6 Best Downtowns In Mississippi
Mississippi caters to every type of traveler, from music lovers to foodies to history buffs. Each mile of your journey will lead you to communities with fascinating downtown districts, each offering a new and unique experience. As the birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo features must-see sites dedicated to the King of Rock and Roll, while Natchez attracts visitors with its exceptional cuisine—a rich blend of Southern flavors influenced by French, African, and Creole traditions. Woodville's downtown area, a historic neighborhood with buildings turned into museums, highlights its storied past. Additionally, the Mississippi River, the longest river in North America, offers breathtaking views and unique experiences for nature enthusiasts. Regardless of your interests, you will undoubtedly encounter some unusual and unforgettable sights along the downtown streets of these Mississippi towns.
Tupelo
In northern Mississippi, Tupelo has a thriving downtown area with shops, art galleries, and hotels, including Hotel Tupelo and Hilton Garden Inn Tupelo, which provide convenient access to everything. Before exploring the area, visit the Tupelo Visitors Center on Main Street to learn about its rich history, including its distinction as the birthplace of Elvis Presley. Elvis fans will want to snap the perfect photo in front of the larger-than-life statue of Elvis located behind Tupelo City Hall. The statue, which stands on the former site of the Tupelo Fairgrounds where his 1956 homecoming concert was held, is just one of many attractions in Tupelo dedicated to the music icon.
At Reed's, a family-run department store featuring clothing, accessories, and shoes for men, women, and kids, indulge in retail therapy. After browsing Reed's, visit Reed's GumTree Bookstore on Spring Street, just off Main Street, to pick up books by bestselling authors. There are also many museums and galleries to explore in downtown Tupelo. Start at The Caron Gallery, where works by Mississippi artists are displayed, including beautiful sculptures and watercolor paintings. The GumTree Museum of Art, a short walk away, features monthly changing exhibits, offering visitors something new with each visit.
Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis is a charming waterfront town with a lively downtown area known as Old Town. Inside the Bay St. Louis Historic L & N Train Depot is the Alice Moseley Folk Art & Antique Museum, named after the beloved folk artist and painter. The museum, which offers free admission, displays her colorful artwork and antique objects. Another must-visit destination in Old Town is the Bay St. Louis Little Theatre, a performing arts venue that hosts concerts, comedy shows, and musical productions for all ages.
Old Town also features plenty of dining and shopping options. From Southern-style seafood specialities like shrimp po’boys and gumbo at Cuz's Old Town Oyster Bar & Grill to brunch classics, burgers, and sandwiches at Mockingbird Café, there’s something for everyone. Fun fact: directly behind Mockingbird Café is a yoga studio, adding a unique option to your day. Explore quirky gift shops like Social Chair or trendy stores like Southern Accents Boutique and Bay-Tique. To fully experience Old Town, consider accommodations like the Pearl Hotel or Bay Town Inn.
Natchez
Natchez, located on the Mississippi River, boasts one of Mississippi's top downtown areas. The best way to explore it is by taking a self-guided walking tour. Start at Visit Natchez, the town's tourism center on Main Street, which offers brochures and maps. Nearby, the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture showcases exhibits ranging from slavery to the Civil Rights era and hosts educational events throughout the year. The Natchez National Historical Park is another fascinating site to learn about the town's history and its residents.
After learning about the area’s rich past, enjoy Southern fare and seafood dishes at restaurants such as Frankie’s on Main and Biscuits & Blues, which also offers live entertainment. While walking downtown, check out local businesses like Darby’s, which sells gift items ranging from candles to handbags and delectable treats such as world-famous fudge. For a creative experience, visit the Arts Natchez Gallery, which highlights work by talented regional artists. A downtown trip isn’t complete without a pleasant stroll through Bluff Park.
Oxford
The Square, Oxford’s bustling downtown area, offers an authentic glimpse of the town’s charm. Among its standout dining options is City Grocery, a favorite for its New Orleans-inspired atmosphere and innovative Southern cuisine. For food paired with entertainment, try Rooster’s Blues House, where local and touring bands perform. Another popular spot is Quack’s, a gourmet hot dog and burger joint.
For shopping, Neilson’s Department Store—the South’s oldest department store—features home goods, gifts, and clothing for men, women, and kids. Book lovers should visit Square Books, an independent bookstore with a café, patio, and titles by well-known writers. Nearby is Off Square Books, which specializes in lifestyle books on cooking, gardening, and photography. Rare Square Books offers hard-to-find titles, while Square Books, Jr. focuses on children’s literature. For more art and culture, head to Southside Gallery, which showcases works by local and international artists.
Ocean Springs
Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Ocean Springs is a vibrant and eclectic arts community. For a taste of its nightlife, visit the Roost Boutique Hotel’s Wilbur Bar, which offers a speakeasy vibe with handcrafted cocktails and wines. Another great spot is Craft Advisory Brewing, known for its craft beers and lively atmosphere. For dining, try Pleasant’s BBQ, the town’s oldest restaurant, which has served award-winning barbecue since 1982.
Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, which honors the legacy of artist and philosopher Walter Inglis Anderson. The museum is open daily and offers self-guided and professional tours, as well as art classes like drawing and painting. Ocean Springs also hosts art festivals like the Spring Arts Festival and the Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival downtown.
Woodville
Woodville, the county seat of Wilkinson County, lies just north of the Louisiana-Mississippi border. Courthouse Square, a historic neighborhood featuring the Wilkinson County Museum, is a focal point of downtown. The museum, once the West Feliciana Railroad office and banking house, details local history. Nearby, the African American Museum offers additional historical insights.
Downtown Woodville also has a library, a residential complex, and eateries such as Jackie’s Hamburger Shop and Woodville Café. Many annual events are hosted downtown, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade in January and the Woodville Deer & Wildlife Festival in October. In December, the Woodville Christmas Parade attracts visitors with festive shopping, food, and entertainment, making it a must-attend event.
Explore The Best Downtown Areas In Mississippi
These Mississippi towns have downtown districts that truly offer something for everyone. Snap a selfie in front of the iconic Elvis Presley statue in Tupelo, savor Southern cuisine in Natchez, or delve into African American history in Woodville. Take your next trip to the South to new heights and explore these unforgettable Mississippi towns, which provide a wealth of activities and wonder along their main streets.
