Brookhaven, Mississippi: 10 Fun Things To Do Near Lincoln County

10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Brookhaven, Mississippi (Lincoln County)

Looking for a laid-back Southern getaway with small-town charm and plenty to do? Brookhaven, Mississippi, in Lincoln County, is a friendly stop along I‑55 that makes a great weekend trip or road trip break between Jackson and New Orleans. Whether you love history, food, shopping, or the outdoors, you’ll find something to enjoy in and around Brookhaven. Below are 10 things to do near Brookhaven, MS that show off the best of this little Southern town.

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1. Stroll Historic Downtown Brookhaven

If you do only one thing in Brookhaven, make it a slow walk through historic downtown. Downtown Brookhaven is full of:

• Colorful brick storefronts
• Locally owned boutiques
• Antique and thrift shops
• Cafés and bakeries

You can easily park once and explore on foot. Pop into a shop for a vintage find, grab an iced coffee, then wander down to check out the old buildings and murals. On my last visit, I ended up spending an extra hour downtown just talking with shop owners. People here actually ask where you’re from and mean it. It’s a simple outing, but in a town like Brookhaven, walking downtown feels like stepping back into a quieter time.

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2. Discover the Military Memorial Museum

Right in downtown Brookhaven you’ll find a small but powerful stop: the Military Memorial Museum, inside the historic railroad depot. Inside, you’ll see:

• Uniforms and medals from local veterans
• Old photos and letters from World War I and II
• Displays covering later wars and conflicts

This is one of those places where you can tell the community really cares. The exhibits are personal, not flashy. If you enjoy local history or you’re traveling with kids, this is an easy and meaningful stop. Tip: Call ahead or check local listings for current hours, as small-town museums sometimes keep seasonal schedules.

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3. Picnic and Play at City Park

Need a place to stretch your legs or let the kids run? Brookhaven City Park is just what you’re looking for. You’ll find:

• Shaded picnic tables
• Playground equipment
• Open grassy areas
• Walking space for a quick stroll

Pick up some to-go food from a nearby restaurant, grab a shady spot, and enjoy a slow Mississippi afternoon. If you’re on a long road trip, this park makes a perfect break to reset before getting back on the highway.

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4. Explore Lincoln Civic Center & Fairgrounds

For a taste of local life, check out what’s happening at the Lincoln Civic Center, just a short drive from downtown Brookhaven. Throughout the year, the civic center and fairgrounds host:

• Rodeos and livestock shows
• Fairs and festivals
• Trade shows and craft events
• Community gatherings and concerts

If you happen to be in town on a rodeo weekend or during a county event, it’s worth going just to soak up the atmosphere. Think kids with cotton candy, live music, and that unmistakable fairground smell of grilled food and popcorn. Check their online calendar before your trip to see what’s on while you’re in Lincoln County.

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5. Shop Local at Brookhaven Farmers’ Markets & Boutiques

Brookhaven may be small, but it punches above its weight when it comes to local shopping. Depending on the season and day of the week, you can find:

• Farmers’ markets with fresh produce and homemade jams
• Southern-style home décor and gift shops
• Clothing boutiques with unique finds
• Small bakeries and candy shops

If you enjoy supporting local businesses, this is your kind of place. It’s easy to:

• Pick up a jar of local honey
• Grab some fresh bread or dessert
• Find a Mississippi-made gift to bring home

Travel tip: Traveling through on a Friday or Saturday? Ask at your hotel or a downtown shop about any markets going on that weekend.

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6. Take a Scenic Drive Through Lincoln County

Sometimes the best “thing to do” near Brookhaven is simply to drive the backroads. Roll down your windows and enjoy:

• Rolling fields and pastures
• Tall pines lining the road
• Old churches and quiet cemeteries
• Small communities you won’t find in any guidebook

If you’re used to city traffic, driving around Lincoln County feels like a reset button. It’s calm, green, and peaceful. Bring a camera. You’ll want to stop now and then to capture a red barn, a country store, or a sunset over the trees.

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7. Taste Southern Comfort Food at Local Restaurants

You can’t talk about things to do in Brookhaven, Mississippi without talking about food

Meat-and-three style restaurants with daily specials

BBQ spots serving ribs, pulled pork, and smoked chicken

Breakfast joints with biscuits, grits, and strong coffee

Casual places for burgers, catfish, and po’boys

If you’re not from the South, this is your chance to try:

• Fried green tomatoes
• Chicken fried steak
• Homemade pies and cobblers

Ask a local where they go for lunch. In a town like Brookhaven, the best recommendation usually comes from the person ringing up your gas or your coffee.

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8. Step Into the Past at Local Churches & Historic Sites

All around Brookhaven and Lincoln County, you’ll notice beautiful old churches and historic homes. Even if you’re not attending a service, many churches are lovely to see from the outside. You might:

• Drive past small white wooden churches on country roads
• Admire stained-glass windows in town
• Spot historic markers that share short stories from the area’s past

Think of it like a mini history tour from your car. When you see a historical marker, pull over safely and take a minute to read it. You’ll get quick glimpses into Brookhaven’s story over the years.

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9. Take a Day Trip to Nearby State Parks

One of the best things about basing yourself in Brookhaven is how close you are to Mississippi’s outdoor areas. With a short drive, you can reach several parks for hiking, fishing, and relaxing by the water. Depending on how far you want to go, you can:

• Head to nearby lakes for fishing or a quiet picnic
• Walk easy trails through pine forests
• Let the kids explore nature and burn off energy

Pack:

• Comfy shoes
• Bug spray (it’s the South!)
• A cooler with drinks and snacks

After a morning in nature, you can be back in Brookhaven in time for a relaxed dinner and a stroll downtown.

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10. Experience Local Events & Festivals

Small towns know how to throw a good community event, and Brookhaven is no exception. Throughout the year, you’ll find festivals, parades, and seasonal celebrations in and around Lincoln County. Depending on the season, you might catch:

• Holiday parades and tree lightings
• Downtown events with food vendors and live music
• Arts and crafts fairs
• Car shows or outdoor markets

These events are a great way to:

• Meet locals
• Try regional food
• Hear live music without big-city prices

Before your visit, check Brookhaven tourism pages or local social media for an updated event list. You might be surprised by how much is going on in this “small” town.

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Planning Your Trip to Brookhaven, Mississippi

Brookhaven, MS may not be a huge tourist hotspot, and that’s exactly its charm. It’s a place where you can:

• Slow down and enjoy simple pleasures
• Explore historic downtown streets
• Eat good Southern comfort food
• Get out into the countryside without driving for hours

Whether you’re stopping for an afternoon on your way down I‑55 or planning a full weekend in Lincoln County, these 10 things to do near Brookhaven will help you make the most of your time.

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Share Your Brookhaven Experience

Have you visited Brookhaven, Mississippi or anywhere else in Lincoln County?

• What was your favorite thing to do?
• Did you find a great local restaurant or hidden gem?

Drop your tips and stories in the comments so other travelers can discover new places, too. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a Mississippi road trip. Your share might be the reason someone discovers Brookhaven’s small-town charm.