Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Oxford, MS
Oxford blends tradition and creativity, offering a unique combination of Southern hospitality and intellectual energy. With its iconic town square, beautiful campus, and vibrant nightlife, the city delivers a memorable experience year-round. Music venues, literature landmarks, and sporting events keep the town buzzing with activity. Oxford’s authenticity and sophistication make it a standout destination in Mississippi.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Oxford, MS
Downtown Oxford / The Square
The heart of the city, Downtown Oxford, also known as The Square, is a lively hub filled with historic charm, boutique shops, and top-rated restaurants. Vacation rentals in Oxford include chic lofts, renovated historic apartments, and elegant condos just steps from Square Books and City Grocery. Visitors staying here are in prime position to explore Oxford’s best dining, shopping, and nightlife.
University District
The University District surrounds the Ole Miss campus and offers convenient access to sports events, cultural centers, and scenic campus walks. Rentals near the University District include student-friendly townhouses, modern apartments, and cozy homes ideal for attending games at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. The district buzzes with activity during football season and offers a youthful, energetic vibe. It’s great for alumni, prospective students, or fans visiting for a collegiate experience.
North Lamar Boulevard Area
Running north from The Square, the North Lamar Boulevard Area offers a mix of stylish vacation homes and serene residential streets. This neighborhood is slightly removed from the bustle but still walkable to major attractions and local dining spots. Guests enjoy the peaceful setting with easy access to the action. It suits those seeking a balance between relaxation and convenience.
Thacker Heights
A quiet, family-friendly neighborhood just west of the university, Thacker Heights offers spacious homes and long-term rental options. It’s known for its tree-lined streets, safe environment, and proximity to local parks and schools. Vacationers who want more space and a residential atmosphere find this area ideal.
South Lamar and Woodlawn Area
The South Lamar and Woodlawn Area is a charming part of town known for its mix of historic and modern homes surrounded by tall oaks and greenery. Vacation rentals in South Lamar include updated cottages, stylish Airbnbs, and homes with large porches. This area provides a tranquil retreat just minutes from downtown and the university.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Oxford, MS
The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
A visit to The University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss, is a must for anyone in Oxford. The campus is celebrated for its Greek Revival architecture, lush landscaping, and landmarks like the Lyceum and the Grove. Visitors can tour the campus, attend a game, or simply soak in the collegiate atmosphere. Ole Miss is the cultural and social anchor of the town.
Rowan Oak
Once home to Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner, Rowan Oak is a literary landmark set among magnolia trees and gardens. The home, now a museum, showcases Faulkner’s writing room, personal artifacts, and period furnishings. A walk through the grounds connects visitors to Southern literature and Oxford’s rich history.
Oxford Square (The Square)
Oxford Square is the beating heart of the city, lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and some of the South’s finest eateries. Highlights include Square Books, Neilson’s Department Store, and restaurants like Saint Leo and Ajax Diner. The square hosts seasonal festivals and live music events that draw locals and tourists alike.
L.Q.C. Lamar House Museum
Dedicated to a complex figure in Mississippi’s political history, the L.Q.C. Lamar House Museum offers insight into 19th-century politics and law. Exhibits explore Lamar’s role as a U.S. Senator, Supreme Court Justice, and Confederate diplomat. The museum’s location in a restored home adds to its historical ambiance.
The Grove
Located at the heart of the Ole Miss campus, The Grove is one of the nation’s most iconic tailgating spots. During football season, the 10-acre park transforms into a festive sea of tents, food, and school spirit. Outside of game days, it remains a peaceful green space for picnics and walks. The Grove exemplifies Oxford’s passion for tradition and community.
Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts
The Gertrude C. Ford Center brings world-class performances to the university and community, including concerts, plays, and speaker series. Its modern venue offers state-of-the-art acoustics and elegant seating. The center hosts both student and professional productions throughout the year.
Southside Gallery
Southside Gallery showcases contemporary art from Mississippi and beyond in a beautifully curated space on The Square. Visitors can view rotating exhibitions, meet local artists, or purchase original works. The gallery plays an active role in the city’s monthly art crawls and cultural festivals.
Avent Park
A local favorite for families, Avent Park features playgrounds, tennis courts, and shaded picnic areas. The park is well-maintained and centrally located, offering a nice spot to relax between outings. It’s especially popular with locals for weekend gatherings and casual sports. Avent Park adds a touch of nature and recreation to your stay.
Where to find a vacation rental near Oxford
Memphis, Tennessee
Just over an hour north, Memphis is a vibrant cultural center where blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll were born. Visitors can tour Graceland, walk Beale Street, or explore the National Civil Rights Museum. To experience the energy firsthand, stay in a vacation rental in Memphis near the city’s legendary music and barbecue scene.
Tupelo, Mississippi
Located about 50 minutes away, Tupelo is famously known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley. Guests can visit his childhood home, explore downtown boutiques, or enjoy regional cuisine. A vacation rental in Tupelo offers easy access to musical heritage and relaxed small-town charm close to Oxford.
Jackson, Mississippi
Roughly two and a half hours south, Jackson is the capital of Mississippi and offers a rich mix of museums, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant local culture. From the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum to Fondren’s arts district, there’s plenty to discover. Enhance your itinerary with a vacation rental in Jackson for an urban and cultural experience beyond Oxford.
Clarksdale, Mississippi
About two hours northwest, Clarksdale is a Delta town steeped in blues history. Guests can listen to live music at Ground Zero Blues Club, visit the Delta Blues Museum, or explore quirky local shops. A vacation rental in Clarksdale places you at the heart of Mississippi’s legendary music tradition, pairing beautifully with Oxford’s literary spirit.
Water Valley, Mississippi
Just 20 minutes south, Water Valley is a creative and quiet town known for its historic buildings and emerging art scene. Visitors can explore galleries, attend community events, or simply unwind along Main Street. For a peaceful countryside retreat close to Oxford, stay in a vacation rental in Water Valley with rustic character and artistic flair.
Explore captivating urban landscapes and delve into the rich cultural tapestry of the United States.
In the vibrant atmosphere of Oxford, explore the urban charm evident in its lively arts scene and historic landmarks. For those drawn to unique urban adventures, consider the airbnb in Lubbock, where you can visit the Buddy Holly Center, or opt for Marietta, GA rental homes to enjoy the transitional charm of this Atlanta suburb. Don't miss the soulful rhythm of rentals in Florence Alabama, where picturesque views of the Tennessee River await.
Oxford is also a hub of cultural heritage, enriched by its Southern literary history and music festivals. Journey to experience the academic heritage with Chapel Hill airbnb, offering proximity to UNC's historic campus, or immerse yourself in the artistic haven found in Taos rentals, where the Taos Art Museum captures the essence of the Southwest. For a mix of modernity and history, find homes for rent in Denver and explore the city's diverse museums and cultural districts.