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As small town hideaways and hidden gems slowly but surely command more attention, more travelers are saying goodbye to the crowds and high prices in favor of budget-friendly, blissful escapes.
Airlines have certainly taken note. Here at Travel Off Path, we’ve lost count of how many exciting airport openings (or in this case re-openings) we’ve covered just in the last year or so — but it’s a lot!
Now it’s Mississippi’s turn, which should be no surprise to anyone who’s kept a close eye on how trendy the surprisingly diverse “Magnolia State” has become.
With a thrilling new Amtrak route chugging along the gleaming white-sand coast, and even inland cities almost unheard of welcoming record numbers of visitors, Mississippi is actually a far cry from its less-than-stellar reputation.
One such place is Natchez, a delightful riverside town lining, you guessed it, the Mississippi River — and it’s become more popular than ever.
United Airlines is set to launch the first commercial flights to this surging Southern charmer for the first time in over 30 years.
People Are Flocking To Natchez In Record Numbers
It’s not just Mississippi’s underrated beach towns gaining attention and actually luring tourists away from Florida; it’s the charming small towns with welcoming locals exuding unmatched southern hospitality, too.
Believe it or not, the quaint town of Natchez, hugging the Mississippi, has become all the rage to those in the know.
Earlier this year, we revealed this lesser-known getaway as one of the most surprising destinations breaking tourism records.
Not to toot our own horn, but we’re going to tell ourselves United began licking their chops and saw a great opportunity to cash in…
So, what’s there to do in this (formerly) remote hideaway? Lots, actually — especially if you’re seeking a relaxing retreat in a laid-back town or you’re a nature enthusiast.
Better yet, Natchez is inviting for all four seasons.
Though you’ll have to wait a bit for United’s groundbreaking new flight here, you can still reach Natchez fairly easily from nearby Baton Rouge or Monroe, both around an hour and a half drive.
Natchez Offers Stunning Nature & Small Town Charm
January is the coldest month of the year in Natchez, but it still sees highs of 58.
While the breezy riverside might be a bit much to endure, grab a comfy jacket and explore the most famous natural attraction here — the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Whether it’s scenic hikes, tranquil fishing, peaceful campgrounds under the starlight, or an epic road trip covering 444 miles of lush landscapes through multiple states, it’s a huge draw.
Otherwise, folks tend to stay in town if they’re not hopping aboard a riverboat tour to see the sights.
Speaking of hopping aboard, Natchez is just big enough for a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus (just note it’s ‘temporarily suspended’).
‘Til then, enjoy a selection of plantation tours, live music from local legends, down-home eateries whippin’ up southern staples, and even Magnolia Bluffs Casino & Hotel to test if Lady Luck is on your side.
In case you’re wondering what to order, here’s a hint — Natchez is the unequivocal “Biscuit Capital of the World“.
And don’t settle for name-brand chains either when booking a stay. Natchez is also the “Bed and Breakfast Capital of the South“.
Our pick? Go with Devereaux Shields House. You’ll thank us later!
United Buys Into The Hype On Natchez
Before United’s latest announcement, most visitors opted for an old-fashioned road trip or one of the latest travel crazes, river cruises, to get here.
That’s all set to change come the turn of the calendar, which will be here before you know it!
According to the City of Natchez, this is one of the most exciting developments for tourism in decades.
Mayor of Natchez, Dan M. Gibson, proudly claimed they ‘will not only have commercial air service again, but we will have the best. SkyWest and United are the premier partners for airports all over the world. Natchez will now be connected by air to those markets’.
United’s new and only flight to Natchez (HEZ) is set for launch with daily service beginning July 1, 2026, from Houston (IAH), so let’s sure hope the government opens back up by then (shoo-wee! Did you see those lines this week?!)
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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