8 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Mississippi
There’s a lot to love about laid-back towns. When you live in relaxed destinations, you quickly notice how charming it feels to be somewhere that isn’t super busy with the constant hustle and bustle that comes along with a larger population. Easy-going towns still have much to offer when it comes to exciting commercial properties, intriguing historical landmarks, scenic views, delicious restaurants, and welcoming environments.
Mississippi, which is also known as the Hospitality State and the Magnolia State, got its nicknames for some very obvious reasons. Since Mississippi locals are recognized for being super friendly in their daily lives, Mississippi is widely known for being hospitable. There are also tons of stunning magnolias in bloom across the land there. Here’s a breakdown of eight blissfully serene small towns in Mississippi that should be on your radar.
Hattiesburg
As of now, about 48,306 residents live in Hattiesburg. There are several interesting things to do for folks who aren’t interested in activities like visiting nightclubs or partying on rooftop lounges. The laid-back essence of Hattiesburg offers tons of appealing museums, lush parks, and artsy destinations for true creatives at heart. Sarah Gillespie Museum of Art, the African-American Military History Museum, and the Hattiesburg Area Historical Society Museum at the Cultural Center are just a few.
As far as parks go, Chain Park at Twin Forks, Pete Taylor Park at Southern Miss, and Towne Square Park are some locations where visitors and locals can stretch their legs. Many individuals will come to adore the art scene in Hattiesburg after booking glassblowing classes at Mohawk Steel & Glass Co., taking in shows at Saenger Theater, or going on self-led public art tours through the downtown area. In the downtown area, you’ll lay eyes on more than 40 breathtaking murals.
Biloxi
The easy-going lifestyle in Biloxi is a total vibe for people in Mississippi, whether you’re visiting temporarily or relocating there permanently. Some of the most common activities in Biloxi include dining at restaurants with delectable menu items, fishing for sea critters during boating excursions, and absorbing insightful knowledge at various museums. For starters, the restaurants in Biloxi are top-of-the-line for just about any pallet. If you’re in the mood for Italian food, you can have dinner at Jazzepi’s. If you’re craving Mediterranean, feel free to make a reservation at Mr. Greek instead.
Other wonderful dining options in Biloxi include Mary Mahoney’s Old French House, Parrain’s Jambalaya Kitchen, and Half Shell Oyster House. There are tons of companies fishers can link with including Dominator Fishing Charters, Biloxi Cruise Company-Charter Booking, and Coastal Waters Outfitters. You might also find yourself in awe while visiting museums like the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum, Coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras Museum, and Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum.
Tupelo
With 37,593 current residents, Tupelo is a small town in Mississippi that deserves a little more attention than what it currently receives. The points of interest and attractions in Tupelo are as laid-back and easy-going as it gets. Some of the must-see attractions include Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum, Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo, and Natchez Trace Parkway. For some clarity on Natchez Trace Parkway, the recreational road spans 444 miles, offering some of the most blissfully scenic views in the entire state.
A handful of top-tier eateries to grab a bite in Tupelo include a restaurant called Forklift which sells southern food and a spot called Queens Reward Meadery which sells artisanal wines. Additionally, Tupelo is home to a restaurant called Joe Vegas that serves a surf and turf-style menu. A few thought-provoking galleries and museums are also open for visitors and locals in Tupelo. These include the Caron Gallery, the Chickasaw Heritage Center, and The Gumtree Museum of Art.
Meridian
Meridian's population of 33,112 isn’t very high, which means this is one Mississippi town that is certainly more laid-back than others. Still, there are a handful of pleasant things to do in Meridian based on whatever interests you the most. Live music and entertainment options are available there, and places that honor cultural arts are also open in the area. Additionally, tracking down outdoor wonders in Meridian is simple enough to do.
As far as music and entertainment go, places like Meridian Little Theater, Meridian Symphony Orchestra, and MSU Riley Center for Education & Performing Arts are a few examples. Stops you can make that breathe life into art and culture include the Jimmy Rogers Museum, the Meridian Museum of Art, and the Mississippi Blues Trail. Outdoorsy folks in Meridian might enjoy splashing around at Bonita Lakes, playing rounds of golf at Lakeview Golf Course, and taking strolls through Dunn’s Falls.
Pearl
The population of current residents in Pearl is pretty small since it currently stands at 28,445. This Mississippi town is charming and wonderful regardless of that number, though. Pearl is known for its blissful indoor and outdoor areas where sports lovers can have a blast. This includes the Pearl Municipal Golf Course facility, which boasts 18 holes and an on-site restaurant. Baseball lovers can catch games at Jenkins Park as well.
Folks who love basketball can watch games or play games recreationally at the Pearl Parks & Recreation Building. The restaurant options in Pearl are fabulous with places like Moss Creek Fish House, Fogata Bar & Grill, and Blue Feather Bakery to dine at. Anyone interested in retail therapy will also enjoy themselves in Pearl. That’s because Pearl is a town where amazing shops like AllyOops Boutique, Ann Taylor Factory Store, and SuperThrift Pearl are located.
Madison
As of now, 28,063 call Madison home. The number of residents is quite reflective of how laid-back and easy-going Madison is. Madison is known for its historical sites, mouthwatering restaurants, and fitness centers for folks who prioritize health and wellness. For starters, the historical sites in Madison are certainly worth exploring. While spending time in this super relaxing small town, you can visit the Strawberry Patch House where Dr. H.E. McKay grew strawberries until the late 1890s.
The Madison Airport, also known as Airport Hangers, is another historical site to visit since it was in operation through World War II. An incredible fine dining restaurant to set a reservation in Madison would be Vasilio’s Greek Cuisine. Casual diners can enjoy themselves at more low-key establishments like Taqueria La Guadalupe, Moe’s Southwest Grill, or Full Moon Barbeque. The fitness centers in Madison where people can truly hone in on their wellness goals include Madison Healthplex Performance Center, Hotworx of Madison, and Coyote Fitness.
Oxford
Locals and visitors who are interested in a relaxing experience will find exactly what they’re looking for in Oxford. That’s because there are plenty of laid-back things to do there. This includes visiting any of the nearby camping and fishing sites, dining at any of the top-notch restaurants, or hanging out at one of Oxford’s many lovely outdoor parks. The campgrounds worth checking out include John W. Kyle State Park and Wall Doxey State Park.
Folks who are hopeful about catching fish can try their luck near Oxford at Sardis Lake, Holly Springs National Forest, or Water Valley. The restaurants in Oxford with delectable menus include Bottletree, Bakery, Connie's Chicken, and Fergndan’s Wood Fire Pizza. Outdoor parks in Oxford people can explore include Stone Park, Riverhill Park, Price Hill Park, and Avent Park. These parks are perfect for people looking for quiet walking trails, tranquil picnic areas, family-friendly playgrounds, and more.
Some busy towns in Mississippi are hustling and bustling with loads of residents. Just think of places like Jackson, Gulfport, and Southhaven, for example. The truth of the matter is that genuinely laid-back towns in Mississippi have smaller residential numbers. Hattiesburg is a great example of a small town in Mississippi with simple attractions like museums and public parks to spend time in.
Tupelo, with its small resident count, is a delightful place to visit or relocate with its must-see attractions and amazing restaurants. Sports lovers who enjoy dining at fabulous restaurants and shopping at stores for their favorite products will enjoy themselves in Pear,. These are just some of the amazing small towns in Mississippi where commercial and historic landmarks create an incredible ambiance.
