Meridian, Mississippi: 10 Best Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Meridian, Mississippi (Lauderdale County)

Looking for an easy Southern getaway that still feels like “real America”? Meridian, Mississippi in Lauderdale County is one of those places that sneaks up on you. It’s not a huge city, but it’s packed with music history, railroads, good food, and that slow, friendly charm the South does so well. If you’re planning a weekend trip, a family road adventure, or you’re just passing through on I‑20 or I‑59 between Jackson and Birmingham, this guide to things to do in Meridian, MS will help you make the most of your time.

1. Step Into Railroad History at the Meridian Railroad Museum

If you’ve ever been stuck at a train crossing and wondered what life on the rails was really like, you’ll love the Meridian Railroad Museum. Housed near the old rail yard, this small but passionate museum celebrates how railroads shaped Meridian into a major Southern crossroads. You’ll find:
  • Vintage railroad equipment
  • Old photos and maps of Meridian’s rail days
  • Model train layouts kids (and grown-ups) love
You don’t have to be a train nerd to enjoy it. Walking through the exhibits, you can almost hear the old steam engines rolling in and picture passengers stepping off onto the platform with their suitcases. If you’re traveling with kids or older relatives who remember the glory days of rail travel, this is an easy, low‑cost stop that everyone can enjoy.

2. Explore Downtown Meridian and Union Station

Meridian’s historic downtown is compact, walkable, and full of character. One of the best places to start is Union Station, the city’s impressive brick passenger depot. From there, wander a few blocks and you’ll find:
  • Colorful murals and public art
  • Locally owned shops and boutiques
  • Casual spots to grab coffee, ice cream, or a burger
Downtown Meridian is the kind of place where folks still hold the door open for you and say “how y’all doing?” without rushing off. Take your time, snap some photos, and just enjoy the slower pace. If you like urban exploring, try visiting around golden hour. The old brick buildings and vintage signs look especially good in the late‑day light.

3. Experience the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX)

One of the most surprising things about Meridian is just how much arts and music history is tied to this area. That’s where The MAX – Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience comes in. This modern, hands‑on museum celebrates famous Mississippians in film, music, writing, and more. Expect:
  • Interactive exhibits about stars like Jimmie Rodgers and other Mississippi legends
  • Video, sound, and touch‑screen displays
  • Rotating exhibits and special events
Even if you normally skip museums, The MAX feels more like a creative playground. You can listen to music clips, step into mock sets, and really connect with the stories. Traveling with teens or older kids? This is a great way to sneak in some culture without it feeling like homework.

4. Visit the Jimmie Rodgers Museum and Go Back to Country’s Roots

If you love country, Americana, or roots music, Meridian is a pilgrimage spot. It’s the hometown of Jimmie Rodgers, often called the “Father of Country Music.” The Jimmie Rodgers Museum keeps his legacy alive with:
  • Personal items and memorabilia
  • Historic instruments and recordings
  • Stories about his short but powerful career
You don’t need to be a die‑hard fan to enjoy it. Think of it as peeling back the layers behind modern country music and seeing where it all began. If you’re planning your trip in advance, check whether the Jimmie Rodgers Music Festival is happening. It’s usually held annually and brings in live music, food, and a fun local crowd.

5. Catch a Show at the Historic Temple Theater

In the heart of downtown, the Temple Theater looks like something straight out of a classic movie set. Built in the 1920s, it’s a beautiful old theater with a Middle Eastern–style facade and an ornate interior. Today, it hosts:
  • Live music and concerts
  • Community performances
  • Special events, films, and festivals
Even if you’re not in town for a show, it’s worth walking by just to admire the building and snap a few photos. If you happen to catch a concert or play there, even better—it’s a memorable way to spend an evening in Meridian.

6. Let Kids (and Your Inner Kid) Loose at the Mississippi Children’s Museum – Meridian

Traveling with younger kids? Put the Mississippi Children’s Museum – Meridian near the top of your list. This hands‑on, play‑based museum is designed to let kids learn by doing. Inside you’ll find:
  • Interactive exhibits about health, science, and creativity
  • Climbing, building, and imaginative play areas
  • Special programs and story times
Parents will appreciate that everything is indoors and air‑conditioned—which matters a lot in a Mississippi summer when temps climb into the 90s. Even as an adult, it’s hard not to smile watching kids explore, build, and pretend. It’s the kind of place where an hour turns into three before you know it.

7. Spend Time Outdoors at Bonita Lakes Park

When you’re ready for some fresh air, head a few minutes southeast of downtown to Bonita Lakes Park, one of the best outdoor things to do in Meridian. This large park features:
  • Three scenic lakes
  • Walking and jogging trails
  • Mountain biking paths
  • Picnic areas and open green space
You can pack a picnic, take a leisurely walk along the water, or just sit and watch the sun dance on the lake. If you like taking photos, the pier and tree‑lined shores give you plenty of pretty angles. Think of Bonita Lakes as Meridian’s backyard—locals walk their dogs here, families gather on weekends, and visitors can breathe a little deeper after a day of sightseeing.

8. Take a Day Trip to Okatibbee Lake and Wildlife Area

If you’re willing to drive a short distance out of town, Okatibbee Lake in Lauderdale County is a relaxing escape, especially when the weather’s warm. Around the lake, you’ll find:
  • Boating and fishing access
  • Swimming areas (seasonal)
  • Campgrounds and RV spots
  • Plenty of space to spread out and unwind
It’s an easy half‑day or full‑day adventure from Meridian. Pack a cooler, some folding chairs, and maybe a fishing pole if that’s your thing. On a still summer evening, watching the sky change colors over the water feels a world away from any big‑city rush.

9. Walk Through the Meridian Museum of Art

Inside a historic Carnegie library building, the Meridian Museum of Art is a quiet, creative space that offers more than you might expect in a mid‑sized Southern city. What you’ll find inside:
  • Rotating art exhibits from regional and national artists
  • Works in a range of styles and mediums
  • Community art events and educational programs
If you like to balance your trip with a bit of culture, this is a relaxed stop that won’t take your whole day. Pop in, wander the galleries, and then stroll back out into downtown for coffee or lunch.

10. Taste Local Flavors and Classic Southern Comfort Food

No list of things to do in Meridian would be complete without talking about food. This is the South, after all. Around Meridian and Lauderdale County, you’ll find:
  • Down‑home diners serving biscuits, grits, and eggs for breakfast
  • Barbecue joints with pulled pork, ribs, and smoky sides
  • Meat‑and‑three spots where you pick a main dish and three classic Southern sides
One of my favorite things to do when I hit a new town like Meridian is ask a local, “Where do you eat on Sundays?” The answers usually lead you straight to the best fried chicken, catfish, or pie in town. Don’t worry too much about calories on this trip. Between walking downtown, exploring parks, and maybe paddling on a lake, you’ll earn that extra slice of dessert.

Tips for Planning Your Trip to Meridian, Mississippi

To make the most of your Meridian getaway, keep these simple tips in mind:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall bring mild temps and are great for outdoor time at Bonita Lakes and Okatibbee Lake.
  • Getting around: You’ll want a car. Downtown is walkable, but many attractions spread out across Lauderdale County.
  • Trip length: A weekend is perfect to hit the highlights, but you can easily stretch it into 3–4 days with lake time and extra museums.

Final Thoughts: Why Meridian Deserves a Spot on Your Road Trip Map

Meridian isn’t flashy, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a place where:
  • Music history meets modern creativity at The MAX and the Jimmie Rodgers Museum
  • Old‑school railroads and theaters still shape the city’s personality
  • Lakes, parks, and friendly locals make you feel at home fast
If you’re driving across the Deep South, don’t just blow past Meridian on the interstate. Give it a day or two. Walk downtown. Catch a show. Hit the lake. Try the barbecue. You might be surprised how much this corner of Lauderdale County, Mississippi sticks with you.

What Did We Miss? Share Your Meridian Favorites!

Have you spent time in Meridian or elsewhere in Lauderdale County?
  • What’s your favorite place to eat?
  • Is there a small park, shop, or viewpoint you love that visitors often skip?
  • Any local festivals or annual events travelers should know about?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. If you found this guide to things to do in Meridian, Mississippi helpful, please share it with a friend, pin it for your next road trip, or post it on your favorite social platform. Your shares help more people explore these underrated Southern gems.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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