8 Adorable Small Towns In Mississippi
A hub of the Southern United States, the beautiful State of Mississippi is indeed one of the nation鈥檚 most alluring and special places. Full of splendid natural beauty, intriguing American history, and loads of much sought-after Southern Charm, the 鈥淢agnolia State鈥� never fails to create memories for its residents and visitors alike. And while the major cities will always have their share of attraction, it is certainly the small towns that reveal a quainter side of things. In these adorable small Mississippi towns, charm, history, nature, and quintessential Southern Americana are all ready to greet their guests.
Meridian
With just over 35,000 residents, Meridan is Mississippi鈥檚 eighth-largest urban hub and a scenic and vibrant town. Established in 1860, visitors can enjoy plenty of cultural and outdoor activities while appreciating local history. Spend time at the relaxing Highland Park (a part of the National Register of Historic Places), or perhaps even play a few rounds of golf at any of the town鈥檚 picturesque courses. In addition, at the nearby Okatibbee Lake, scenic views and opportunities for camping, fishing, and sailing make this a great destination for the whole family. Meanwhile, a visit to the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience is a must for the artistically minded. Here interactive exhibits and sprawling open spaces dedicated to a wide range of creative art make this an outing not sure to be forgotten.
Natchez
Named for the Native American tribe, the historic town of Natchez was founded by French colonists in 1716! Situated along the Mississippi River, today, just over 14,000 inhabitants call this lovely place home. Near the border with the State of Louisiana, Natchez boasts hot summer and warm winter temperatures and is indeed full of history and natural beauty. Spend time along the River and enjoy swimming, boating, and even just casual strolls in a most serene ambiance. Meanwhile, the history lover can discover Natchez鈥檚 Civil War past. Once one of the State鈥檚 major cotton-producing centers, several antebellum-style plantations and homes can continue to be toured. The Museum of African American History and Culture here sheds fascinating light on slavery and the fight for civil rights throughout the last two centuries.
Corinth
The seat of Alcorn County, the town of Corinth, is beautifully situated within the Appalachian Mountain Range and right on the border with the State of Tennessee. Named for the Greek city and with a history dating back to the 1850s, the modern town is now home to a modest population of just under 15,000 people. History lovers will certainly enjoy Corinth with its assortment of preserved 19th-century buildings in the Midtown Corinth Historic District, while several museums give a fascinating insight into the region鈥檚 past. These include the Black History Museum, the Museum of Southern Culture, and the Northeast Mississippi Museum. For the nature aficionado, this town offers great opportunities for picnicking, cycling, hiking, and more around some beautiful little streams. And with its humid and subtropical climate, spending time outdoors is always popular in Corinth.
Louisville
Louisville was founded in the mid-1800s and today is home to just over 6,000 residents. The seat of Winston County, this cute town has plenty of Southern charm and an assortment of locally run businesses always ready to welcome guests with genuine hospitality. Spend time at attractions like the Strand Theatre (1918) for various live music and art shows, or take the family to the Big Red Fire Museum. Here fascinating vintage fire fighting equipment and restored fire trucks highlight the history of this critical public service. In addition, at the nearby Lake Tiak-O鈥橩hata, wonderful opportunities for fun on the water abound. Enjoy swimming, boating, paddling, or even just a casual walk along the peaceful water banks.
Raymond
One of two seats of Hinds County (along with Jackson), the small and scenic town of Raymond is indeed a most beautiful place to discover. Located near the Natchez Trace Forested Trail and home to just under 2,000 inhabitants, this historic town is a great place to enjoy Mississippi鈥檚 beautiful geography and fascinating history. For direct encounters with the 19th century, Raymond is indeed a place to be, and visitors can explore numerous antebellum-style homes and other landmarks. These include the Raymond Military Park, the Hinds County Courthouse (1857), and the famed Little Big Store, amongst others. Meanwhile, at the quaint campus of Hinds Community College, a relaxed and serene afternoon can be enjoyed under a beautiful Mississippi sky.
Aberdeen
The historic town of Aberdeen is the seat of Monroe County and was formally established in the 1830s. Today the home of a modest population of just under 5,000, Aberdeen is a scenic locale beautifully situated along the banks of the Tombigbee River. Spend time along the water鈥檚 edge, where hot and humid summers make for a most memorable Southern experience, while back in town, proper fascinating 19th-century history awaits. Full of many buildings and landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places, visitors can discover first-hand plantations, antebellum-style homes, and other 1800s theatres. And, of course, loads of special Southern charm permeates the town, and welcoming and tasty local eateries, family-run businesses, and more fill out the beautiful streets of Aberdeen.
Rolling Fork
The seat of Sharkey County, the town of Rolling Fork, was formally established in the 1840s and today maintains a modest population of just under 2,000 residents. Situated within the famed Mississippi Delta, the beautiful natural surroundings of Rolling Fork make it a quaint and tranquil community. Framed by fields of corn, cotton, and soybeans, agriculture continues to play an essential role in the local economy. In addition, the town boasts several charming 19th-century buildings, which include the Onward Store and the Mont Helena Mansion (1896). At the former, visitors can enjoy a real 1800s shopping experience with an authentic atmosphere resembling an old convenience store.
Woodville
Woodville was established in 1811, making it one of Mississippi鈥檚 oldest towns and even preceding the State鈥檚 admission to the Union by six years. The seat of Wilkinson County and located near the border with the State of Louisiana, just under 1,000 permanent residents call this quiet town home. Though it may seem like a sleepy community, visitors can still enjoy plenty of fascinating local history and beautiful natural surroundings here. Visit such places like the Rosemont Mansion, tour the historic Main Street and its assortment of 19th-century buildings, or spend an afternoon at the African American Museum and its impressive ability to recount the contributions and history of the country鈥檚 black population. Later on, nature enthusiasts can take in great cycling, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities at the beautiful Clark Creek Natural conservation area. Also, some 50 separate and stunning waterfalls dot the landscape here for one of the most scenic excursions in Mississippi.
The small towns of Mississippi reveal why the 鈥淢agnolia State鈥� is indeed a place of unique Southern charm and beauty. Filled with fascinating history and loads of natural splendor, these towns are ready to create lasting memories for all who choose to visit. From the river town of Natchez to the historic center of Aberdeen and beyond, these adorable Mississippi towns have something for various tastes. Whether it is enjoying the outdoors, learning more about America鈥檚 past, or simply seeking the charm only a small town can offer, a visit to Mississippi鈥檚 small towns will definitely leave one eager to return.
