These 10 Towns In Mississippi Were Ranked Among US Favorites In 2025
If you’ve ever spent time in Mississippi, you know the state has a way of surprising you. Around every bend, there’s a town with a story to tell, a festival worth planning around, or a landmark that makes you pause and take notice. In 2025, several Mississippi towns were celebrated on national lists, while others continued to win over visitors through word of mouth, community pride, and unforgettable experiences. The reasons are as varied as the towns themselves: some offer a rich history with preserved architecture and museums, others shine with vibrant arts and music scenes, and a few capture hearts through lively festivals and cherished family traditions. Wherever you venture through the Magnolia State, these ten towns prove that Mississippi holds some of America’s most rewarding—and most surprising—destinations.”
Starkville
Starkville has earned its recognition as the "best small town of the South" by USA Today, and once you visit, it’s easy to see why. Anchored by Mississippi State University, the town blends academic energy with a genuine Southern welcome. Strolling through campus, you’ll find the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library, where history buffs can explore fascinating exhibits, while sports fans feel the pulse of Saturdays at Davis Wade Stadium.
Downtown, the Cotton District is a must-see. Known for its vibrant architecture, eclectic restaurants, and lively nightlife, Starkville boasts a youthful and creative atmosphere. Coffee shops, galleries, and boutiques line the sidewalks, making it the perfect place to wander on a sunny afternoon.
What really sets Starkville apart, though, are its community celebrations. The King Cotton Crawfish Boil, held each spring, fills the streets with music, dancing, and the irresistible aroma of seafood. Add in the fall excitement of SEC football weekends, and you’ve got a calendar brimming with reasons to visit.
Natchez
Natchez has been celebrated for years, earning spots on Southern Living’s “South’s Best Small Towns” list and recognition from USA Today as a top getaway. Set high on the Mississippi River, this storied town continues to impress in 2025 with its balance of history, beauty, and lively traditions.
At the heart of Natchez’s appeal are its grand antebellum landmarks. With over 600 antebellum homes and buildings, Stanton Hall dazzles visitors with its Greek Revival design and opulent interiors. Not far away, Dunleith enchants with its sweeping colonnade and manicured gardens, a picture-perfect setting that evokes a sense of stepping back into another era. For a change of pace, head down the bluff to the Under-the-Hill District, once a bustling riverfront scene. Today, these historic buildings house restaurants, shops, and live music venues, making it a lively spot to catch the sunset over the Mississippi River.
Adding to the magic is the Natchez Balloon Festival, one of the town’s most beloved events. Each fall, colorful hot air balloons rise above the river bluffs, accompanied by live music, food vendors, and family activities. The sight of balloons drifting against the backdrop of the Mississippi River is one of those experiences that stays with you long after you leave.
Vicksburg
Vicksburg’s reputation as a historic community took a leap in 2025 when Smithsonian Magazine named it one of the “15 Best Small Towns to Visit” that year — a nod to how well it blends historic depth, cultural vitality, and scenic appeal. The town’s primary draw is the Vicksburg National Military Park, a must-visit destination. The Park preserves the site of the 47-day siege of this Mississippi River town with monuments, earthworks, interpretive trails, and the restored USS Cairo.
In the heart of downtown, along Washington Street, the Riverfront Murals transform floodwalls into canvases depicting riverboats, blues musicians, and scenes of local life, transforming a simple walk into a public art experience. For an enjoyable trip down memory lane, the Bierderharn Coca-Cola Museum invites guests to experience the history of this national beverage.
Whether you're tracing the paths of soldiers at the military park, strolling beneath murals by the river, or sipping on a Coke at an old-time soda fountain, Vicksburg is a place that rewards curiosity, lingers in memory, and beckons people back.
Holly Springs
Holly Springs sits about 30 miles southeast of Memphis and might be one of Mississippi’s best-kept secrets. With tree-lined streets, graceful architecture, and a retreat that even hummingbirds call home, it’s the kind of place that makes visitors feel like they’ve stumbled onto something rare and beautiful.
The heart of the town beats around the Marshall County Courthouse Square, where 19th-century storefronts house boutiques, antique shops, and cafés. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll, with friendly shopkeepers and a steady rhythm of local life that feels warm and inviting. For art lovers, the Kate Freeman Clark Art Gallery is a true gem. Housing more than 1,000 paintings donated by the town’s native daughter, the gallery lends Holly Springs a surprising cultural richness that rivals that of much larger cities.
Nature enthusiasts will find themselves drawn to the Strawberry Plains Audubon Center, a natural preserve that becomes a seasonal haven for hummingbirds. Miles of trails wind through wildflowers and forests, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers, families, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat. Adding to the town’s sense of pride, the historic campus of Rust College, one of the nation’s oldest historically Black colleges, stands as both a living institution and a monument to education and perseverance. With its simple beauty and quiet streets, it is easy to see why this little town is a favorite place for a weekend escape.
Laurel
Laurel has steadily earned its reputation as one of Mississippi’s most beloved towns, primarily due to its revival in recent years. Anchoring this renaissance is the Laurel Mercantile Co., made famous by HGTV’s Home Town. Here, visitors can browse locally made goods, enjoy warm Southern hospitality, and experience firsthand the entrepreneurial spirit that has helped transform Laurel into a destination.
A cornerstone of Laurel’s cultural identity is the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, the state's first art museum. Its permanent collection spans European and American works, Native American baskets, and rotating exhibitions that keep the galleries fresh and engaging. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Mason Park offers shady trails, playgrounds, and open spaces that make it ideal for family picnics or a peaceful afternoon walk. It’s a green retreat right in the heart of town, where both locals and travelers can slow their pace and relax beneath the trees. Seasonal markets fill downtown with food trucks, music, and a variety of vendors. Laurel has become a favorite spot to while away an afternoon, thanks to its family-friendly atmosphere and community nights that showcase the town’s close-knit spirit.
Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs has a charm all its own, and in 2025, it was recognized nationally by USA Today as one of Mississippi’s most beloved towns for its cultural scene. Nestled along the Gulf Coast, just east of Biloxi, it offers a unique blend of creativity, natural beauty, and a welcoming spirit that makes it unforgettable.
The cultural centerpiece is the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, dedicated to the life and works of the famed coastal painter. Its colorful exhibits and murals reflect the spirit of the Gulf and set the tone for the town’s artistic vibe. Just down the street, the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center adds to that energy with rotating art shows, concerts, and classes that bring the community together. For those who prefer spending time outdoors, Davis Bayou in the Gulf Islands National Seashore offers peaceful trails, kayaking opportunities, and wildlife viewing just minutes from downtown. And of course, Washington Avenue, the heart of Ocean Springs, is lined with galleries, boutiques, and cafés, making it the perfect place to stroll, shop, and soak in the atmosphere. First Friday events downtown keep that momentum alive throughout the year, filling the streets with music and laughter. With its proximity to Gulf Coast beaches, Ocean Springs might be the perfect place to visit.
Canton
Canton may be small, but in recent years, it has enjoyed its status as one of the best 100 small towns to visit in America (ranked 66th on the list). Add to that its reputation as Mississippi’s movie capital, with several major films shot on its streets, and Canton has a mix of charm and star power that draws visitors year after year.
The centerpiece of town is the Canton Square Historic District, where brick-lined sidewalks, antique stores, and cafés create a picture-perfect Southern backdrop. For history lovers, the Canton Multicultural Center and Museum tells powerful stories of the civil rights movement and the diverse heritage of the region. Rounding out the experience, the Canton Movie Museum highlights the productions filmed here, celebrating the town’s cinematic legacy with props, photos, and behind-the-scenes stories.
Canton is perhaps best known for the Canton Flea Market, held twice a year and considered one of the largest arts and crafts fairs in the South. Vendors from across the region fill the square with handmade goods, food, and live entertainment, turning the town into a bustling marketplace. Seasonal celebrations, including Christmas lights and parades, add a festive sparkle, making Canton a year-round destination.
Corinth
While Corinth hasn’t always found itself on the big national lists, the town has steadily built a reputation as one of Mississippi’s most rewarding places to visit. Known as the “Crossroads of the South,” it combines Civil War history, cultural pride, and small-town hospitality in a way that leaves a lasting impression.
The Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center anchors the experience, telling the story of the town’s pivotal role as a rail junction during the conflict through interactive exhibits, films, and outdoor trails. Nearby, the Crossroads Museum brings the town’s heritage to life with railroad artifacts, Coca-Cola memorabilia, and rotating local exhibits. A stroll through the Historic Downtown District reveals beautifully restored storefronts, boutique shops, and cozy cafés that make for an easygoing afternoon. Events and festivals keep the town lively throughout the year. Seasonal celebrations, including the Christmas Parade, fill the streets with lights and cheer, while local fairs and markets bring neighbors together around food, music, and handcrafted goods.
Oxford
Oxford has long been one of Mississippi’s brightest cultural hubs, and in 2025, it added another accolade: it was named one of the Top 25 Best College Towns in the U.S. by Travel and Leisure Magazine. That distinction underscores Oxford’s reputation as a place where academics, the arts, and lively community life come together.
The buzz begins on the Oxford Downtown Square, the beating heart of downtown. Around its historic courthouse, you’ll find boutique shops, cafés, and galleries that invite lingering. A few doors down sits Square Books, the iconic independent bookstore whose author events, southern lit devotion, and warm atmosphere have made it legendary. Art and history lovers will appreciate the University of Mississippi Museum, whose varied collections span from Southern folk art to archaeological finds. Finally, Rowan Oak, the home of William Faulkner, offers a contemplative retreat. Walking the grounds and peeking into the author’s writing spaces reminds visitors of the deep literary roots in Oxford. Meanwhile, fall in Oxford is electric—football Saturdays at Ole Miss turn the town into a sea of red and blue, with tailgates, traditions, and camaraderie that spill into the streets long after the final whistle.
Hattiesburg
In recent years, Hattiesburg has grown into one of Mississippi’s most vibrant towns, earning recognition in 2024 for being "One of the South's Best Cities on the Rise" by Southern Living. Known as "Hub City", due to its location in the south-central part of the state, it’s home to two universities, making it both a crossroads for travelers and a destination worth lingering in.
One of its most unique attractions is The Lucky Rabbit, a massive vintage store and weekend market that feels like stepping into a retro wonderland. Packed with antiques, collectibles, and whimsical displays—including movie props and nostalgic memorabilia—it’s part shopping trip, part experience, and completely unforgettable.
For families, the Hattiesburg Zoo is a highlight, offering animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and even a ropes course that makes it more than just a quick visit. History buffs will enjoy the African American Military History Museum, housed in a restored 1940s USO club, where exhibits honor the service and sacrifice of Black soldiers across generations. To balance it all with a touch of beauty, the University of Southern Mississippi’s All-American Rose Garden provides a colorful retreat, with thousands of roses blooming seasonally around the campus’s iconic golden dome. With its mix of quirky shopping, rich history, family fun, and natural beauty, Hattiesburg stands out as a town that offers something for everyone. Its recognition as one of Mississippi’s favorite destinations confirmed what locals already knew—the Hub City is bursting with heart, creativity, and plenty of surprises.
Visit These Ten Best Towns in Mississippi
From the college-town energy of Starkville to the riverfront elegance of Natchez, the historic depth of Vicksburg, and the coastal charm of Ocean Springs, Mississippi’s favorite towns in 2025 show just how much variety the Magnolia State has to offer. Each of these towns earned recognition for different reasons—historic preservation, vibrant festivals, welcoming downtowns, or one-of-a-kind attractions—but what they all share is the ability to make visitors feel right at home. Whether you’re browsing a vintage market, strolling through gardens, exploring museums, or simply watching the sun set over the river, these towns remind us that the heart of Mississippi beats strongest in its smaller communities.
