8 Whimsical Towns to Visit in Mississippi

Also known as the “Magnolia State,” the great State of Mississippi is a central component of the Southern United States. A place of unique cultural character, fascinating chapters of American history, and loads of wonderful natural beauty, Mississippi is a most charming destination for anyone visiting this region of the nation. While such major centers like Jackson and Biloxi remain amongst the most well-known, the “Magnolia State” is also home to a number of smaller but equally alluring towns that are perfect for a most memorable and picturesque American holiday. So when visiting the Southern United States, be sure to include Mississippi and explore its charm through an exploration of these great, whimsical towns!

Natchez

The historic Natchez was established by French colonists way back in 1716, where today, just under 14,000 residents call home. The seat of Adams County is scenically situated along the Mississippi River, and hot summers and warm winters characterize Natchez’s climate, where loads of natural beauty and historical intrigue can be found. Near the State line with Louisiana, outdoor lovers will surely appreciate this lovely town where opportunities to go swimming, boating, and cycling along the water’s edge are always popular. And with its calm and relaxing small-town ambiance, Natchez really is a great spot to simply unwind and enjoy a rustic slice of the Southern United States.

In addition, the history aficionado can also appreciate the town where several historic pre-Civil War landmarks continue to stand. Head on over to the Museum of African American History and Culture, which illuminates the painful legacy of slavery and the ongoing fight for civil rights in America.

Raymond

Raymond is a small, scenic town that is beautifully located just off the Natchez Trace Parkway. Founded in the 1830s and with a modern population of just under 2,000 residents, today Raymond serves as one of two seats of Hinds County (alongside the State Capital of Jackson). A charming locale to enjoy some of Mississippi’s best natural splendor, visitors can also appreciate Raymond for its small-town allure and 19th-century history. Explore a number of pre-Civil War landmarks, including plantations and homes, while such attractions as the Raymond Military Park immerse guests into the tumultuous years of the conflict through preserved artillery and interpretive guides.

Meanwhile, even just a casual afternoon on the campus of the pretty Hinds Community College is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the Mississippi sky and sun. Add in inviting and tasty local restaurants like Sylvester’s BBQ and the B & B Crawfish, and a true taste of the South can be experienced in a most serene setting.

Louisville

The seat of Winston County, Louisville, in central Mississippi, has a modest population of just over 6,000. Spend time at the Lake Tiak-O-K'hata resort, where stunning waterfront cabins, an RV park, and plenty of pretty camping and picnic areas make it a great place to simply relax and enjoy the ambiance. Walk by the historic Strand Theatre (1918), or get a meal at the Market Café, which offers some of the best classic American burgers, seafood, and other Southern treats.

Oxford

Named for the famous British city, Oxford was founded in the 1830s with a modern population of just over 25,000 residents. Seat of Lafayette County, like its British counterpart, this American Oxford is also known for its local university. Home to the University of Mississippi (1844) or “Ole Miss,” the town is a lively college community with loads of culture, art, history, and beautiful Southern weather.

Explore a range of historical landmarks here, including the Rowan Oak Mansion from the 1840s, the St. Peter’s Episcopal Church (1860), and the County Courthouse (1872), amongst several others listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Meanwhile, great galleries and museums make Oxford a delightful place to visit, and attractions like the University of Mississippi Museum and the Southside Art Gallery will inspire all ages. Add in hot weather and stunning natural features like the surrounding forested hills, and this is one town not be missed by any visitor to the Magnolia State.

Rolling Fork

Just under 2,000 residents call the charming town of Rolling Fork home, which can be traced back to its foundational history dating back to the 1820s. The seat of Sharkey County, the town is a most alluring Mississippi community where historical intrigue and picturesque natural surroundings come together. Situated within the Mississippi Delta and with splendid views of vast corn and cotton fields, the agricultural beauty of Rolling Fork sets it apart from many other similar communities in the state.

Meanwhile, the town’s historic character is also on display, and guests can explore a number of preserved landmarks, some of which are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Mont Helena Mansion (1896) and the County Courthouse (1876), amongst others. Add in a fine assortment of local restaurants like Chuck’s Dairy Bar and charming shops and galleries, and Rolling Fork will surely leave any traveler with a fine set of Southern memories.

Greenville

Near the border with the state of Arkansas, the historic town of Greenville is scenically situated in the Mississippi Delta at the confluence of the Yazoo and Mississippi Rivers. Seat of Washington County and home to nearly 30,000 residents, a hot Southern climate is the norm here, and outdoor lovers will certainly have plenty to enjoy. Go boating, swimming, hiking, cycling, or simply stroll by the waterfront for a relaxing afternoon under the hot Mississippi sun.

As a historic center with foundational roots in the mid-19th century, Greenville has plenty of preserved landmarks that any history aficionado can appreciate. These include the First National Bank Building and the Cotton Row District, amongst others. Finally, do not forget about the famed Nelson Street, where, in addition to many historic businesses, one can appreciate the golden age of jazz and the blues through a visit to the area’s variety of 1940s music clubs!

Aberdeen

Situated in eastern Mississippi near the border with Alabama, Aberdeen is a historically charming community that was founded in the 1830s. The seat of Monroe County today, around 5,000 inhabitants call this scenic place home that is beautifully located along the banks of the Tombigbee River. Enjoy time spent along the water, where bike rides, scenic walks, and swimming delight visitors and residents alike. Additionally, the historic character of Aberdeen is difficult to miss, and more than 200 landmarks remain with direct ties to the 19^th century and the town’s time as a major cotton producer.

Explore such sites as the Reuben Davis House (1847), the John Holliday House (1850), and the West Commerce Historic District, amongst many others included on the National Register of Historic Places.

Corinth

Situated within the Appalachian foothills and near the border with the State of Tennessee, Corinth is a splendid town to discover firsthand. Founded in the 1850s, this seat of Alcorn County is now home to a modest population of nearly 15,000 inhabitants. A lovely historic ambiance welcomes all visitors, and time spent at the Midtown Corinth Historic District is a great way to transport oneself to the 1800s. In addition to several landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places, fascinating museums can be found in Corinth, including the Civil War Interpretive Center, the Black History Museum, and even the Coca-Cola Museum.

When visiting the Southern United States, a stop to the great state of Mississippi is certainly a must. With its hot and humid climate, its special cultural allure, fascinating historic intrigue, and loads of famed Southern charm, the “Magnolia State” is a most worthy place of exploration for anyone seeking a dose of Americana. While major cities will always dominate attention, Mississippi’s smaller towns should not be overlooked. From the historic streets of Greenville and Natchez to the rustic and scenic beauty of Rolling Fork and Louisville, these whimsical and utterly charming communities are awesome places to get better acquainted with Mississippi’s unique character. So, take the road and come visit Mississippi, where special memories for travelers of all ages await and truly special towns are always ready to welcome guests!