NATCHEZ — Think you know Natchez?

Think again, says Southern Living in the magazine’s March 2019 issue.

Mississippi writer Boyce Upholt spent a few days exploring the city on the Mississippi River and says the city turned the pages on its 300-year-old story and is now bursting with surprises thanks in part to a new group of young, energetic residents who are reviving the city.

“Revived efforts to highlight the area’s African American history, along with a rejuvenation of the downtown scene that includes a bevy of brand-new businesses, have brought the city into a new era,” Upholt wrote.

Featured in the five-page article in the magazine’s travel section are places like Silver Street Gallery and Gifts and the Camp Restaurant at Natchez Under-the-Hill, Steampunk Coffee Roasters, Smoot’s Grocery and Natchez Brewing Company near the bluffs and A Gallerie, Charboneau Distillery and King’s Tavern downtown.

The article also gives a shout out to The Donut Shop — “the only place in town to enjoy  a uniquely combo: fried pastries and Mississippi-style hot tamales.”

And when you want to lay your head down for a nap, the article suggest trying a few new overnight accommodations that “reflect the city’s new modern twist.” Clermont Bed and Breakfast, Shanty Bellum Too and the Hotel Vue are featured prominently in the article.

Of course the article also mentions touring local historic houses like Longwood, Melrose, and Monmouth.

If you are looking for a long weekend in a historic town that is revealing a new side, Southern Living suggests Natchez is the place to visit.