The Minangkabau people migrated across the Straits of Melaka from Sumatra centuries ago and their traditional houses are distinguished by sweeping roof peaks shaped like buffalo horns. Some examples of these influences can be seen in the State Mosque and the State Secretariat Building.

The Minangkabau people of Negeri Sembilan still practise the matrilineal social system known as the "adat perpatih", where the women are the head of the household, making the state the only one to adhere to such social norms.

The state has one of the most accessible beaches closest to the federal capital of Kuala Lumpur, known as Port Dickson, which is popular with weekenders. But beyond this famous beach, there is a little bit of everything for everyone to explore in this state, from the history buff to the nature lover.