The Mississippi Children’s Museum and MDWFP’s Museum of Natural Science celebrate 100 Magnolias planted at the LeFleur’s Bluff Complex in LeFleur’s Bluff State Park.
LeFleur’s Bluff Complex is now home to over 100 Magnolias of various shapes, sizes, and varieties. Sweetbay, Saucer, Star, and several Southern Magnolia varieties now adorn the complex’s gateway entrance and along the picturesque Spotter’s Adventure Trail. These beautiful trees will bloom throughout the seasons, offering a year-round sensory experience to visitors.
The planting of 100 Magnolias is not only about landscaping; it symbolizes the deep roots of this project in the heart of Mississippi. It is a heartfelt gesture that expresses our unwavering hospitality and gratitude to all who come to experience this remarkable site.
Recent enhancements during this completed phase include the introduction of new landscaping, featuring a scenic path bordered by Magnolia trees and various native plant species. Additionally, decorative park benches have been thoughtfully placed along Spotter’s Adventure Trail, providing comfortable resting spots for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The Den, a focal point of the complex, which can be seen by travelers on Interstate 55, now boasts a striking metal mural, designed by Wier Boerner Allin Architecture, and installed by Mitchell Signs. These captivating additions infuse the complex with charm and offer a visually inviting space for the over 350,000 annual guests.
While the new joint entrance at LeFleur’s Bluff Complex has been successfully completed, it is not yet open for full-time public access. The next phase of the project includes parking lot updates that will require the joint entrance to remain closed for a few more months.
“The vision of the masterplan for the LeFleur’s Bluff Complex and surrounding area will provide numerous recreational and educational opportunities to attract visitors to our state and city, as well as increasing the well-being of our local community. Tourism is a major economic driver for our state and the collaboration between MCM, MDWFP, MMNS and the MDWFP Foundation has resulted in inspirational state-of-the-art amenities, which are leading the way in our state for destination development,” said Susan Garrard, President of MCM.
The LeFleur’s Bluff Complex is a popular attraction for visitors and locals, alike. As the holiday season approaches and school breaks beckon, we look forward to welcoming visitors from across the country and our state to this premier family destination.
The Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation is the signature sponsor of the LeFleur’s Bluff Playground, Outdoor Pavilion, and Spotter’s Adventure Trail. We are grateful for their unwavering support and generosity.
“We are excited about the completion of another great project at LeFleur’s Bluff State Park and appreciate all of the partners who continue to pour into this space. This development is a testament to our shared commitment to enhancing the recreational experiences for our communities and visitors to our great state. We look forward to seeing this fun and exciting complex welcome and inspire outdoor enthusiasts and families for generations to come,” says Lynn Posey, Executive Director of Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
The economic impact of this transformative project is evident through the increased visitor traffic and spending in the area. In a recent study by the University of Southern Mississippi, the LeFleur Museum District sees an average of 369,455 visitors annually and contributes $6 million in visitor spending.
