Some of the best small towns in Mississippi boast cherished qualities, like hospitality and a sense of community. And even though all of the state’s small towns are awesome in their own right, there are some that just stand out above the rest. Among these most quaint towns in Mississippi, any would make a great day trip destination.

1. Holly Springs

Visit Mississippi/Flickr
Holly Springs, MS 38635, USA
Visit Mississippi/Flickr
Referred to as "Mississippi’s best-kept secret," the town of Holly Springs has a population of about 6,500. While it may be small, that doesn’t mean that there aren't plenty of things to do in Holly Springs, Mississippi. Dating back to the Civil War, Holly Springs is known for its gorgeous antebellum homes, most of which are available for touring. The town is also home to the Ida B. Wells Museum, the annual Kudzu Festival, Chewalla Lake, Holly Springs National Forest, and, of course, the famous Phillips Grocery – home of the country’s best burger. Read further on about the lovely town of Holly Springs.

2. Port Gibson

Bill Herndon/Flickr
Port Gibson, MS 39150, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Located between Vicksburg and Natchez, the small town of Port Gibson has a population of about 1,500. It's easily one of the best small towns in Mississippi. In fact, as legend has it, Port Gibson’s beauty is what led General Grant to spare the town during the Civil War, claiming it was "too beautiful to burn." Even though the town is most known for being home to the Windsor Ruins, it has much more to offer, including gorgeous architecture of yesteryear, old-fashioned storefronts, battlefields, and historically significant Civil War sites. Learn more about Port Gibson.

3. Canton

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Canton, MS 39046, USA
Jimmy Smith/Flickr
Referred to as "the city of lights," Canton is not your usual small town, as it has recently become a major force in the film industry, attracting everything from documentaries to major motion pictures. The quaint town in Mississippi is not only appealing to filmmakers, though. Canton is home to quite a large arts and crafts community, which would explain why the city’s annual flea market is such a big hit. And, of course, Canton is filled with historic buildings and homes as well as a town square. Known by locals as "the Square," it's filled with one-of-a-kind shops, museums, and more. Find out more about what Canton is all about.

4. Bay Saint Louis

Ellis Anderson

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Bay St. Louis, Bay St Louis, MS, USA
Ellis Anderson
This coastal community, with a population just over 10,000, exudes small-town charm, all while offering the appeal of big city amenities, thanks to Biloxi and Gulfport being in close proximity. Not only a beach lover’s paradise, Bay Saint Louis is known for its trendy Old Town area that offers shopping and dining. One visit to the Bay Saint Louis, and you’ll quickly see why it was named "one of the coolest small towns in America." Get more details on things to do in Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi.

5. Cleveland

Cleveland Tourism/Facebook
Cleveland, MS 38732, USA
Cleveland Tourism/Facebook
Located in the heart of the Delta, this small town in Mississippi has deep ties to the music industry, so it only makes sense that it's home to the Mississippi Grammy Museum as well as a number of music festivals. Aside from music, Cleveland also sponsors "Art in the Alley," giving local vendors the chance to display their goods, and other citywide events, including farmers markets, an annual Oktoberfest, and much more! Learn more about what Cleveland has to offer visitors.

6. New Albany

www.visitnewalbany.com
New Albany, MS 38652, USA
Matthew Nichols/Facebook
Located in northern Mississippi on the Tallahatchie River, New Albany is known for its shopping, especially when it comes to antiques, its beautiful downtown, and, of course, being the birthplace of literary legend William Faulkner. Referred to as "the gateway to the Tanglefoot Trail," New Albany is the starting point of one of the state’s longest Rails to Trails paths, but the fun doesn’t stop there, as the city is home to the Union County Heritage Museum, ancient Native American mounds, and a number of seasonal festivals and events, which include everything from art to music. This charming town truly does have something for everyone. Learn more about one of the best small towns in Mississippi.

7. Tupelo

Sean Davis/Flickr
Tupelo, MS, USA
Jimmy Smith/Flickr
Named "one of the 10 best small town getaways" by USA Today, Tupelo has a lot to offer. It is pretty much common knowledge that the town is the birthplace of Elvis Presley, and those who are unaware of this fact will quickly be reminded upon arriving in Tupelo. Reminders of the King can be found throughout the city and include the home in which Elvis was born, several bronze statues in his likeness, the Elvis Presley Lake, Campground, and Park, a museum, and the annual Elvis Presley Festival. Other Tupelo must-visits include the Tupelo National Battlefield and the Tupelo Buffalo Park, which is home to a number of exotic animals. And don't forget about the Tupelo Flea Market.

Small towns in Mississippi really are the best! Friendly people, no traffic, and, perhaps best of all, a low cost of living!

So, what do you think? Are these the best small towns in Mississippi? Did we miss your favorite small town? Know of other beautiful places in Mississippi? Tell us in the comments below!

These towns aren’t the only beautiful places in Mississippi. Check out these gorgeous scenic overlooks in Mississippi that will leave you breathless.

And, if you’re feeling especially proud to live in Mississippi, be sure to check out this unique collection of apparel from Wear Your Roots.

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More to Explore

Charming Small Towns In Mississippi

Daniella DiRienzo | July 05, 2021

What are some other beautiful small towns in Mississippi?

When it comes to some of the best small towns in Mississippi, Iuka definitely fits the bill. Located in Tishomingo County, it’s home to roughly 3,000 residents and some incredibly stunning sights. An outdoor enthusiast’s delight, it’s got three parks – two city parks and a state park. One of the city parks, Mineral Springs Park, boasts one of the state’s only covered bridges and three natural springs, which once attracted people from all over the country. J.P. Coleman State Park is also in Iuka. And with a river, lake, and 50-foot waterfall, it’s a true natural gem.

What destinations make great day trips in Mississippi?

There are lots of destinations that make great day trips in Mississippi. One place that shouldn’t be missed is Shady Acres Village in Seminary. Dubbed an “oasis of hospitality,” it’s a one-stop shop, comprised of a restaurant, general store, bakery, gift shop, and gardening center. Start your visit by grabbing a bite to eat in the restaurant. Offering something for everyone, the menu features BBQ, po’boys, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. There are plenty of other things to do in Shady Acres Village, Mississippi, such as perusing the merchandise at the general store and gift shop, where you can stock up on jarred goods, homemade sweets, Mississippi-made pottery, and more.

What are some other beautiful places in Mississippi?

There’s no shortage of beautiful places in Mississippi. With so many, it’d be easy to overlook a few, and one you don’t want to miss is the Strawberry Plains Audubon Center. Located in Holly Springs, it encompasses thousands of acres, all of which are brimming with natural beauty and things to see and do. As you explore the grounds, you’ll find a historic antebellum home, with 15 miles of walking trails, a hummingbird garden, wildlife-viewing areas, fields of wildflowers, and lots more.

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