred miles from home.
Pin This Guide to the Best Places to Take Pictures in Jackson, Mississippi for Your Jackson Adventures!
