Cleveland, Mississippi: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to explore the Mississippi Delta's heart? Cleveland, Mississippi, is the central hub. It's a must-visit for anyone wanting a true Southern experience.

Cleveland is where America's music was born. It offers many experiences that will amaze you. From the Grammy Museum Mississippi to the Delta's pottery, Cleveland shows the region's best.

Key Takeaways

• Explore the interactive exhibits and live performances at the Grammy Museum Mississippi, located on the campus of Delta State University.
• Discover the rich pottery heritage of the Delta region, with renowned studios like McCarty's Pottery in Merigold and Peter's Pottery in Mound Bayou.
• Stroll through the vibrant Crosstie District in downtown Cleveland, browsing local shops, restaurants, and galleries.
• Trace the Civil Rights and Blues Trail, visiting historic sites like the Amzie Moore House and the city of Mound Bayou.
• Immerse yourself in the Delta's cultural events, from the Crosstie Arts and Jazz Festival to the 50 Nights of Lights holiday celebration.

Explore the Grammy Museum Mississippi

Discover the rich history of music at the Grammy Museum Mississippi. It's an interactive and immersive journey through music's power. Located in Cleveland, Mississippi, on Delta State University's campus, this museum offers a unique experience. It's both fun and educational.

Interactive Exhibits on Music History

Explore over two dozen exhibits that cover various music genres and legendary artists. You'll see exhibits on rock, hip-hop, country, classical, Latin, R&B, and jazz. The Grammy Museum Mississippi uses cutting-edge exhibits and technology to show music's history and evolution.

Live Performances and Educational Programs

See live music in the museum's 130-seat soundstage. The Grammy Museum Mississippi also offers educational programs and workshops. These let you learn from music industry experts and appreciate music-making more.

The Grammy Museum Mississippi is a key spot for music lovers and cultural explorers. It's a place where you can dive into music history and see how music changes lives.

"The Grammy Museum Mississippi is a true celebration of the power of music, offering an unforgettable experience that is both educational and inspirational."

Discover the Delta's Pottery Heritage

The Mississippi Delta is famous for its Delta pottery heritage. Cleveland is where you'll find some of the top pottery studios. Just a short drive away, McCarty's Pottery in Merigold and Peter's Pottery in Mound Bayou are known globally. They create elegant, functional, and artistic pottery pieces. Their unique glazes make their work highly sought after.

McCarty's Pottery in Merigold

Since 1954, McCarty's Pottery has been a family business for three generations. It's famous for its hand-crafted pottery that shows the Mississippi Delta's artistic legacy. Visitors can see the studio, meet the artisans, and buy unique pieces that have made McCarty's a favorite in the area.

Peter's Pottery in Mound Bayou

Started in 1998, Peter's Pottery in Mound Bayou is a top spot for artistic pottery in the Delta. Peter, the founder, is a skilled craftsman inspired by the region's culture. He creates pieces that are both useful and beautiful. Visitors can see how pottery is made and take home a piece of the Delta's artistic legacy.

Both McCarty's Pottery and Peter's Pottery let visitors dive into the Delta pottery heritage. They can meet the talented artisans who keep this tradition alive.

"The pottery of the Mississippi Delta is a testament to the region's rich cultural history and the enduring creativity of its people. Each piece is a work of art, infused with the spirit of the land and the hands that shaped it."

Shop Till You Drop in Downtown Cleveland

Downtown Cleveland's Crosstie District is a shopper's dream. It's filled with high-end stores, galleries, and restaurants. You'll find everything from handcrafted pottery to unique gifts.

Walking through the district, you'll see many specialty shops. There are trendy boutiques and antique stores. You can also grab a coffee or ice cream to rest.

• Explore the vibrant array of pottery, artwork, and home goods at locally-owned stores like Crosstie Pottery and Decor on the Crosstie.
• Discover unique fashion items and accessories at boutiques like Crosstie Couture and Vintage on the Crosstie.
• Uncover hidden gems at the district's antique shops, like Crosstie Antique Mall and Crosstie Vintage, where you can lose yourself in a treasure trove of vintage treasures.

Downtown Cleveland's Crosstie District is unforgettable. It's full of charm and unique finds. Let your inner shopaholic explore and find the perfect treasures.

"The Crosstie District is a treasure trove of unique finds – from handcrafted pottery to one-of-a-kind antiques, it's a shopper's paradise." - Jane Doe, travel writer

Cleveland, Mississippi: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Cleveland is at the heart of the Mississippi Delta. It's a place filled with experiences that celebrate the region's rich musical heritage and cultural attractions. You can explore the Grammy Museum Mississippi and learn about the Delta's pottery legacy. This city is perfect for diving into the Delta's sights, sounds, and flavors.

Walk the Civil Rights and Blues Trail to learn about America's history and music. Stroll through the downtown area, try different dining options, and enjoy the events. Cleveland is a top spot in the Delta region.

Interactive Exhibits and Live Performances at the Grammy Museum Mississippi

Visit the Grammy Museum Mississippi for a journey through American music. You'll find interactive exhibits and live performances. It's a place where music comes alive.

Discover the Delta's Renowned Pottery Tradition

Explore the Delta's pottery heritage by visiting workshops of famous artisans. See the work at McCarty's Pottery in Merigold and Peter's Pottery in Mound Bayou. The region's clay and artistic legacy are showcased in beautiful ceramics.

Immerse Yourself in the Blues and Civil Rights Trail

Follow the Blues and Civil Rights Trail to learn about legendary musicians and civil rights leaders. Visit the Amzie Moore House and Interpretive Center in Cleveland. Also, discover the historic African American settlement of City of Mound Bayou.

Cleveland, Mississippi is great for those interested in music, culture, or the downtown scene. It offers a unique and unforgettable Delta experience. Get ready to be amazed by the sights, sounds, and flavors of this city.

Trace the Civil Rights and Black History Trail

Cleveland, Mississippi, and the Mississippi Delta are full of civil rights and Black history. Visitors can see this important legacy at many sites. The Amzie Moore House and Interpretive Center in Cleveland is a key spot. It was where leaders like Bob Moses and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. planned their work.

Not far from Cleveland, the City of Mound Bayou shows the history of a town founded by freed slaves. It was a center of African American business, education, and culture during hard times.

The Delta region also has cultural spots celebrating its music. You can learn about Robert Johnson in Rosedale or visit the B.B. King Museum in Indianola. Cleveland is a great place to start exploring the African American story in the Mississippi Delta.

"The civil rights movement was the most significant social movement of the 20th century in the United States. It touched every part of American life, from politics to popular culture, and it continues to shape our nation today."

Follow the Mississippi Blues Trail

Start a journey through the Mississippi Delta, where the blues were born. It's just a short drive from Cleveland. Dockery Farms, a historic site, was a meeting place for blues legends like Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters. Here, the Delta blues sound came to life, leaving a lasting musical legacy.

Next, visit Po' Monkey's Juke Joint in Merigold, a few miles from Cleveland. This famous spot is a hub of blues culture. Step inside and let the Delta blues energy fill you. You'll feel the soulful sounds of live music all around.

Everywhere you go in this area, the blues' lasting impact is clear. The Mississippi Blues Trail honors the Delta's musical pioneers. Visiting these sites is a deep experience that touches your soul.

Experience Arts, History, and Music Events

Cleveland, Mississippi is a vibrant place for arts, history, and music all year round. The Bologna Performing Arts Center (BPAC) on Delta State University's campus brings in big names. It hosts concerts, films, and more regularly.

The Deep Roots and Delta Arts Alliance offer concerts at the Ellis Theater. This historic spot in downtown Cleveland features new talent. You can also visit the Martin and Sue King Railroad Heritage Museum and the Mississippi Delta Chinese Heritage Museum. The Mathews-Sanders Sculpture Garden and Wiley Planetarium are great for learning and exploring.

Cleveland's events calendar is full of fun. From the Crosstie Arts Festival in spring to Oktoberfest in fall, there's always something to do. Whether you love music, history, or art, Cleveland has it all.

"Cleveland is a place where you can explore the rich cultural heritage of the Mississippi Delta, from the blues to the arts and everything in between."

Savor Delta Cuisine and Nightlife

Cleveland's food scene is a mix of Delta flavors and fun nightlife. Downtown, Delta Meat Market and Bar Fontaine offer upscale dining. Chef Cole Ellis brings new twists to Delta classics.

Enjoy rooftop views and expert cocktails at the bar. It's a lively spot to be.

For a casual taste of the Delta, try Mosquito Burrito for Mexican dishes. Or, check out Delta Dairy for frozen treats. Don't miss Airport Grocery for Southern soul food like Simmons Catfish and smoked sausage.

Cleveland has something for everyone, from fine dining to local eats and nightlife. It's a place where Delta culture comes alive.