What To Do in Hattiesburg MS: Reasons To Visit The Hub City

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, affectionately known as the “Hub City,” is an exuberant Southern destination overflowing with civil rights history, legendary music culture, a developing art scene and outdoor adventure.

From the moment I arrived in Hattiesburg in the Magnolia State, it was clear this city had something special. Their forward-thinking spirit instantly resonated with me and I regretted not having more than 2 days in Hattiesburg to soak it all in.

If you’re wondering what to do in Hattiesburg, this guide will help you navigate its eclectic attractions, including the lively downtown and scenic outdoor spaces. Make the most of your visit and discover the Hub City’s must-see highlights, even on a quick trip.

Explore the Great Outdoors in Hattiesburg

Cycle down Longleaf Trace

One of Hattiesburg’s crown jewels is the Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile-long rail-trail that stretches through the Pine Belt region. Ideal for cycling, walking, and jogging, this scenic trail winds through loblolly forests and farmlands and the sweet smell of Southern Magnolia. Bring a bike or rent one locally and take in the beauty of Mississippi’s countryside.

More Outdoor Activities in Hattiesburg

• Stroll through the All American Rose Garden on the campus of the University of Southern Mississippi.
• Spend the day in Paul B. Johnson State Park relaxing with a picnic by lakeside or kayaking.
• Go on the only official geocaching tour in Mississippi. The Hattiesburg GeoTour has more than 40 hides to discover. 

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Discover the Creative Side Of Hattiesburg

Hattiesburg Street Art

Hattiesburg is home to an impressive outdoor gallery that salutes the community’s creative spirit. Discover the eye-catching artworks by local and regional artists on the Hattiesburg Public Art Trail – a self-guided journey through the city’s striking murals and installations. With a vision to become the City of 100 Murals in the coming years, spearheaded by the Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art (HAPA), this initiative brings powerful narratives of happiness, history, diversity, and inclusion to everyday life.

Hattiesburg Pocket Museum

When you read about the Hattiesburg Pocket Museum, it doesn’t do it justice. This quirky attraction started life in lockdown to encourage people to get out of the house and have a little fun and has since become Mississippi’s tiniest museum.

Tucked away in a downtown alley behind the Saenger Theatre, the space showcases eye-catching murals and immersive 3D floor paintings, like an Abbey Road crosswalk, but the real magic lies in its ever-changing micro-exhibits of nostalgic memorabilia and avant-garde curiosities. Keep your eyes peeled for little lego men hidden in crumbling brickwork, cats perched on doorframes, and mysterious figures peeking from pipes.

When you are planning what to do in Hattiesburg, don’t miss strolling down Pocket Alley. It’s a playful experience that proves big creativity thrives in small spaces.

More Art and Culture Spots in Hattiesburg

• Visit the Sarah Gillespie Museum of Arts, which has over 600 pieces from artists from Mississippi.
• Hattiesburg Saenger Theater, an Art-Deco in downtown, hosts a mixed bag of performances from ballets and film screenings to magic and Off-Broadway shows.
• Experience a lively concert or exhibition at the University of Southern Mississippi (USM).

Immerse Yourself In The History Of Hattiesburg

Drive the Hattiesburg Freedom Trail

The Hattiesburg Freedom Trail honours the city’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, marking key sites where activists fought for justice in the 1960s. A significant stop on Mississippi’s Freedom Trail, it includes locations like Mount Zion Baptist Church, a gathering place for organisers, and the historic Eureka School, now a civil rights museum. Hattiesburg played a crucial role in the Freedom Day 1964, when hundreds risked intimidation to register to vote.

The Vernon Dahmer statue stands as a powerful tribute to his fight for voting rights, bearing his iconic words: “If you don’t vote, you don’t count.” In 1966, he made a brave radio announcement offering to pay the poll tax for those who couldn’t afford to register. The next day, the Ku Klux Klan retaliated with a violent attack on his home, and he subsequently died.

More Historical Activities in Hattiesburg

• Visit the African American Military History Museum, which highlights the contributions of Black soldiers from the Civil War to modern conflicts.
• Located at Camp Shelby, the Mississippi Armed Forces Museum is dedicated to preserving Mississippi’s military history.

Enjoy The Quirky Shops In Hattiesburg

Find Your Treasure in The Lucky Rabbit

The Lucky Rabbit, a self-proclaimed junk shop, is a treasure trove of vintage finds, quirky home décor, and local artisan creations. While it’s a favorite among visitors seeking one-of-a-kind souvenirs, the ever-changing displays keep locals coming back for more. There’s also an outdoor café area, and this eclectic spot even features a recreated Stranger Things set — how could I resist the fun photo opportunity? It’s only open on weekends, so plan your trip well; this quirky shop is an experience in itself.

T-Bones Records & Café

T-Bones Records & Café is a rite of passage for any music lover visiting Hattiesburg, with its large vinyl store stocking Deep South favourites, jazz legends and modern-day artists.

First opened in 1999 by producer Tim Ramenofsky as an independent record store, T-Bones was bought by Harry, who worked for the founder. He has added a cafe serving sandwiches, house-made desserts and its own brand of cold brewed coffee. T-Bones Records & Café has become a beloved Hattiesburg institution, being a community hub for regulars and a much-recognised brand. And, of course, the mural “Hattiesburg: Birthplace of Rock n Roll” outside is a big drawcard for all that come to the city!

More Shops To Visit In Hattiesburg

• Main Street Farmers Market is a fantastic place to support local vendors while picking up fresh produce, homemade goods, and artisan crafts.
• 49 Antique and Flea Market offers retro furniture, pre-loved clothing, and quirky nick-nacks.
• The Author Shoppe is all about books, beverages and community.

Dine in Hattiesburg’s Local Restaurants

Hattiesburg is home to 200 locally owned restaurants, giving it more local dining options per capita than anywhere else in the state. So, with fewer fast food big chains and more independently-run eateries and craft breweries, there is more creativity and community vibes. Here are some spots I tried and loved, but there are plenty more amazing restaurants and cafes in Hattiesburg to try!

Breakfast at The Midtowner

For a taste of classic Southern comfort food, head to The Midtowner, where hearty breakfast plates, biscuits, and grits draw in the queues. Their home-style cooking and warm hospitality promises a memorable dining experience. I debated between the Catfish and Grits or the Southern Sampler, but the Avocado Toast with roasted corn and feta won me over—and it bursting with flavour!

Opened by restaurateur Robert St. John, this spot pays homage to the traditional American diner while incorporating fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Designed to evoke a sense of community,

Eat Healthy at Birdies

Owner and Chef Katie Dixon is a real ball of happiness and energy and had me smiling for the rest of the day. The Birdhouse Café was opened in 2017 at one side of a kitchen appliance store, creating a homely living room with an open-plan kitchen style interior. She serves healthy breakfasts and lunches with a Southern twist, and each dish is named in honour of someone who has had an impact on Katie’s life.

Katie, a finalist on Masterchef season 7 and Food Network Star season 14, also offers meal prep, sweet treats, private dining, catering, and cooking classes. As a spokesperson for the MS UProot Campaign and a partner with Walmart, Katie advocates for healthier communities through affordable recipes.

After being fed Deep South comfort dishes on my road trip, I was ready for a green detox juice and a nutritious salad, and Katie delivered just that and more.

Dine at Big Trouble

Big Trouble is the brainchild of three friends on the Hattiesburg hospitality scene. Chef Jeremy Nofke began his culinary career under the guidance of Robert St. John and has become known for his experiential approach to Asian “atypical” dishes with a splattering of Southern tastes. Can you imagine shrimp fried rice topped with crispy pork rinds and a deconstructed bacon cheeseburger bowl?

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Experience Festivals and Events

Unfortunately, my travel dates didn’t align with any festivals in Hattiesburg. Given how exuberant and welcoming the city is, I’d highly recommend planning your visit around one. Here are some great options I came across while researching The Hub City.

• Mardi Gras is the big annual carnival celebration with exuberant parades and crazy parties.
• Extra Table Events: Founded by Restaurateur Robert St. John, they raise funds to end hunger in Mississippi.
• HubFest: One of Hattiesburg’s biggest annual events celebrating community and creativity, HubFest brings together food vendors, artists, and musicians for a lively street festival downtown.
• Downtown Crawfish Jam: A true Southern experience, the Downtown Crawfish Jam combines live music with heaps of freshly boiled crawfish.
• Festival South: Spanning multiple weeks, Festival South is a multidisciplinary arts festival featuring performances in music, theatre, and dance.
• Hattiesburg Craft Beer Festival: Annual event with more than 100 craft beers to choose from.

Where to Stay in Hattiesburg

From elegant bed-and-breakfasts to boutique hotels, Hattiesburg offers a variety of accommodations that cater to different travel styles. Find your perfect stay!

• Longleaf Piney Resort is a luxury glamping getaway located along the Longleaf Trace with games, hammocks and bikes supplied.
• The Bay Bed and Breakfast is a locally-owned, cosy accommodation in Hattiesburg’s Historic Neighborhood.
• Hotel Indigo Hattiesburg provides an industrial chic and comfortable stay with green credentials in a central midtown location.
• Find some fabulous deals on holiday rentals in Hattiesburg.

Sustainability in Hattiesburg MS

On my travels, I love to explore how cities are stepping up in sustainability. Hattiesburg is part of the Mississippi Climate Action Plan, which emphasises agriculture, renewable energy, and clean air. However, the real driving force seems to be the residents who champion sustainability through education, conservation, and community-led initiatives.

Hattiesburg is home to the University of Southern Mississippi (USM), which offers an undergraduate Sustainability Studies program, equipping students with the knowledge to address environmental challenges. As part of the Office of Sustainability’s Climate Action Plan, the USM is working toward climate neutrality by 2050 from campus operations.

Nature conservation also plays a key role in the city’s sustainability efforts. The Pine Woods Audubon Society actively restores local bird habitats and promotes environmental awareness and conservation programs. While recycling remains voluntary, initiatives like the Christmas tree recycling project highlight the city’s ongoing commitment to reducing waste.

What I love about Hattiesburg from a sustainable tourism point of view is how the Longleaf Trace encourages outdoor adventure, its strong commitment to cultural diversity through urban art and freedom trails, and the booming community of locally owned businesses and restaurants.

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