Art, Literature & Blues

In the heyday of the blues, over 150 bluesmen lived within a 100-mile radius of Leland. This museum chronicles the story of the Delta Blues and the musicians who helped make it famous and features memorabilia from Little Milton, B.B. King, James “Son” Thomas, Bougaloo Ames, Eddie Cusic, and many others. Be greeted by Pat Thomas, son of legendary “Son” Thomas, a local bluesman, and ask him to draw you a cat head.

Embark on a delightful family adventure at the Mississippi Delta Nature and Learning Center, located at 1950 Lisa Drive in Greenville, MS. The Heart and Soul Children’s Garden, a 2-acre interactive space designed for children ages 1–10, offers nine themed gardens that encourage exploration and hands-on learning. From the whimsical playhouses and sand pits to the engaging sound and water play areas, each corner is crafted to spark curiosity and foster creativity. Adjacent to the garden, the Hickory Stroll and Blues Bend Trail meanders through native habitats, providing a serene setting for families to observe local wildlife and connect with the region’s natural beauty. Trails are free and open daily from dawn to dusk, the children’s garden is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, admission is $5 per person, with children under 2 enjoying free entry. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk or an educational outing, the Mississippi Delta Nature and Learning Center offers a welcoming environment for families to learn, play, and grow together. If you’re local or visit often, you can become a member of MDNLC for free admission and access to special events and discounts!

Pottery by Rebecca & Peyton Potter.

The Center is housed in the former E. E. Bass Junior High School designed by renowned architect A. Hays Town and built in 1929. The gallery typically hosts seven exhibitions per year with one week between shows.

Greenville’s extraordinary literary tradition has shaped more writers than any town of its size in the country. In the 20th century, more than 100 published writers called Greenville home. The Writers’ Exhibit houses original manuscripts and documents the accomplishments of Shelby Foote to Walker Percy.