9 Picture-Perfect Towns in Mississippi

Mississippi enjoys its distinction as "The Magnolia State" because of the beautiful white flowers that bloom on trees throughout the region. Named after the mighty Mississippi River that runs along its western border, this state offers a diverse landscape, from Gulf Coast waters in the south stretching through the fertile soils of the Delta to the forest-covered Appalachian foothills in the north. Mississippi has a profound Southern legacy built on blues music, historic battlefields, and family traditions. Whether you're strolling along the beach, tracing the beginnings of rock and roll, or standing in silent reflection at a Civil War monument, the picture-perfect small towns in Mississippi have hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. The rewards they offer can delight the senses, recharge the soul, and deepen the joys of authentic Southern living.

Oxford

The home of the University of Mississippi, Oxford is a vibrant college town filled with picturesque places that seemed to be made for the photo album. The campus is one of the most stunning universities in the county, with tree-lined avenues and beautiful examples of neo-classical, Victorian, and Georgian Revival architecture. Academic buildings and campus housing are nestled around a large expanse of green space and large shade trees called the Grove. While you visit the campus, be sure to take in the excellent University museum, known for its collection of American fine art, modern folk art, and Roman antiquities. 

The community is also the home of Rowan Oak, where legendary author William Faulkner lived until he died in 1962. The modified Greek Revival home sits on 29 heavily wooded acres, including the Bailey Trail. The university runs the historic site, and it is open year-round for tours or, if you prefer, stroll through the beautiful grounds for a perfect afternoon. 

Oxford celebrates a unique town square filled with shops, boutiques, and dining venues. When you visit, stop by one of the four restaurants run by James Beard award-winning chef John Currence. City Grocery offers elegant dining, while Boure and Snackbar have a more casual ambiance. If you want a breakfast to remember, try Big Bad Breakfast. Regardless of your preference, the restaurants pride themselves on serving the best farm-to-table recipes and shouldn't be missed. 

Ocean Springs

This charming Gulf Coast community boasts pristine white sand beaches, inviting warm Gulf waters, and a picturesque downtown street adorned with towering hundred-year-old oak trees. Front Beach is an ideal spot for families to enjoy the Gulf's warm waters or unwind and enjoy a stunning ocean sunset. The Davis Bayou Area is a section of the Gulf Islands National Seashore that boasts several miles of picturesque trails and an exceptional fishing pier. If you're interested in deep-sea fishing, you can book a charter boat to catch Red Snapper or Yellowfin Tuna in the Gulf's deep waters.

Ocean Springs boasts a vibrant arts community, which is evident from the many galleries in the downtown district. You can explore the works of numerous regional artists by visiting the Pink Rooster or the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. Additionally, the town sponsors the Peter Anderson Arts and Crafts Festival every November, which has grown to become one of the top arts and crafts shows in the Southeast region over the years. 

If you are a food lover, you're in for a treat because there are some fantastic culinary experiences. Vestige, a James Beard award-winning restaurant, offers a five-course tasting menu to delight your taste buds. Alternatively, you can try Mosiac for a more relaxed atmosphere on the patio, where you can enjoy fresh food, delicious cocktails, and great conversations with your friends. If you're feeling lucky, there are several Biloxi casinos just over the bridge, but don't miss this gem of the Coast while you're busy playing the slots. 

Cleveland

Mississippi is famous for being the birthplace of the Blues. This small town is located in the heart of the Delta region and takes pride in reminding people that music is a profound and personal expression of the soul. The town sits on America's Blues Highway, US 61, and features the Mississippi Grammy Museum as a prime attraction. The museum has iconic memorabilia and interactive displays of the state's legendary singers and songwriters. It is one of the most technologically advanced museums in the country and is a must-visit for any music lover.

In addition, the community is the home of Delta State University, which sponsors many educational and cultural activities. History lovers will enjoy exploring the Martin and Sue King Railroad Museum, which has a beautiful model train layout and a 1941 caboose. If you want a quiet place for a picnic, explore Dockery Farms, a former cotton plantation that is now a park and historic site. 

Like many Mississippi small towns, an eclectic downtown district is filled with shops, boutiques, and restaurants. For an upscale dining experience, try the Delta Meat Market in the Cotton House, or if you want a burger and a brew, Hey Joe's is the best place in town. 

Natchez

This river community sits on the bluffs overlooking the mighty Mississippi and boasts of having more antebellum homes than any other city in the country. With a rich Civil War history, these beautiful homes offer glimpses into the daily lives of Southern families who often depended on slavery to keep their economies thriving. The Longwood House is one of the most unique antebellum homes you will see, and the Linden House is the oldest structure, built in 1785.

The community is part of the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile picturesque drive that passes through three states, starting from the Mississippi River and heading north. Those who love outdoor activities will find the Natchez Trail worth exploring, with stunning views of the river bluffs and historic antebellum homes. It is essential to visit the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture, which provides insight into the role of slavery in the South, the atrocities of the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights movement.

If you like upscale dining in a Southern antebellum setting, try Restaurant 1818 in the Monmouth Mansion. The Camp Restaurant or Roux 61 are the best choices for great Cajun/Creole food and brews if you would rather eat near the water. 

Corinth

Are you interested in the history of the Civil War? If so, you should visit Corinth and nearby Shiloh. These regions were the sites of some of the most significant battles of the Civil War, where over 110,000 soldiers fought, resulting in more than 23,746 casualties. The Corinth Civil War Interpretative Center is an excellent museum that houses various exhibits and displays related to the Civil War. Additionally, the Corinth National Cemetery holds the graves of many unknown soldiers who lost their lives during the frequent battles. The Shiloh and Corinth sites frequently hold re-enactments throughout the year, offering visitors a glimpse of the chaotic atmosphere of Civil War skirmishes, and if you are fortunate enough to view one, be sure to take it in. 

The historic downtown area is an excellent example of small-town life, with many boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Many buildings are listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, including the Corinth Depot and Crossroads Museum. The museum displays Civil War artifacts and railroad memorabilia while detailing the town's history as a crossroad of commerce and travel. You should also visit Borroum's Drug Store, one of the town's oldest establishments, founded in 1865. Take some time to sit at the soda fountain and order a patty melt or double cheeseburger. You can wash it down with an old-fashioned soda or ice cream float.

Tupelo

Tupelo's claim to fame lies in being the birthplace and childhood home of Elvis Presley. The simple homestead where the famous crooner was born is open to the public, and visitors can explore the home, museum, and church that Elvis attended as a child. Learn how Elvis became exposed to the rich, Southern gospel that characterized his music, sit through a 1940s-style video presentation of actual service, or stroll the grounds. 

Tupelo boasts an outstanding Veteran's museum that houses a collection of memorabilia, art, and displays. Downtown Tupelo also offers a plethora of shops to explore, such as Relics Antique Marketplace, Rusted Bucket, and Old South Antiques. If you feel hungry while shopping, you can try Blue Canoe for its delicious wings or Neon Pig for their artisan sandwiches and salads.

Tupelo is also on the Natchez Trace Parkway, so take an afternoon to drive along the route, which takes you through green, rural meadows and dense pine groves of the Tombigbee National Forest. 

Canton

This small community sits about half an hour north of Jackson, Mississippi, and features a charming downtown square. Twice a year, the square is the home of the Canton Flea Market, where crafters from all across the South come to display and sell their wares. During Christmas, the Madison County Courthouse and Square come alive with festive lights, iconic displays, and even visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The town also enjoys the distinction of being the location for many films like O Brother, Where Art Thou?, and My Dog Skip. 

If you're looking for delicious Mississippi Barbeque, head over to Marlo's Backyard BBQ and order their lip-smacking ribs. They also have amazing fried chicken that's definitely worth trying. For a sweet afternoon treat, we recommend visiting the Daily Scoop Ice Cream Shoppe. Not only do they have delicious treats, but you'll also get a warm greeting from Jax, the friendly dog who basically runs the place.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love that the town is near the Ross Barnett Reservoir, a haven for water recreation, good fishing, and great local campgrounds.

Laurel

This picture-perfect town is located about a thirty-minute drive northeast of Hattiesburg and is filled with hometown Southern hospitality. With good schools, low crime, and a very reasonable cost of living, the town continues to attract families as a great place to live. The community is the site of Ben and Erin Napier's television show, HomeTown, which airs on HGTV. 

If you're looking for a place to spend an afternoon, look no further than downtown Main Street. The Laurel Mercantile Co. is filled with wonderful Southern heirlooms and decor. The Cafe De Fluer is a wonderful New Orleans bistro for lunch, and for an upscale steak, The Loft is a local recommendation. Sweet Somethings is a dessert shop and bakery that simply cannot be missed. 

The Lauren Museum of Art is a beautiful venue filled with unique works of art, antique silver, and handcrafted Indian baskets. The Landrum Homestead and Village is an excellent place for kids to explore the old buildings and learn about early settlers. 

Bay St. Louis

Bay St. Louis is a small community situated on the Gulf Coast, approximately an hour's drive east of New Orleans. Though devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the town has rebuilt itself into a thriving, vibrant community. Today, Bay St. Louis offers visitors a chance to enjoy the finer aspects of coastal living, such as strolling along the calm waters of the Gulf on dog-friendly beaches, catching some warm rays of sunshine, or exploring the quaint shops and homes of Old Town. 

Visitors can also fish on the Rutherford Pier or charter a boat for a deep-sea adventure. Don't miss the Alice Mosley Museum of Art or the L & N Railroad Museum in the old train depot. With plenty of antique stores, thrifters will find themselves in a paradise of yesteryear as they explore places like the Magnolia Antiques or the French Potager with its fabulous floral and handcrafted soaps.

Outdoor adventurers will want to fish off of Rutherford Pier or charter a fishing vessel for a thrilling experience on the waters of the Gulf. If you need a place to eat, the locals will often recommend Cuz's Old Town Oyster Bar and Grill for a shrimp po'boy or a hearty bowl of gumbo. 

Discovering Mississippi

Many small towns throughout Mississippi reflect the proud family traditions that have helped make the South an inviting and appealing place to live. The Magnolia state is a place of rich history, and whether you are walking through a Civil War battlefield or browsing through the boyhood home of Elvis, these communities can enhance and enrich the lives of those who visit. Don’t be surprised if, after encountering the treasures of these places, you decide to stay for longer than just a few days.