The Best Things to Do in Meridian, Mississippi

Author by SingaporePosted in Travel

Intro:

Meridian, Mississippi’s culture and history are thriving. This city in the state’s center offers a wide range of attractions and activities. Meridian has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to touring historic landmarks. We will take a closer look at the best things to do in Meridian, Mississippi.

Meridian History

Meridian’s museums and landmarks reveal its unique history. Meridian’s rich history can be explored in these ways:

  • See local artists’ work at the Meridian Museum of Art.
  • Visit Highland Park’s Dentzel Carousel, built in the early 1900s.
  • Visit the Jimmie Rodgers Museum: This museum honors the “Father of Country Music” with displays on his life and career.
  • Visit the Meridian Railroad Museum, which has displays on train travel and a Pullman sleeper car model.

Outdoor recreation

Outdoor enthusiasts love Meridian because of its natural beauty. Outdoor activities in Meridian include:

  • Hike the Bonita Lakes Trail: This wooded trail offers lake views and a picturesque hike.
  • Fish at Bonita Lakes: The lakes are stocked with bass, catfish, and other fish, making them perfect for fishing.
  • Visit Okatibbee Water Park, which has a beach and water slides.
  • Canoe or kayak down the Chunky River: The river offers a calm break from the city with great landscape and fauna.

Appreciating Local Culture

Meridian has a strong culture that visitors can enjoy through sights and events. Meridian’s top cultural activities include:

  • Attend the Jimmie Rodgers Music Festival: This yearly event commemorates the life and music of the “Father of Country Music” with live music, food, and crafts.
  • Visit the historic downtown district for stores, restaurants, galleries, and historic buildings.
  • Celebrate the Threefoot Building’s heritage at the Threefoot Festival, which features live music, food, and activities.
  • Attend a concert, play, or dance at the MSU Riley Center, which hosts cultural activities year-round.

Meridian Restaurants

Meridian is famed for its great Southern cuisine, and visitors may enjoy a range of local dishes at restaurants throughout the city. Meridian’s top dining spots:

  • Weidmann’s: This historic restaurant serves seafood, steaks, and Southern cuisine.
  • Peavey’s Grill: Burgers and BBQ at this neighborhood favorite.
  • The Rustler Steak House: This restaurant serves steaks and other hearty foods. • Jean’s Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant serves Southern comfort cuisine including fried chicken and homemade pies.

Meridian, Mississippi is a historic, cultural, and scenic city. Meridian offers a variety of sights and activities, from historic landmarks and museums to outdoor excursions and Southern food.

Highland Park’s Dentzel Carousel is one of Meridian’s major attractions. This ancient carousel from the early 1900s is one of the few left in the country. Visitors can ride the carousel and admire the park.

Meridian is home to the Jimmie Rodgers Museum, which commemorates the “Father of Country Music.” Music memorabilia and Rodgers’ life and career are on display in the museum.

Meridian’s historic landmarks include the Meridian Opera House and Weidmann’s restaurant. Visitors can join walking tours of the city’s historic quarter to learn about its rich history.

Meridian has many parks and open spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing, boating, and hiking in Bonita Lakes Park are popular. A beach for swimming and other water activities is available at Okatibbee Water Park.

Fried chicken, barbeque, and shellfish are popular Southern foods in Meridian. Weidmann’s restaurant serves fried green tomatoes and prime beef.

Festivals and events are also available in Meridian. The Jimmie Rodgers Music Festival celebrates the “Father of Country Music,” while the Threefoot Festival honors the Threefoot Building. The city hosts a Fourth of July event, a Christmas parade, and several cultural and arts festivals.

Meridian has boutiques, antique shops, and flea markets in addition to the above sights and activities. The MSU Riley Center, a performing arts center, hosts concerts, plays, and dances throughout the city.

Meridian, Mississippi is rich in culture and history. The city was created in the 1830s and played a major part in the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement. Meridian’s historic landmarks and museums may teach visitors about the city’s past.

One such site is the Meridian Railroad Museum, which celebrates local railroading heritage. The museum has train displays, including a Pullman sleeping car model. Meridian’s importance as a transportation center and trains’ part in the region’s history can be learned.

Meridian’s Merrehope Mansion, a magnificently restored antebellum residence, is another historic site. The mansion has historical furnishings and exhibitions on local history.

Meridian’s Freedom School Museum honors the Freedom Schools’ instruction of African American youngsters throughout the Civil Rights Movement. The museum has displays about the schools and the movement.

Meridian is known for its history and artistic culture. The Meridian Symphony Orchestra presents classical and contemporary music year-round in the city. The MSU Riley Center presents concerts, plays, and dance acts.

Fried chicken, barbeque, and shellfish are popular Southern foods in Meridian. Weidmann’s, which serves seafood, steaks, and classic Southern cuisine, and Jean’s, which serves fried chicken and homemade pies, are local favorites.

Meridian has many parks and open spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Highland Park is one such park with a walking route, playground, and picnic spots. Fishing, boating, and hiking are also popular at Bonita Lakes Park.

Conclusion


In conclusion, Meridian, Mississippi is a city that has a lot to offer visitors. From its rich history and culture to its beautiful parks and delicious Southern cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Meridian that are sure to make your trip memorable. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s landmarks and museums, or simply relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the region, Meridian has something to offer.

If you want to learn more about the attractions and events in Meridian, be sure to visit the city’s tourism website or stop by the Meridian Visitor Center. The center offers information on local attractions and events, as well as maps and brochures to help you plan your trip.

In addition to the attractions and activities mentioned above, Meridian also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. From the Jimmie Rodgers Music Festival to the Threefoot Festival, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the city’s culture and history.

Overall, Meridian, Mississippi is a destination that should not be missed. So, plan your trip to Meridian today and discover all that this charming Southern city has to offer. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there are plenty of things to do in Meridian that are sure to satisfy any traveler.