Things to Do at Old Capitol Museum

Complete Guide to Old Capitol Museum in Jackson

About Old Capitol Museum

This distinctive destination represents the authentic character and cultural heritage of Jackson, featuring architectural elements, historical significance, and local traditions that provide visitors with genuine insights into regional identity and community life spanning multiple generations. Typical entrance fees range from the local equivalent of -15 USD depending on seasonal demand and included amenities, while guided tours cost an additional -20 per person and offer invaluable context about historical events, cultural practices, and hidden details often overlooked by independent exploration. The site showcases remarkable craftsmanship through traditional building techniques, locally-sourced materials, and distinctive design elements that reflect regional climate adaptations and cultural influences, creating photography opportunities that capture both architectural beauty and atmospheric conditions throughout different times of day. Plan visits during early morning hours (8:00-10:00 AM) or late afternoon when natural lighting enhances visual appeal and temperatures remain comfortable for extended walking, while bringing appropriate footwear for uneven surfaces and respectful attire that honors local customs, listening for ambient sounds like traditional music, marketplace activity, or natural elements that contribute to the authentic sensory experience of this remarkable location.

What to See & Do

Restored House and Senate Chambers

The original legislative chambers have been meticulously restored to their 1800s appearance, complete with period furnishings and the actual desks where lawmakers debated secession and other historic decisions

Civil War and Reconstruction Exhibits

Comprehensive displays covering Mississippi's role in the Civil War, including artifacts, documents, and interactive presentations that explore both the war years and the challenging Reconstruction period

The Rotunda and Architecture

The striking central rotunda showcases the building's Greek Revival architecture, with detailed explanations of the construction techniques and design elements that make this one of the finest examples of antebellum public architecture

Mississippi Political History Gallery

Traces the state's political evolution from territorial days through the modern era, featuring portraits of governors, voting artifacts, and stories of key political figures who shaped the state

Temporary Exhibition Spaces

Rotating exhibits that dive deeper into specific aspects of Mississippi history, often featuring items from the state's archives that aren't normally on public display

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Sunday 12:30 PM to 5:00 PM. Closed Mondays and major holidays

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission, though donations are appreciated. Guided tours available for groups with advance reservation

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, allowing for a more contemplative experience. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the surrounding grounds

Suggested Duration

Plan for 1-2 hours to see the main exhibits thoroughly, though history enthusiasts might easily spend 3 hours here

Getting There

Jackson's Old Capitol Museum hides its entrance on State Street-not the photogenic Capitol Street side tourists always shoot first. The building sits at State and Capitol Streets, walkable from most downtown hotels. Easy to miss that detail. You can drive and find metered street parking, plus paid lots within two blocks. Several bus routes stop nearby if you're using Jackson's transit system. Works well either way. The location couldn't be more central for hitting other downtown attractions afterward. Most visitors expect the main entrance to face Capitol Street with all that impressive architecture. They're wrong.

Things to Do Nearby

Mississippi Museum of Art
Just a few blocks away, featuring an impressive collection of Southern art and rotating exhibitions in a modern facility

Eudora Welty House and Garden
The preserved home of the famous Mississippi author, offering insights into her life and the Jackson neighborhood where she lived and wrote

Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum
A sprawling complex showcasing rural Mississippi life, complete with a recreated 1920s town and working farm demonstrations

LeFleur's Bluff State Park
A peaceful escape from downtown with hiking trails, picnic areas, and the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

Fondren District
Jackson's artsy neighborhood with local shops, restaurants, and galleries, perfect for lunch or an evening stroll after museum visits

Tips & Advice

The building can get quite warm in summer, so dress in layers since the historic structure's climate control isn't always perfect

Photography is allowed in most areas, but the lighting in some exhibit spaces can be tricky - natural light from the rotunda works best

If you're interested in Mississippi history beyond the Civil War era, ask about their research library - it's not always obvious but contains fascinating primary sources

The museum shop actually has some genuinely interesting books on Mississippi history that you won't find in most stores, including some by local authors