9 Most Hospitable Towns In Mississippi
Historic Mississippi is one of the most beautiful states in the South. It is filled with Southern charm, darling towns, and hospitable communities, making it a memorable visit. These nine towns are among the most hospitable, as the communities embody the spirit of the region, evident in their friendly locals, charming attractions, and small, traditional character.
Towns like Natchitoches offer tours of their historic architecture, while Tupelo welcomes visitors with open arms to visit the sites focused on its most famous son. Although each town has unique offerings, these nine towns boast a community as pleasant as the natural backdrop, especially if you stay at a historic inn. Staying within walking distance of the community hubs is an excellent way to absorb the community spirit and the charms that make these towns so special.
Oxford
Oxford is one of the most scenic and historic cities in the state of Mississippi. It is also famously home to the University of Mississippi, and cheering on the Bulldogs athletic teams is a must if you visit, especially in the Fall. No matter the time of year, the downtown region is arguably the biggest draw, filled with a unique combination of history and vibrant nightlife that centers around Oxford Square.
In local parlance, the Square was part of the original town plan when it was incorporated in 1837. It is in front of the Lafayette County Courthouse. It also offers excellent views of Neilson's Department Store, the oldest in the South, as well as restaurants such as the notable City Grocery and the City Grocery Bar, operated by renowned restaurateur and chef John Currence.
Tupelo
Tupelo's claim to fame is that it is the birthplace and childhood home of Elvis Presley. It is also a charming small town and home to a unique buffalo park and the Tupelo National Battlefield, one of the most visited in the US. Of course, Elvis is the King of Tupelo, and his childhood home, as well as the store where he bought his first guitar, Tupelo Hardware Company, are available for tours.
Shopping is another favorite pastime in Tupelo, from boutiques to antiques in Presley Heights Antique Mall and The Rusted Bucket Antiques. It is challenging to travel anywhere in Mississippi without visiting historical sites spanning the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, and this town is no exception. While in town, visit the five Civil War markers on the Civil War Trail, such as the Plank Road marker and the Carver School marker on the Civil Rights Trail, among many others.
Hattiesburg
Hburg, as the locals call Hattiesburg, is a unique city, unlike many others in Mississippi. It has a rich history, a progressive future, a vibrant live music scene, and a downtown filled with craft eateries and breweries. The friendly community hosts many annual events celebrating their culture, including Majesty at the Opera at Westminster Presbyterian Church in June and Downtown Summer Tunes at Town Square Park.
A foodie's paradise, Hburg has an eclectic culinary scene comprising nearly 200 restaurants. Offerings include the over 100-year-old Coney Island Cafe, Art of Roux, and coffee shops like Equinox Coffee on Hardy Street. The City of 100 Murals boasts a vibrant cultural atmosphere, featuring over 600 works in the Sarah Gillespie Collection at William Carey University, as well as musical performances at the University of Southern Mississippi.
Ocean Springs
Scenic Ocean Springs is a quaint coastal town with a walkable downtown and an artsy vibe. There is much to do here, from shopping to visiting museums and seeing local attractions on board the Slow Ride Pedal Tours. The 14-passenger vehicle has 10 pedal stations and takes two-hour tours through town, powered by at least eight people pedaling the car.
While enjoying downtown, be sure to experience the cultural side at The Art House, a co-op showcasing its members' work, and The Pink Rooster Fine Art Gallery. The restaurants are just as lovely, and no trip is complete without stopping at the oldest eatery in town, Pleasant's BBQ. The Government Street Grocery is a throwback, serving burgers, sandwiches, and beer in a patio setting. It's a great way to people-watch and immerse yourself in the local scene.
Pass Christian
Pass Christian is a small town that is big on charm. "The Pass is a classic coastal town where the roads are lined with towering oaks, and inlets are lined with shrimp boats. A significant draw for many visitors is the downtown shopping district. The compact area is also designated as a Main Street Community, known for its preservation and small-town feel, where you can find local shops such as Art Alley in the Pass and Sara Kate Clothing Boutique, among others.
The community comes together frequently for live events that celebrate the region's history. Events include Arts in the Pass, Jazz in the Pass, Theatre in the Pass, and Cruisin' the Coast. After working up an appetite to explore the area, stop at one of the local favorites, like Shaggy's Pass Harbor, Sea Level, or Bacchus on the Beach on Scenic Drive. These restaurants embody the coastal lifestyle, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere with a distinct coastal appeal.
Natchez
One would be remiss not to visit historic Natchez while in the Magnolia State. It is the oldest town on the Mississippi River. It is packed with Antebellum architecture and many historic attractions that are best explored on foot. Some of the homes and commercial structures you will encounter are the Beulah Baptist Church, Choctaw Hall, and Concord Quarters.
Beulah Baptist Church played a significant role during the Civil Rights era. The hall was built around 1836, with four floors connected by a swirling oval staircase. Concord Quarters was constructed in the early 19th century and today is a cultural hub next to one of Natchez's oldest Baptist churches and across the street from the lovely Old South Winery, famous for its Muscadine wine.
Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis is famous for its casinos but has much more to offer its visitors. The coastal town, considered "a place apart," features quaint bed and breakfast inns, such as Bay Town Inn, and fine dining at establishments like Sycamore House. It is also home to a hospitable and lively community that looks for reasons to host live music events and other venues.
Events include the Annual Crawfish Cookoff and over 52 live musical acts, including Better Than Ezra in 2025. History buffs should not miss 100 Man Hall, Bay St. Louis Historic L & N Train Depot, or the Alice Mosely Folk Art Museum. The museum is housed in the train depot and showcases the self-taught idyllic folk artist who did not learn to paint until she was 65. The charming museums add to the Southern atmosphere, making Bay St. Louis one of the best coastal towns to visit.
Biloxi
The coastal town of Biloxi is famous for its casinos and the Biloxi Lighthouse on the Mississippi Sound. The lighthouse was constructed in 1848 and was one of the first cast-iron lighthouses in the southern United States. Today, the 64-foot tower is available for guided tours and should not be missed due to its significance and historical presence. Other coastal attractions include the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum.
The museum showcases over 300 years of maritime history on the Gulf and features a Heritage Hall of Fame, educational classes, and exhibits that highlight the maritime industry's significance to coastal Mississippi. A significant heritage home is the Beauvoir. It includes the Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library and is a Mississippi Historic Landmark registered with the United States Register of Historic Places.
From coastal oases to classic Southern towns, these nine communities define the fabric of the Magnolia State. Residents are just as charming as the natural scenery, and the atmosphere will have you staying longer than intended. Cities like Oxford transform, especially during Bulldog games, but the pleasant atmosphere remains intact.
Oxford is one of Mississippi's most interesting small towns, boasting an abundance of academic and historical significance, and the townsfolk are happy to share it with visitors. For those seeking a relaxing beach atmosphere with the same hospitable vibe, consider visiting Ocean Springs or Biloxi. No matter where you go in the state, these nine towns are among the most gracious.
