Great Small Town Experiences in Mississippi

Known for its Southern charm and hospitality, Mississippi is home to some of the best small towns in the South. Visitors looking for a unique traveling experience can certainly find one as they explore all that these quaint towns have to offer. To help you plan your next trip, Visit Mississippi shares some of the best Mississippi small towns to visit during your stay in the Magnolia State.

Experiencing Small-Town Charm

Mississippi’s appeal comes from small, old-fashioned towns that are home to residents who will gladly greet you with kind eyes and a smile. Guests are welcome to wander our Mississippi regions and enjoy these towns first-hand. Some of the best Mississippi small towns include:

Canton

The small town of Canton has seen a surge in interest lately as it has become a force in the film industry. The picturesque views of this beautiful small town make it attractive to filmmakers and travelers from all over the country. While here, guests can enjoy historic architecture, such as the Madison County Courthouse. The Courthouse Square is where travelers will see this small town come to life, as it features a variety of quaint shops and unique local eateries.

Bay St. Louis

With a population of just over 10,000, this coastal community exudes small-town charm. While the city is recognized as a beach lover’s paradise, guests also can explore trendy Old Town and find quirky shops and art galleries, with gifts such as antique books and souvenirs found only in Mississippi. It also has a wide range of restaurants featuring delicious local cuisine.

Cleveland

Located in the heart of the Delta, Cleveland is regarded as the soul of the state with its deep ties to American music history. As visitors tour the city, they will hear the sounds of the blues and recognize the contributions Cleveland has made to the music industry. Aside from music, Cleveland also is a community that loves to support local artists. Art in the Alley is a sponsored event that allows local vendors to display their works for sale. Travelers can browse these local creations and take a piece of Mississippi art home with them.

Port Gibson

Port Gibson has a population of only about 1,500 but is easily one of the most beautiful small towns in Mississippi. Legend has it that Port Gibson’s beauty prevented it from being destroyed by General Ulysses S. Grant during the Civil War, as he claimed the city was “too beautiful to burn.” Port Gibson is probably most known for being the home of the Windsor Ruins, the freestanding Corinthian columns that remain from a fire that destroyed Windsor, which was the largest Greek Revival mansion ever built in the region.

Reasons to Visit a Small Town in MS

When visiting a new place, travelers want to make the most of their trip and soak up as much culture as they can. Traveling to small towns will offer vacationers distinct opportunities they may not have otherwise. Consider the following reasons to visit a small town during your stay:

• More cultural experience: By traveling to a smaller town or city, guests can learn the local customs and immerse themselves into the community’s culture for a one-of-a-kind trip. Plus, residents will welcome you with the famous Southern hospitality that creates a sense of belonging.
• Unique points of interest: By not having to navigate through large cities, guests have opportunities to see more attractions in Mississippi. This allows them to make the most out of their trip and feel they received a well-rounded traveling experience. 
• Exceptional accommodations: Choosing where to stay is just as important as choosing the destination itself. Small towns offer visitors fascinating options for lodging in Mississippi that enhance their overall experience.

Choose a Small Town Visit for Your Next Vacation

When looking for your next travel destination, consider choosing one of the charming small towns of Mississippi. Each of these communities features unique attractions that make it appealing to guests of any age. To help make your trip a memorable one, Visit Mississippi is here to provide recommendations. For more information on the best Mississippi small towns, please contact us today. Let us help you plan your next trip to Mississippi.