7 Offbeat Mississippi Towns To Visit In 2025
Many factors can make a town offbeat, such as quirky characters, landmarks, and the overall community personality. Historic Mississippi checks all these boxes and more. It is one of the most historically significant states in the South and also one of the most beautiful. It also boasts a wealth of notable attractions, encompassing music, art, and literature.
The Magnolia State has been the birthplace of many prominent musicians, including the King of Rock and Roll, and the home to literary giants like William Faulkner. Travel town to town, connecting these cultural dots, and encounter unusual artistic and historical sites along the way in these seven offbeat towns to visit in Mississippi in 2025.
Natchez
Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, Natchez has a diverse history, which is evident at places such as Beulah Baptist Church, Choctaw Hall, and the Dunleith Historic Inn. The church played a prominent role during the 1960s Civil Rights era, the 1836 hall blends Greek Revival and Federal styles, and the 1790s inn was initially a carriage house and today is one of the most prominent in town.
Mississippi is considered the birthplace of American music, and its communities look for reasons to celebrate this feat. Natchez is part of the Gold Record Road, which runs past the Americana Music Triangle. The road makes two trips around the historic town, lined with Mississippi Blues Trail markers, and is a remarkable way to experience the town's many charms.
Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs's documented history dates back to 1699, when French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville founded Fort Maurepas. It was the first French settlement in Mississippi, and today it is known for its cultural, shopping, and dining options in the downtown district. The district has an array of quirky boutiques, like The Art House, which are fun to explore on Slow Ride Pedal Tours. The 14-seat trolley-like vehicle is propelled by a pedal bar where guests are invited to sip their favorite beverage and soak in the sight of Ocean Springs.
Afterwards, look for the striped awning that marks the Coastal Magpie. The antique shop is in the heart of downtown and features neat art, furniture, and handcrafted sculptures. There are many eclectic things to do and see here, making it one of the best towns in the Magnolia State.
Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis is a coastal town that has been voted "the best of" by many reviewers for its history, venues, and friendly community. Attractions range from casino action to outdoor fun and cultural attractions. One such attraction is the landmark Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum. The museum, housed in the Historic L&N Train Depot, commemorates the local legend who began her craft at 65 and touched the hearts of many.
For those seeking lively entertainment, look no further than the Downtown and Depot Road districts for the Second Saturday on the Bay. Presented by the Old Town Merchants' Association, shopkeepers roll out the red carpet for the pedestrian-only event, each with its unique theme, and present an opportunity for visitors to get to know the friendly townsfolk.
Clarksdale
Clarksdale is famous as the birthplace of the Delta Blues, and its artistic flair is just south of Memphis. It has been home to several notable blues artists, including Muddy Waters and R&B masters like Sam Cooke. Much of this history is showcased at the Delta Blues Museum, which features exhibits and a statue of Muddy Waters himself. Fans should also check out Stovall Plantation, the original home of Muddy Waters, at the renovated Freight Depot.
After discovering the town's musical roots, dive into Clarksdale's artistic side in the Arts and Culture District. Along with local shops and merchants, there are public murals that should not be missed when in town. Notable examples include Shush by Dr. Vera Mae Pigee and Howlin' Wolf- The Song by Jasmine Jackson. The community does a masterful job of honoring its historical roots while offering modern art and amenities in a harmonious blend that is hard to resist.
Oxford
Oxford spans many histories and is famous as the home of the University of Mississippi. The downtown district, centered around Oxford Square, has a vibrant atmosphere, historic structures, and lively nightlife that balances the academic atmosphere. The Square, as the locals call it, is the economic center of Oxford and home to the South's oldest department store, Neilson's.
The 1872 Lafayette Courthouse looms large over the Square, and Neilson's, the landmark store, which has been continuously operating since 1839, is one of many must-see attractions in town. Rowan Oak, the home of literary giant William Faulkner for 40 years, is near downtown. Majestic oak trees frame the 33-acre estate and the Greek Revival residence, which are available to the public. His works reference the fictional Yoknapatawpha County, Mississippi, which is based on Oxford and Lafayette County, underscoring its majestic charm and beauty.
Port Gibson
Port Gibson is steeped in Civil War skirmishes and played a pivotal role in General Ulysses S. Grant's Vicksburg Campaign. Many historic buildings survived because Grant believed the city was "too pretty to burn." The Port Gibson Visitor's Center showcases this and other histories, especially for those desiring a self-guided tour.
No matter the reason for the visit, one would be remiss without visiting Windsor Ruins, which are on the National Register of Historic Places. The ruins, one of Mississippi's most iconic sites, are a set of 23 full columns and five partial columns left from the Windsor Plantation after a devastating fire in 1890.
Tupelo
Tupelo's primary claim to fame is being the birthplace of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll. The king's presence is felt throughout town, which includes a statue of Elvis downtown, his childhood home and museum, and the Tupelo Hardware Company, where he bought his first guitar. Visitors are encouraged to take the Elvis Journey, a paid tour that visits these sites and regales visitors with stories about the community's hometown hero.
Tupelo Hardware Store is on Main Street, an iconic shopping district that has been home to the community for over 100 years. Spend a day exploring downtown and make sure to stop in at The Marketplace at Sweet Tea and Biscuits, Presley Heights Antique Mall, and Relics Antique Marketplace. Tupelo is a quirky place, filled with Elvis Presley references, a friendly community, and fantastic shopping experiences, making it one of the most offbeat places to visit in 2025.
Mississippi is overflowing with popular cities, but these seven are among the most offbeat. From academic Oxford to the Delta Blues capital of Clarksdale, each one has something special to offer and promises a memorable visit. The communities make these towns more vibrant and fun, especially during live events or festivals.
The state also has a deep American history that can be experienced through its vast trove of historic homes and sites. A road trip through Mississippi is like driving through time with progressive communities that have an eye toward the future. This is evident in the many lively venues, often in carefully preserved buildings, that guarantee these charming towns will continue to be offbeat for years to come.
