Quality of Life

Quality of life matters for recruiting talent. Jackson offers museums, parks, sports venues, and a growing arts scene that support workforce attraction and employee retention. Below are highlights you can cite in recruitment materials.

Jackson Zoo
The Jackson Zoo has been a community landmark for over 100 years. It features animal exhibits, conservation programs, and children’s educational activities. The zoo hosts school field trips, summer camps, and family-friendly events. As a city-owned attraction, it serves as both a tourism draw and an educational partner for local schools.

Sonny Guy Golf Course
Sonny Guy is the city’s public 18-hole golf course. It offers affordable rates, practice facilities, and league play opportunities. The course is open to casual golfers, organized tournaments, and youth golf programs. As a city-managed asset, it supports recreation for residents while providing a venue for business outings and community events.

Thalia Mara Hall
Thalia Mara Hall is Jackson’s premier performing arts venue. It hosts Ballet Mississippi, the International Ballet Competition, symphony performances, opera, and touring Broadway shows. The 2,000-seat hall also brings in national recording artists, lectures, and special events. As the city’s flagship auditorium, it’s a cultural anchor that attracts audiences from across the region.

New Stage Theatre
New Stage Theatre is Mississippi’s only professional theatre, offering a full season of classic and contemporary plays. It produces musicals, dramas, and comedies, while also providing educational programming like acting classes and youth theatre camps. New Stage is an important platform for local talent and touring artists, making live theatre accessible to the Jackson community.

Mississippi Coliseum and State Fairgrounds
The Mississippi Coliseum is a 10,000-seat arena that hosts concerts, sporting events, expos, and rodeos throughout the year. The adjacent Fairgrounds are home to the annual Mississippi State Fair, one of the largest events in the state, drawing visitors from across the Southeast. Together, these venues support large-scale entertainment, trade shows, and agricultural events that bring consistent economic activity to the city.