There are lots of charming small towns in Mississippi, and Water Valley is one of them. One of our best kept secrets is often overlooked, and that’s likely because it’s just a short drive from Oxford. However, this is one secret you’ll want to be in on – and that’s because Water Valley is the perfect Mississippi day trip destination. So, if you’re taking day trips from Oxford MS, you’ll want to add Water Valley to your itinerary.

Water Valley is in the hills of northwest Mississippi, about 20 miles south of Oxford.
formulanone from Huntsville, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
A small town of some 3,700 residents, it’s one of the most unique places in Mississippi and a great choice for a day trip.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Water Valley was the hub of the Illinois Central Railroad – something visitors today can learn about at the Casey Jones Railroad Museum.
Water Valley Casey Jones Railroad Museum/Facebook
Eventually, the railroad left and Water Valley’s prosperity went with it. In the early 2000s, it seemed like Water Valley was on the brink of collapse; however, it underwent a renaissance of sorts.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
The town’s “progressive, diversified population” is credited with kick-starting its comeback.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook

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Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that the Water Valley of today is absolutely charming, particularly its downtown, which is filled with buildings from yesteryear.
Best Day Trips From Oxford MS
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
The perfect mix of old and new, the historic buildings house gift shops, boutiques, specialty stores, and restaurants.
Best Day Trips From Oxford MS
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Among the storefronts in downtown Water Valley is Turnage Drug Store.
Turnage Drug Store/Facebook
Like taking a step back in time, Turnage Drug Store is an old-fashioned pharmacy – complete with a soda fountain and gift shop.
Turnage Drug Store/Facebook
Despite its growth, Water Valley has retained its hometown vibes, thanks, in part, to community-wide events, like the Watermelon Carnival.
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Always held the first weekend of August, it’s been named one of the top 20 fests in the Southeastern U.S., attracting tens of thousands of people each year!
Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce/Facebook

A small town that’s anything but typical, Water Valley offers one of the most unique getaways in Mississippi. Do you agree? Is Water Valley the perfect day trip destination? Know of any other unique places to visit in Mississippi? Tell us!

Water Valley isn’t the only small town that makes for a great getaway. There are so many others, including these charming small towns in Mississippi, a few of which are also great for day trips from Oxford MS.

7 Small Towns In Mississippi That Are Full Of Charm And Perfect For A Weekend Escape

 

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Water Valley, MS 38965, USA