Why go
- City in Mississippi, United States.
- 1 curated must-see attraction on record, including Vicksburg National Military Park.
- Served by Vicksburg Municipal Airport (VKS).
History
Vicksburg is a city in and the county seat of Warren County, Mississippi, United States. The population was 21,573 at the 2020 census, and was estimated at 20,032 in 2024. Located on a high bluff on the east bank of the Mississippi River across from Louisiana, Vicksburg was built by French colonists in 1719. The outpost withstood an attack from the native Natchez people. It was incorporated as Vicksburg in 1825 after Methodist missionary Newitt Vick. The area that is now Vicksburg was long occupied by the Natchez as part of their historical territory along the Mississippi. The first Europeans who settled the area were French colonists who built Fort Saint Pierre in 1719 on the high bluffs overlooking the Yazoo River at present-day Redwood. They conducted fur trading with the Natchez and others, and started plantations. During the American Civil War, it was a key Confederate river-port, and its July 1863 surrender to Ulysses S. Grant, along with the concurrent Battle of Gettysburg, marked the turning point of the war.
Must-see attractions
Airports
Getting there by ferry
Where things are
Photographs
credit: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons · See source page
When to go
The warmer, longer-day half of the year is the safest bet for a first visit.
Cooler and quieter, with fewer visitors and better value.
Short days and the coldest weather — check local conditions before travelling.
Getting there & around
Getting there. The nearest airport on record is Vicksburg Municipal Airport (VKS); 37 other airports serve the wider area. Check rail and road links from the tourism sources below. By water: 2 ferry terminals within 12 mi.
Getting around. Use the map above to orient yourself; nearby hotels, attractions and places to eat are listed from the live Ultimate data for Vicksburg, Mississippi. Local transit details will be added as the guide is expanded.