Waynesboro MississippiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Waynesboro, Mississippi.
1. Downtown Waynesboro Historic District
HISTORIC BUSINESS DISTRICT AREA
The Downtown Waynesboro Historic District is part of the central business district that traces its history back to the founding of Waynesboro and is tied to the railroad that helped make the city a reality. This historic area is bounded by Court Street, Station Street, Spring Street, and Wayne Street, creating a walkable district with period architecture. The district was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 26, 2012, recognizing its historical significance to the region.
2. Yellow Creek Bridge
HISTORIC ABANDONED BRIDGE
Yellow Creek Bridge is an abandoned bridge that lies alongside Old River Road northeast of Waynesboro, offering visitors a glimpse into historical transportation infrastructure. The structure holds historical significance for the area, showcasing engineering methods of its era. This historical landmark was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on November 16, 1988, preserving its legacy for future generations.
3. Dyess Bridge
HISTORICAL RIVER CROSSING
Dyess Bridge was the first bridge built over the Buckatunna River between 1868-70 by W.C.C. Dyess to facilitate travel between Wayne County and points west. The bridge continued in use until 1912 and has a historical marker located at Dyess Bridge Road at the Big Rock Road intersection. Visitors can find the Dyess homestead approximately 200 feet northwest of the marker, offering a connection to the area's transportation history.
4. First Auto Bank
BANKING INNOVATION LANDMARK
The First Auto Bank in Waynesboro made history in 1962 as the first bank in Mississippi to open an auto bank offering drive-up window service. Located at Azalea Drive (Highway 184) at Fagan Avenue in downtown Waynesboro, this innovation was the brainchild of bank president and later chairman W.D. Mangum. The site is marked with a historical marker acknowledging its significance in the evolution of banking services in the state.
5. Waynesboro Municipal Auditorium
COMMUNITY EVENTS CENTER
Waynesboro Municipal Auditorium serves as a central venue for community gatherings, performances, and civic events in the heart of Waynesboro. The facility provides space for concerts, theater productions, and public meetings throughout the year. Visitors and locals alike appreciate the auditorium for its role in fostering community engagement and cultural experiences in Wayne County.
6. Waynesboro Sports Complex
ATHLETIC FACILITIES HUB
The Waynesboro Sports Complex offers comprehensive athletic facilities for both organized sports and recreational activities in Wayne County. The complex features multiple fields and courts catering to various sports including baseball, softball, and soccer. Local residents and visitors enjoy the well-maintained grounds for both competitive sporting events and casual physical activity.
7. Southside Community Park
NEIGHBORHOOD RECREATION AREA
Southside Community Park provides a welcoming green space for residents and visitors in the southern part of Waynesboro. The park features playground equipment, picnic areas, and open spaces ideal for family outings and community gatherings. Its accessible location makes it a popular destination for everyday recreation and weekend relaxation.
8. Waynesboro City-Eastside Park
EASTERN DISTRICT RECREATION
Waynesboro City-Eastside Park offers a variety of recreational amenities for residents in the eastern section of the city. The park includes walking paths, playground equipment, and open green spaces for diverse outdoor activities. It serves as an important community gathering place that enhances the quality of life for local families.
9. Hogan Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Hogan Park serves Waynesboro residents with well-maintained grounds for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. The park offers amenities such as playground equipment, picnic areas, and open spaces for community use. Its central location makes it accessible for families looking to enjoy quality time outdoors in Wayne County.
10. Wayne General Hospital
LOCAL HEALTHCARE CENTER
Wayne General Hospital provides essential healthcare services to residents of Waynesboro and surrounding Wayne County communities. The facility offers emergency care, outpatient services, and specialized medical treatment to meet local healthcare needs. As a cornerstone of community welfare, the hospital contributes significantly to the region's quality of life and public health infrastructure.
11. Lively Laurel Scavenger Hunt
INTERACTIVE CITY EXPLORATION
The Lively Laurel Scavenger Hunt offers an engaging way to explore the nearby city of Laurel through an interactive adventure. Participants follow clues throughout the city, discovering hidden gems and notable landmarks while learning about local history and culture. This activity, hosted by Kat Nelson of Alley Kat Adventures, provides both entertainment and education for visitors looking for a unique experience near Waynesboro.
12. Lee's Coffee & Tea
COZY CAFÉ EXPERIENCE
Lee's Coffee & Tea in nearby Laurel offers a charming café experience with a selection of quality beverages and baked goods. The establishment serves as both a refreshment stop and a community gathering place where visitors can relax and socialize. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a popular destination for those exploring the Laurel area just a short drive from Waynesboro.
13. Buckatunna River
NATURAL WATERWAY ATTRACTION
The Buckatunna River flows through Wayne County, providing natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities near Waynesboro. The river offers spots for fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation in a peaceful natural setting. Its historical significance is highlighted by structures like the Dyess Bridge, making it both a recreational resource and a connection to the area's past.
14. Laurel's Historic District
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE AREA
Laurel's Historic District showcases beautifully preserved architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries in a city just a short drive from Waynesboro. The district features numerous homes and buildings with historical significance, many of which have been carefully restored. Visitors can enjoy self-guided walking tours to admire the unique architectural styles and learn about the area's rich cultural heritage.
15. De Soto National Forest
VAST NATURAL WILDERNESS
De Soto National Forest spans over 500,000 acres of protected wilderness in southern Mississippi, with portions accessible near Waynesboro. The forest offers extensive recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing in a diverse ecosystem. Visitors can explore longleaf pine forests, wetlands, and rivers while experiencing the natural beauty of the region throughout all seasons.