Seven Rainy Day Ways to Keep Your Soul Dry in Jackson, Mississippi
Rain doesn’t dampen the spirit of Jackson—it just gives it a reason to switch gears.
When skies turn gray, the City With Soul turns inward, revealing cozy corners, creative hideouts, and plenty of reasons to stay curious. Here’s how to make the most of a rainy day in JXN.
Ride the Soundwaves at Offbeat
Part record store, part art gallery, and all vibes, Offbeat in Downtown is where vinyl meets visual storytelling. It’s a hideaway for crate-diggers, comic lovers and culture nerds. Pop in for a dig through rare pressings, catch a surprise DJ set, or just soak in the creative chaos. Rain or shine, the scene’s always spinning.
Taste the Story of Jackson—One Bite at a Time
Rainy days were made for comfort food, and in Jackson, that means serious flavor. Think retro breakfast counters at Brent’s Drugs, a pig ear sandwich from Big Apple Inn, or a sugar-dusted treat from Campbell’s Bakery. Each plate tells part of the city’s story—no umbrella required.
Make Something with Your Hands (and Heart)
Let the rain inspire your inner artist. Drop into a hands-on workshop at the Mississippi Museum of Art or scope out creative sessions at Briarwood Arts Center. From pottery to printmaking, it’s a chance to leave with something more personal than a souvenir—your own piece of the City With Soul.
Wander Through Wonder at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
Forget the umbrella—this is where you can explore swamps, aquariums, and fossils all under one roof. The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science features a 100,000-gallon aquarium network, live reptile exhibits, and engaging natural science displays. It’s a dynamic option for families and curious adults alike.
Catch the Beat at the Mississippi Music Experience
Tucked inside Iron Horse Grill on the second floor, the immersive Mississippi Music Experience museum hits all the right notes. Explore Mississippi’s deep musical roots through blues, gospel, and soul legends. Then grab a seat for live music and a bite—all without stepping back into the storm.
Soak Up Cinema (or Bowl a Game) at The Capri
When the weather calls for coziness, head to The Capri, Jackson’s beautifully restored theater in Fondren. Whether it’s an indie release, a blockbuster, or a local film showcase, the atmosphere is always stylish and relaxed. You can even throw a few games next door at Highball Lanes. With food, cocktails, and dessert all available under one roof, you can spend the whole afternoon there, dry and well-fed.
Read the Rain at the Eudora Welty House
The former home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Eudora Welty isn’t just a museum; it’s a quiet, contemplative space ideal for a literary escape. Tour the rooms where Welty lived and wrote, then settle into the visitor center with a notebook or a copy of "The Optimist’s Daughter." It’s one of Jackson’s most peaceful places to listen to the rain.
When rain slows things down, Jackson opens up in a different way—more reflective, more creative, and no less soulful. Whether you’re diving into music history, making art, or enjoying a quiet meal, the City With Soul offers plenty of reasons to love a rainy day.
