10 Slow-Paced Small Towns in Mississippi Where Life Is Still Simple
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
It’s well known that things tend to move at a slower pace here in Mississippi. Residents of the Hospitality State seem to have a knack for being able to slow down and appreciate the little things in life. This is especially true in the state’s small towns, where everybody knows everybody, neighbors are like family, and children can play outside without a care in the world. There’s just something so simplistic and wonderful about small towns; here are 10 perfect examples.
This small town may be part of the Jackson Metropolitan Statistical Area, but its serene setting makes residents feel a million miles away from any city. Among the homes and churches that fill Flora, you’ll find the National Landmark, Mississippi’s Petrified Forest. The picturesque town also has a museum, which is housed in the old train depot, commemorating Flora’s railroad history.
Originally named Niles City, it wasn’t until 1896 that Wiggins received its current moniker. Today, residents of one of Mississippi’s fastest growing communities enjoy a high quality of life, which is only further enriched by Wiggins’ close proximity to the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
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Even though Mendenhall is located just 25 miles from Jackson, you’d never know it. The town, which is home to approximately 2,500 residents, has retained its small town vibe, boasting friendly citizens, a low crime rate, affordable housing, and tons of recreational opportunities.
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Only a handful of people are lucky enough to call this quintessential small town home. And lucky may be an understatement. Carrollton is filled with beautiful, historic homes, storefronts, churches, and government buildings, many of which can be toured during the city’s annual pilgrimage.
If simplicity is what you’re looking for, it doesn’t get much better than Crystal Springs. The small town, which was once nicknamed the "Tomatopolis of the World," hosts an annual Tomato Festival, attracting visitors from near and far. Residents of the small town also get to celebrate the state’s rich musical history, thanks to the Robert Johnson Blues Museum, and get up close and personal with nature at Chautauqua Park’s treetop trail.
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Water Valley is a quintessential small southern town where everybody knows everybody, but it’s also a cultural melting pot thanks to a bustling Main Street, an abundance of mouthwatering restaurants, historic homes, and an amazing art scene that is comparable to that of a larger city.
For a town that’s supposedly been cursed by an angered witch, Yazoo City seems to be doing pretty well. The small town’s focal point is a picturesque Main Street, which is lined with brightly-colored, restored buildings as well as historically-significant structures. The quaint street is home to several notable art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Yazoo City’s spooky past lives on at Glenwood Cemetery, the site of the scorned witch’s grave.
Named one of the "Coolest Small Towns in America" by Budget and Travel Magazine, Bay St. Louis has it all – oceanfront views, a small town vibe, and a hip Old Town area filled with great restaurants, galleries, and more. As if it couldn’t get any better, the art scene is really flourishing thanks to city’s monthly "Second Saturday Artwalk." The one-day fest includes art shows, live entertainment, and local cuisine.
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With the city motto, "Where tradition touches tomorrow," Baldwyn just screams small town life. The quaint town, which is home to well under 5,000 residents, was once the site of a deadly Civil War battle; a fact that comes to life at Brice’s Cross Roads National Battlefield site. Like many small towns, Baldwyn has a picturesque Main Street lined with everything from shops and eateries to the community theater.
This small town, which has just under 8,000 residents, is most commonly associated with being the birthplace of Oprah Winfrey. Aside from its most famous resident, Kosciusko has numerous desirable qualities, including being just one mile from the Natchez Trace Parkway as well as a part of the Mississippi Blues Trail.
With so many amazing small towns in Mississippi, this list could easily go on and on. What town would you add?
Enjoyed this article? We covered more of the state’s small towns in “Most People Don’t Know These 12 Super Tiny Towns In Mississippi Exist.“
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