6 of the Quirkiest Towns in Mississippi

While Mississippi is well-known for its fantastic Southern hospitality, its rich culture, and interesting history, there’s another side to the Magnolia State that’s worth exploring: its quirky side. Scratch the surface a little and it’s clear that Mississippi is home to some of the quirkiest and most intriguing small towns in the United States.

These sometimes overlooked destinations are well worth exploring and offer a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty, making them ideal places to visit in Mississippi for travelers seeking a memorable day trip or weekend getaway. From Ocean Springs to Laurel with a few stops along the way, here’s an overview of the quirkiest towns in Mississippi.

Natchez

The town of Natchez has so much fun stuff going for it that it’s impossible to omit it from any list of the quirkiest towns in Mississippi, if not the USA. Boasting the distinction of being the oldest town on the mighty Mississippi River, Natchez is a treasure trove of antebellum architecture and historic sites, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and curious tourists alike. Getting there is half the adventure, especially if you follow the Natchez Trace Parkway, an over 400-mile, centuries-old scenic route connecting the town to Nashville to the north that follows a route established by Native Americans.

Other quirky things to do in Natchez include taking a fun tour of well-preserved antebellum homes and plantations such as the Rosalie Mansion and Gardens, Stanton Hall, and Longwood, the latter famous for its unique octagonal design; exploring Natchez National Historical Park, which includes the Melrose Estate and the William Johnson House; and stopping in at the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture which sheds light on the African American experience in the region.

Vicksburg

Its location on the I-20 Connecting Shreveport, LA, with Jackson, Mississippi’s state capital, makes Vicksburg a must-do day trip. Its location on the banks of the Mississippi River also adds to its charm and led to its playing a pivotal role in the American Civil War. The town’s top attraction, Vicksburg National Military Park is a sprawling memorial to the battle that took place here in 1863. Highlights include the opportunity to explore the battlefield and view its monuments and memorials, as well as learn about the siege at the park's museum. The USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum, located within the park, displays the remains of the famous Union ironclad and offers a fascinating glimpse into naval warfare during the Civil War.

The elegant Victorian-era homes and buildings in historic downtown Vicksburg are also fun to explore, as is its riverfront. Here you’ll find the Vicksburg Riverfront Murals, a fascinating collection of outdoor artworks displaying key scenes in the town’s history. Scenic riverboat cruises are also available, while the Lower Mississippi River Museum provides insights into the river's ecological and cultural importance.

Ocean Springs

Located mid-way between Mobile, Alabama, and New Orleans, Louisiana, Ocean Springs is as popular for its coastal setting as it is for its cultural character. Set overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, it’s here you’ll find the Walter Anderson Museum of Art with its portrayals of the life and works of the acclaimed Mississippi artist. The museum not only showcases Anderson's work but also features other local artists whose art reflects the beauty of this part of the Gulf Coast.

You’ll also get a taste of the town's artistic and somewhat quirky spirit with a stroll along Main Street with its galleries and unique stores. Be sure to explore Ocean Springs Harbor, especially for its fresh seafood dining and water views. The town's proximity to the Gulf Islands National Seashore opens up a world of beaches, marshlands, and nature trails that are perfect for outdoor activities including hiking and birdwatching.

Canton

Sometimes referred to as the "City of Lights," Canton is located just north of Jackson and is famous for its historic town square. Rated one of the most beautiful town squares in the USA, Courthouse Square is so picture-perfect that it’s been included in numerous movies, including O Brother, Where Art Thou and My Dog Skip. Grab a photo of the Greek Revival-style Madison County Courthouse, built in 1857 and one of the most photographed of any small-town courthouses in the state.

Canton is also home to nearly 100 other buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including one of the town's oldest homes, a log cabin constructed in 1830. Canton is also popular for its Canton Flea Market Arts and Crafts Show, which attracts up to 100,000 visitors to this twice-yearly event.

Tupelo

Here’s one for the music fans out there: Tupelo, best known as the birthplace of the legendary Elvis Presley. Located in the northeast part of the state, the star attraction in Tupelo is undoubtedly the Elvis Presley Birthplace Museum, a modest two-room house where the “King of Rock and Roll” that also includes a chapel and the Elvis Presley Park. From here, it’s easy to follow the Elvis Presley Driving Tour which takes in other locations related to the star’s childhood.

The Tupelo National Battlefield is another must-visit and is a poignant reminder of the city's involvement in the Civil War, especially during the Battle of Tupelo in 1864. The Oren Dunn City Museum is also fun to visit. Set in a converted barn, it showcases local history, including Native American artifacts, regional agricultural history, and an exhibit on the devastating Tupelo tornado of 1936. Finally, check out the over 100 old cars at the Tupelo Automobile Museum.

Laurel

Known as the "The City Beautiful," Laurel is an appealing destination for its attractive historic district. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Laurel Central Historic District showcases one of the largest and most intact collections of early 20th-century architecture in Mississippi. Highlights include the chance to see a quirky array of architectural styles, as well as taking in the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art which hosts American and European works as well as Native American baskets.

Laurel is also known for its association with the hit HGTV show, Home Town, which has played a significant role in revitalizing the town while increasing tourist interest. For a quirky finale to a visit, spend time browsing the Laurel Mercantile Co. and the Scotsman General Store & Woodshop, both owned and operated by the TV show’s producers.

The Final Word

Quaint and generally quieter than the bigger tourist hotspots in Mississippi, these quirky towns each offer a fun exploration of the state's rich cultural and historical attractions. From the Civil War echoes of Vicksburg, the antebellum grandeur of Natchez, the cinematic allure of Canton, and the Elvis connections of Tupelo, these wonderful destinations encapsulate the very best that Mississippi has to offer the curious traveler.