Hattiesburg, Mississippi: 10 Can’t-Miss Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Hattiesburg, Mississippi

If you’re looking for a laid-back Southern getaway with plenty to do, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, in Forrest County, might surprise you. It’s a college town, a military town, and a growing arts and food hub all rolled into one. Whether you’re road-tripping across the South, visiting family at Southern Miss, or just craving some small-city charm, here are 10 of the best things to do near Hattiesburg.

1. Walk, Bike, or Skate the Longleaf Trace

The Longleaf Trace is one of Hattiesburg’s biggest treasures. This 44-mile paved trail runs from downtown Hattiesburg all the way to Prentiss, following an old railroad line. You’ll see:
  • Pine forests and wildflowers
  • Open fields and small creeks
  • Bridges and shaded sections perfect for hot days
It’s great for:
  • Biking with kids
  • Training for a long run
  • Casual morning walks
If you don’t have a bike with you, check local bike rental options near the Southern Miss campus or downtown. Early morning and late afternoon are the most comfortable times, especially in summer.

2. Explore the Hattiesburg Zoo at Kamper Park

Traveling with kids? The Hattiesburg Zoo is a must. Even if you’re an adult, it’s an easy, fun way to spend a few hours. Highlights include:
  • Giraffes, tigers, zebras, and sloths
  • A small train that circles the park
  • High ropes course and zip line (for the brave ones!)
  • Carousel and splash pad in warmer months
The zoo isn’t huge, which is actually nice. You can explore the whole place in a couple of hours without feeling rushed. It’s tucked inside Kamper Park, so you can picnic or let the kids run around the playground before or after. Tip: Check their calendar for special events. Hattiesburg locals love their holiday zoo nights and seasonal activities.

3. Stroll Downtown Hattiesburg & Hunt for Murals

Downtown Hattiesburg has that classic Southern feel: brick buildings, local shops, and plenty of character. Over the last few years, it’s also turned into a bit of an art town. You’ll find:
  • Colorful murals on the sides of old buildings
  • Quirky boutiques and antique shops
  • Coffee shops perfect for a slow morning
  • Craft breweries and local restaurants
Try this: park once, then walk a few blocks in each direction. You’ll usually stumble onto:
  • Murals – great for photos and Instagram shots
  • Live music in the evenings, especially on weekends
  • Local events or markets if you’re in town at the right time
If you enjoy street art, downtown Hattiesburg is one of the most fun free things to do in the city.

4. Visit the African American Military History Museum

Inside a restored USO club building from World War II, the African American Military History Museum is one of the most meaningful stops in Hattiesburg. You’ll learn about:
  • Black soldiers who served in every major American conflict
  • Local stories connected to nearby Camp Shelby
  • The role of Hattiesburg in military history
The exhibits are easy to follow, with photos, uniforms, and first-hand stories. Even if you’re not a “museum person,” this one feels very personal and real. It’s a great stop if you:
  • Have family members who served
  • Are interested in civil rights and military history
  • Want an educational break from the usual vacation spots

5. Tour the University of Southern Mississippi Campus

Even if you’re not scouting colleges, the University of Southern Mississippi is worth a walk-through. The campus is pretty and green, with classic Southern buildings and a relaxed vibe. Things to check out:
  • The Dome – the football stadium is a local landmark
  • Campus green spaces for picnics or reading
  • Art galleries and occasional public lectures or performances
On game days in the fall, the whole town feels different:
  • Tailgating in parking lots
  • Fans in black and gold everywhere
  • Lively restaurants and bars before and after the game
Even on a quiet weekday, strolling through campus gives you a feel for Hattiesburg as a college town.

6. Get Outdoors at Paul B. Johnson State Park

About 15–20 miles south of Hattiesburg, Paul B. Johnson State Park is your go-to spot for nature and lake time. You can:
  • Swim at the lake’s sandy beach area (seasonal)
  • Rent a paddle boat or bring your own kayak
  • Fish from the shore or a small boat
  • Hike short forest trails
  • Camp in a tent, RV, or rent a cabin
If you’ve been driving for hours on I‑59, this park feels like a deep breath of fresh air. Pack snacks, bring a cooler, and make a mini day trip out of it. Tip: In summer, get there earlier in the day to avoid the hottest afternoon sun.

7. Experience History and Training at Camp Shelby

Just southeast of Hattiesburg, Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center is one of the largest state-owned training sites in the U.S. When open to the public, visitors can:
  • Explore the Mississippi Armed Forces Museum
  • Learn about military equipment and vehicles
  • See exhibits about soldiers from Mississippi
Always check ahead for current hours and security rules, since it’s an active training base. If you’re into military history or traveling with someone who is, this stop near Hattiesburg is especially interesting.

8. Eat Your Way Through Hattiesburg’s Food Scene

For a city its size, Hattiesburg has a surprisingly strong food scene. You’ll find a mix of Southern comfort food, barbecue, international flavors, and classic college-town spots. Popular options include:
  • BBQ joints serving ribs, pulled pork, and smoked chicken
  • Meat-and-three style restaurants with fried chicken and sides
  • Craft burger spots and pizza places
  • Cajun and seafood with Gulf Coast influence
If you’re not sure where to start, ask a local: “Where do you go for lunch around here?” In towns like Hattiesburg, that’s usually how you find the best food. For dessert, look for:
  • Local bakeries with pies and cakes
  • Ice cream or frozen yogurt shops on hot days
Don’t rush this part of your trip—good food is half the fun of visiting Mississippi.

9. Enjoy Craft Beer and Live Music

If you like local beer and a laid-back night out, Hattiesburg won’t disappoint. The city has embraced the craft beer trend with a few breweries and taprooms. You can:
  • Sample flights of locally brewed beer
  • Listen to live music—often country, rock, or blues
  • Hang out on outdoor patios when the weather is nice
Because Hattiesburg is a college town, there’s almost always something happening on weekend nights:
  • Open mic nights
  • Small local bands
  • Trivia nights and themed events
It’s a fun way to mix with locals and get a real feel for the city’s personality.

10. Discover the Hattiesburg Arts Scene

Beyond murals and music, Hattiesburg has a growing arts and culture scene. Look for:
  • Local art galleries featuring regional artists
  • Theater productions at Southern Miss or community theaters
  • Festivals celebrating art, music, and food throughout the year
If you time your visit right, you might catch:
  • A downtown art walk
  • A small film or music festival
  • Seasonal events that bring vendors and artists out onto the streets
Checking the city’s event calendar before your trip can turn a regular weekend into something special.

Planning Your Trip to Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your visit to Hattiesburg and Forrest County:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall bring comfortable temperatures and plenty of outdoor events.
  • Getting around: A car is the easiest way to explore both the city and nearby spots like Paul B. Johnson State Park.
  • Trip style: Hattiesburg works well for family trips, couple getaways, and road-trip stopovers.
If you like places that feel authentic—not overly touristy—Hattiesburg is a great fit. It combines nature, history, good food, and Southern hospitality in a very relaxed way.

What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Hattiesburg Spots

Have you been to Hattiesburg, Mississippi?
  • What was your favorite thing to do?
  • Did you find a hidden gem restaurant, coffee shop, or hiking spot?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover new places too. And if you found this list of things to do in Hattiesburg helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a trip through Mississippi. Your stories and suggestions help keep this guide fresh, local, and truly useful for the next person heading to the Hub City.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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