A legendary river runs through it. Some people consider it to be the quintessential southern state. It's been called the Birthplace of Modern Music. With its classically southern hospitality and vast array of cultural, ecological and historical attractions, a visit to Mississippi can be a uniquely satisfying experience. If you're in a party kind of mood, head to Biloxi to visit the Mardi Gras Museum, which celebrates 300 years of Mardi Gras history. If you feel like cruising, consider a Biloxi Shrimp Boat cruise. For an exciting family vacation, come to Jackson and visit the Jackson Zoological Park, or come to Gulfport for the interactive Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. Enjoy a game of golf at the Green Oaks Golf Course in Columbus, while the non-artists in your group can explore the work of southern artists at the Columbus Art Museum. True golf fans should head to Olive Branch, which boasts at least five major golf courses. Oxford is only about 13 miles from Graceland in Memphis, so if you are a Presley fan, you might want to leave room in your itinerary for a visit. Fans of The King should also plan a pilgrimage to Tupelo to visit the Birthplace of Elvis Presley Landmark Museum. In Oxford, fans of southern literature should visit the William Faulkner home, otherwise known as Rowan Oak. Civil War history buffs will be fascinated by Northeast Mississippi Museum, which contains a number of Civil War artifacts and photographs. You can also visit the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center. In Vicksburg, you can get a sense for all things southern at the Southern Cultural Heritage Complex. Take a tour of the McRaven home, and travel back in time for a view of life in the old South. As always, to experience true southern hospitality, choose accommodations at a bed and breakfast or country inn.