Mississippi offers a surprising variety of walking tours, showcasing its historic towns, eerie legends, and lush landscapes. Its small towns like Bay St. Louis are perfect for exploring on foot, with charming streets, colorful architecture, and stories that bring the past to life. The state’s coastal areas and swamps add a unique natural dimension, making outdoor walking tours equally appealing. Whether you’re into ghost stories, scenic neighborhood strolls, or eco-adventures, Mississippi has options that can fit into any itinerary. Plus, with tours priced around $29 and lasting just a couple of hours, you can fit these experiences into a busy travel schedule.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through three of the best walking tours in Mississippi. Each offers a different flavor — from haunted history to coastal charm and swamp exploration — so you can pick the one that best suits your interests and travel style.
Quick Overview
Our list features three standout walking tours: a haunted ghost tour The Spirit Ghost Walking Tour, a scenic coastal stroll Coastal Stroll Walking Tour, and an eco-focused swamp adventure Swamp – Eco – Cruise and Walking Tour. Each offers a distinct way to experience Mississippi on foot, combining local stories, natural sights, and cultural insights.
1. The Spirit Ghost Walking Tour
At number one on our list, the Spirit Ghost Walking Tour provides a spine-tingling look at Bay St. Louis’s haunted side. For about $29, you’ll spend roughly an hour and a half wandering through the historic district, hearing spooky tales about paranormal activity. This tour stands out for its combination of ghost stories and the opportunity to enjoy drinks along the way, making it a fun twist on traditional history walks.
Your guide will lead you from site to site, including the eerie Cedar Rest Cemetery, the Old City Hall, and the Hancock County Courthouse, sharing stories of ghostly encounters and bizarre histories. The cemetery visit is a highlight, offering a glimpse of the city’s unusual past. The tour is leisurely, so it’s suitable for most fitness levels, and reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and interesting stories—”a great date night” according to one reviewer. Keep in mind, bringing bug spray is recommended, especially in warmer months.
Bottom Line: If you love ghost stories, historic stories, and a relaxed pace, this tour combines all three with a fun social element. It’s perfect for history buffs and night owls alike.
2. Coastal Stroll Walking Tour
Next up is the Coastal Stroll Walking Tour, which offers a breezy, less than two-mile walk through Old Town Bay Saint Louis. Priced at $29, this tour lasts about two hours and focuses on local culture, architecture, and legends. It’s operated by the Gulf Coast Outpost Company, known for its engaging storytelling.
This tour takes you along the historic streets of Old Town and the Depot District, stopping at landmarks rich in local charm. What’s distinctive here is the chance to buy beverages or coffee at some stops, making it a social and relaxed experience. The narration brings to life the area’s history, blending facts with legends, and giving you a genuine feel for the town. Reviewers mention Jenny, the guide, as a highlight—”very knowledgeable and a lot of fun.” The pace is casual, with plenty of shaded spots for breaks, which is especially welcome on warm days.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a laid-back, engaging taste of a small Mississippi town with the option to enjoy a drink along the way, this tour is a great fit. It’s particularly good for travelers interested in local stories and culture.
3. Swamp – Eco – Cruise and Walking Tour
At number three, the Swamp – Eco – Cruise and Walking Tour offers a more adventurous experience, priced at $79 per person. It mixes a boat trip into the Mississippi wetlands with a guided walk on a boardwalk trail into the Honey Island Swamp. This tour is ideal for nature lovers and those curious about wildlife and swamp ecosystems.
The journey begins on a pontoon boat traveling through the Pearl River into Louisiana’s Honey Island Swamp, with chances to see alligators, coastal birds, and other wildlife. After the boat ride, you’ll hop off for a walk into the swamp, visiting flora and fauna, and exploring remnants of an old logging mill. The boat tour alone provides a broad view of the swamp’s natural beauty, while the walking section offers a closer look at swamp life.
Reviews are limited, but the tour’s focus on ecology and wildlife makes it stand out. It’s suited for active travelers comfortable with boat rides and walking, and it offers a rare chance to see Mississippi’s natural environment in a hands-on way. Keep in mind, wildlife sightings like alligators are not guaranteed but are common.
Bottom Line: For outdoor enthusiasts and nature photographers, this tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into the swamp’s natural world, blending boat and land exploration.
How to Choose
When selecting the best walking tour in Mississippi, think about your interests and travel style. If you’re after ghost stories and historic legends, the Spirit Ghost Walking Tour is your best bet. For a relaxed, cultural experience with some beverages, the Coastal Stroll Walking Tour offers a perfect introduction to Bay Saint Louis. If nature and wildlife are your focus, the Swamp – Eco – Cruise and Walking Tour takes you into the heart of Mississippi’s wetlands.
Budget, timing, and personal interests should guide your choice. For instance, if you’re visiting during the summer, the ghost tour’s evening schedule might be cooler than a swamp adventure. Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Mississippi’s diverse landscapes and stories mean there’s a walking tour for everyone. The haunted history of Bay St. Louis appeals to ghost story fans, while the scenic coastal walk suits those wanting a relaxed cultural experience. For adventure seekers, the swamp tour offers a chance to see wildlife and explore ecosystems firsthand.
If you’re looking for a memorable experience, consider combining a couple of these tours — they’re affordable and short enough to fit into a busy itinerary. For the best experience, book early and pick a tour that matches your interests, fitness level, and schedule. Mississippi’s walking tours are an excellent way to see the state’s unique charm — don’t miss out on these engaging excursions.