Nestled in the heart of northern Mississippi, Oxford is a small town with big charm. Known for its vibrant culture, rich literary history, and Southern hospitality, Oxford offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a college student, a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a family looking for a weekend getaway, this charming town won’t disappoint.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the best things to do in Oxford, MS—from hidden gems and historic landmarks to local eats and outdoor adventures.
Explore the Historic Oxford Square
The beating heart of Oxford is its Historic Square, affectionately known as “The Square.” With red-brick sidewalks, preserved 19th-century buildings, and a mix of modern charm, it’s the perfect place to shop, eat, and soak in the atmosphere.
Here you’ll find:
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Independent boutiques offering everything from handcrafted goods to designer fashion
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Restaurants and cafes serving mouthwatering Southern dishes
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Landmarks like the Lafayette County Courthouse, which anchors the Square
In the evening, the Square transforms into a lively hub with rooftop bars, live music venues, and cozy spots for cocktails or craft beer.
Visit the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
Oxford is synonymous with the University of Mississippi, better known as Ole Miss. The university campus is often listed among the most beautiful in the U.S., with its Greek Revival architecture, tree-lined walkways, and tranquil green spaces.
Top things to do on campus:
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Walk through the Lyceum Circle, the historic core of Ole Miss
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Visit the University of Mississippi Museum, home to Southern folk art, Greek and Roman antiquities, and regional exhibits
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Experience The Grove, a 10-acre green space famous for hosting one of the nation’s most spirited college football tailgates
On game days, Oxford pulses with excitement as Rebel fans pack the town, making it one of the best college towns in America.
Dive into Oxford’s Literary History
Oxford is a pilgrimage site for literature lovers, thanks to its connection to William Faulkner, one of America’s greatest authors.
Must-visit literary stops:
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Rowan Oak, Faulkner’s preserved home, where you can explore the rooms and grounds that inspired his works
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Square Books, a beloved indie bookstore on The Square, known for its charming atmosphere and author events
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The Oxford Conference for the Book, a yearly festival celebrating writers, publishers, and readers
Take a literary walking tour through Oxford to trace the stories behind the stories and discover how deeply literature runs through the town’s veins.
Savor the Local Food Scene
Food in Oxford is more than just fuel—it’s a full-on experience. The town’s culinary scene is dynamic and diverse, blending comfort food classics with chef-driven innovation.
Local food highlights:
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City Grocery – A James Beard-nominated favorite for upscale Southern cuisine
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Ajax Diner – A laid-back spot serving hearty meat-and-threes and famous cornbread
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Bouré – A casual yet stylish eatery offering Creole-inspired dishes and balcony seating
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Big Bad Breakfast – A breakfast joint created by celebrity chef John Currence, known for its killer biscuits and bacon
Oxford also has a growing number of food trucks, coffee shops, and international eateries, so there’s always something new to taste.
Enjoy the Arts and Culture
For a small town, Oxford boasts a rich and thriving arts community. Creativity is celebrated year-round through music, visual art, theater, and film.
Where to experience local culture:
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The Powerhouse Arts Center, hosting exhibitions, performances, and community events
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Southside Gallery, featuring contemporary Southern artists
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Oxford Film Festival, an annual event showcasing independent cinema and drawing filmmakers from around the world
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Thacker Mountain Radio Hour, a weekly live show that blends literature and music, broadcast from Off Square Books
Whether you’re an art lover or just casually curious, Oxford’s cultural offerings are impressive.
Relax in Nature
Oxford offers a welcome retreat into nature for those who want to unwind. Whether you’re looking for peaceful parks, fishing spots, or scenic trails, you’ll find plenty of outdoor space to enjoy.
Top places to reconnect with the outdoors:
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Lamar Park, a local favorite with walking paths, a lake, and open green areas
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Bailey’s Woods Trail, connecting Rowan Oak to the University Museum with a short, wooded hike
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Sardis Lake, just 20 minutes from town, ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping
These natural spots provide the perfect escape from city life without having to leave town.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? Oxford has you covered. The town offers plenty of attractions that are fun, safe, and educational for the whole family.
Family-friendly highlights include:
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Oxford-Lafayette County Library, hosting weekly storytimes and children’s programs
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mTrade Park, featuring sports fields and tournaments throughout the year
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Seasonal events like Easter egg hunts, holiday parades, and community festivals
With its safe, walkable environment and welcoming vibe, Oxford is a fantastic destination for families.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Oxford’s social calendar is packed with exciting events that bring locals and visitors together throughout the year.
Popular events include:
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Double Decker Arts Festival (April): A two-day celebration of art, music, food, and community
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Oxford Pride, showcasing the town’s diversity and inclusivity
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Holiday Open House and Christmas Parade, filling the Square with festive cheer
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Ole Miss Homecoming and fall football weekends, which turn Oxford into a buzzing epicenter of activity
These events give you a chance to experience Oxford’s small-town charm with big-time energy.
Day Trips from Oxford
While Oxford has plenty to offer, it’s also a great base for exploring northern Mississippi. Here are a few nearby destinations worth visiting:
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Holly Springs – Historic homes, nature reserves, and antique shopping
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Tupelo – The birthplace of Elvis Presley, with museums and music history
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Water Valley – A quaint town with art studios, breweries, and vintage finds
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Panola County – Home to additional access points to Sardis Lake and scenic rural drives
Whether you want a peaceful escape or a cultural detour, Oxford’s central location makes day-tripping easy.
Need a Moving Company in Oxford, MS?
Thinking of making a move to Oxford or the surrounding areas? Our moving company in Oxford, MS, is proud to serve residents, students, and businesses throughout the region. With years of experience and a reputation for trustworthy service, we’re committed to making your move as smooth as possible.
From campus relocations to family moves and office transitions, our professional movers understand the unique needs of Oxford-area customers.
Our Comprehensive Moving Services
We offer a wide range of services to make your moving experience efficient and worry-free, including:
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Local and long-distance residential moves
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Commercial and office moving solutions
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Expert packing, loading, and unloading
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Short- and long-term storage options
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Furniture assembly, junk removal, and specialty item moving
Fully licensed and insured, our Starkville-based team ensures that your belongings arrive safely—on time and with care. Whether you’re settling into a dorm, downsizing, or moving into your forever home, we’ve got your back.
Conclusion
Oxford, MS, is more than just a college town—it’s a vibrant Southern destination where culture, history, and hospitality come together. Whether you’re exploring its literary roots, savoring its cuisine, or simply enjoying a walk around The Square, Oxford invites you to slow down, soak it in, and stay awhile.
If you’re planning a visit—or a move—there’s no better time to experience everything Oxford has to offer. And if you’re looking for reliable movers nearby, our team in Starkville is always ready to help make your transition straightforward and manageable.