Booneville Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Booneville, Mississippi? Explore museums, natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, and more with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Booneville

Booneville is a charming city located in the Mississippi Hills region of northwestern Mississippi. The city offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the southern United States. Whether you want to go hiking, explore museums, or experience the local food and culture, Booneville has plenty to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Booneville

Here are some of the must-visit places and attractions in Booneville:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Booneville Cemetery: This historic cemetery dates back to the 1800s and is the final resting place of many early settlers and notable individuals from the region.
  • Northeast Mississippi Community College’s Tiger Den Museum: This museum showcases the history of Northeast Mississippi Community College and the region.
  • Whitfield Home: The home of Confederate Major Amos Alonzo Whitfield, this historical site offers a glimpse into the life of a southern family during the Civil War.

Natural Attractions of Booneville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tombigbee National Forest: This national forest covers over 67,000 acres and offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and more.
  • Tishomingo State Park: A paradise for nature lovers, this park offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and features hiking trails, waterfalls, and rock formations.
  • Bay Springs Lake: This 6,700-acre lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Booneville

Booneville and its surrounding areas offer a variety of hiking and biking trails for the outdoor enthusiast. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Tanglefoot Trail: This multi-use trail spans 44 miles and takes visitors through the picturesque countryside of Mississippi.
  • Bear Creek Trail: A 10-mile trail that features stunning views of Bear Creek and the surrounding forests.
  • Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield: This 1.5-mile trail takes visitors through the location of one of the most significant battles in Mississippi during the Civil War.

Best Things to Do in Booneville: Activities and Tours

Booneville offers a range of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained. Some of the popular activities include:

  • Oculus VR Lounge: This virtual reality arcade offers a thrilling experience with a range of games and simulations.
  • Booneville Main Street Cruise-In: A monthly event held on the downtown square featuring classic cars, live music, and food vendors.
  • Guided Tours of Historic Sites: Learn about the history of the region with a guided tour of the Booneville Cemetery or the Whitfield Home.

Week-Long Itinerary for Booneville

Day 1: Visit the Northeast Mississippi Community College’s Tiger Den Museum and take a stroll through the Booneville Cemetery.
Day 2: Explore the Tishomingo State Park and its beautiful hiking trails.
Day 3: Visit Bay Springs Lake for some water activities.
Day 4: Visit the Whitfield Home for a glimpse into the life of a southern family during the Civil War.
Day 5: Go boating or fishing on Bay Springs Lake.
Day 6: Take a guided tour of the Booneville Cemetery or the Whitfield Home.
Day 7: Experience virtual reality at the Oculus VR Lounge or attend the Booneville Main Street Cruise-In.

Food and Drink Scene of Booneville

Booneville offers plenty of options for foodies. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried catfish: A southern classic, fried catfish is a must-try dish in Booneville.
  • Pimento cheese sandwich: This southern staple is made with cheddar cheese and pimento peppers, and can be found in many local restaurants.
  • Barbecue: Sample some of the region’s best barbecue at local restaurants like Sammy’s BBQ Pit.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet tea: A beloved southern drink, sweet tea is a refreshing beverage that can be found in most restaurants in Booneville.
  • Magnolia beer: This local brew is made with Mississippi-grown malt and hops and makes for a great drink to enjoy at the end of the day.

Where to Stay in Booneville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Booneville offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Some popular options include:

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Booneville: A comfortable, modern hotel with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
  • Budget Inn Booneville: A budget-friendly motel located in the heart of downtown Booneville.
  • The White House: A charming bed and breakfast that offers comfortable, cozy rooms and a great breakfast.

What to Buy in Booneville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a unique souvenir to bring home from Booneville? Here are some great options:

  • Sweet Magnolia Soaps: These handmade soaps are made with all-natural ingredients and make for a great gift.
  • Mississippi-made products: Look for locally made products such as honey, hot sauce, and jams at the local farmers’ market.
  • Booneville souvenirs: Look for t-shirts, hats, and other souvenirs at the local gift shops and boutiques.

Local Culture and Customs of Booneville

Booneville is a friendly, welcoming community that values family, tradition, and southern hospitality. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the local culture and customs, which include:

  • Saying “yes, ma’am” and “no, sir” as a sign of respect.
  • Embracing the slow-paced, relaxed lifestyle of the south.
  • Enjoying down-home cooking and traditional southern foods.

Best Time to Visit Booneville

The best time to visit Booneville is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. However, visitors should note that summers can be hot and humid, so plan accordingly. Additionally, fall is a great time to visit for the beautiful fall foliage in the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Booneville

Do:

  • Be friendly and courteous to locals.
  • Embrace the slow-paced lifestyle of the south.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly or aggressively in public.
  • Be disrespectful to locals or their customs.
  • Litter or damage local natural areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Booneville

Booneville is a safe city with relatively low crime rates. However, visitors should take normal precautions such as locking doors and windows at night and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Booneville

Booneville has a range of medical facilities, including hospitals and urgent care centers. Visitors should have travel insurance and seek medical attention if necessary.

Getting to Booneville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Booneville is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Booneville

  • Tupelo Regional Airport (TUP)
  • Memphis International Airport (MEM)

Bus Stations Near Booneville

  • Greyhound (122 N Main St, Memphis, TN)

Other Options

  • Driving: Booneville is conveniently located off of US Highway 45, making it easily accessible by car.
  • Rental Cars: Rental cars are available at both the Tupelo and Memphis airports.

How to Get Around in Booneville

Booneville is a small city that is easy to navigate by car, bike, or foot. Rental cars are available at the nearby airports, and taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Booneville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  • Oxford, Mississippi: Home of the University of Mississippi and the setting of many of William Faulkner’s novels.
  • Memphis, Tennessee: A vibrant city known for its music, food, and history.
  • Natchez Trace Parkway: A scenic route that stretches 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee.

Conclusion

Booneville, Mississippi, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you want to explore museums, go hiking, or sample southern cuisine, Booneville has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to this charming southern city.

The Prentiss County Courthouse in Booneville. The Prentiss County Courthouse in Booneville. Vietnam Veteran's memorial on the courthouse lawn. Vietnam Veteran's memorial on the courthouse lawn.