6 Must-Visit Sites Hidden On Mississippi's College Campuses
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published April 14, 2021
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
There’s no better place to relive your glory days than a college campus! Luckily, there are several amazing sites hiding on the campuses of the state’s most well-known colleges. And with everything from a museum and history-infused hike to blooming gardens, you’ll enjoy these sites even if you’re not alumni.
The historic Friendship Oak is located on the Gulf Park campus of the University of Southern Mississippi in Long Beach. Steeped in history AND lore, the massive oak dates back to 1497, and according to legend, those who bask in the shade of its branches will remain friends forever.
Offering a scenic trek and access to a museum and historic home, Bailey’s Woods National Recreation Trail is basically three wonderful attractions in one. The 3,000-foot trail begins at Ole Miss’ University Museum and comes to an end at Rowan Oak, the former home of William Faulkner.
Basically a Mississippi State University tradition, a visit to the MAFES Sales Store is sure to stir up some feelings of nostalgia for alumni. And even if you weren’t a Bulldog, you can surely appreciate the store, which is stocked with farm-fresh cheese, meat, jellies, ice cream, and more.
Chapel of Memories is another site that’s well known to Mississippi State University students of the past and present. Regardless of where you went to school, though, you’re sure to be mesmerized by the chapel’s breathtaking beauty – and its sentiment. The chapel is built from bricks, which were salvaged after the Old Main Dormitory burned down in 1959.
No trip to Mississippi State University would be complete without a visit to Veterans Memorial Rose Garden. Work on the garden began in 2006, and today, it’s brimming with dozens of rose varieties. The idyllic site also includes paved walkways and a gazebo.
Mississippi State University isn’t the only place you can stop and smell the roses. The University of Southern Mississippi is also home to a renowned garden, the All-American Rose Garden. Opened in the 1970s, it’s been visited by people from all across the country as well as countless students - it’s a time-honored tradition for graduates to pose in the garden while donning their cap and gown.
Mississippi’s universities offer so much more than great educational programs. Boasting a variety of attractions, the state’s colleges make for some great day-trip destinations. So, did you know about these unique sites? Ever visited any? Have another to add to this list?
These aren’t the only hidden gems worth exploring. Read about others here.
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