Petal, Mississippi: 10 Fun Things To Do Near This Charming Town

on

10 Fun Things To Do Near Petal, Mississippi (Forrest County)

If you’re looking for simple, small-town charm with easy access to outdoor adventures and local flavor, Petal, Mississippi is a great place to start. Tucked just across the river from Hattiesburg in Forrest County, Petal offers that friendly hometown feel while still being close to plenty of attractions, parks, and hidden gems. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, visiting family, or just passing through, here are 10 fun things to do in and around Petal, MS that locals and visitors will both enjoy.

1. Stroll, Skate, or Picnic at Friendly City Park in Petal

Petal proudly calls itself the “Friendly City,” and Friendly City Park shows you why. This park is a favorite local hangout and a great first stop if you’re new to town. You’ll find:
  • Walking trails for an easy stroll
  • A skate park where teens and kids like to practice tricks
  • Playgrounds for younger children
  • Shady picnic spots for lunch or a snack
It’s the kind of place where people nod and say hello as you walk by. If you’re traveling with kids, this is an easy, low-cost way to let them burn off some energy while you relax on a bench.

2. Walk the Longleaf Trace – Start From Nearby Hattiesburg

If you enjoy the outdoors, you don’t want to miss the Longleaf Trace, a 44‑mile paved trail that starts in Hattiesburg and stretches west through small towns and pine forests. From Petal, you’re just a short drive across the river to one of the trailheads in Hattiesburg. Once you’re there, you can:
  • Walk or jog a short section
  • Rent or bring a bike for a longer ride
  • Enjoy the shade and look for local birds and wildlife
One nice thing about the Longleaf Trace is that you can make it as easy or as challenging as you want. Maybe you only feel like a 2‑mile walk, or maybe you want to ride 15 miles. Either way, there’s room for both casual strollers and serious cyclists.

3. Paddle the Leaf River Near Petal

The Leaf River runs right by Petal, and it’s a peaceful spot for anyone who loves the water. Depending on the time of year and river levels, you can:
  • Kayak along quiet stretches
  • Canoe with friends or family
  • Fish from the bank or from a small boat
Always check local conditions and safety information before you go, especially after heavy rain. But on a calm day, paddling the Leaf River can feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard—tall trees, gentle currents, and that soft Mississippi light. If you don’t own a kayak or canoe, look up local outfitters in the Hattiesburg and Forrest County area; some offer rentals or guided trips.

4. Discover Downtown Hattiesburg – Just Across the River

One of the best things about staying in Petal is how close you are to downtown Hattiesburg. It’s only a few minutes’ drive, but it opens up a whole new list of things to do. In downtown Hattiesburg, you can:
  • Check out colorful murals and public art
  • Browse local shops and antique stores
  • Grab coffee at an independent café
  • Enjoy live music at night, especially on weekends
If you like to wander and see what you find, downtown Hattiesburg is ideal. Park the car, walk a few blocks, and follow whatever catches your eye—maybe it’s a bakery, maybe it’s a record store, or maybe it’s a new favorite bar.

5. Explore the Hattiesburg Zoo

For families staying in or near Petal, the Hattiesburg Zoo is a must‑visit and it’s only a short drive away. This cozy, walkable zoo offers:
  • Animals from around the world, from jaguars to llamas
  • A splash pad for hot summer days
  • A small train and carousel for younger kids
  • Educational exhibits and feeding times
Because it’s not huge, you don’t need an entire day to see it. Two to three hours is usually enough, which leaves you plenty of time to explore other parts of Hattiesburg or head back to Petal for dinner. If you’re planning a weekend in the Petal–Hattiesburg area, this is one of the top family‑friendly things to do nearby.

6. Visit the African American Military History Museum

For a deeper look at history, head to the African American Military History Museum in Hattiesburg. It’s located in a historic USO Club building that once served Black soldiers during World War II. Inside, you’ll find:
  • Stories of African American service members from different wars
  • Artifacts, uniforms, and personal items
  • Powerful exhibits that highlight courage and sacrifice
This museum is not far from Petal, and it adds a meaningful, educational stop to your trip. It’s a good choice if you enjoy history or want older kids and teens to connect with real stories beyond a textbook.

7. Enjoy Southern Food at Local Petal & Hattiesburg Restaurants

You can’t talk about things to do near Petal, Mississippi, without talking about food. This area is full of classic Southern flavors, from fried catfish to barbecue and fluffy biscuits. In and around Petal and Hattiesburg, you’ll find:
  • Casual diners serving meat‑and‑three plates
  • Barbecue joints with slow‑smoked ribs and pulled pork
  • Local bakeries with pies and homemade desserts
  • Modern spots mixing Southern cooking with fresh twists
One fun way to spend an afternoon is a little “food tour” of your own: grab coffee at one spot, lunch at another, then dessert somewhere else. Ask locals what they recommend—people in this part of Mississippi are usually happy to point you to their favorite place.

8. Catch a Game or Explore Campus at The University of Southern Mississippi

Just across the river in Hattiesburg sits The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), and it adds a lot of energy and events to the whole area, including Petal. Depending on the season, you can:
  • Watch a Golden Eagles football, baseball, or basketball game
  • Attend a campus concert or theater performance
  • Walk through the grounds and enjoy the landscaped campus
Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, a college game can be a fun, lively way to spend an evening. The campus also gives you more dining and coffee options, especially around game days.

9. Relax at Paul B. Johnson State Park (A Short Drive from Petal)

If you’re craving pine trees, water, and wide open space, plan a day trip from Petal to Paul B. Johnson State Park, located just south of Hattiesburg. At the park, you can:
  • Swim or fish in Geiger Lake
  • Rent a cabin or camp overnight
  • Grill out at picnic areas
  • Walk nature trails and look for wildlife
The park is less than an hour from Petal, depending on where you’re staying, and it makes a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who just want a quiet day in nature.

10. Join Community Events and Festivals in Petal & Forrest County

One of the best ways to get a feel for any small town is to join in on local events. In Petal and Forrest County, watch for:
  • Seasonal festivals and holiday parades
  • Local sports events and school games
  • Farmers markets with fresh produce and handmade items
  • Community concerts or outdoor movie nights
Before your trip, check Petal city and Forrest County event calendars or local social media pages. You might discover a barbecue cook‑off, craft fair, or Christmas event happening the very weekend you’re in town. These local gatherings are where Petal really shines—small enough to feel cozy, but full of energy and friendly faces.

Planning Your Trip to Petal, Mississippi

Petal may not be a huge city, but that’s exactly what makes it special. You get:
  • The relaxed pace and charm of a small Mississippi town
  • Easy access to Hattiesburg’s restaurants, arts, and nightlife
  • Plenty of outdoor options—from rivers and trails to state parks
If you’re building an itinerary, you might pair:
  • Day 1: Explore downtown Hattiesburg, visit the zoo, dinner in town.
  • Day 2: Morning walk on the Longleaf Trace, relax in Petal’s parks, catch a USM game or local event at night.
  • Day 3: Day trip to Paul B. Johnson State Park or a paddle on the Leaf River.
Of course, you can mix and match based on your interests—outdoor fun, history, food, or just quiet time in the “Friendly City.”

What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Petal, MS Spots

Have you spent time in Petal, Mississippi or around Forrest County?
  • Do you have a favorite walking route along the Leaf River?
  • Is there a local restaurant or café you always visit?
  • Any hidden gems you think travelers should know about?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments—they help other readers plan their own trips. And if you found this guide to things to do near Petal, MS helpful, please share it with friends or family who might be heading to south Mississippi soon. The more we share our stories, the easier it becomes for others to discover the quiet, welcoming places that make travel truly special.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment