"America's Best College Town" - ESPN
Oxford, Mississippi is known as the "Cultural Mecca of the South." The town is home to Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner's Rowan Oak estate, the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), and Square Books which is one of America's best independent bookstores.
The food scene features 60+ restaurants, including two James Beard award-winning chef owned establishments: City Grocery (opened in 1992) and Saint Leo (opened in 2016). The downtown area2 is walkable, with everything within a half-mile of the historic courthouse square.
Most visitors spend 2-3 days here. This gives you time to tour Rowan Oak, browse Square Books, dine at award-winning restaurants, and explore the Ole Miss campus. Football weekends need an extra day for Grove tailgating.
The most popular time to visit is spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). October is busiest due to the football season and fall colors. Spring brings the Double Decker Arts and flourishes here as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in the town's rich history, literary legacy and charming community.
Explore Oxford's six experiences: The historic Square with local shops and restaurants | Literary sites from Faulkner to Square Books | Award-winning dining from comfort food to fine cuisine | Live music and nightlife 6 nights per week | Ole Miss campus and SEC football | Trip ideas for every interest
There's a reason Oxford, Mississippi keeps showing up on national best-of lists, and it starts with what this town of just 25,000 has built. With more than 400 independent businesses, a university stadium that fills with 60,000 fans on game days, and a dining scene that has earned multiple James Beard Award nominations and Michelin Guide recognition, there's always something new to discover here. Watch the video below for an insider's look at what makes Oxford a destination worth experiencing firsthand.
#VisitOxfordMS #OxfordMississippi
The Square in Oxford, MS is one of the most vibrant independent retail and dining districts in the South, with more than 60 restaurants and boutiques clustered within a walkable half-mile radius. Key establishments like Square Books, frequently ranked among the best independent bookstores in America. Use the map below to explore Oxford's full shopping and dining landscape and start planning your visit to The Square.
Ajax Diner is a beloved Southern restaurant on the Oxford Square known for hearty comfort food like chicken and dumplings…
The Blind Pig Pub is a popular local spot known for its laid-back atmosphere, creative pub fare, and impressive selection…
Funkys Pizza & Daiquiri Bar is a New Orleans-style bar known for its made-from-scratch pizzas and vibrant daiquiris. Established in…
Lenora's Restaurant blends Southern charm with upscale dining, offering a seasonal menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients. With its warm…
Bottletree Bakery has been known for its scratch-made European-style breads, pastries, and specialty coffee, all served in a cozy, art-filled…
Founded in 1992 and nestled in a beautifully restored former livery stable, City Grocery is a landmark of Oxford’s culinary…
Hand Tossed Pizza, Grill Food, Pasta Specials, Salads. Proud Larry's is also a renowned live music venue and has been…
The Oxford Creamery is a beloved local ice cream shop known for its small-batch, Southern-style ice cream made from scratch…
YaYa’s Frozen Yogurt is a popular self-serve frozen yogurt shop. It's a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, offering…
Southern flavor. Oxford soul. Located on the historic Square, Bouré blends New Orleans–inspired cuisine with laid-back elegance in the heart…
A James Beard Foundation "Best New Restaurant" semifinalist, Saint Leo beautifully blends big-city style with earthy, wood-fired Italian cooking. Known…
Oxford Grillehouse is a renowned steakhouse and seafood restaurant. Established in 2013 the restaurant has garnered acclaim for its perfectly…
South Depot Taco Shop is known for its fresh, made-to-order Mexican fare, the restaurant offers a variety of customizable options…
BBQ done right. Moe’s Original BBQ in Oxford serves up award-winning Alabama-style 'que with all the fixin’s. From smoky pulled…
SoLa is known for its inventive fusion of Mediterranean, South Pacific, and Gulf Coast flavors. SoLa offers a seasonal menu…
The kind of place that captures the imagination and attracts a regular clientele of locals and visitors alike, The Sipp…
McEwen’s blends Southern charm with upscale flavors. Known for its cozy atmosphere, craft cocktails, and beautifully prepared dishes — from…
Oxford Burger Company is a local favorite for juicy, never-frozen USDA Choice burgers, gourmet fries, and a laid-back atmosphere. Since…
Tallahatchie Gourmet is a beloved Southern restaurant just off The Square. Known for its blend of New Orleans-inspired flavors and…
Square Books is a beloved independent bookstore in Oxford, Mississippi. Founded in 1979 by Richard and Lisa Howorth, the store…
Cat Daddy's is a locally owned apparel shop specializing in Oxford-themed T-shirts and souvenirs.
Hinton & Hinton is a family-owned boutique offering a curated selection of upscale men's apparel, accessories, and footwear. Established in…
Blending timeless style with Southern hospitality, Neilson’s offers a carefully curated selection of men’s and women’s apparel, shoes, gifts, and…