8 Most Memorable Small Towns In Mississippi
Mississippi, often called the Magnolia State, is a treasure trove of charming towns that blend Southern hospitality with rich historical legacies. From the rolling bluffs of the Mississippi River to the vibrant chords of the Blues Highway to the smoke-kissed flavors of down-home barbeque, Mississippi's towns offer a glimpse into the Spirit of the South. These communities celebrate family traditions, where hospitality is nurtured, and history is celebrated. Journey through eight of the most memorable towns in Mississippi, where the past comes alive and natural beauty abounds.
Biloxi
This seaside town on the Gulf of Mexico is on "Best Of" lists yearly. If the glorious white sand beaches, gentle surf, and mild temperatures don't convince you to visit, the many casinos make this town a tourist haven for gamblers. Top performers are scheduled to appear in 2024, including Journey, Gladys Knight, ZZ Top, and others. From the Crawfish Music Festival in the spring to Cruisin' On The Coast (an extensive classic car show) held in October, this community celebrates with plenty of resort-town energy almost every weekend.
The local visitors center is a beautiful place to begin a visit, with its wealth of information concerning the town. Families will want to tour the Mississippi Aquarium, with its exciting exhibits of marine life, or the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, an interactive children's Museum. History enthusiasts will love Beauvoir, the plantation home of Jefferson Davis, during his later years. There are several excellent restaurants to sample, but many locals like the Half Shell Oyster House downtown or Mary Mahoney's, an upscale fine dining restaurant in the historic home built in 1737.
Cleveland
The Mississippi Delta is the home of America's Blues Highway (US 61), and this small town shares that legacy as the location of the Mississippi Grammy Museum. The Museum has engaging exhibits, including the current "Sounds of Southern Rock" displays. With over 28,000 square feet of content, this special place is a great way to connect with your Rock and Roll roots.
Cleveland is home to Delta State University, and as a college town, there is a vibrance that can be electric. In the fall, you can spend a sunny Saturday afternoon enjoying a home football game at Horace L. McCool Stadium, or if you time it right, enjoy Octoberfest, a jam-packed gathering of music, art, and BBQ. Shoppers will want to walk through the downtown district with its eclectic shops and boutiques. The best place for dinner is the Delta Meat Market with its farm-to-table cuisine, or if you want a burger and brew, check out the quirky Hey Joe's Records and Cafe.
Oxford
This small town sits northeast of the state and is filled with all the energy you'd expect from a vibrant college community. The University of Mississippi resides here, and much of the town depends on the college and alums for its livelihood. History buffs will want to tour the Rowan Oaks, the home of novelist William Faulkner. The primitive Greek Revival home was built in 1840, but Faulkner resided there until he died in 1962. Today, the University operates the home and is open for tours year-round.
A charming town square is home to various unique boutiques and locally-owned businesses. Great read at Square Books, or shop for a new outfit at Neilson's Department Store. If you're looking for a place to dine, there are four award-winning restaurants operated by executive chef John Currence. His restaurants include City Grocery, The Big Bad Biscuit, Snackbar, and Boure', and you can expect crowds due to the excellent food and drinks they serve. The Double Decker Arts Festival is scheduled for April (2024) and showcases Oxford's vibrant art scene. Between the many festivals and the concert performances sponsored by the University, this town offers some of the finest cultural experiences in the country.
Natchez
This charming Mississippi River town is located in the southwest portion of the state, on the bluffs overlooking the river. With over 500 antebellum homes, Natchez has a rich history of Southern heritage, playing a vital role in the Civil War as a prize for both Union and Confederate troops. Visitors will want to tour Longwood, Stanton Hall, or the Rosalie Mansion. The Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture is a must-visit on Main St with its informative work and displays. For 2024, the city has some significant events planned, including Mardi Gras in February, a Blues Festival in April, and the legendary Natchez Ballon Festival in October.
There are many places to hike near the Mississippi River in Natchez, so if the kids need to stretch their legs, take a stroll on Natchez Bluff Walking Trail. You'll pass some beautiful examples of Victorian architecture with incredible scenic views of the mighty Mississippi and traverse down a 200-foot staircase to the base of the bluffs. If you prefer a more woodsy hike, the Natchez Trace Parkway runs northeast of Natchez and is one of the most pristine drives in the country. Plenty of trailheads branch off the road and weave through the national forests along the route. If you need a bite, try Restaurant 1818, which serves fine dining in the historic Monmouth Inn. Natchez Coffee Company is our place for a latte with a double shot of espresso.
Tupelo
Tupelo is famous as the birthplace and boyhood home of Elvis Presley, and it maintains a museum on the historic site. Today, visitors can explore the grounds, tour the home, and sit in the small Southern church where, as a child, he would have been influenced by the music he heard. Many visitors who frequent Graceland in Memphis venture the less than two-hour drive to explore the home in Tupelo. The community has an annual summer Elvis festival in June, filled with music from classic Elvis impersonators. You don't want to miss this music festival if you love the King of Rock and Roll.
The downtown area of Tupelo has a variety of small local shops and historical museums, but one of the best is the Tupelo Veteran's Museum. The Museum has a beautiful collection of artifacts and memorabilia from various global conflicts, with informative stories and displays. Be sure to seek out Mr. Tony, who can offer insights into the items he has collected over the years. For a unique dining experience, try the wings at the Blue Canoe or dine at the Neon Pig, which was recently voted as having the best Smashburger in America.
Ocean Springs
Here is another coastal community just miles from Biloxi that enjoys restful, warm Gulf waters and fantastic beach sunsets. Visitors will want to explore the Davis Bayou Area with its miles of walking trails and campground. There are several local fishing piers that anglers love, and if you want to venture out into deeper waters, many charters are available for hire at the local marinas.
The charm of Ocean Springs comes from the quaint downtown area, Washington Ave. The streets are tree-lined with hundred-year-old oaks and several blocks of small shops, restaurants, and galleries. The Pink Rooster and the Walter Andersen Museum of Art offer great chances to view the works of local and regional artists. The Peter Anderson Arts and Crafts Festival is every fall, attracting numerous artisans from all over the southeast.
If you need a one-of-a-kind item, shop for an antique at the Coastal Magpie or Ocean Springs Antiques. You can even pick up a home-baked treat for your pup at the Two Dogs Dancing. One of the best things about Ocean Springs is the food scene. There are several good restaurants, but the Blue Dog Bistro is a farm-to-table restaurant serving excellent food. Vestige is a James Beard-nominated restaurant with a tasting menu several nights a week.
Holly Springs
This small town is the county seat of Marshall County in northern Mississippi. The area was settled by European settlers who found the rich soil perfect for growing cotton. Today, the Marshall County Historical Museum is worth exploring, with three floors of fascinating displays and exhibits about the residents. The Strawberry Plains Audubon Center is a must-visit for hummingbirds, and every September, hundreds of ruby-throated winged birds descend on the town. As you might expect, the town throws a party when they appear.
The town sits in the Holly Springs National Forest, and several pristine freshwater lakes will thrill an outdoor enthusiast. The Wall Doxey State Park is seven miles south of town, located next to Spring Lake, and offers excellent camping, fishing, and hiking experiences. For a place to eat with live music, try the Marshall Steakhouse, but expect a crowd on the weekends because it can get busy. Phillips Grocery is a great place for a burger in a quaint setting.
Vicksburg
The Battle of Vicksburg was a crucial battle in the Civil War with its 47-day siege of the city that led to its occupation by Union troops, giving control of the Mississippi River. Today, the Vicksburg Military Park stands as a historic testament to the lives lost during those harrowing days. The Park has an interesting visitor center, and a 2.3-mile drive through the park is worth exploring. Each summer, the Park sponsors a Surrender Festival with live cannon demonstrations and interpretative lectures on the life of soldiers on the battlefield.
Downtown Vicksburg has numerous small businesses and shops. The Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum has excellent artifacts and memorabilia, along with an old-time soda fountain. For an other-worldly encounter, tour the haunted McRaven Mansion, which offers nightly ghost tours. If you need a place to eat, the Walnut Hills Restaurant has been a staple of Vicksburg for over 43 years.
Mississippi boasts many charming small towns that display the state's rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and picturesque landscapes. From the historic allure of Natchez to the vibrant arts scene in Ocean Springs, exploring the hidden gems within these wonderful communities can provide a rewarding journey of discovery and enlightenment. Similar to a fresh mint julep or a glass of sweet tea, travelers will want to return often just to relish the southern sweetness that can be found in the Magnolia State.
