Published Jun 2, 2023

You’d Be Surprised To Learn That Gulfport, Mississippi Is One Of The Country’s Best Coastal Towns

Gulfport, Mississippi is a captivating coastal town known for its sandy beaches, cultural events, and vibrant local attractions.

Published Jun 2, 2023

Written by

Newton Mathews

Trip Ideas|Day Trips

Published Oct 29, 2024

If You Only Have One Day To Visit This Small Town In Mississippi, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss

Bring your appetite with this top-level toolkit of tips on the best things to do in Oxford, Mississippi.

Published Oct 29, 2024

Written by

Lisa Battles

It's incredibly tough to cram all the best things to do in Oxford, Mississippi, into a one-day itinerary, and yet that's exactly what I had to do the first time I visited several years ago. Thankfully, I had the help of a longtime resident and friend, who assembled an incredible half-day itinerary that left me regretting that I didn't have more time.

I've since been back and consulted my first trusted guide, and then I have done again to ensure these recommendations are fresh. While it has a population of fewer than 30,000 people, Oxford is one of the fastest-growing college towns in the country, and there's always something new to experience.

So here's a top-level travel toolkit of Oxford tips. Consider it a starter pack!

1. University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) Campus

Start your day at the University of Mississippi, a.k.a. Ole Miss. Wander beneath ancient oak trees at the Grove, a 10-acre green space that's incredibly serene between classes and yet equally as lively during a football tailgate.

Next, visit The Circle at the center of campus to see some of the most significant school buildings—most notably the oldest, the Lyceum, built in 1848. Architecturally beautiful and historically significant, this district was at the center of the civil rights movement in 1962, with riots following the court-ordered desegregation of the university. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2008.

2. Bottletree Bakery

Swing by Bottletree Bakery for a sweet treat to go on your way to your next stop, which we'll get to in just a moment. When I visited, I grabbed a couple of snacks for the road, including a classic fruit tart and a decadent brownie. We've also highlighted the bakery's Strawberry Humble Pie as a top 10 don't-miss dessert in Mississippi. I've not heard anyone say a bad thing about anything they've had there! Take your pick.

3. Rowan Oak

While I may have just given you a reason to think your next stop is a haul, it's only one mile. Look, this is an adventure, and you do not want hunger to get in your way—especially not at Rowan Oak, the beautiful home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner. This remains one of my favorite experiences in all of my travels, admitting my bias because of my love of literature.

Adding to that impression was the time of day I visited, arriving just as it opened at 10 a.m. The mid-morning light broke through the trees lining the front walk so cheerfully, and almost no one else was around. It felt peaceful and comforting, helping me instantly understand why Faulkner chose to live there for over 30 years until his passing in 1962.

Important notes: Rowan Oak opens at 10 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday, at 1 p.m. Sunday, and closes at 4 p.m. all of those days. It's closed on Monday. If you're age 12 or older and not an Ole Miss student, faculty, or staff member, have $5 cash on hand if you want to explore indoors.

4. Handy Andy Grocery

After exploring campus, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at Handy Andy Grocery. This local favorite has been around since the 1970s and offers mouth-watering barbecue, burgers, and fries in a casual, no-frills atmosphere. It'll have you feeling friendly to chat with locals and experience Oxford's laid-back vibe.

5. Funkys

Funkys pizza and daiquiri bar is another solid choice if you're age 21 or older and you're opting for a later lunch ... or just want a refreshing daiquiri. This spot is located just off the Square and brings NOLA-style eclectic art, fun-filled vibes, and frosty, frozen bevs to downtown Oxford. It opens at 2 p.m. during the week and at 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday—perfect timing for watching games on its many screens or sharing toasts over brunch.

6. Square Books

Plan time before or after lunch to wander around Square Books for a while. This independent bookstore has been a long-loved favorite since it opened in 1979 and now expands throughout four buildings downtown.

Check the calendar ahead of time to catch one of its many (150+) author events throughout the year. Beyond the books, the store is full of unique gifts and local items you won't be able to resist, even if you're not a big literature nut (in which case, it may change your mind).

7. SoLa

For dinner, consider one of Oxford's newer dining options at SoLa, which promises "twisted cuisine and lifted spirits" from Chef Erika Lipe and team. We are told this is a must-do, especially if you happen to be visiting on a Wednesday for spaghetti or a Thursday for ramen.

SoLa, which stands for South Lamar Blvd, where it's located, opens for dinner only at 5 p.m. except on Sunday, when it hosts guests for brunch.

8. Snackbar

We had to offer a longtime favorite dinner option here, too! Especially considering you can't really talk about food in Oxford without James Beard Award-winning Chef John Currence and his City Restaurant Group—City Restaurant est. 1992; Bouré est. 2002; Big Bad Breakfast est. 2008; and Snackbar est. 2009.

For the Southern brasserie Snackbar, Currence joined forces with fellow Beard-winner Vishwesh Bhatt, and they have warmed bellies and hearts with seasonal menus full of dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. Local tips: Expect a swanky lodge-style dining experience, delicious oysters, and elevated cocktails.

I am aware this list is quite food-focused, and yet I have zero qualms about that! Oxford's food scene is a big part of the overall experience, and I barely scratched the surface.

Anyway, once you go, you will want to stay for more than just a day. If you can make the time for that, consider booking a spot just "three doors down" from Faulkner's old place at this guest-favorite cabin near Rowan Oak available for reservations through Airbnb.

If you've had the joy of spending time in this quintessential Southern college town, we'd love to hear your picks for things to do in Oxford, Mississippi.

Trip Ideas|Day Trips

Published May 31, 2024

Your Ultimate Guide To Summer Fun In Mississippi

Published May 31, 2024

Written by

Jackie Sutherlin

Ready or not, summer is here! We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of some of our favorite things to do in Mississippi in summer, covering everything from epic sunset sails to activities that won’t cost you a dime. Of course, summer in Mississippi can be a little hot, so we’ve included plenty of ways to beat the heat on those hot summer days.

Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Mississippi

Are you ready to pack your bags and enjoy a summer vacation? Here are our top picks for summer vacation destinations in Mississippi:

1. Oxford

A historic white house surrounded by tall trees and greenery on a sunny day. — Kenneth Davis/Google Reviews

Popularity: Popular

Need To Know: There will be fewer crowds since Ole Miss students typically head home for the summer.

Oxford has a college-town reputation, but it won’t feel like it in the summer. The town settles into much quieter vibes when the college kids head home for the summer. With its rich history and exceptional restaurants, you’ll never be bored. Spend some time exploring Oxford’s historic Downtown Square. Be sure to swing by Square Books and then grab a bite to eat at AJax Diner while you’re there. Afterward, head over to Rowan Oak—William Faulkner’s home. The residence has been carefully preserved and you can tour the home.

2. Gulfport

Two people interact with a dolphin at the edge of a pool, while another person observes nearby. — Megan Fasick/Google Reviews

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: Gulfport is the second-largest city in Mississippi

Thanks to its beautiful beaches, Gulfport is a fabulous summer destination. Families with kids of all ages will love visiting the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies. Not only will you learn all about marine life, but you can even swim with dolphins! Other Gulfport attractions include the Gulf Islands Waterpark, Fishbone Alley, and many others.

3. Biloxi

A view of a road lined with trees, leading to a waterfront with buildings and clouds in the background. — Tammie M Smith/Google Reviews

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: Parking for the public beaches can fill up quickly!

Gulfport and Biloxi are less than 15 miles away from each other, and it’s a very scenic drive! Biloxi’s casinos are popular year-round and they are a great option when you need to escape the heat for a while. You can’t miss the Biloxi Lighthouse (Literally. It’s in the middle of the road). The views from the top are extraordinary!

Best Beaches, Lakes & Rivers To Visit In Mississippi This Summer

Summer was meant for splashing around. Grab your swimsuits and sunscreen and head over to one of these spots. Whether you want to pull up a patch of sand or float carelessly down a river, these are some of the best beaches, lakes, and rivers to visit in Mississippi this summer:

4. Ship Island

A green beach bag with a straw hat rests on sandy shore, with gentle waves and cloudy sky in the background. — Chelsea Wicker/Google Reviews

Location: Barrier Island on the Gulf Coast

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: There is very little shade on Ship Island. Bring hats, umbrellas, etc.

If Caribbean blue water and white sandy beaches are what you seek, make your way to Ship Island. Ship Island Excursions offers a ferry service that takes about an hour. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins along the way! Once you arrive on the island, you’ll be met with a tropical paradise. There are beach chairs and umbrellas you can rent, but you can also bring your own, too. History lovers will also enjoy getting the opportunity to explore Fort Massachusetts. It’s not in use anymore, but it was used during the Civil War as a base for Union troops and a prison for Confederate soldiers.

5. Ross R Barnett Reservoir

A sunny lakeside scene with people relaxing on the beach and trees lining the shore. — Rachel Phuong Le/Google Reviews

Location: Madison and Rankin counties

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: The 33,000-acre lake is the largest drinking water resource in Mississippi

Often called “the Rez” by locals, you can’t go wrong with a summer day here. There are several public parks dotted along the water, so if you find one too crowded, you can just find another! Pelahatchie Shore Park is a good first pick. The park overlooks Pelahatchie Bay and offers a disc golf course, a boat launch, and plenty of spots to pull up a beach chair and relax. You can also take a scenic drive along the Reservoir which coincidentally takes you along the historic Natchez Trace.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Cock of the Walk for some of the best catfish in Mississippi!

6. Sardis Lake

A serene lakeside view with green grass, trees, and a clear blue sky dotted with clouds. — Heather Belton/Google Reviews

Location: Lafayette, Panola, and Marshall counties

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: Perfect for families

If you can’t make it down to the Gulf Coast, Sardis Lake is a great option. This 98,520-acre reservoir is not far from Oxford and can easily be done as a day trip from Oxford, Tupelo, or even Memphis. As one of the clearest lakes in Mississippi, it’s a popular swimming area. Sardis Lake is also perfect for fishing, too. There are plenty of day-use areas, several boat launches, beaches, playgrounds, and more.

Parks To Visit In Mississippi This Summer

There are 24 state parks in Mississippi, and each one of them is worthy of a visit. If you had to narrow it down to just a few, we’ve got you covered. If you plan on hiking around these parks, we'd recommend picking up some trail maps ahead of time. Here are some of the best parks in Mississippi to visit this summer:

7. Buccaneer State Park

A sunny pool scene with people swimming, lounge chairs, and colorful umbrellas against a blue sky. — Jeremy Waits/Google Reviews

Location: Waveland, Mississippi

Popularity: Very popular in the summer

Need To Know: Entrance to the state park is $4. Entrance to Buccaneer Bay is $19 for individuals 48” + and $13 for under 48”

Splash the day away at Buccaneer State Park. The park is home to Buccaneer Bay, a 4.5-acre waterpark that overlooks the Gulf with waterslides and wave pools galore. Nature lovers will also enjoy the park’s nature trail, or challenging the family to a game of disc golf.

8. Roosevelt State Park

A water slide beside a pool near a lake, with fluffy clouds in a blue sky and green trees in the background. — Leann Harms/Google Reviews

Location: Morton, Mississippi

Popularity: Fairly popular

Need To Know: Come back in the fall to see the leaves changing color.

Conveniently located between Meridian and Jackson, Roosevelt State Park is a great park to visit in the summer. Explore the hiking trails, enjoy the 150-acre lake, or have some fun on the water slide! There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained all day long.

9. Tombigbee Lake State Park

A serene lake scene with a wooden dock, surrounded by trees and reflecting clouds in the calm water. — Ajay Pawar/Google Reviews

Location: Tupelo, Mississippi

Popularity: Fairly popular

Need To Know: Cabin rentals book quickly, so make reservations as early as you can if you want to spend a few days here.

Sitting pretty in Tupelo, Tombigbee Lake State Park is a favorite hangout for locals during the summer months. Fishing the lake is one of the most popular things to do. On land, visitors can enjoy epic mountain biking trails, scenic hiking trails, a legendary disc golf course, and more.

Best Free Summer Activities

I’m a firm believer that a good time doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You can have a fabulous day with a little planning and only pay for the gas. These summer activities won’t cost you a dime:

10. Natchez Trace Parkway

A scenic view of a highway bordered by lush green hills and a large house set back from the road. — Adrianne Martin/Google Reviews

Location: Mississippi/Tennessee/Alabama

Popularity: Some sections are more popular than others

Need To Know: You don’t have to tackle the entire 444 miles. Start wherever you’d like and drive until you see something you’re interested in!

Summer is the perfect season for road trips, and the Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the most epic road trips in Mississippi you can take. Beginning in Natchez and ending in Nashville, the Natchez Trace Park clocks in at 444 miles but you don’t need to drive the entire route. There are plenty of historic landmarks, hiking trails, and scenic views along the route. You can make the drive as long or as short as you’d like!

11. Red Bluff

A colorful canyon with steep, sandy cliffs and scattered trees under a cloudy sky. — Jerry Mobley/Google Reviews

Location: Marion County, just outside of Morgantown

Popularity: Not very popular

Need To Know: Wear good sneakers and have a towel/water back in the car. Your shoes will get muddy!

If you want to experience one of the most unique landscapes in Mississippi, pay a visit to Red Bluff. Red Bluff looks like a mini Grand Canyon! These “canyons” are the result of erosion, and the erosion actually took out part of a road nearby. Don’t worry, you won’t be driving along that part. Grab a trail map before you go, and be sure you’re wearing some sneakers you won’t mind getting dirty. That red clay can (and will) stick to everything!

12. Public Beaches

A serene beach scene with golden sand, gentle waves, and a clear blue sky, featuring distant buildings along the shoreline. — Andrew Snider/Google Reviews

Location: All along the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Popularity: Very Popular

Need To Know: Parking can fill up quickly!

Mississippi has countless public beaches peppered along the coast. We mentioned Ship Island earlier, but these beaches don’t require a boat to get to. Most of Mississippi’s public beaches have free parking, so the only thing you’ll pay for is the gas.

Best Summer Events And Festivals In Mississippi

Grab your favorite festival shirt and head out to one of the summer festivals in Mississippi this year:

13. Ridgeland Celebrate America Balloon Glow

Colorful hot air balloons are inflated on a grassy field under a cloudy sky, with spectators nearby. — Ridgeland Recreation & Parks/Facebook

Location: Ridgeland, Mississippi

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: Festival date: June 28, 2024

The Ridgeland Baloon Glow is one of the best ways to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend. Enjoy plenty of food vendors, a kid’s corner, and live music while watching all of the colorful hot air balloons in the sky. There’s also an incredible fireworks display in the evenings. The festival takes place at the Northpark Mall.

14. Crystal Springs Tomato Festival

Mural featuring "Tomatopolis of the World" with tomatoes and decorative elements, located in Crystal Springs. Established 1823. — Main Street Crystal Springs/Facebook

Location: Crystal Springs, Mississippi

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: Festival date: June 29, 2024

Head over to Crystal Springs at the end of June to experience the

" target="_blank">Tomato Festival. The one-day festival takes place on June 29, 2024, from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. and features a 5K run, arts and crafts, and plenty of food vendors. Don’t forget to swing by the Farmers’ Market in Railroad Park to pick up fresh produce and tomatoes!

15. Slugburger Festival

A plate with a fried chicken sandwich topped with pickles and cheese, alongside a serving of crinkle-cut fries. — Billy Godsey/Google Reviews

Location: Corinth, Mississippi

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: The festival takes place July 11-13, 2024

The Slugburger is one of Mississippi’s most iconic culinary creations. As the story goes, a Corinth resident by the name of John Weeks started making these special burgers in 1917. To stretch the ground beef and drive costs down, he mixed potato flakes into the ground beef. Today these burgers are usually mixed with soybean grit, and they’re just as popular as they were over a century ago. Every year, the town of Corinth hosts the

" target="_blank">Slugburger Festival that’s filled with music, a talent show, carnival rides, and plenty of slugburgers to go around.

Check out our road trip essentials guide before you set off on your grand adventure. Safe travels this summer!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/usa/road-trip-essentials-packing-list/

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Get the latest updates and news

1. University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) Campus

2. Bottletree Bakery

3. Rowan Oak

4. Handy Andy Grocery

5. Funkys

6. Square Books

7. SoLa

8. Snackbar

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Mississippi

1. Oxford

2. Gulfport

3. Biloxi

Best Beaches, Lakes & Rivers To Visit In Mississippi This Summer

4. Ship Island

5. Ross R Barnett Reservoir

6. Sardis Lake

Parks To Visit In Mississippi This Summer

7. Buccaneer State Park

8. Roosevelt State Park

9. Tombigbee Lake State Park

Best Free Summer Activities

10. Natchez Trace Parkway

11. Red Bluff

12. Public Beaches

Best Summer Events And Festivals In Mississippi

13. Ridgeland Celebrate America Balloon Glow

14. Crystal Springs Tomato Festival

15. Slugburger Festival

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Turn Back Time With a Stay at a Charming Retro Motel & a Meal at this Vintage Cafe in Michigan

The Story of Abandoned Taconite Harbor, Minnesota Is Truly Fascinating

7 Christmas Towns in New Jersey That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer

This Secluded Airbnb Cabin in Minnesota Is the Perfect Place for a Digital Detox

You Can Enjoy This Unexpected Autumn Adventure in Wyoming Even After the Foliage Is Gone