9 Small Towns In Mississippi To Visit For A Weekend Getaway
Mississippi is a fascinating Southern destination, and these nine small towns are ideal for a weekend getaway. One of the best aspects of the Magnolia State is its diversity, spanning from the Gulf of America to the plains. It is also home to the Delta Blues, and no better town explores this genre than Clarksdale. Oxford is another example of the diverse attractions in the state, ranging from the academic University of Mississippi to vibrant downtown nightlife.
History is virtually everywhere in Mississippi, from epic Civil War battles to being the birthplace of the King of Rock 'N' Roll. There are touches of this heritage in virtually every city, but the following cities capture the essence like no others. Whether a weekend jaunt consists of casinos, nightclubs, or solitude, these towns check off the boxes.
Natchez
As the oldest continuously inhabited city in Mississippi, Natchez is full of scenic beauty, vintage architecture, and a true Southern spirit. Its elegant setting is framed by the Mississippi River and its multitude of antebellum mansions, many of which, such as the Dunleith Historic Inn, are open for tours. The 1865 Inn offers 22 rooms that transport guests to the past, a perfect setting for a weekend getaway in Natchez.
Mississippi is the birthplace of American music, and its heritage is particularly evident in Natchez, where nightclubs add an extra layer of entertainment to any getaway. Under-the-Hill-Saloon blends history with nightly entertainment in one of the oldest buildings in the city. Or, take in a show at the Natchez Little Theatre, the community playhouse, for a quieter night on the town.
Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs is a lovely beach community on Mississippi's Gulf Coast that provides a fun weekend getaway. To get an idea of what to see and do, book a trip on the Slow Ride Pedal Tour of the bustling downtown to take in the sights. Those looking for a refined weekend will want to take advantage of the galleries in town, including the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, showcasing some of the best works in the area.
After a day spent discovering what makes this city so special, grab a drink at the speakeasy-inspired The Wilbur Bar. The craft cocktail and wine bar is adorned with wall art featuring Al Capone to evoke a speakeasy atmosphere, and the bar is crafted from original 1894 lumber. Booking a room at The Mockingbird Inn evokes a simpler time, with sophisticated rooms located a short distance from the main attractions.
Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis is a fun community on Mississippi's Gulf Coast, with fun attractions and places to stay. There is a comfortable mix of outdoor and cultural attractions here, so there is something for everyone. The adventurous might enjoy the Voodoo Love Boat Tour, which highlights a Robert Redford movie filmed here, one of the more entertaining attractions.
History buffs looking for a quiet excursion will not want to miss the L and N Train Depot. The mission-style structure, built in 1928, is designated a "Mississippi Landmark" and featured in the film above. Alternatively, one could enjoy a weekend at either Hollywood Casino or Silver Slipper Casino Hotel, each offering ample entertainment to last the entire trip without needing to leave the hotel.
Oxford
Home of the University of Mississippi, Oxford is one of the best destinations for a weekend getaway. The community hub is Oxford Square, commonly just the Square, and it is here that guests will find an array of academic stops, like the iconic Square Books, and coffee shops, including Heartbreak Coffee. What is so fun about the area is that this college town knows how to have a good time after the sun goes down at places like the Coop, with views of the Square.
To stay in this academic meets fun times mode, book a room at the swanky Graduate. The sophisticated hotel embodies the university's spirit and is located right on the Square, so guests are in the best of both worlds. The well-lit lobby with colorful bookcases finishes the look, and it is one of the best accommodations around.
Vicksburg
Historic Vicksburg is predominantly known for its Civil War battles, but it is also a pleasant location for a weekend getaway. It is a great place to meander, especially to visit one of the 11 homes open for tours, such as the Anchuca Historic Mansion. The antebellum mansion, built in the 1830s, was home to Joseph Davis and is a key example of the period. The Baer House is a remarkable Victorian mansion, complete with turrets and other stunning features.
There are plenty of other opportunities to step into the past in town, including taking a self-guided tour of the Old Courthouse Museum. Modern venues are interspersed among all this history, such as the Ameristar Casino Hotel. This is a fun way to stay and play while in Vicksburg, and it is not too far from some of the most prominent locations.
Port Gibson
Scenic Port Gibson offers many things to see and do for a two-day getaway, from visiting Civil War sites like Grand Gulf Military Park to enjoying its historic architecture. The Windsor Ruins is a good example: a set of pillars left behind by a mansion dating back to the 1850s, which was destroyed by a fire. Unsurprisingly, several historic bed-and-breakfast inns set the tone for a relaxing weekend. Isabella Bed and Breakfast is a stunning 1880 Victorian home named after Isabella Person, who lived here for her entire 93 years. The recently renovated home includes four guest rooms with stained-glass windows.
Biloxi
Biloxi is perfect for an exciting weekend, offering a singular blend of history, beaches, and casinos where visitors can curate their weekend however they want. History buffs will not want to pass up a visit to the Biloxi Lighthouse or the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum. Both attractions interpret the immense maritime heritage of the region, which has shaped it into what it is today.
The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is an exciting choice for a high-rolling weekend. The luxurious rooms make anyone feel like a rock star, and the iconic venue's music memorabilia is everywhere, enhancing the experience. There are several other casinos to choose from to change up the pace, including the popular Golden Nugget.
Tupelo
Tupelo today is most famously known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, and there are Elvis sites all over town, including a life-size statue of the King downtown. Visitors can explore the Elvis Presley Childhood Home and the Tupelo Hardware Company, where his mother bought him his first guitar. For a complete Elvis weekend, book a guided All Shook Up Tupelo experience, which includes a guided tour of these sites and more.
For a dose of Southern hospitality in the heart of town, book a room at Hotel Tupelo on Main Street. It has a modern, almost industrial look, bathed in sophistication inspired by the King himself, and is an iconic lodging option for staying near the main attractions. While there, visitors should stroll the blocks around the hotel to see landmark venues or join the Cocktail Trail for a fun way to experience the sights.
Clarksdale
Clarksdale is where the Delta Blues were born, and nearly every venue in town reflects this heritage, including live blues music every night of the year. Music venues are all the rage in this tiny town, offering big entertainment at places like The Matchbox and Ooze Bar. There is also an Arts and Cultural District worth seeing before heading out of town.
The art district features a mural tour, with elegant public displays like Music Women, which adorn the walls of commercial buildings. A bed and breakfast is the best way to experience Mississippi, and the Clark House Inn is only three blocks from the entertainment district. The inn is in the historic residential area that offers another look at the town's heritage, featuring elegant furnishings and a relaxed atmosphere.
A Weekend In Mississippi
For those wanting a weekend getaway drenched in Southern hospitality, history, and nightly entertainment, look no further than Mississippi. These nine towns are among the best for a weekend getaway due to their blend of historical significance and modern appeal. The hip and artsy atmosphere in Oxford and Bay St. Louis is hard to dismiss, while the musical roots of Clarksdale are a paradise for any blues fan.
Another reason to visit the Magnolia State is its diverse topography, which ranges from Gulf beaches to the flat Delta. Music has its roots in this region, and finding a live venue is easy, adding lively entertainment to any weekend escape. History and culture buffs will discover points of interest in all of these small cities, adding to each one's charm and magnetism.
