7 Most Charming Cities in Mississippi

Deep in the heart of the American South lies the great state of Mississippi. Known for its one-of-a-kind landscape and outstanding cuisine inspired by the fascinating Cajun people, Mississippi is one of the more unique areas of the United States. 

Most people visit Mississippi with the idea of tearing down country roads and stumbling across small towns with rich histories and cultures. While this is certainly a side of Mississippi that is worth exploring, its bustling cities are also deserving of your attention. 

Jackson

Starting off with the largest and most well-recognized city in the state, Jackson has long been the most fast-paced and upbeat part of Mississippi. Since Jackson is the capital of Mississippi there is an abundance of beautiful government buildings that are all adorned with the typical Roman and Enlightenment Age decor that is so common in the United States. 

Jackson has some of the best museums in the state. In the downtown area, you can find the Mississippi Museum of Art, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, and the Museum of Mississippi History all within a short distance from one another. Jackson is a great place to go if you are wanting to experience something that is both modern and quintessentially Southern. 

Gulfport

Just as the name would suggest, Gulfport is a city that sits right along the shorts of the Gulf of Mexico. This seaside city is home to the largest cargo port in all of Mississippi and remains a crucial hub of the state's trade and commerce.

Being right along the water gives Gulfport access to some of the highest quality and freshest seafood around. Tons of great restaurants can be found here along with a series of outstanding Cajun dishes. After you are done eating some delicious food make sure to stop by the Mississippi Aquarium. Its dolphin and penguin exhibits are incredibly entertaining and memorable. 

Southaven

The city of Southaven is the southernmost suburb of Memphis, Tennessee. Despite crossing state lines, Southaven has still managed to incorporate its unique Mississippi culture with a tad of Tennessee influence. 

Southaven has seen a serious transformation in the last few decades or so and has made a concerted effort to try and make the city much more walkable and closely knit. The amount of parks and recreation buildings constructed in recent years has been astounding. This rapid change has made Southaven a pleasure to stroll through and enjoy the scenery. If you find yourself in its downtown make sure to try and catch one of the farmers markets in action. It is a great way to get your hands on some quality local products. 

Biloxi

Pronounced buh-luk-see, this tranquil ocean town is one of the more well-known cities in Mississippi. Biloxi is the perfect place to go if you are looking to relax and have a good time with friends and family. Taking a long walk down the sandy beaches at Biloxi is enough to calm anyone. 

It should be no surprise to learn that the food here is great at well. Many of the local restaurants are supplied by local fishermen. If you sit down for a meal there is a good chance the crab you are about to eat was caught not too far from where you are sitting. 

If you are feeling lucky and want to make a little extra cash make sure to take a look at some of Biloxi's famous casinos. Each has its own flare and theme making each establishment really stand out. 

Hattiesburg

No matter what you are into there is a little bit of everything in Hattiesburg. This smaller-scale city has managed to foster a surprisingly robust art and music scene. If you stop in at one of the many great dinners or bars in town there is a good chance you will be greeted with some of the best live music you have ever come across. 

Taking a trip down the quaint main strip of Hattiesburg will bring you into contact with a  large number of specialty stores and fashion boutiques. Handmade jewelry and clothes can all be found here. 

Tupelo

Tupelo is best known for being the birthplace of the "The King" Elvis Presley. As you could imagine much of the town's attractions have to do with the world-famous rockstar. You can find Elvis-themed restaurants, bars, and everything else in between. 

If you are not the world's largest Elvis fan you do not need to worry, there is still tons to do here. One of the more unusual attractions is the city's buffalo farm. That's right, you can pay a small entrance fee and then get your chance to get up close and personal with these majestic animals. It is not every day you see a buffalo in the South. 

Meridian

The history of Meridian is one of struggle and redemption. The city was all but destroyed during the American Civil War and was forced to rebuild from scratch. Today Merdian has managed to retain its rustic charm from the Civil War era while still transforming into a modern and bustling city. 

Meridian is also home to the MSU Riley Center. This theatre routinely puts on outstanding performances from local talent. The building itself is one of the most eloquent buildings in the city and is a relic of the city's past. 

Summary 

Mississippi is one of the most diverse states in the nation. With all the grit and calm of the countryside along with the comfort and opportunity that comes with the city, there is something here for everyone no matter where you are from. 

Each of these cities is sure to stick with you long after you have left. The Southern character in place here is hard to forget. Make sure you visit during the summer to get the full experience.