Artesia MississippiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Artesia, Mississippi.
1. Columbus Riverwalk
SCENIC RIVERSIDE STROLLS
Columbus Riverwalk offers a beautiful pedestrian path alongside the Tombigbee River. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views, wildlife sightings, and peaceful atmosphere while walking, jogging, or biking along the 2.2-mile trail. The riverwalk features several picnic areas, benches, and informational placards about the local history and ecology.
2. Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway
HISTORIC NAVIGATION CANAL
The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway is an engineering marvel connecting the Tennessee River with the Tombigbee River system. This 234-mile waterway provides recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing around the Artesia area. The Waterway Visitor Center in nearby Columbus offers interactive exhibits about the waterway's construction and its impact on regional commerce and ecology.
3. Waverly Mansion
HISTORIC ANTEBELLUM HOME
Waverly Mansion is a magnificent antebellum plantation home built in the 1850s near the Artesia area. The mansion features unique architecture including a four-story rotunda topped with a cupola and elaborate plasterwork throughout the 8,000 square foot interior. Tours of this National Historic Landmark showcase original furnishings, period decor, and fascinating stories of the Snow family who built and occupied the home for generations.
4. Old Waverly Golf Club
PREMIER GOLF DESTINATION
Old Waverly Golf Club is an acclaimed golf destination that has hosted several major tournaments including the 1999 U.S. Women's Open. The course features meticulously maintained fairways, challenging water hazards, and beautiful landscaping throughout its 18 championship holes. Visitors enjoy not only the exceptional golf experience but also the elegant clubhouse and Southern hospitality that has made Old Waverly a landmark in Mississippi golf.
5. Magnolia Motor Speedway
DIRT TRACK RACING VENUE
Magnolia Motor Speedway is a popular 3/8-mile dirt track racing venue located near Artesia that hosts exciting events throughout the racing season. The track features various racing divisions including Super Late Models, Street Stocks, and Factory Stocks, drawing competitors and fans from across the region. Spectators enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, concession stands with Southern favorites, and the thrill of watching high-speed dirt track action under the lights.
6. Mississippi University for Women
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL CAMPUS
Mississippi University for Women, affectionately known as 'The W,' is a historic public university with a picturesque campus featuring beautiful Gothic and Victorian architecture. Founded in 1884 as the first public college for women in America, the university now offers coeducational programs while maintaining its distinctive character and traditions. Visitors can explore the campus grounds, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and enjoy cultural events at the university's performing arts center.
7. Ty's Smokehouse BBQ
LOCAL BBQ FAVORITE
Ty's Smokehouse BBQ is a cherished local restaurant serving authentic Southern barbecue near the Artesia area. Their slow-smoked meats, including pulled pork, ribs, and brisket, are prepared using time-honored techniques and complemented by house-made sauces and sides. The casual, friendly atmosphere makes it a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors seeking genuine Mississippi barbecue flavor.
8. Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center
NATURAL HISTORY EDUCATION
Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center offers visitors a chance to explore the unique ecology of the Tombigbee River area through its interpretive center and nature trails. The 190-acre site features hiking paths along scenic bluffs, with opportunities to view native plants, wildlife, and fossil beds dating back millions of years. Educational exhibits within the center highlight the region's natural history, geology, and indigenous cultures that once inhabited the area.
9. Friendship Cemetery
HISTORIC MEMORIAL GROUNDS
Friendship Cemetery is a historic burial ground that gained national recognition as the inspiration for the Memorial Day holiday after local women decorated both Union and Confederate graves with flowers in 1866. The cemetery contains the graves of numerous Confederate soldiers, prominent local citizens, and features beautiful Victorian funerary art amid ancient oak trees. Visitors can take self-guided tours using maps that highlight notable monuments and graves, including those of Tennessee Williams' grandparents and several Mississippi governors.
10. Bryan's Supermarket
LOCAL GROCERY HAVEN
Bryan's Supermarket serves as Artesia's community grocery store and gathering spot. The market offers locally sourced produce, fresh meats, and essential grocery items with the personalized service characteristic of small-town businesses. Many visitors appreciate the nostalgic feel of this independently owned store where the owners know many customers by name.
11. Columbus Arts Council & Rosenzweig Arts Center
CULTURAL ARTS HUB
The Columbus Arts Council's Rosenzweig Arts Center showcases the creative talents of regional artists through rotating gallery exhibitions and art sales. The center hosts numerous workshops, classes, and performances throughout the year, serving as the cultural heart of the community near Artesia. Visitors can browse the main gallery, shop for unique handcrafted items in the gift shop, or attend one of the many music, theater, or literary events held in the performance space.
12. Lake Lowndes State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Lowndes State Park encompasses 150 acres of land surrounding a 175-acre lake, offering abundant outdoor recreation opportunities near Artesia. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, disc golf, and camping facilities in this scenic natural setting. The park features modern amenities including a boat ramp, fishing pier, beach area, picnic pavilions, and rental cabins for those looking to extend their stay.
13. Murrah's Cafe
SOUTHERN HOME COOKING
Murrah's Cafe is a beloved local eatery known for its authentic Southern home cooking and warm hospitality. The restaurant specializes in country-style meals including fried chicken, catfish, and an array of traditional sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread. Visitors from near and far make the trip to enjoy the generous portions, reasonable prices, and the genuine small-town dining experience that has made Murrah's a regional favorite.
14. Catfish Alley Historic District
AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE SITE
Catfish Alley Historic District preserves a significant part of African American cultural and commercial history in the region near Artesia. This historic block earned its name from the catfish vendors who would sell their fresh catches here, creating a lively commercial area for Black businesses and social life during segregation. Today, visitors can view historical markers, murals, and restored buildings while learning about the important contributions of African Americans to the region's development.
15. Old Hickory Antiques
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Old Hickory Antiques offers an extensive collection of vintage items, collectibles, and Southern memorabilia in a charming historic building. Treasure hunters can browse through furniture, pottery, glassware, jewelry, and unique architectural salvage pieces from various eras. The knowledgeable owners provide historical context and stories behind many of the pieces, enhancing the shopping experience for visitors interested in Southern history and craftsmanship.