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Other than the mysteries of Appalachian folklore, the South has to be the most misunderstood region of the U.S.
It’s often portrayed as a mecca for low-life porch sitters who have nothing better to do than chug sweet tea and debate the proper pronunciation of “pecan.”
It’s definitely peh-cahn, by the way.
Growing up in the South, I can attest that there are certainly some off-putting small towns (ahem, Quinlan, Texas), where it seemed like I missed the memo that the only fashion sense was to see how many holes your shirt could bear before becoming useless.
But the truth is the South boasts a lot more reasonable than unsightly double-wides and gas station gatherings.
One such southern city lies in what’s considered “the Deep South”, but don’t let that deter you. Over 43 million people propelled this underrated city to a new record number of visitors, leaving Jackson and Biloxi blushing as Mississippi’s new tourism hotspot.
Welcome To Hattiesburg: Mississippi’s New Hotspot
Here in Hattiesburg, you’ll discover down-home charm and a gateway to lesser-known natural wonders with over 50 miles of scenic waterways to explore.
Best of all, in the day and age of overtourism concerns, Hattiesburg is happy to have you as they continue to invest in their community, ready to welcome even more tourists in what’s expected to be another record-breaking year.
Dubbed “Hub City”, Hattiesburg is the core of quintessential “southern hospitality”.
While downtown is still up-and-coming as more new businesses like newly-opened Sincerely Grocery are trickling in, the timeless streets oozing charm and character are a delight to peruse local shops, indulge in Mom and Pop eateries whipping up classic comfort staples, and live music venues that give Memphis a run for its money.
Music keeps this city abuzz with the soulful sounds of blues, jazz, and country ringing out from local bars and clubs. Check out the calendar for upcoming performances here.
Given Mississippi’s tumultuous timeline, don’t sleep on the historical attractions speckled around town either, such as the African American Military History Museum, or check out perhaps the city’s quirkiest attraction, the Hattiesburg Pocket Museum, which houses an ever-changing collection of pint-sized oddities among vibrant street murals.
Hattiesburg’s Great Outdoors Are Calling Your Name This Spring
Spring has already sprung in Hattiesburg with temps ranging from 61 – 81 this week, which is basically an open invitation to explore the city’s beautiful, lush nature.
Arguably, the most popular place to do so is Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile-long linear park perfect for running, biking, and hiking.
In other words, it’s a great starting point to get a feel for Hattiesburg. Given the city’s mild climate throughout the year, there’s never a bad time to visit with the exception of summer’s intense humidity.
The Pinebelt Blueways offer a peaceful escape from the city grind with over 50 miles of waterways to kayak on your own or you can book a variety of guided tours.
If you do venture out on your own, just make sure you familiarize yourself with the ground rules and best access points to the Leaf and Bouie Rivers.
The De Soto National Forest is nearby, too, offering visitors a tranquil environment to hike, fish, and camp.
Getting Here & Where To Stay
Hattiesburg is located roughly 80 miles from Jackson — not exactly a major travel hub.
Truth be told, neither is Hattiesburg. United is the only airline serving Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport (PIB) with 2x/weekly flights from Houston (IAH).
If you don’t want to connect from Houston, your best bets are Biloxi, Mobile, or New Orleans (most connections) and making a mini road trip through Mississippi’s under-hyped countryside.
You’ll have some great accommodations to choose from ranging from high-end hotels to old-timey inns.
Given the city’s newfound fame, rates aren’t what they used to be, so you’ll have to fork over at least $200 per night at Ross Mansion Bed & Breakfast, voted ‘Best Bed & Breakfast in Mississippi’ in 2024.
Otherwise, Hotel Indigo Hattiesburg is the nicest name-brand hotel. But if you’re magnetized toward Hattiesburg’s gorgeous landscapes, you can stay in the thick of it in a cozy cabin at Longleaf Piney Resort with a perfect 5.0 Google rating.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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