6 Most Eccentric Towns in Mississippi

Back in 1817, Mississippi was welcomed into the Union as its 20th member. Nowadays, its eye-catching scenery is what truly gives this place its identity. The mighty Mississippi River runs along its western border, shaping fertile plains while rolling hills and pine forests stretch across the north and central regions.

Down south where the state meets the Gulf Coast, you can find sandy shores to build your dream castle or picnic for hours. The diverse landscapes of Mississippi have influenced agricultural practices for generations. However, it is not just farming that has shaped the state's identity—music has played such a huge role that Mississippi could be considered a land shaped by sound.

Blending its rich history beautifully with its unique towns, the state stands as an unforgettable experience. Get ready to learn all about six of the most eccentric towns in Mississippi.

Water Valley

This quaint town is tucked away in northern Mississippi over in Yalobusha County, home to about 3,300 people. Although it used to be a big railroad center, it has evolved into a center for artists and the arts, while holding onto its historical character. One of the best things to discover here are the town's festivals. During the end of summer, the town holds the quirky Watermelon Carnival, a fun get-together that started way back in 1931. It holds all sorts of funny events - like trying to spit watermelon seeds as far as you can or racing to eat chunks of juicy watermelon. Oh, and let's not forget the moment when the Watermelon Queen gets her crown.

To give you an idea of artistic life here, the yearly Water Valley Art Walk is a must-see. Resident artists invite everyone to see their fine works—making a stroll through the town one big tour of imagination and inspiration. Even when the art walk is not on, walking through town is a trip on its own. Water Valley's blend of historic and unconventional architecture—including restored Victorian homes, repurposed industrial spaces, the old North Main Street Historic District, and colorful murals—reflects its charm.

Clarksdale

Feeling the blues? Clarksdale's devotion to its blues legacy and art scene makes it an offbeat destination for travelers looking to explore the roots of Americana. Best of all, Clarksdale throws fun parties all through the year, honoring its roots. The Juke Joint Festival shows off live blues tunes everywhere - on street corners, in old buildings, and in little dance bars. On the other hand, the Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival brings light to the town's deep blend of gospel and blues songs.

Make sure to take a visit to the Delta Blues Museum. It has exhibits featuring items from famous musicians like Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, and B.B. King. People can even check out the real childhood cabin of Muddy Waters and feel the genuine vibe that started this popular type of music. Lastly, ever dreamed about sleeping in a converted shack? For a distinct place to stay in town, the Shack Up Inn makes this experience achievable with rustic rooms and live blues performances.

Ocean Springs

This seaside town is a little community hugging the Gulf Coast. It is well-known for its mix of Southern allure, creativity, and love for the outdoors. And it carries with it a past that goes as far back as 1699 when it was first established as the City of Discovery. In the heart of town, a group of structures awaits your visit, with many still standing since the end of the 1800s. Some of those include the Old L&N Train Depot, now a museum, along with the St. John’s Episcopal Church. Both are important places to check out in town and showcase the town's late 19th-century architectural heritage.

In case you are in the mood for a celebration, Ocean Springs holds lots of interesting events. Some of those include the Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival, the state's biggest festival for top-quality artistry. And with places like the Gulf Islands National Seashore, located just a short 15-minute drive from Ocean Springs, with its beautiful beaches, you will have lots to see and do outside.

Vicksburg

If you want an eclectic combination of history and haunted homes, Vicksburg has exactly that intriguing combination. The town, founded in 1811, has antebellum homes and a vibrant riverfront which makes it a destination for history buffs. This place was crucial during the Civil War, and these days its intriguing past is shared with gusto at the Vicksburg National Military Park, which skillfully blends traditional history with personal stories from the place in time.

For something different, the town’s riverside buildings are decked out with bright and vivid murals reflecting the important events in Vicksburg's past. Mixing art and history, these murals offer an exciting and unique outside picture show right by the Mississippi River. And of course, Vicksburg is known for its spooky landmarks, like the Duff Green Mansion and the McRaven House. People can have fun with spine-chilling ghost tours of these old homes, full of strange tales and puzzles, adding a quirky feel to their deep past.

Bay St. Louis

With casual beach cottages by the beach and a playful atmosphere, there is a fun array of things to do in Bay St. Louis. This town puts on happenings like the Pirate Day in the Bay. It mixes neighborhood customs with a cheery, exciting vibe that makes Bay St. Louis an off-the-wall spot all through the year. It is also known for its curious local art scene, housing funky galleries, distinct outdoor art displays, and the renowned Alice Moseley Folk Art and Antique Museum. All of these features serve as vibrant, whimsical windows into its regional traditions.

But of course, don’t forget about the beaches. The town’s beaches combine classic Gulf Coast beauty with unconventional charm. Washington Street Pier and Beach Park offers a relaxed, pet-friendly stretch of sand, alongside waterfront shops and cafes, providing a more casual, artistic twist to the beach experience. Make sure to time your visit well. The Second Saturday Art Walk, held every second Saturday, turns the streets of Old Town into a lively celebration, with music and local artisans showcasing their crafts.

Cleveland

It might not be the most famous Cleveland, but this town has a lot going on. Cleveland is known for its exciting mix of old and new and is home to spots steeped in music, like the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, and historical sites like Dockery Farms, which is only 10 minutes out of town. These places show off a deep-rooted tradition of tunes that has created the region’s modern spirit.

The Mississippi Delta is often called the 'Birthplace of the Blues,' and the town plays a role in this heritage. Musicians with legendary status, such as Charley Patton, created their distinct sounds here and developed the Mississippi Delta blues sound. It is also home to the campus of Delta State University, where you can find the Hazel and Jimmy Sanders Sculpture Garden with large-scale contemporary sculptures, adding an artistic touch to the town’s green spaces. For a one-of-a-kind festival, Cleveland’s Crosstie Arts & Jazz Festival is held every April and brings together artists, craftspeople, and musicians who help create an energetic mix of art and jazz music.

In Conclusion

Mississippi is a remarkable place, full of surprises. It is home to stunning natural splendor and comes with a fascinating history. What makes Mississippi interesting? The people, the music, the towns...you name it.

But what really draws you into Mississippi are the inviting scenes and gorgeous landscapes as far as the eye can see. You will also be amazed by how creative they are in all sorts of ways, with so much blues heritage at its very core.

Simply put, once you visit Mississippi and experience everything it offers firsthand, those memories will stay in your heart forever.