Black Meetings and Tourism

March/April 2010

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AREA GUIDES MISSISSIPPI THE “GREAT RIVER STATE” BY VICTORIA HEAD There is much to experience in the southern state of Mississippi. Rich cul- ture and heritage can be found in the state’s museums, historical homes, Civil War sites and landmarks. History is also reflected in the impact of the Mississippi River, in the unfolding of the Civil Rights Movement and in Mississippi’s contributions to literature and fine arts and crafts. There are big city attractions including the glittering strip of non-stop casinos featuring world-class entertainment and neon- filled nightlife. The year-round mild cli- mate is perfect for visitors who venture to the state to explore some of the coun- try’s best golf courses and a wealth of other options for outdoor adventure. JACKSON The city of Jackson Mississippi is the 88th-largest metropolitan area in the United States. The current slogan for the city is “Jackson, Mississippi: City with Soul.” Jackson is said to be the City with Soul because of its friendly people and all of the family-friendly places to discover in the metro area. Great times are had by all during the close to 100 events held in town throughout the year. There are heritage festivals, antique shows, symphony con- certs and great sports classics. Also, appealing to the music lover’s soul, is the wonderful array of great blues, gospel, jazz and more. Soul food abounds in this city and visitors enjoy the chance to savor the “down home” southern cooking and gourmet Southern Fusion favorites in the charm- ing neighborhood cafés; also there are over 300 restaurants in the city to choose from. This capital city of Mississippi is a great choice for leisure and business travelers alike. A major player in the American Civil Rights struggle of the 1960s, Jackson is home to a number of fine museums that focus on the conflict and the profound change that followed. During the Movement, the city became famous for the “Freedom Riders,” who helped to end segregation in the south. Today Jackson is home to numerous Docked southern river boat. Photo Credit: Dan Brandenbur tourist attractions that reflect its historic past. A stroll around the Farish Street Historical District downtown, presents many opportunities to view old houses, churches and other buildings, many of which were built by former slaves. There are contemporary attractions like the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science and the Russell C. Davis Planetarium. Those looking to host an event or a meeting in this southern city, are pleased to find that Jackson boasts over 5,000 guest rooms with an impressive STATS HOTEL Hilton Jackson Fairfield Inn Jackson Jameson Inn Jackson North MS Hilton Jackson Hotel ROOMS 273 79 67 276 EXHIBITION FACILITIES HArrIGAN cENtENNIAL HALL cENtEr total exhibit space largest hall meeting rooms 330,000 sq. ft. 85,000 sq. ft. 10 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Jackson CVB – (800) 354-7695 www.visitjackson.com 92 Black Meetings & Tourism March/April 2010: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com

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