The Mississippi River is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. From its headwaters in Minnesota to its journey through 10 states and over 2,300 miles, the Mississippi is a source of history, culture, and economic importance. Two of its many tributaries, the Ohio and Missouri Rivers, are home to the two official state capitals that border the Mississippi River: St. Louis, Missouri and Jackson, Mississippi.
At the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers is St. Louis, Missouri, the official state capital of Missouri. Founded in 1764 and declared an official state capital in 1821, St. Louis is the largest city in Missouri and the second-largest in the Midwest. It has a population of approximately 300,000 people, with over three million in the metropolitan area. The city is known for its cultural and historical significance, being the starting point for the famous Lewis and Clark expedition, hosting the 1904 World’s Fair, and of course its iconic Gateway Arch, the world’s tallest stainless steel monument.
Over 1000 miles downstream from St. Louis sits Jackson, the official state capital of Mississippi. Established in 1798, Jackson is located along the banks of the Pearl River in the center of the state. With a population of roughly 175,000 people, it is the most populous city in Mississippi, with over 500,000 in the metropolitan area. Jackson is rich in civil rights history, being the location of the Freedom Riders’ May 20, 1961 arrest, and is renowned for its southern hospitality and unique blend of music, art, and cuisine.
The Mississippi River covers over 2000 miles and ten states, passing through St. Louis and Jackson. These two cities are important hubs of history, culture, political relevance, and economic significance. They are both home to iconic landmarks and nationally recognized civil rights movements and serve as anchors to the region. Aside from their shared river— the Mississippi— they’re quite different when it comes to size, population, and demographics. They each have a unique identity and serve as beacons in their respective states.
Architecture
St. Louis is a vibrant city littered with towering skyscrapers, ranging from historic buildings like the historic United States Bank Tower to the modern 445-meter Arch grounded by a giant steel pyramid. Jackson, while much smaller, is brimming with countryside charm: Victorian houses, wide parks, and even a haunted Civil War tent city. Both cities are iconic in their own way and draw in millions of visitors each year.
Culture
St. Louis has a long and colorful history, from the 1904 World’s Fair, to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, which saw the city become the site of strategic demonstrations and boycott movements. It is home to the St. Louis Blues, one of the earliest and most successful American professional hockey teams in existence, as well as many other professional sports teams. To the south, Jackson is home to the Mississippi Blues Trail, a network of historic sites dedicated to the roots of blues music, and the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience, which focuses on the state’s cultural heritage and celebrates Mississippi’s creative legacy.
Economy
The economy of St. Louis is largely supported by the manufacturing, printing, and publishing industry, with notable technology sector growth in recent years. Meanwhile, the largest employers in Jackson revolve around the healthcare industry, as the city serves as a major medical hub for the region. Both St. Louis and Jackson offer unique business and career opportunities.
Transportation
Both St. Louis and Jackson are conveniently accessed by air and train, though St. Louis offers the added bonus of being home to the nation’s second-busiest river port on the Mississippi. The city is also served by two international airports and Amtrak services. Jackson, on the other hand, is served entirely by two general aviation airports and is in close proximity to several large cities, providing numerous interstate access points.
