Amazing small towns can be found in just about every part of the Magnolia State, but if you’re searching for one of the coolest, you’ll have to head to the heart of the Mississippi Delta to Cleveland, Mississippi. Small only in terms of population, Cleveland is brimming with things to do. Between a lively downtown that’s known for its great shopping and festivals to interesting sites and museums, it’s practically impossible to deny that Cleveland is one of the coolest towns in the U.S. Take a look:
Located in Bolivar County, Cleveland is a small town home to less than 15,000 people.
Described on the city’s tourism site as a "hip little town in the Mississippi Delta," it’s pretty clear that it's not your typical small town.
One of the best parts about Cleveland is the Crosstie Historic District.
Located in Cleveland's downtown, it's filled with historic buildings that now house restaurants, boutiques, and shops.
Featuring brick-paved sidewalks, landscaped walkways, and Victorian lighting, the picturesque area is like something straight from a story book.
Aside from great shopping, the lively downtown is known for hosting a variety of festivals and events throughout the year.
One of the most popular is "First Thursdays featuring Art in the Alley" - a monthly event where local vendors sell original art, jewelry, music, food, and more.
Some aspects of the event vary from month to month, but it typically includes an inflatable bounce house for kids, family bike rides, and live entertainment.
Visit Cleveland in October, and you'll be just in time for the annual Octoberfest.
Fun for the entire family, the festival attracts over 15,000 attendees and features hundreds of vendors, two music stages, a children’s area, plenty of food, and a BBQ contest.
Cleveland's Anotherfest and Otherfest are perfect for music enthusiasts.
Held each September, Otherfest is a music festival that features up-and-coming performers. During Anotherfest, the sister festival of Otherfest, musicians perform outside of local restaurants throughout Cleveland. If you're in town for the music, don't miss mouthwatering Mexican restaurant Mosquito Burrito while you're here.
Venture from Cleveland's lively downtown, and you'll find some pretty interesting sites, like Dockery Farms.
A stop along the Blues Trail, Dockery Farms once employed several future music legends, including blues pioneer Charley Patton. The site, which is believed to be the actual birthplace of the blues, is open year-round for touring.
No matter your interest, Cleveland probably has a museum for you.
In addition to the recently opened GRAMMY Museum, you'll also find the Boo Ferriss Baseball Museum and the Martin and Sue King Railroad Museum. You can explore cultural sites and more with Real Delta Tours and Artistry.
While in Cleveland, be sure to pay a visit to Airport Grocery.
The iconic eatery is known for its hearty portions of authentic Delta-style comfort food. Browse the menu and you’ll find everything from award-winning burgers and barbecue to hot tamales.
Ready to plan a trip to one of the country's coolest towns?
Click here for more information on Cleveland, including upcoming events, lodging, and more.
Have you ever visited Cleveland? Did you know it was such a cool town with so much to offer? Share your thoughts in the comments section!
Looking for more cool towns to add to your must-visit list? Check out "Here Are The 10 Coolest Small Towns In Mississippi You’ve Probably Never Heard Of."
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