Oxford Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Oxford, Mississippi through this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, we've got you covered. Read on to start planning your trip to Oxford today!


Introduction to Oxford

Nestled in the heart of Mississippi Hills in the Southern United States, Oxford is a charming small town steeped in history and culture. As the home of the University of Mississippi, Oxford has a vibrant arts and literary scene, and is known for its rich music heritage, delicious southern cuisine and warm hospitality. With a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural attractions, Oxford has something for every kind of traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Oxford

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rowan Oak: The home of the American writer William Faulkner who lived here for more than 30 years. Offers tours of the house and gardens.
  • The University of Mississippi: Take a tour of the campus that was once home to James Meredith’s integration which then lead to Civil Rights struggles.
  • University Museum & Historic Houses: This museum showcases the art and culture of Mississippi, with a classically styled collection of Greek and Roman antiquities and American art.
  • Burns-Belfry Museum and Multicultural Center: A museum dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and celebrating the history and heritage of African Americans in Lafayette County and the surrounding areas.

Natural Attractions of Oxford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sardis Lake: This 98,520-acre lake offers some of the best outdoor adventure spots in the south including, boating, fishing, and camping.
  • Wall Doxey State Park: A picturesque state park offering hiking, playgrounds, picnic areas, and other opportunities to commune with nature.
  • Thacker Mountain Rail Trail: A 13.5-mile multi-use trail perfect for hiking, biking, jogging and other outdoor activities.
  • Lafayette County Freedom Trail: A self-guided historic trail that commemorates the fight for civil rights that took place in Oxford, Mississippi.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oxford

  • Tanglefoot Trail: This 43.6-mile trail offers horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, and other recreational activities.
  • The Walking Trail At Avent Park: A 1.3-mile nature trail perfect for hiking, jogging, bicycling, and walking
  • Lost Indian Trail: A 2.6-mile hiking trail that leads you to the top of a hill overlooking the scenic view at Sardis Lake
  • Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve: A 2-mile trail system offering scenic views and wildlife sightings.

Best Things to Do in Oxford: Activities and Tours

  • Square Books: A great spot for book lovers, Square Books is a well-stocked independent bookstore that hosts regular author talks, readings and signings.
  • Southside Gallery: A gallery that showcases stunning contemporary artwork from regional, national, and international artists.
  • Pataphysical Museum: A quirky science museum dedicated to exploring the mysteries of the universe through exhibits that range from the weird to the wonderful.
  • Oxford Ghost Tour: A spooky tour of Oxford’s haunted history which includes stops at several historic haunted locations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oxford

Day Activity
Day 1 Tour Rowan Oak
Day 2 Visit the University of Mississippi
Day 3 Explore the cultural heritage of the University Museum & Historic Houses
Day 4 Hike the Thacker Mountain Rail Trail
Day 5 Take a ghost tour of Oxford
Day 6 Visit Sardis Lake for a day of outdoor adventure
Day 7 Shop for souvenirs at Square Books and grab some dinner at The Blind Pig, a popular local restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Oxford

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken and Biscuits from Big Bad Breakfast: A southern classic, Big Bad Breakfast offers one of the best fried chicken and biscuits in Oxford.
  • BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich from Rib Cage: This award-winning sandwich is packed with juicy pulled pork and a delicious barbecue sauce.
  • Oxford Canteen Burger from Oxford Canteen: A tasty burger made with locally sourced beef and served up with a side of homemade fries.
  • Fried Green Tomatoes from Snackbar: A delicious appetizer that highlights fresh, regional ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • The Old Fashioned from Snackbar: Made with the best spirits and fresh squeezed juices, this classic cocktail is a must-try in Oxford.
  • Double Decker Bus from The Library Sports Bar & Grill: A refreshing cocktail perfect for sipping, this drink is made with Oxford’s own Cathead Vodka and fresh lemonade.
  • Southern Sweet Tea from Soulshine Market: A southern staple, this sweet, refreshing iced tea is available all over Oxford!

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

  • Graduate Oxford: This upscale hotel is situated in the heart of downtown Oxford and is located adjacent to the historic Square.
  • The Inn at Ole Miss: A modern hotel with a classic southern charm that is located across the street from the Ole Miss campus.
  • Graduate Oxford Hotel: An upscale hotel located in the downtown Oxford area.
  • The Z: A boutique hotel in Oxford that features high-quality amenities and a unique style and vibe.

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

  • Local handmade jewelry from Studio Whimzy.
  • Oxonian Maps from The End of All Music or Square Books.
  • Locally-sourced honey from Hinton Apiaries at the Oxford Farmers’ Market.
  • Bottles of locally-made wine from The Foxfire wine stand at the Oxford Farmers’ Market.

Local Culture and Customs of Oxford

  • Oxford is a college town, so don’t be surprised if you see a lot of Ole Miss gear around town.
  • The people of Oxford are friendly and hospitable, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the locals!
  • Oxford is steeped in Confederate history, so you may come across references to the Civil War in various parts of the town.

Best Time to Visit Oxford

The best time to visit Oxford is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities, and the town is less crowded than during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oxford

Do:

  • Do take time to explore Oxford’s rich literary and musical history.
  • Do check out some of the town’s great restaurants and bars.
  • Do take a tour of the University of Mississippi to learn about its fascinating history.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in any of the town’s parks or public spaces.
  • Don’t forget to be respectful of the town’s Confederate heritage when exploring some of its historic landmarks.
  • Don’t assume that all southerners share the same opinions on politics or social issues.

Safety and Health

Safety in Oxford

Oxford is generally a safe town with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still be mindful of their personal belongings and take reasonable precautions when out and about.

Health in Oxford

Oxford has several medical facilities including the Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi, where visitors can access medical attention if needed.

Getting to Oxford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Oxford

The closest airport to Oxford is the Memphis International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near Oxford

The closest bus station to Oxford is the Greyhound bus station in Batesville, Mississippi, which is approximately 30 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car at the airport or take a taxi or Uber/Lyft from Memphis to Oxford.

How to Get Around in Oxford

Oxford is a small town, so it’s easy to get around by foot, bike, or car. Visitors can also take advantage of the Oxford University Transit’s bus system to explore the town.

Where to Go Next from Oxford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tupelo, Mississippi: A scenic drive from Oxford, Tupelo is the birthplace of Elvis Presley and has plenty of attractions for the music and history lovers.
  • Clarksdale, Mississippi: Known as the “Crossroads of the Blues,” Clarksdale is located in the Mississippi Delta and is home to several blues clubs and historic sites.
  • Memphis, Tennessee: Just an hour’s drive from Oxford, Memphis has plenty of attractions for visitors to explore, including the Elvis Presley’s Graceland, Beale Street, and the Memphis Zoo.

Conclusion

Oxford, Mississippi, is truly a town with something for everyone. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural scenery, it’s no wonder that Oxford is a favorite vacation spot for visitors from all over the world. Whether it’s exploring the town’s literary heritage, indulging in some delicious southern cuisine, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, Oxford has it all.

Peabody Hall Peabody Hall Lafayette Courthouse during Double Decker Festival Lafayette Courthouse during Double Decker Festival Rowan Oak, Home of William Faulkner Rowan Oak, Home of William Faulkner The Lyceum The Lyceum Homecoming 2012 - Ole Miss vs. Auburn Homecoming 2012 - Ole Miss vs. Auburn The Grove - Ole Miss vs. Texas - 9/15/2012 The Grove - Ole Miss vs. Texas - 9/15/2012