Vaiden MississippiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Vaiden, Mississippi.
1. Historic Vaiden High School
NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
The Historic Vaiden High School is a prominent two-and-a-half-story, U-plan symmetrical structure located near the center of Vaiden at 504 Mulberry Street. Constructed of poured monolithic concrete with a low slope roof hidden behind parapet walls, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The structure has maintained its original exterior appearance with only minor interior modifications over the years.
2. Vaiden Christmas Parade & Winter Festival
SEASONAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
The Vaiden Christmas Parade & Winter Festival is an annual holiday event that takes place in downtown Vaiden. The festivities typically begin at 11 am and continue throughout the day, bringing the community together for seasonal celebrations. Visitors can enjoy the parade, winter-themed activities, and local hospitality during this cherished town tradition.
3. Shongalo Historic Site
FORMER CHOCTAW SETTLEMENT
Shongalo was once a Choctaw Indian town before the population moved east to establish what is now Vaiden. The historic site represents an important part of the area's Native American heritage and early settlement history. Visitors interested in local history can learn about the transition from Shongalo to Vaiden that occurred around 1857 when the railroad was completed.
4. Central Railroad Historic Route
TRANSPORTATION HERITAGE TRAIL
The Central Railroad Historic Route marks the important railway connection that led to Vaiden's founding in 1859. This historic transportation corridor connected the state capital of Jackson with Memphis, Tennessee, and was completed in 1857. The railroad's presence was so significant that Dr. Cowles Mead Vaiden granted the right-of-way through his land, subsequently having the new town named in his honor.
5. Carrollton Pilgrimage & Pioneer Day
HISTORIC HOME TOURS
Carrollton Pilgrimage & Pioneer Day occurs annually on the first Friday and Saturday in October, headquartered at 701 Lexington Street in nearby Carrollton. This event, sponsored by the Carroll County Development Association and the Carroll Society for the Preservation of Antiquities, showcases the area's historic homes and heritage. Visitors can experience 19th-century architecture, period costumes, and activities that celebrate the region's pioneer history.
6. A Taste of Soup & Art Exhibit
CULINARY AND ARTISTIC SHOWCASE
A Taste of Soup & Art Exhibit is a unique cultural event held annually on the first Saturday of February at 305 Lexington Street in Carrollton. Sponsored by the Carroll Society for the Preservation of Antiquities, this gathering combines culinary delights with visual arts. Visitors can sample a variety of soups while enjoying local artwork in a charming historical setting.
7. Crusin' Cotesworth
HISTORIC CAR SHOW
Crusin' Cotesworth is a distinctive car show usually held in April at 6151 MS Highway 17 in Carrollton. Sponsored by the Cotesworth Foundation, this event combines automotive enthusiasm with historic preservation at a significant heritage site. Visitors can admire classic and vintage automobiles against the backdrop of the historic Cotesworth property.
8. Mississippi John Hurt Festival
BLUES MUSIC CELEBRATION
The Mississippi John Hurt Festival celebrates the legacy of the renowned blues musician in Valley Community near Carrollton. Usually held in October at 1973 CR 109, this event is sponsored by the Mississippi John Hurt Foundation. Music enthusiasts gather to honor Hurt's contributions to American blues and folk music through performances, workshops, and commemorative activities.
9. Carrollton North Carrollton Christmas Parade
HOLIDAY COMMUNITY TRADITION
The Carrollton North Carrollton Christmas Parade is a festive annual event that begins at 3 pm with Lexington and George Streets closed to through traffic. This holiday celebration brings together residents and visitors for a traditional small-town Christmas experience. The parade features seasonal decorations, floats, and community participation that showcases local holiday spirit.
10. Carroll County Courthouse
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Carroll County Courthouse stands as an architectural landmark and functioning government center in Carrollton, which shares county seat status with Vaiden. This historic structure represents the region's governmental heritage and development since Carroll County's formation. Visitors can appreciate both the building's historical significance and its continued role in local governance.
11. Vaiden City Hall
MUNICIPAL HISTORIC CENTER
Vaiden City Hall serves as the center of municipal government for the town founded in 1859. Located near the Historic Vaiden High School, this building represents the town's civic identity and administrative functions. Visitors interested in local governance and town history may find this location informative when exploring Vaiden's heritage sites.
12. Dr. Cowles Mead Vaiden Memorial
TOWN FOUNDER TRIBUTE
The Dr. Cowles Mead Vaiden Memorial honors the town's namesake, who lived from April 21, 1812, to February 6, 1880. Dr. Vaiden was a local doctor, planter, and philanthropist who contributed significantly to the area's development by granting right-of-way for the Central Railroad through his land. This memorial commemorates his legacy and the founding of Vaiden in 1859, which was incorporated on February 10, 1860.
13. Mulberry Street Historic District
PRESERVED ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
Mulberry Street Historic District encompasses several blocks of well-preserved buildings that showcase Vaiden's architectural heritage. The district includes the Historic Vaiden High School at 504 Mulberry Street and represents the town's development since its founding in the 1850s. Visitors can stroll through this area to appreciate the historical character and small-town charm of Vaiden.
14. Vaiden Railroad Depot Museum
TRANSPORTATION HISTORY EXHIBIT
The Vaiden Railroad Depot Museum preserves artifacts and information about the Central Railroad that was instrumental in the town's founding. This museum highlights Vaiden's history as a regular stop on the railroad line that connected Jackson to Memphis. Visitors can learn about the importance of rail transportation to the development of Vaiden and the surrounding region.
15. Vaiden Community Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Vaiden Community Park offers outdoor recreation opportunities for visitors and residents alike. The park provides green space, picnic areas, and facilities for community gatherings in the heart of this historic Mississippi town. Nature enthusiasts and families can enjoy leisure activities while experiencing the small-town atmosphere of Vaiden.