Bring your canine companion to the Mississippi Gulf Coast for an educational outing with Biloxi Shrimping Trip. Climb aboard the Sailfish for a 70-minute journey into the unexpectedly fascinating world of shrimping. The crew will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about shrimp, from the life cycle of the crustaceans to the best ways to catch, cook, and eat them. Watch the crew demonstrate the proper techniques for catching the tasty shellfish as they drop the net and drag the bottom of the Mississippi Sound. After learning some history of the industry, the day’s catch will be hauled in, and the captain will help you identify the various sea creatures that found their way into the net. After your tour, stop by Shaggy’s Beach Bar & Grill to enjoy some tasty barbecue shrimp at a beachfront table.

If you and your four-legged friend are feeling lucky, your best bet is to head to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi. Your pampered pooch will enjoy the view from your suite. Resort amenities include a full-service spa, fitness center, pool with swim-up bar, live entertainment, and multiple on-site dining options.

Bring Fido on a road trip across Mississippi by way of the historic Natchez Trace Parkway. Start your journey in Tupelo with a visit to the Elvis Presley Birthplace, where your hound dog can explore the grounds and trails surrounding the childhood home of the King of Rock and Roll. Then, make your way to the Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266, where humans can learn some Natchez Trace history and doggos can earn their B.A.R.K. ranger certification. From there, you will drive 270 miles south to Natchez. Along the way, stop at Jeff Busby Park to take a short 1.6-mile roundtrip hike to the overlook at Little Mountain. Further south, walk along the boardwalk through the canopy of trees growing in the marshy waters of the Cypress Swamp Trail. At the end of the parkway, you’ll find the Natchez National Historical Park, where you can explore Civil War sites and more dog-friendly trails with your furry friend.

Choctaw Hall, a historic pre-war mansion constructed in the 1830s, will be your pampered pup’s choice for accommodations in Natchez. All of the property’s Queen rooms are pet friendly, and rooms at the front of the building have direct outdoor access. When the sun begins to set, stroll down to the Natchez Bluff to enjoy magnificent views across the Mississippi River.

Playing a pivotal role in the Union’s victory in the Civil War, Vicksburg National Military Park is a solemn place where you can learn about one of the most important moments in American history. Bring your leashed pooch on a walk around the trails and learn about Ulysses S. Grant’s victory along the way. You can also pay your respects to the brave soldiers who fell in battle during this turbulent chapter of American history at the Vicksburg National Cemetery. Established in 1866, it was one of the first national cemeteries in the country and is the final resting place of more than 17,000 troops from various conflicts throughout our history. After honoring the fallen, explore the rest of the city, and make your way to Martins at Midtown for a bite with your best friend.

Mount Vernon was a plush respite for Washington back in the day, but seeing a Kimpton can have the same effect on Fido today. With three off-leash areas within walking distance, Kimpton Lorien Hotel and Spa is the place to stay in nearby Alexandria.

Ready for a Road Trip?

If this Ruff Guide to Mississippi preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code MAGNOLIA to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!