Based on recent census numbers, Oxford is the fastest growing city in the state. In the past five years alone, the city’s population has grown by 17%, meaning nearly 3,500 new people now call Oxford home. One look at the city and it’s easy to see the appeal. Known as the “cultural mecca of the South,” Oxford is the perfect combination of small town charm and big city culture. So many visitors to Oxford turn into lifelong residents; here are just a few reasons why.
In the heart of the city’s downtown area is the historic Oxford square, which is known by locals as the “Square.” The picturesque Square is home to a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
Among the businesses that fill the Square is one of the nation’s most renowned independent bookstores, Square Books. Over the years, the bookstore has grown tremendously and has been nationally recognized countless times.
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
City Grocery is another landmark that can be found within the Square. The restaurant’s mouthwatering southern cuisine is prepared by Chef John Currence, who has been the recipient of the James Beard Foundation’s award “Best Chef in the South.”
citygroceryonline.com
Another popular eatery in the Square is Ajax Diner, which boasts a menu filled with local cuisine, has won numerous awards, holds many local titles, and just so happens to be one of Eli Manning’s favorite restaurants.
El J./Yelp
No trip to the Square would be complete without a stop by Neilson’s Department Store – the oldest department store in the south.
Neilson’s/Facebook
The Square is also home to Southside Gallery. Committed to promoting the arts, the gallery showcases the works of regional, national, and international artists in addition to hosting lectures and receptions.
Southside Art Gallery/Facebook
The focal point of the Square is without a doubt the historic Oxford Courthouse, which dates back to 1872.
damian entwistle/Flickr
But the iconic courthouse isn’t the only significant structure you’ll find in Oxford. The city is filled with historic homes, including Rowan Oak, which was the home of William Faulkner.
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
Another notable piece of architecture in Oxford is St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, which is the city’s oldest religious structure.
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
While the Square may be one of the most popular parts of Oxford, there’s plenty more to the city. There are 135 restaurants scattered throughout Oxford, and the city just keeps growing. Three new hotels are being built this year and that’s in addition to the three that are in the works for next year. Check out the gorgeous Graduate Oxford.
graduateoxford.com
When it comes to education, Oxford has that covered too. The city is home to the University of Mississippi, which has been ranked one of the top colleges in the nation by Forbes.
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
Aside from being home to a nationally ranked college, Oxford is also home to an impressive music and art scene – a fact that’s celebrated with the Double Decker Arts Festival. The annual festival focuses on the arts and music and draws in a crowd of more than 60,000 people each year.
doubledeckerfestival.com
Lamar Park is located in Oxford and is the perfect setting for both exploration and relaxation. The park is designed as an outdoor arboretum, which means gorgeous greenery and gardens are plentiful. Lake Patsy, which offers great fishing, is another one of the park’s assets.
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
A closer look at Oxford and it’s easy to see its appeal! Have you ever visited this fascinating Mississippi city?
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
citygroceryonline.com
El J./Yelp
Neilson’s/Facebook
Southside Art Gallery/Facebook
damian entwistle/Flickr
Matt Taylor/Crooked Letter Photography
graduateoxford.com
doubledeckerfestival.com
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