Natchez Celebrates the Grand Opening of Refurbished Depot Visitor Center

Thursday, August 22, 2024

Natchez, Mississippi, a charming riverside town celebrated for its southern hospitality, remarkable architecture, and rich history, is excited to announce the completion of its newly renovated Visitor Center, with a grand opening event just around the corner.

Originally built in 1910, the historic train depot in Natchez has undergone extensive renovations to become the town’s new Visitor Center, offering a dynamic and immersive experience for guests. The updates include dedicated areas designed to align with visitor interests, inspired by the layout of the Visit Natchez website. The center embraces a vintage, industrial design that pays tribute to the “Golden Age of Railroads” and Natchez’s storied past.

“We are thrilled to announce the opening of the newly renovated Visit Natchez at the Depot Visitor Center, a true example of our city’s dedication to preserving its rich history and enhancing its visitor experience,” said Lynsey Gilbert, interim director at Visit Natchez. “With final touches to the interiors and signage in the works, we are confident the new Visitor Center will capture the essence of Natchez’s unique charm and heritage.”

Conveniently located at the end of Broadway Street, the center now features new amenities such as public restrooms, vending machines, and a large-screen self-service information kiosk, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for all visitors. The Visitor Center will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

To mark this milestone, a key exchange ceremony was held on May 20 in celebration of Travel and Tourism Week, with a grand opening event planned for later this summer.

Natchez, Mississippi, situated just 80 miles north of Baton Rouge, is rapidly emerging as a premier cultural tourism destination. Drawing over 670,000 visitors annually from across the globe, Natchez is renowned for its rich culture and history, boasting more historic structures than any other location in the United States.