Picayune, Mississippi: 10 Fun Things To Do Near Pearl River

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Picayune, Mississippi (Pearl River County)

If you’re road-tripping along I‑59 between New Orleans and Hattiesburg, you might be tempted to just cruise right past Picayune, Mississippi. But slow down a bit—this small town in Pearl River County has a surprising mix of nature, history, and down‑home Southern charm. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, visiting family, or just looking for an easy day trip from the Gulf Coast, here are 10 things to do in and around Picayune that are worth your time.

1. Explore the Crosby Arboretum – A Quiet Nature Escape

The Crosby Arboretum is Picayune’s crown jewel and one of the top things to do in Pearl River County. Managed by Mississippi State University, it’s a peaceful, 64‑acre public garden that showcases the plants and ecosystems of the Gulf South. Walk along raised boardwalks, cross wooden bridges, and wander through pine forests and around a pretty lake. You’ll find:
  • Easy walking trails good for kids and grandparents alike
  • Wildflowers in spring and early summer
  • Butterflies, birds, and dragonflies everywhere you look
  • A unique “Pinecote Pavilion” that’s a favorite spot for photos
If you like photography, bring your camera—the reflections on the water around sunset can be stunning. It’s calm, quiet, and feels a world away from the highway, even though it’s only a few minutes from downtown Picayune.

2. Stroll Historic Downtown Picayune

One of the best free things to do in Picayune is simply to walk around downtown. This is a real small‑town Southern main street, with:
  • Restored brick buildings
  • Locally owned cafes and bakeries
  • Antique and thrift shops
  • Boutiques and gift shops
Grab a cup of coffee, wander in and out of the shops, and chat with locals. If you time it right, you might catch a street festival or market day. Many visitors are surprised by how welcoming and relaxed the vibe feels—no rush, no big‑city stress. If you’re driving between New Orleans and Jackson and need a break, downtown Picayune makes a great leg‑stretching stop.

3. Go Antique & Thrift Shopping Around Town

If you love hunting for treasures, Picayune is a fun little secret. The area has several antique stores, flea markets, and thrift shops scattered along Highway 11 and throughout town. You can browse for:
  • Vintage furniture and décor
  • Old records and books
  • Southern farmhouse pieces
  • Collectibles and quirky finds
Every time I pass through Picayune, I stop at at least one thrift or antique shop. It’s the kind of place where you can still find a solid wood dresser or a vintage sign at a down‑to‑earth price—something that’s getting harder to do in big cities.

4. Enjoy Local Southern Cooking

You can’t talk about things to do in Picayune without mentioning the food. This is South Mississippi, so you’ll find plenty of:
  • Fried catfish and seafood platters
  • Barbecue with smoky pulled pork and ribs
  • Po’boys that feel straight out of New Orleans
  • Homestyle diners with meat‑and‑three plates
Ask locals where they like to eat—people in Picayune are usually happy to share their favorite spot. If you’re traveling with kids, most places are very family‑friendly. Tip: Plan for at least one “big meal” here. Between the fried oysters, hush puppies, and homemade desserts, you won’t leave hungry.

5. Hit the Water: Boating & Fishing on Pearl River

Just outside town, the Pearl River winds along the edge of Pearl River County, giving you lots of chances to get out on the water. Depending on where you access the river or nearby creeks and lakes, you can:
  • Launch a small boat or jon boat
  • Fish for bass, bream, and catfish
  • Try a quiet kayak or canoe trip
  • Enjoy a simple riverside picnic
Don’t expect huge marinas or fancy facilities here. The charm is in the simplicity—just you, the water, and the woods. Check water conditions and local access points before you go, and always keep safety in mind, especially with kids.

6. Day Trip to Honey Island Swamp in Nearby Louisiana

One of the best day trips from Picayune is just across the state line in Louisiana: the Honey Island Swamp, an easy drive of roughly 25–35 minutes, depending on where you start. Here you can join a guided swamp tour and ride a flat‑bottom boat through cypress trees draped with Spanish moss. You may see:
  • Alligators
  • Herons and egrets
  • Turtles sunning on logs
  • Wild pigs or raccoons along the banks
It feels like stepping into a nature documentary. Many tour companies are family‑friendly, and guides love to share local stories and swamp legends. If you’re staying in Picayune as a base, this is a must‑do.

7. Visit the Stennis Space Center Area & Visitor Options

About 20–30 minutes south of Picayune, across the Mississippi line toward the Gulf Coast, you’ll find the NASA Stennis Space Center area. While post‑COVID access can change, there are often:
  • Visitor experiences or partner attractions nearby
  • Educational displays about rocket testing
  • Occasional special events or tours
Even if you can’t go deep inside the space center itself, just being close to a major NASA testing site is pretty cool. If you have kids who love space, it’s worth checking current visitor options before your trip. Think of it as a fun way to mix a little science and learning into your Gulf Coast or Picayune vacation.

8. Enjoy Local Festivals & Community Events

Small Southern towns know how to throw a festival, and Picayune is no different. Depending on the time of year, you may find:
  • Seasonal festivals with food, crafts, and live music
  • Holiday parades and Christmas light displays
  • Farmers markets showcasing local produce and homemade goods
Events like these are some of the best ways to experience authentic Mississippi culture. You’ll hear local accents, see kids running around with snow cones, and smell barbecue in the air. It’s simple, but it’s real. Before your visit, check local Facebook pages or the Picayune tourism office for an updated event calendar.

9. Take a Scenic Drive Through Pearl River County

Sometimes the best “thing to do” near Picayune is just to go for a drive. Pearl River County is full of quiet backroads lined with pine trees, farms, and small communities. Why not:
  • Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks
  • Turn on your favorite playlist
  • Take the slower, scenic route instead of the interstate
You might pass old churches, country stores, and fields dotted with cows or horses. It’s an easy way to unwind and see another side of Mississippi that most people only speed past at 70 miles an hour.

10. Use Picayune as a Base for Gulf Coast & New Orleans Adventures

One of the biggest perks of staying in Picayune is its location. You’re close to a lot of major attractions without paying big‑city hotel prices. From Picayune, you can reach:
  • New Orleans, Louisiana – about an hour south, for world‑class food, music, and nightlife
  • Mississippi Gulf Coast beaches – about an hour to an hour and a half away
  • Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian – charming waterfront towns with art, shops, and seafood
Picayune gives you a quieter, more affordable place to sleep, with easy access to both the coast and the city. Spend the day exploring, then come back to a slower pace and a starry sky.

Planning Your Trip to Picayune, Mississippi

A few quick tips as you plan:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall for comfortable weather and blooming plants at the Crosby Arboretum.
  • Getting there: Picayune sits right off I‑59, roughly an hour from New Orleans and about an hour and a half from Hattiesburg or Gulfport/Biloxi.
  • Who it’s good for: Road‑trippers, families, retirees, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys small‑town Southern charm.
You don’t need a packed itinerary here. Picayune is the kind of place where you can slow down, take a breath, and actually enjoy the moment.

What Would You Do First in Picayune?

Now that you know some of the best things to do in Picayune, Mississippi and Pearl River County, what’s calling your name? Would you start with a quiet walk at the Crosby Arboretum, a swamp tour in Honey Island, or a plate of fried catfish and hush puppies? I’d love to hear about your plans or your experiences.
  • Drop a comment below and share your favorite spot near Picayune.
  • If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a trip through South Mississippi or the Gulf Coast.
Your tips and stories help other travelers discover this underrated little corner of the South.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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