10 Lovely Small Towns to Visit in Mississippi This Summer
Summer is easily one of the most anticipated seasons of the year. As the sun emerges from behind winter clouds and temperatures rise, many are eager to bask in warmer weather and enjoy seasonal festivities. However, not all vacationers wish to deal with the choking crowds at popular summer hotspots. Thankfully, Mississippi harbors delightful small-town alternatives for a relaxed Southern escape. Nestled amid landscapes ranging from fertile river valleys to piney uplands, these lesser-known communities radiate old southern charm and hospitality.
Whether you want to explore the unique history, revel in lush nature, or experience Southern hospitality, these top towns to visit in Mississippi invite travelers to pump the brakes and unwind at a summer's gentle pace. Charming downtowns, locally owned shops, and recreational oases await amid scenic backdrops, culminating in the perfect day trips or longer stays.
Waveland
Waveland is home to about 7,000 residents and is one of the smaller towns on the Gulf of Mexico to spend a laid-back summer without crowds. Its sandy beaches and endless shorelines allow for stress-free walks along the coast, which are perfect for meditating. The aquatic fun in Waveland stretches further inland to the 400-acre Buccaneer State Park. This beautiful oasis hosts a waterpark and swimming pool, with recreational activities like camping, fishing, and trail hiking. When not playing in the water, Waveland offers a quaint historical experience at Waveland's Ground Zero Hurricane Museum, which remembers the devastating effect of Hurricane Katrina on the town.
A string of cute antique shops around the city lets treasure hunters speculate on unique finds, including Sea Gypsies Antiques. From antiques to collectibles and vintage art, there is something worth taking home in this delightful establishment.
Bay St. Louis
Another summer hotspot on the Gulf Coast, this Hancock County slice of heaven promises vacationers a range of unique experiences. Beachgoers will love the endless sandy shore of Bay St. Louis Beach, which offers stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. But the town offers more than exquisite coastal scenery. The local art scene draws visitors from within and without, a credit to respected venues like the Bay St. Louis Little Theatre. This community playhouse stages exceptional live shows in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Bay St. Louis Historic L & N Train Depot offers some background on the town. Exploring the facility reveals various artifacts, archives, and relics documenting local railroad heritage inside a 1928 structure.
Collins
This quiet community in Covington presents the right setting for a relaxed family retreat. It hosts several kid-friendly attractions, including the popular Grand Paradise Waterpark. Teeming with exciting fun-in-the-sun activities, the 7-acre promises wholesome fun for all ages, featuring water slides, swimming pools, and a lazy river. What better way to soak in the summer sun than with a low-key tee time at Okatoma Golf Club? With its rural atmosphere, where lush trees provide convenient shade from the scorching summer sun, the venue is ideal for those who enjoy easygoing pursuits.
More outdoor opportunities await at Robertson Park, which offers the right amenities for a charming day out with the family. It also features a welcoming and uncrowded setting where you can simply relax and people-watch.
Natchez
Summer does not always have to involve fun in the water, and Natchez invites tourists to spend it exploring one of the most historic towns in Mississippi. This lovely town boasts a rich historical heritage that shines through its row of historical homes, displaying the best antebellum architecture in the state. Longwood Mansion stands out with its octagonal design and has the distinction of being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Another standout venue worth checking out is Stanton Hall, which was built in the 1850s. Touring the home offers guests a glimpse of period furnishings and authentic artifacts owned by the Stanton family.
When you have had enough of the historic home tours, you can try sampling the vibrant restaurant scene in the town. While there is no shortage of options, Fat Mama's Tamales stands out for its casual yet scrumptious Mexican delicacies, particularly the tamales and margaritas.
Holly Springs
Set in the foothills of Appalachia, near the Tennessee border, this adorable Marshall County village offers a dose of trademark Southern hospitality coupled with rich pre-Civil War history. The warm summer conditions invite visitors to explore the town's cozy outdoor scenery, with Wall Doxey State Park offering the ideal playground. Centered around an idyllic 60-acre Lake, the park charms with aquatic recreations like boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as camping and hiking on dry land. Additionally, the Kirkwood National Golf Club & Cottages allows tourists to cool off with a relaxed game of golf in a wooded environment.
Historians will fancy exploring the town's colorful history inside the Marshall County Historical Museum. With more than 40,000 artifacts to browse, they can expect a comprehensive look into local and regional heritage.
Tupelo
Tupelo's claim to fame is the birthplace of Elvis Presley, and visitors come from far and wide to learn more about the modest beginnings of the "King of Rock and Roll." Naturally, the town pays homage to its famous son with a series of statues and other monuments, including the Elvis Presley Birthplace. This quaint museum showcases the small two-bedroom house where Elvis was born, offering guests a look at where it all began. Tupelo delights vacationing families with its kid-friendly attractions, none more exciting than the Buffalo Park & Zoo. Straddling over 200 acres, it is the largest zoo in the state and provides amazing close-up encounters with exotic species.
Ardent adventurers will love discovering Tombigbee Lake State Park's dense wilderness. After taking on isolated hikes through its wooded trails, they can refresh with a dip in the 90-acre Lake Lee and indulge in other water-based recreations like boating and canoeing.
Columbus
Home to the Mississippi University for Women, Columbus is a charming riparian community along the scenic banks of the Tombigbee River. Trekking along the River Walk Trail provides the perfect opportunity to take in the town's natural beauty, featuring panoramic vistas of the Tombigbee River. Meanwhile, Lake Lowndes State Park is the ideal summer playground in Columbus. Besides fun fishing and boating activities on the 150-acre lake, the preserve hosts various sports facilities, including tennis courts and football fields.
After enjoying the great outdoors enough, consider mingling with the locals in the friendly atmosphere of Hitching Lot Farmer's Market. It is also a great opportunity to sample delicious home-baked goods and shop for cute handmade crafts.
Ocean Springs
From pristine beaches and artsy vibes to gourmet eateries to trademark Southern hospitality, Ocean Springs has all the hallmarks of a fabulous summer gateway. This charming community lies on the eastern shore of Biloxi Bay, inviting residents to spend a cozy vacation in the idyllic setting of Ocean Springs Beach. The optimal mix of sun, sand, and serenity keeps drawing visitors back to this beachside oasis in Ocean Springs. Art lovers will prefer to get a sense of local art, which is readily available at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. Housed inside is a rich collection of pieces inspired by the celebrated artist.
Finally, ardent adventurers looking to immerse in the great outdoors can head to the Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge, with an opportunity to take primitive wilderness trails like Fontainebleau Nature Trail.
Oxford
Spend your summer soaking in the youthful vibrance of this eclectic college town in Lafayette County. Oxford excites first-timers with its range of attractions and diversity of experiences, promising something for everyone. Outdoor lovers will be enchanted by the serene environment of Lamar Park, which features a quiet lake surrounded by several trails through manicured gardens and lush woods. Meanwhile, history buffs can go on an exciting journey back in time by touring Rowan Oak. This primitive yet gorgeous Greek Revival mansion offers a window into Victorian-era Oxford.
Finally, sports enthusiasts looking for an opportunity to scream their lungs out can choose between the Vaught Hemingway Stadium and Swayze Field to cheer the local college football and baseball teams, respectively.
Clinton
Clinton is another bustling college town where beautiful nature spaces, rich arts, and college sports add a spark to Mississippi summers. A great escape from the busy capital, the city hosts a couple of pretty green spaces, including the Clinton Community Nature Center, where visitors can relax and be one with nature. For the artistically inclined, stopping by Wyatt Waters Gallery allows you to peruse an intricate portfolio of works by the renowned watercolorist in his welcoming studio.
College sports are a big part of the local community, and the townsfolk are always on the prowl to cheer on the home teams whenever there is a game. Whether a sports fan or not, visitors should take advantage of the opportunity to experience the electrifying arena atmosphere inside the Robinson-Hale Stadium.
Embrace the Small Town Charm of Mississippi This Summer
This summer, escape the crowds and chaos of more prominent destinations by discovering some of the most picturesque small towns to visit in Mississippi. The communities highlighted above offer a taste of relaxed Southern living through everything from historic architecture to natural scenery. Whether one's preference is strolling riverfronts, hiking lush trails, or exploring museums, these understated locales promise welcoming atmospheres and memorable cross-sections of local culture. They allow travelers to unwind while building lasting impressions of Mississippi's deep heritage.
