Discover the top things to do in Oxford, MS this weekend! Oxford is home to Mississippi's most infamous and well-known university, the University of Mississippi, a.k.a., Ole Miss. But Ole Miss is only one aspect of Oxford's charm. We traveled to Oxford and had a blast trying delicious southern cuisine, indulging in the local nightlife, and mingling with the residents of this small town! Here you'll find some of the best things to do in Oxford, Mississippi if you're only staying for a weekend.
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Introduction:
Oxford, Mississippi, is a charming small town located in Lafayette County, nestled in the northern part of the state. This quaint town is home to the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, which brings a lively and energetic vibe to the area. Oxford is well-known for its rich cultural heritage, literary history, and vibrant music scene, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
If you're looking for a weekend getaway that offers a blend of history, art, and entertainment, Oxford, Mississippi, is the perfect destination. The town boasts an impressive range of activities that cater to all interests. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or foodie, there's something for everyone in Oxford.
Check out our visits to other unique destinations in the United States!
Getting There:
Getting to Oxford, Mississippi is relatively easy, with several transportation options available for visitors. The town is located about 80 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee, and is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane.
If you are driving, you can take Interstate 55 and exit at Batesville, Mississippi, and take Highway 6 west to Oxford. Alternatively, if you are coming from the south, you can take Highway 7 north from Grenada, Mississippi, to reach Oxford. The town also has several car rental agencies if you prefer to rent a car upon arrival. If you prefer to travel by bus, Greyhound offers several daily routes to Oxford from nearby cities, including Memphis and Jackson, Mississippi. The bus station is located just a few blocks from the downtown square, making it easy to explore the town's attractions.
For those traveling by plane, the closest major airport is Memphis International Airport, which is approximately 80 miles north of Oxford. The airport is served by several major airlines, including Delta, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Oxford.
Overall, getting to Oxford, Mississippi is a breeze, with several transportation options available for visitors. Whether you're driving, taking the bus, or flying, the town is easily accessible, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
Accommodations in Oxford, Mississippi:
Oxford, Mississippi, offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly motel, there's something for everyone in this charming town.
If you're looking for a luxurious stay, The Graduate Oxford is a popular choice. The hotel is located just a few blocks from the downtown square and offers stylish rooms and suites, an on-site restaurant, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the town. Another upscale option is The Chancellor's House, a boutique hotel that features elegant rooms, a fine dining restaurant, and a spa.
For those who prefer a more intimate experience, Oxford has several bed and breakfasts that offer a cozy and charming atmosphere. The Nests Bed and Breakfast is a popular choice, located just a short walk from the square, offering individually decorated rooms, a lush garden, and a hearty breakfast.
The Courtyard by Marriott
During our time in Oxford, we stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott. It's in very close proximity to Ole Miss--only a 1-2 minute drive! It's also very close to the historic Oxford Square, which features a number of restaurants, small shops, and the picturesque Oxford Courthouse.
In addition to an ideal location in the city, The Courtyard by Marriott also offers a number of amenities, including fitness center, pool, free wi-fi for all guests, a lobby bar, and on-site restaurant. En-suite bathrooms have a modern feel with open, glass showers.
Overall, Oxford, Mississippi offers a diverse range of accommodation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay or a cozy bed and breakfast, you're sure to find the perfect place to stay in this charming town.
Looking for more top things to do near Oxford, Mississippi this weekend? CLICK HERE.
Top Things to Do in Oxford, MS this Weekend
1. Go Bar Hopping
One of the top things to do in Oxford, MS is to go bar hopping. The town has a lively and vibrant bar scene, with several bars and pubs that offer a wide range of drinks, music, and atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a laid-back dive bar or a trendy rooftop lounge, you're sure to find something that suits your style.
One popular bar in Oxford is The Blind Pig, a cozy and rustic pub that serves craft beer, cocktails, and pub food. The bar has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with live music and trivia nights that make it a popular hangout spot for locals and visitors alike. Another popular spot is The Library, a speakeasy-style bar that offers an extensive selection of craft cocktails and small plates. The bar is located in the basement of The Graduate Oxford hotel, adding to its cool and mysterious vibe.
If you're looking for a rooftop bar with stunning views, The Coop is the perfect spot. The bar is located on the top floor of The Graduate Oxford hotel and offers a unique and stylish atmosphere, with a large outdoor patio, comfortable seating, and a full bar menu. The views of the town and the university campus are breathtaking, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date or a night out with friends.
The Sipp on South Lamar
One of our favorite places to have a drink was The Sipp on South Lamar. This place opens after 4 pm, so it's the perfect place for a quick cocktail after work or for a fancy evening with your significant other. The Sipp (also the nickname for the great state of Mississippi) is a modern wine bar with a great selection of wines, tequilas, and unique cocktails. They also offer small bites to pair with the drink selections. You can choose from a selection of charcuterie boards, or even stop in for a hearty ravioli if you're here for dinner.
The location offers an ambience of modern sophistication with red blown glass lighting and dark, stylish interior. Our server was incredibly attentive and made a number of excellent drink recommendations that we enjoyed throughout the night.
Overall, bar hopping in Oxford, MS is a fun and memorable experience that offers a glimpse into the town's lively nightlife. With a wide range of bars and pubs to choose from, you're sure to find a spot that suits your mood and style, making it the perfect activity for a weekend getaway.
2. Eat Southern Cuisine at the Local Restaurants
When visiting, a must-do thing to do in Oxford, MS is trying out the town's famous Southern cuisine at local restaurants. Oxford is home to several highly rated and award-winning restaurants that offer a unique blend of traditional Southern flavors and modern twists, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
One popular restaurant in Oxford is Ajax Diner, known for its homestyle Southern cooking, such as fried chicken, catfish, and collard greens. The restaurant has a casual and cozy atmosphere, with friendly staff and reasonable prices, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
If you're in the mood for barbecue, The Rib Cage is the place to go. The restaurant offers a variety of slow-smoked meats, including ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, as well as classic Southern sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw. The restaurant has a laid-back and rustic atmosphere, with a large outdoor patio and live music on weekends.
Boure Restaurant
Be sure to stop by Boure Restaurant, one of the stand-out restaurants during our visit, located in Oxford Square! It is one of the top rated places to eat in Oxford, Mississippi and offers a number of classic southern creole dishes such as po'boys and jambalaya. Here, we had the Boure Shrimp and Grits for our entrees--arguably one of the best shrimp and grits plates I have ever tasted.
The restaurant has a casual vibe, so feel free to come here after a day of exploring. If you prefer to get a little more dressed up, the restaurant also offers balcony seating for a truly romantic evening with your partner.
Trying out the Southern cuisine at local restaurants is an essential part of any visit to Oxford, Mississippi. With a wide range of options available, from casual diners to upscale restaurants, there's something for every taste and budget. Be sure to come hungry and ready to indulge in the delicious flavors of the South.
3. Take Pictures with the Red Telephone Booths
One of the unique features of Oxford, MS, that has become a popular tourist attraction in recent years is the pair of iconic red telephone booths located in the heart of the town. These telephone booths were imported from England and are similar to the ones used in the popular British TV series Doctor Who. The booths have become a popular photo spot for visitors, especially fans of the show.
The red telephone booths are located on the corner of North Lamar Boulevard and University Avenue, in front of the Lyric Oxford theater. The booths are easily recognizable and make for a great photo opportunity.
Apart from the red telephone booths, the area around them is also worth exploring. The Lyric Oxford theater, which is adjacent to the booths, is a historic venue that has hosted several famous musicians and performers over the years. The square around the booths is also home to several shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great spot to grab a bite or do some shopping after taking photos.
Overall, taking pictures with the red telephone booths is a fun and unique activity that adds a touch of British charm to your visit to Oxford, Mississippi. Whether you're a fan of Doctor Who or just looking for a memorable photo spot, the red telephone booths are a must-visit attraction that you won't want to miss. Be sure to create your Oxford Instagrammable moment here!
4. Tour the Ole Miss Campus
Oxford, Mississippi, in some circles, has been deemed the cultural mecca of the South. Ole Miss plays a huge role in this distinction. You can visit the University Museum and several historic houses on the campus. In fact, one infamous historic home that you will find on the Ole Miss Campus is the home of William Faulkner, Nobel Prize Winner and author of As I Lay Dying.
The campus is known for its beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, and rich history, making it a great place to explore and learn more about the town and its culture. One of the most iconic landmarks on the Ole Miss campus is The Grove, a large and picturesque green space that is often referred to as the "heart" of the university. The Grove is a popular spot for tailgating during football season and is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Lyceum, a Greek Revival-style building that serves as the university's administrative center. The Lyceum is also home to the University Museum, which showcases a collection of art and artifacts related to the history and culture of Mississippi.
Another must-visit spot on the Ole Miss campus is the Walk of Champions, a brick pathway that leads to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, the home of the Ole Miss football team. The Walk of Champions features plaques honoring the university's football legends and is a great spot for photos and selfies.
Visitors can also take a guided tour of the campus, which is led by student ambassadors and provides a comprehensive overview of the university's history, traditions, and culture. The tour includes stops at the most important landmarks on campus, including the Grove, the Lyceum, and the Walk of Champions, as well as other notable buildings such as the School of Law and the School of Medicine.
Touring the Ole Miss campus is a great way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Oxford, Mississippi, and to learn more about the university's impact on the town and the state. Whether you're a prospective student, a football fan, or just looking for a fun and educational activity, the Ole Miss campus is a must-see destination that you won't want to miss.
5. Head to Brunch!
Looking for a way to wrap up your weekend in Oxford? Head to brunch at one of the local breakfast eateries. Oxford has a range of eateries that offer delicious Southern cuisine, as well as international and fusion dishes.
One of the best spots for brunch in Oxford is Big Bad Breakfast, which serves up hearty Southern-style breakfast dishes, including biscuits and gravy, fried chicken and waffles, and homemade grits. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a selection of brunch cocktails, including mimosas and bloody marys.
Another great spot for brunch is Snackbar, which offers a more upscale dining experience and a menu that fuses Southern cuisine with French and Mediterranean influences. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes, such as the lamb and feta omelette and the shrimp and grits with tasso ham gravy. Snackbar also offers a selection of brunch cocktails, as well as a well-curated wine list.
First Watch
For those looking for a more casual brunch spot, try First Watch, an award winning day time eatery on Lamar. If you're looking for a break from southern creole cuisine, this place offers a number of traditional American breakfast options. We tried the traditional breakfast--with a waffle, eggs, and turkey sausage--and the smoked salmon frittata. Both were delicious. This location also features a juice bar that offers refreshing juice selections such as the Kale Tonic and the Morning Meditation. Be sure to add the vitamin shots to your drink of choice!
Heading to brunch is a must-do activity in Oxford, Mississippi, and a great way to experience the town's thriving food scene. With a range of restaurants offering delicious dishes, cozy atmospheres, and creative cocktails, you're sure to find a brunch spot that suits your taste and style.
Want to explore more parts of the South? Check out more activities HERE.
Final Thoughts
Oxford, Mississippi, is a charming and vibrant town that offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. From the delicious food to the local nightlife, there are a number of top things to do in Oxford, MS during the weekend. Make it a stop on your next small town vacay!
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Of course there had to be red phone booths in Oxford (Mississippi)! :D
I am embarrassed to admit I have not explored Mississippi yet, but this sounds like a great area to start with..love all the dining recs.
Never been to the US, but looks like Oxford, Mississippi might be a lesser known stop to add on an itinerary since there are so many things to do!
Since I'm based in Germany, it might come to your surprise that I've actually been to Oxford Mississippi. It was on my very first visit to the US and I travelled through the Deep South by Greyhound. I visited Oxfort because of Faulker, obviously. I visited his house and bought a couple of books - that was long before Kindle ;-)
Red telephone booths in the US! I hope they stop by Oxford on a steamboat ride on the Missisippi !