It’s fall in the South, which means a few things. The humidity has started to lessen and the temperatures started to lower. The students are back in school. And college football season is upon us. No matter what team you root for, the region has so many great college towns with plenty to offer beyond the campus.
Our first in a series of guides comes to you from Oxford, home to the University of Mississippi, but known more affectionately as “Ole Miss.” This guide assumes that you will be spending much of your time tailgating in The Grove and cheering on your sports team of choice, but during your time off, here are just a few places we recommend for your next trip from our guide to Oxford, Mississippi.
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Things to Do in Oxford
There’s always something going on in Oxford, even when it’s not football season. Double Decker Festival, Oxford Blues Fest, and Oxford Film Festival are just a few.
Rowan Oak– William Faulkner purchased this plantation in 1930 and lived here throughout most of his career. It’s now a museum devoted to the author managed by the University of Mississippi.
Faulkner Grave at Saint Peter’s Cemetery– Stop by this cemetery not far from the Square to pay your respects to the writer. Visitors can leave him a bottle of Jack Daniels, his drink of choice.
Buie-Skipwith Museum– Get a dose of culture during your visit to Oxford at the University Museum, made up of three different museums. It features historic homes, including Rowan Oak, a large art collection, and even a museum of scientific instruments.
Wonderbird Spirits– In neighboring Taylor is this gin distillery that makes their chief product using rice from the Mississippi Delta. They offer tastings and tours of the facility along with live music and other events.
Thacker Mountain Radio– If your visit coincides, you should catch a live broadcast of this music and literary show, held at Off Square Books. You never know who you might see!
Double-decker bus tour– Inspired by the buses found in this city’s English namesake, the city offers seasonal double-decker bus and rickshaw rides. They tell you more about the history of the college town and showcase important landmarks.
Shopping– The Square is the best place to peruse the shops and find something to wear to the game or a souvenir to bring home. Amelia, Cicada Boutique, End of All Music, and Square Books are just a few of our favorites.
Where to Eat in Oxford
Oxford, Mississippi is a foodie’s dream, especially as the home to Chef John Currence, who owns the majority of the restaurants in town. But you’ll also find local chefs doing Southern food in a unique way. Bring your stretchy pants!
Breakfast
Big Bad Breakfast– By far the most beloved breakfast spot in town, it’s not uncommon to wait an hour on game weekends. But the house-cured bacon, skillets, and french toast are worth it.
Bottletree Bakery– Another favorite is closer to the square and has daily changing specials. Open for breakfast and lunch, opt for sandwiches, pastries, or soup.
High Rise Donuts– Sharing a space with Oxford Creamery is this popular donut shop. Here you can get “cronuts” with various toppings and icings, along with cold brew coffee.
Lunch
Ajax Diner– The soul food eatery is known for the toothpicks littering the ceiling. Plate lunches allow you to have a hearty lunch with plenty of options, especially if you’re fueling up before a night out. Chicken and dumplings, cornbread, and fried catfish po boys are all winners.
Green Line Salads– Do you need a break from deep fried goodness? Green Line makes signature creations or allows you to build your own salad or wrap.
Oxford Canteen– The canteen started as an alley outpost but now has its own space in a former gas station. The all-day menu includes items like iced Vietnamese coffee, breakfast tacos, and sandwiches.
Dinner
City Grocery– Currence’s flagship restaurant is a local landmark, set in an old brick building with an upstairs patio overlooking the Square. The menu is made up of seasonal ingredients
Saint Leo– This Italian eatery serves wood-fired pizzas as well as seasonal, local dishes. But it’s the craft cocktails that place it a step above the rest. The Saint Leo Mai Tai is just one of the many delicious ones to choose from.
Snackbar– Southern meets international flavors at this Currence restaurant run by a James Beard award-winning chef. Oysters and small plates are the main draw at the eatery. Save room for dessert!
Taylor Grocery– Make the drive out of town and drink your BYO alcohol as you wait for a table at this beloved catfish restaurant. Live music is held every weekend and bring a pen to sign your name on the wall.
Where to Drink in Oxford
After you’ve had your fill of the college campus and football stadium, make your way to the Square for even more fun. You’ll find both sports bars swarming with coeds and upscale local spots.
The Coop– Located in the Graduate hotel, this rooftop bar has both indoor and outdoor space as well as a full restaurant. It can get very crowded on game weekends and may be limited only to guests.
The Growler– Fill up a growler of beer for later drinking or stop by for a pint of the rotating selections. But it’s not all beer. There’s also whiskey, wine, and sandwiches.
The Library– Students make jokes about the money they spend at “the library” showing up on their parents’ credit card receipts. Multiple bars make it easy to find a drink and there’s plenty of draft beers to choose from.
Proud Larry’s– Catch some live music while you’re in town at this restaurant and venue, offering shows two to five times per week. All genres are covered, including country, blues, and rock.
The Sipp– The trendy wine bar has been honored by Wine Spectator for its selections. You can also enjoy craft cocktails and delicious bites.
SoLa– Named for “South Lamar,” this restaurant carries wines from around the world but also carry many types of spirits. Stop by for happy hour or stay for dinner. It’s known for its weekly ramen nights, burgers, and brunch.
Where to Stay in Oxford
Many accommodation options in Oxford are located near the highway, but there are a few places to stay within walking distance of downtown and campus. Keep in mind that rooms quickly book up during football season.
Chancellor’s House– This luxury property near campus provides visiting parents and tourists alike with a more upscale experience. Top-of-the-line amenities include plush bathrobes, butler and maid services, multiple dining venues, and a spa. (review here)
Graduate Oxford– This boutique chain specializes in college towns and the entire hotel is outfitted to showcase the best of Oxford. For example, furniture is in Ole Miss colors and the lobby features an art piece that is a map of The Grove (review here).
The Z Bed and Breakfast– Feel like home at the Z, made up of multiple historic homes. Complimentary breakfast and wine receptions are included in your stay, which sets you just a short walk from the town square.
Rentals– You can also rent a house or apartment during your stay, which is especially beneficial if you’re traveling with a large group. It’s generally easier to find a rental to accommodate you than it is to book multiple hotel rooms. Airbnb has options in town.
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Booking.comMy visit to Oxford was arranged by Visit Oxford MS and Laurie Rowe Communications.
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