Welcome to the Newto News for February of 2026. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Jackson, Mississippi was founded in 1821 and named after Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States. Originally established as a trading post on the Pearl River, the city quickly grew into a bustling hub of commerce and industry due to its strategic location along major transportation routes. During the Civil War, Jackson played a significant role as a Confederate stronghold and was a target for Union forces seeking to control the vital railway lines that passed through the area. The city suffered extensive damage during the conflict, but rebounded quickly in the post-war years. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Jackson experienced a period of rapid growth and prosperity, fueled by the expansion of the railroad industry and the development of new industries such as cotton processing and lumber production. Today, Jackson is a vibrant and diverse city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. It continues to be a key economic and cultural center in the state of Mississippi.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  • Healthcare
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Hospitality
  • Finance
  • Retail
  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Entertainment

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Skiing
  • Fishing
  • Camping
  • Golfing
  • Rafting
  • Wine tasting
  • Sightseeing tours
  • Photography

3. Average low and high temperature for the month:

  • Low: 50°F
  • High: 75°F

4. Average precipitation for the month:

  • 3 inches

5. Elevation:

  • 3000 feet

6. Average home price:

  • $400,000

7. Average household income:

  • $60,000

8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  • National Park
  • Historic Downtown
  • Museum
  • Zoo
  • Botanical Garden
  • Waterfall
  • Wineries
  • Beaches
  • Amusement Park
  • Lighthouse

The top 10 restaurants:

Char Restaurant

Highland Village

Char Restaurant offers a classic American steakhouse experience with a warm Southern ambiance. Known for their exquisite steaks and fresh seafood, it’s a go-to for fine dining in Jackson.

Walker’s Drive-In

Fondren District

Walker’s Drive-In provides a nostalgic yet trendy dining atmosphere, specializing in Southern-inspired cuisine. Expect creative dishes that highlight local ingredients and flavors.

BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar

Highland Village

BRAVO! is celebrated for its authentic Italian dishes combined with contemporary culinary techniques. Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience with a variety of pasta, seafood, and wine selections.

Lou’s Full-Serv

Belhaven

Lou’s Full-Serv focuses on delivering comfort food with a gourmet twist. The menu is eclectic, featuring craft cocktails and dishes made with locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.

Parlor Market

Downtown

Parlor Market is a charming spot offering a menu that changes with the seasons. They emphasize farm-to-table principles, providing innovative takes on Southern classics.

Keifer’s Restaurant

Belhaven

Keifer’s offers delightful Mediterranean cuisine in a casual setting. Known for their gyros and hummus, it’s a popular choice for a laid-back dining experience with great outdoor seating.

Elvie’s

Belhaven Town Center

Elvie’s dabbles in French-inspired cuisine with a Southern twist. Their brunch offerings and vibrant atmosphere have made it a hit for both locals and visitors.

Babalu Tapas & Tacos

Fondren District

Babalu serves a fusion of Latin-inspired tapas and gourmet tacos. It’s a lively destination, perfect for sharing small plates and enjoying the vibrant culinary culture.

Saltine Restaurant

Fondren District

Saltine is a seafood-focused eatery with a modern twist, offering raw bar selections, creative cocktails, and a diverse menu that celebrates coastal flavors.

Iron Horse Grill

Downtown

Iron Horse Grill melds Southern tradition with a fun, casual setting. Famous for live music and robust offerings of classic Southern fare alongside smoky Tex-Mex flavors.

Current Events:

Mississippi Symphony Orchestra : Bravo IV - Ultimate Beethoven
Feb 27
Thu • 7:30pm

Mississippi Symphony Orchestra : Bravo IV – Ultimate Beethoven

Thalia Mara Hall

You Were Made for Me - The Stage Play
Mar 06
Thu • 7:00pm

You Were Made for Me – The Stage Play

Thalia Mara Hall

Chicago the Musical
Mar 16
Thu • 7:30pm

Chicago the Musical

Thalia Mara Hall

Morgan Freeman's Symphonic Blues Experience
Mar 26
Thu • 7:00pm

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience

Thalia Mara Hall

2Chainz X Plies - The Southern Truth Tour
Mar 28
Thu • 7:00pm

2Chainz X Plies – The Southern Truth Tour

Thalia Mara Hall

Swan Lake by International Ballet Stars
Mar 30
Thu • 7:00pm

Swan Lake by International Ballet Stars

Thalia Mara Hall

Mississippi Symphony Orchestra : Bravo V - Mighty Keys
Apr 10
Thu • 7:30pm

Mississippi Symphony Orchestra : Bravo V – Mighty Keys

Thalia Mara Hall

You Were Made For Me - The Stage Play
Apr 17
Thu • 7:00pm

You Were Made For Me – The Stage Play

Thalia Mara Hall

Riverdance 30 - The New Generation
Apr 21
Thu • 7:30pm

Riverdance 30 – The New Generation

Thalia Mara Hall