A warm welcome awaits visitors to the family-friendly Mississippi city of Hattiesburg. Discover a legacy of architecturally impressive landmarks and national military history or explore scenic countryside and a lively festival scene. Founded as a train depot in the late 1800s, today it’s famous as a university city with welcoming hospitality.
The streets of Hattiesburg’s Historic Downtown District are a good place to start your visit. They reflect an evolution from a railroad town to an energetic city. Spot historical landmarks such as the Old Federal Courthouse and Hattiesburg Train Depot. Watch live music and theatrical productions at the art deco-style Saenger Theater. Step inside the Library of Hattiesburg to see the The Spirit That Builds mural, which depicts scenes from the city’s history.
Hattiesburg’s museums help to celebrate the city’s interesting past and American military history. See displays of antique furniture, period clothing and photography at the Hattiesburg Area Historical Society. Discover over 6,000 military artifacts at the Mississippi Armed Forces Museum. Find more memorabilia from the armed forces at the African American Military History Museum.
Experience the life of an American college campus at the University of Southern Mississippi. Stroll around the All-American Rose Garden, home to numerous types of colorful hybrid roses. See rotating exhibitions of regional and international art at the university’s Museum of Art. Join over 30,000 passionate fans to watch a football game at the M.M. Roberts Stadium.
Walk or bike through the scenic landscapes of the Longleaf Trace. This 40-mile (64-kilometer) trail travels along a former railway between Hattiesburg and Prentiss. Spot myriad birdlife, deer and raccoons or relax at the designated picnic areas. Alternatively, get close to African and South American animal species at Hattiesburg Zoo.
Hattiesburg is less than a 2-hour drive from Jackson and New Orleans and is reached easiest by car. Public transportation is limited within the city so rent a car to get between attractions. Throughout the year Hattiesburg puts on an eclectic schedule of events. Among these are February’s Mardi Gras parade and festivals of literature, blues music and craft beer.
