The Best Small Towns in Mississippi to Visit (or Even Move To)
Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, Natchez offers a charming blend of antebellum architecture and riverfront charm about 90 miles south of Jackson. The Natchez National Historical Park is a must-visit, where the William Johnson House tells the story of a free African American barber in the 19th century, giving a rare glimpse into the lives of free people of color in the antebellum South. Strolling through the historic district, visitors can admire the stately mansions and lush gardens that echo a bygone era. The town’s scenic riverwalk provides stunning sunset views, making spring and fall ideal times for a visit when the weather is mild, and the trees begin to blaze with color.
Just under two hours north of Jackson lies Oxford, a small university town anchored by the University of Mississippi. The town buzzes with literary history, most famously linked to William Faulkner, whose Rowan Oak estate sits on the outskirts of town. Visitors can tour the house and explore the surrounding grounds where Faulkner penned many of his masterpieces. Square Books, a beloved independent bookstore downtown, captures the town’s vibrant literary scene with regular author readings and community events. Oxford pulses with Southern hospitality amplified during football season when the town fills with fans, but the quieter months offer a reflective charm perfect for exploring its boutiques and local eateries.
In the Hill Country near Grenada, about an hour north of Jackson, the town of Water Valley is a hidden gem known for its revitalized downtown and arts scene. The Water Valley Trestle, part of the old Illinois Central Railroad, provides a dramatic backdrop for photography and leisurely walks. The town hosts regular arts crawls where galleries and studios open their doors to showcase local craftsmanship. A visit to the nearby Yalobusha River offers opportunities for paddling and fishing, and fall brings vibrant foliage that contrasts beautifully with the rustic architecture. Water Valley’s slower pace and creative energy make it a unique spot away from Mississippi’s more heavily trafficked tourist areas.
In the southeast corner of the state, about 90 minutes from Gulfport, the town of Bay St. Louis captivates with its bohemian vibe and coastal flair. The historic Old Town district is lined with colorful cottages, art galleries, and cozy cafes. The Bay St. Louis Beach is a peaceful place to watch pelicans dive and enjoy views of the Gulf of Mexico, especially breathtaking at dawn or dusk. The weekly Second Saturday Gallery Stroll lets visitors mingle with local artists and musicians, embodying the town’s thriving creative community. Bay St. Louis is particularly lively during spring and fall when festivals celebrate everything from seafood to local music.
Tupelo, roughly 90 minutes northeast of Jackson, is best known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, but it offers much more than just music history. The Tupelo National Battlefield commemorates a crucial Civil War site, and the town’s downtown district has made a comeback with trendy shops and farm-to-table restaurants. The Elvis Presley Birthplace museum complex features the modest home where the King of Rock ’n’ Roll was born and a replica of the old Tupelo Fairgrounds where he first performed. Spring is a wonderful time to visit Tupelo, when the surrounding landscapes bloom, making outdoor exploration in the nearby Natchez Trace Parkway all the more pleasant.
In the northeastern part of the state, the town of Corinth sits about 80 miles northeast of Tupelo and offers a rich Civil War heritage. Visitors can explore the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center, which uses immersive exhibits to recount the pivotal Battle of Corinth. The adjacent battlefield park has well-preserved earthworks and walking trails that bring history to life under towering hardwoods. Corinth’s small but vibrant downtown features quaint shops and restaurants where Southern hospitality reigns. The cooler months are great for touring the battlefield and exploring the countryside without the summer heat.
Near the Delta region, Clarksdale lies about 70 miles north of Jackson and pulses with deep blues music history. The Delta Blues Museum celebrates legends like Muddy Waters and John Lee Hooker, featuring rare instruments and photographs. Beale Street in Clarksdale hosts live music almost every night, making it a mecca for blues enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. The town’s vibrant murals and juke joints offer a palpable sense of the region’s musical roots. Autumn is particularly magical here as live festivals fill the streets with soulful sounds under crisp, clear skies.
Each of these towns offers a distinct slice of Mississippi’s charm, from river vistas and Civil War history to literary legacies and musical roots. Whether wandering through stately mansions in Natchez, savoring coastal breezes in Bay St. Louis, or tapping your feet to blues rhythms in Clarksdale, these small towns invite visitors to slow down and immerse themselves in the rich culture and warm hospitality that define the Magnolia State.