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.