For visitors looking for something fun to do in fall, Oxford, Mississippi is a great destination. The city is home to the University of Mississippi and is rich in history, culture, and open green spaces. The city’s Town Square is a great place to soak up the spirit of the community. Those looking to get outdoors can also enjoy boating and swimming at Sardis Lake, which was built in the 1930s as a flood control facility. You can also relax in the park’s quiet nooks.
In the north-central hills region of Mississippi, Oxford sits at an elevation of just under 4,000 feet. The city is surrounded by red clay and heavily forested hills, which is more elevated than the nearby Mississippi Delta and lower than the hills of northeast Mississippi. Highway 6 bypasses the city, which runs north-south through many ridges. Downtown Oxford is perched on one ridge, while the University is located on another. The main commercial corridors sit in valleys.
The city experienced significant changes during the American Civil War. Union Army troops burned down Oxford in 1864, killing many residents and university Greys. In 1864, the town square was razed to the ground, and the county courthouse was destroyed by Union troops. During the Reconstruction era, Oxford slowly recovered. In 1872, the city’s county courthouse was rebuilt with funds from a federal judge named Robert Andrews Hill.
While a walk in the town square offers a scenic vista of the surrounding countryside, there are many other activities to do while in Oxford. You can check out the Bailey’s Woods Trail, which connects the University of Mississippi to Rowan Oak. This 20-minute hike is an excellent way to get some exercise and sight-seeing. Oxford is also home to several specialty shops, including Square Books, which features popular titles as well as rare first editions. If you’re looking for gifts, Katherine Beck offers high-end goods and hosts literary events.
Besides the University of Mississippi, Oxford is home to the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts and offers an eclectic range of events and entertainment. The center has hosted major events such as the 2008 Presidential Debate between Barack Obama and John McCain. Oxford also boasts a vibrant music scene that is influenced by nearby large music hubs. Some of the most popular local musicians include Beanland, The Cooters, Bass Drum of Death, and Kudzu Kings.
Lamar Park in Oxford is an outdoor arboretum. It is located on College Hill Road and has garden features and a peaceful lake. Outside equipment is prohibited in the park, such as loudspeakers. Dogs must also be on a leash at all times. Several parks in Oxford are also available for organized events. Regardless of what you want to do, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.
A few of the top attractions in Oxford include the University of Mississippi Museum, which houses 20,000 pieces of artifacts from the Greek and Roman eras. Visiting the museum will provide you with the chance to learn more about the history of Mississippi, and even learn some new skills in the process. In addition to a great museum, Oxford also offers educational programs for students and adults alike. Despite its reputation, Oxford is a great place to explore.