The Coolest College Towns in Mississippi
Oxford, nestled in northern Mississippi just a short 80-mile drive southeast of Memphis, Tennessee, stands out as a quintessential college town thanks largely to the University of Mississippi. Visitors often find themselves wandering the historic Square, where the essence of Southern charm meets the intellectual buzz of campus life. The town’s distinctive appeal lies in Rowan Oak, the stately home of Nobel Prize winner William Faulkner, located just minutes from campus. Touring this well-preserved literary landmark offers an intimate glimpse into the mind of one of America’s greatest authors, making Oxford a haven for book lovers and history buffs alike. The best time to visit is in the fall when the university’s football season is in full swing, and the town bursts with tailgate festivities and crimson-and-blue spirit.
About 90 miles south of Jackson, the city of Hattiesburg holds the lively University of Southern Mississippi at its core. The campus itself is a blend of historic and modern architecture, but the real draw is the African American Military History Museum located just a short drive from downtown Hattiesburg. Housed in a former USO building, the museum offers a powerful narrative of black military service with artifacts and exhibits that bring history vividly to life. The museum’s proximity to the campus creates a unique cultural crossroad that enriches the college town atmosphere. Springtime, with its mild temperatures and blooming azaleas, is an excellent season to explore both the museum and Hattiesburg’s vibrant arts district.
Tupelo, known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, is about 90 miles northeast of Oxford and home to the Mississippi University for Women. Despite its name, this university welcomes all genders and fosters a close-knit community atmosphere. What makes Tupelo special for college visitors is the Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, located just outside the city proper. This family-friendly spot offers a scenic drive-through where visitors can see herds of bison roaming alongside camels and zebras. The juxtaposition of a classic college town vibe with a rustic, wildlife experience is quite unique in Mississippi. Late spring, when the animals are most active and the weather is pleasantly warm, is the ideal time to visit.
About 90 minutes south of Jackson, the town of Starkville buzzes with the presence of Mississippi State University. Starkville’s charm is seated in its vibrant downtown district, where art galleries, live music venues, and cozy coffee shops converge. For an outdoor excursion, the nearby Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge offers miles of trails through wetlands and woodlands, perfect for birdwatching and quiet hikes. This refuge is a gem for students and visitors who want to escape the campus bustle and immerse themselves in nature. Autumn brings migratory birds and crisp, clear air, making it the perfect window for a visit to both the refuge and Starkville’s lively streets.
About 75 miles northwest of Jackson, the city of Cleveland hosts Delta State University and is a cultural hotspot in the Mississippi Delta. The nearby B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center in Indianola, just a half-hour drive away, offers an immersive experience into the life and legacy of the blues legend B.B. King. The museum’s interactive exhibits and rich audio-visual content celebrate the Delta’s musical heritage, which seeps deeply into the college town’s character. Visiting during the cooler months ensures a comfortable experience while exploring the museum and walking through the quaint, music-infused streets of Cleveland.
Meridian, about 90 miles east of Jackson, is home to Mississippi State University’s Meridian campus and hosts a thriving arts scene. Central to this is the Meridian Museum of Art, located near the downtown district, which features rotating exhibits of Southern artists and craftspeople. The museum is a cultural anchor for students seeking creative inspiration outside the classroom. Nearby, the Threefoot Building, an iconic Art Deco skyscraper, highlights the city’s unique architectural history, contrasting with the collegiate energy nearby. Spring and early fall offer the best weather to stroll between these landmarks and enjoy Meridian’s blend of culture and academia.
In the southern part of the state, about 70 miles east of New Orleans, the town of Hattiesburg also reflects the vibrant community surrounding William Carey University. Near the campus, the Longleaf Trace is a 44-mile-long rails-to-trails path that stretches through pine forests and wetlands. Its well-maintained surface is perfect for biking, running, and walking, providing an active outlet for students and visitors alike. The natural beauty of the trace, with its towering longleaf pines and abundant birdlife, makes it a standout recreational spot in Mississippi’s college scene. Early morning visits in spring or fall offer cool temperatures and a chance to hear the dawn chorus of songbirds.
Each of these towns offers a distinct slice of Mississippi’s college town life, where academics, culture, history, and nature intertwine in ways that invite exploration and discovery. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of a literary giant, immersing yourself in the blues heritage, or enjoying a scenic bike ride through pine forests, Mississippi’s college towns provide a rich, authentic experience beyond the classroom.