Also known as the City Auditorium, Thalia Mara Hall stands as one of Jackson's most utilized civic venues for stage performances. A seating capacity of 2,500 provides an intimate environment for moderate-size productions of all kinds. Public meetings and conventions are accommodated with boardrooms and reception areas adjacent to the main hall, while the backstage area features dressing rooms and showers for theatrical troupes. With its acoustical shell design, Mara Hall is a particular favorite for choral recitals, and is the home to the USA International Ballet Competition.

World-renowned professional pool player Reed Pierce's upscale restaurant and sports bar features great food and great atmosphere. Foodies, sports fans, and music lovers will all feel at home here. Enjoy the bar area complete with high-defintion TV, play some pool in the 9-Ball Lounge, or savor the area's best rib-eye steaks, Fried Shrimp, Po-Boys, Catfish, fried chicken and burgers while dining on the 3000 square-foot outdoor patio complete with bar area. Music lovers will appreciate the weekend's nightly live music choices, while the ladies will delight in each Thursday's Ladies' night. Don't miss Happy Hour from 4p-7p M-F! Reed Pierce's truly has it all. -Cindy Leggett

This theatre is part of the Regal Cinemas chain and is located in Flowood, nine miles from Jackson. It has been a popular destination for movie addicts in the city ever since it opened in 1995. If you are visiting this town and have some hours to spare, do head here. The latest releases on 10 screens will entertain you as you enjoy some refreshments and the company of friends. For further information, check the website.

This classic cinema is part of the Malco Theatres chain. Located in Madison, 12 miles from Jackson, it wows the audiences with the latest Hollywood movies shown on 17 screens. Amenities in the auditoriums include a 36.5 x 70 foot screen, stadium seating, rocking-chairs, cup-holders on the chairs, and Dolby and THX sound systems. There is also an ATM machine, cyber café, and three party rooms on-site. The food available here includes fried mozzarella and chicken tenders. For show timings and other information, check the website.

This branch of the Cinemark chain of theatres, which opened in 1998, is located in Pearl, nine miles from Jackson. Stadium seating will let you enjoy the movies shown on the 17 screens, while the in-house refreshment stands will satiate your hunger pangs. The place is quite strict about age restriction for movies-be sure to carry your proof of identity along to avoid being disappointed.

You know that you will get royal treatment when you head to a branch of the Regal Cinemas chain. This theatre, located in Clinton, 20 miles away from Jackson, is no exception. While no one expects you to drive here to watch a flick, if you are already here and have some spare time, why not catch a movie? Invite your friends, grab some refreshments, park yourself on a comfy seat and you are ready to go!

This cinema, belonging to the Regal Cinemas group, is located in Ridgeland, 11 miles from Jackson. It opened its doors in 1990 with 10 screens, it was refurbished in 2000 with another four screens to its credit. Both mainstream movies and independent cinema find a place here. The main features of this theatre are stadium seating and discounted tickets for seniors, children and military personnel. For further information, check the website or give them a buzz.

Inspired heavily by Cajun cuisine, Monte's Steak & Seafood is a popular restaurant. The most popular dishes on the menu are the Stuffed Shrimp Chef Monte and the Bourbon Street Ribeye that is coated with a special Cajun flavored sauce.The Stuffed Catfish and the Chicken Linguini are also good. The venue is casual and welcoming, with a staff that genuinely cares about the diners. It is packed most of the time, even thronged by the glamorous crowd who like to grab a leisurely meal in its classy ambience. The bar has TV screens for uninhibited match viewing.

Huttington's Grille is a spectacular fine dining steakhouse inside the Hilton hotel. An impressive venue, its food is equally brilliant. Bite into deliciously cooked Sweet Potato Crisps as you decide what to order from among the entrees. The Tuscan Chicken, Marinated Skirt Steak  and fresh fish are popular favorites among the patrons, though the other items are also tasty. A good selection of wine from across the globe is also available. An elegant and pretty place to host private celebrations, the staff is well equipped to manage large events easily.

The large French windows and the potted plants create a beautiful and bright setting to enjoy a leisurely meal at Sophia's Restaurant. Located inside the Fairview Inn, it serves outstanding French cuisine that is unmatched in the region. Try the awesome Mushroom Quiche, Crab Cakes or Pecan Crusted Rack of Lamb to get an idea of the deliciousness of the food.  A bar fulfills the need for quenching the thirst as one digs into the irresistible menu. The restaurant has a classy air to it, though it is delightfully humble and unpretentious. The staff and service are good too.