McComb, Mississippi: 10 Must-Do Activities and Nearby Attractions

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around McComb, Mississippi (Pike County Travel Guide)

If you’re road-tripping through Mississippi or looking for a quiet Southern getaway, McComb, Mississippi, in Pike County, might surprise you. This small town has deep railroad roots, blues history, and easy access to beautiful outdoor spots. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape from New Orleans or Jackson, or just passing by on I‑55, here are 10 things to do near McComb that are worth a stop.

1. Step Back in Time at the McComb Railroad Museum

If you only have time for one stop in McComb, make it the McComb Railroad Museum in downtown. This town grew up around the railroad, and you can feel that history here. Inside the museum you’ll find:
  • Old photos and tools from the early railroad days
  • Model trains that kids (and adults) love
  • Stories about the workers who built and ran the line
You can easily spend an hour or two here, especially if you enjoy history or vintage Americana. It’s the kind of place where you end up saying, “I had no idea this little town had such a big story.” Travel tip: Ask a volunteer or staff member to share their favorite railroad story. Locals often have great personal memories that bring the exhibits to life.

2. Enjoy the Outdoors at Percy Quin State Park

Just a few miles south of McComb, Percy Quin State Park is one of the best places in Pike County to get outside and relax. At this scenic park you can:
  • Fish or boat on Lake Tangipahoa
  • Hike easy trails under tall pine trees
  • Play a round of golf on the park’s course
  • Have a picnic with lake views
If you’re traveling with kids, the playgrounds and wide-open grassy areas are perfect for burning off energy. You can also rent cabins or camp overnight if you want to turn your McComb visit into a short nature getaway. Waking up to quiet woods instead of traffic? That’s hard to beat.

3. Discover Local History at the Black History Gallery

McComb played a powerful role in the Civil Rights Movement, and you can learn more about that story at local history spots like the Black History Gallery and other community exhibits in town. Depending on which space is open when you visit, you may find:
  • Photos from marches and sit-ins in McComb and Pike County
  • Newspaper clippings and personal accounts from the 1960s
  • Displays on local leaders and churches that helped drive change
It’s not a flashy, big-budget museum, but that’s part of what makes it powerful. The exhibits feel close to the people and places they describe. If you’re traveling with teens, this is a good chance to connect what they learned in school to a real town that lived through it.

4. Explore Downtown McComb: Murals, Shops, and Small-Town Charm

One of the most relaxing things to do in McComb is simply to walk around downtown. You’ll find:
  • Historic brick buildings and storefronts
  • Colorful murals and public art
  • Antique shops and local boutiques
  • Cozy cafes and diners
Grab a coffee, then wander a bit. Peek into a thrift store, browse some antiques, or sit on a bench and people‑watch. In small Southern towns, half the fun is just slowing down and soaking up the atmosphere. Local tip: If you see a community event posted at a shop window—a festival, market, or concert—ask when it is. McComb and Pike County often host seasonal events that visitors are welcome to join.

5. Visit the Pike County Courthouse and Square

If you enjoy small-town architecture and local flavor, the Pike County Courthouse area in nearby Magnolia (just a short drive from McComb) is worth a quick stop. Here you can:
  • Walk around the historic courthouse square
  • Take photos of classic Southern architecture
  • Check out nearby shops and local eateries
It’s an easy add-on if you’re already exploring McComb and want to see more of Pike County. Think of it as a mini “Main Street USA” stroll, but in real life.

6. Cool Off at a Local Splash Pad or Park

Traveling with kids or just need a break from the Mississippi heat? McComb and Pike County have several city parks and sometimes seasonal splash pads or water play areas where families can cool down and stretch their legs. Look for:
  • Playgrounds with swings and slides
  • Walking tracks and shaded picnic tables
  • Basketball courts or open fields for a quick game
If you’re road-tripping along I‑55, even a 30‑minute park stop in McComb can make the rest of the drive feel easier.

7. Take a Scenic Drive Through Pike County Back Roads

Sometimes the best thing to do near McComb isn’t a single attraction—it’s the drive itself. Head out on the back roads of Pike County and you’ll find:
  • Rolling fields and pine forests
  • Old churches and roadside cemeteries with historic headstones
  • Farm stands or local produce in season
If you enjoy photography, plan this for late afternoon or just before sunset. The soft light on the trees and fields is beautiful, and you’ll get that classic “Deep South” landscape look without any crowds.

8. Sample Southern Comfort Food in McComb

Food is a huge part of any Mississippi trip, and McComb delivers on Southern comfort food. In and around town you’ll find:
  • Plate lunches with fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and greens
  • Catfish plates with hushpuppies and coleslaw
  • BBQ spots serving ribs, pulled pork, and sausage
  • Breakfast joints with biscuits, grits, and strong coffee
If you want a simple “taste of McComb,” ask a local: “Where would you send somebody for their first meal in town?” You’ll usually get an honest, passionate answer—and you might discover a hidden gem that doesn’t show up in big guidebooks.

9. Discover Local Music and Events

McComb sits in a region rich with blues, gospel, and country traditions. While you may not find a big concert hall, you can still catch live music and community events if you time it right. Ways to find what’s happening:
  • Check flyers in downtown shops and cafes
  • Look at local Facebook pages or city websites
  • Ask at your hotel or campground
You might stumble on:
  • A local band playing at a bar or restaurant
  • A church choir event
  • A small festival or fair with food, games, and music
These low-key events are where you really feel that “small-town Mississippi” vibe—friendly, relaxed, and welcoming to visitors.

10. Use McComb as a Base for Day Trips

One of the best things about McComb is its location. Right off Interstate 55, it makes a handy home base for short day trips around southwest Mississippi and nearby Louisiana. From McComb, you can easily:
  • Drive about an hour south to the Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain
  • Head north toward Brookhaven or Jackson for more shopping and museums
  • Explore more small towns and back roads without changing hotels every night
If you like a quieter place to sleep but still want options for exploring, McComb and Pike County give you both.

Planning Your Trip to McComb, Mississippi

Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
  • Getting there: McComb sits along I‑55, roughly halfway between Jackson, MS and New Orleans, LA.
  • How long to stay: A full day will cover the basics; a weekend lets you add hiking, fishing, or a day trip.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall are usually the most comfortable, but summer is great for lakes and parks (just expect heat and humidity).
Whether you’re into history, small-town charm, or peaceful outdoor time, there are plenty of things to do near McComb, Mississippi to fill your schedule without feeling rushed.

Share Your McComb Experience

Have you visited McComb or Pike County?
  • What was your favorite thing to do in or near McComb?
  • Did you discover a restaurant, park, or local event I should add to this list?
I’d love to hear your stories and tips. Drop a comment with your own recommendations, and feel free to share this guide with friends or family planning a road trip through Mississippi. The more we swap ideas, the easier it is for other travelers to enjoy this underrated corner of the South.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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