Find the Best Things to Do in Oxford, MS
By Sally Walker Davies
Memphis Local Expert
About Oxford, MS
Photo courtesy of Visit Oxford MS
Just an hour and a half south and east of Memphis, and an hour from Jackson, MS, Oxford, MS is a neighborhood to both cities. It's home to the University of Mississippi and its Grove - THE tailgate experience - a charming town square, and American literary icon William Faulkner.
See & Do
Oxford is home to the University of Mississippi - home to a cheer called Hotty Toddy that no one outside of Ole Miss really understands; the pre-game festivities during football season take place in the Grove and is thought to be the best and most upscale of all college tailgates. William Faulkner's Oxford home, Rowan Oak, is a must-see for literary types, and the town's charming square is a testament to charm and fine iiving.
Eat
Oxford's dining scene is, to the uninitiated, surprisingly sophisticated. But for those who get the culture of Mississippi, it's simply what's expected. City Grocery is the favored spot of all; the simple furnishings, historic photographs, and laid-back atmosphere lull one into thinking the food will be basic. It's anything but that - it is Southern in every way (there's always cornbread to start), but also cutting edge. Snackbar is a quick and yummy option.
Shop
Boutiques and sporting goods (think hunting camps and fishing camps and the nice clothing to go to said camps) are de riguer in Oxford - after all, this is a town where college co-eds wear a different sundress and heels to every home football game, and the guys don sport coats or polos with little animal logos. But our favorite stop is the iconic Square Books - three stores, actually, filled with books - pure heaven for browsing.