How to Spend the Perfect Day in Oxford, Mississippi
If you’re looking to spend the perfect day in Oxford, Mississippi, you’re in the right place. Here is a specially curated list of all the must-visit places to explore, ensuring a memorable experience from morning until evening. Expect to eat some delicious food and discover charming local gems as you spend the perfect day in this marvelous corner of Mississippi.
Morning Coffee
Start the day off right with a delicious breakfast in your stomach and coffee running through your veins. You’ll need this fuel to propel you through the numerous adventures to follow. Try the Common Ground Coffee Bar, Heartbreak Coffee or Exploradora Coffee – there’s really no going wrong with any of them.
After you’ve had your fill, take a stroll around the vibrant and historic Oxford Square, which is lined with shops, restaurants and the iconic Lafayette County Courthouse. Stop in at Square Books & Cafe, which actually spans four stores and five floors (the buildings are not connected, but they’re all part of the Square Books family).
“We carefully select books, because even though we have four stores, we only have so much space,” says Lyn Roberts, general manager of Square Books. “We really try to cater to our customers and our community and what it wants, while providing really good customer service.”
Square Books has one of the most charming, historic exteriors you’ll ever see, with a warm, lived-in interior to match. You’ll feel right at home whether you’re browsing its vast selection, rare book collection or vibrant children’s store.
After the bookstore, be sure to tour Rowan Oak, the former home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner. Explore the house, which Faulkner partially renovated himself, as well as the beautiful grounds.
Afternoon Activities
Enjoy a classic Southern lunch at Ajax Diner, a funky, family-friendly joint that serves some of the best homestyle cooking around. Be sure to look up at the ceiling to see all of the sandwich toothpicks that have been launched there by blowing through straws – and see if you can add your own! The most popular items include the meatloaf, fried catfish and country-fried steak.
If you’re itching for some outdoor recreation, head to the Rafters on the Water at Sardis Lake. The food is fantastic and the atmosphere is full of fun. Play a friendly game of cornhole while you’re there.
If you’re looking for a really good time, though, Sardis Lake absolutely delivers. Not only is it a popular spot for boating, but it’s ideal for swimming and suntanning, thanks to its sandy beaches. There’s even a golf course nearby.
Evening Entertainment
The fun isn’t over just yet. Return to Oxford for an evening of drinks, dinner and entertainment. Enjoy drinks on the patio at Proud Larry’s or Funkys Pizza & Daiquiri Bar, where the atmosphere is casual. If you’re wanting a fancier night out, savor The Sipp on South Lamar or Kingswood Restaurant & Bar – both offer an upscale experience.
Live music is always a must, so catch a show at Rooster’s Blues House, Proud Larry’s or the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts, depending on their schedule and what’s showing.
Another great option is to take in an art exhibit at Southside Gallery, which focuses primarily on regional artists whose work encompasses multiple mediums.
“Our gallery is two floors, and so we usually feature one artist on each floor,” says Wil Cook, director of Southside Gallery. “Exhibits rotate monthly, except during the summer when we have group shows featuring many artists at a time.”
Check Southside’s website for special events and operating hours.
Get to Know Oxford
Want to learn more about living and working in Oxford, MS? Check out the latest edition of Livability Oxford-Lafayette County, Mississippi.