International

Take a journey through the heart of Mississippi straight to Hattiesburg. A southern college town, Hattiesburg holds a rich history that reflects the state’s unique culture and spirit.

While here, savor the delicious flavors of our robust culinary scene, embrace the sacred stories of the Civil Rights Movement, explore artfully adorned public spaces, and let the rhythmic sounds of our music keep your feet moving. Discover the vibrant culture and warm embrace of Hattiesburg.

Where Culinary Happens

From 100-year-old staples like Coney Island Café to Sully’s Tavern – a legendary steak house built on the site of the last sanctioned bare-knuckle fight in the U.S. – Hattiesburg’s culinary scene rivals any other major metropolitan. With nearly 200 locally owned restaurants, Hattiesburg caters to a wide array of tastes, including Southern comfort food, fresh seafood and farm-to-table ingredients, trendy dining experiences, and so much more. Diners can even catch Master Chef and Food Network Star Katie Dixon or internationally recognized Chef Robert St. John in the kitchen most days in the Hub City.

PicturedBourbon on Front | Credit: JJ 2024

Where Art Happens

Named a top city in the world for public art, creativity abounds in Hattiesburg. With more than 100 stops in total, the HBURG Public Art Trail is one of the city’s newest and fastest-growing attractions. From internationally acclaimed “What Lifts You” artist Kelsey Montague and iconic koi fish illustrator Jeremy Novy to superb local talent, Hattiesburg is on its way to becoming “The City of 100 Murals” with 50+ large-scale designs currently in its repertoire. There are also more than 40 hand-painted utility boxes throughout the city alongside over a dozen sculptures. You’ll find diversity in style, concepts, and artists when you visit this trail in a community passionate about art.

Where History Happened

Supporting one of the last major U.S. civil rights efforts of the 1960s, Hattiesburg served as the largest Freedom Summer area in Mississippi. The 1964 Freedom Summer drive helped awaken the consciousness of the nation by focusing on increasing black voter registration, which led to demonstrative racial changein America. The Freedom Summer Trail honors the men, women, and children who championed the cause in Hattiesburg and consists of 16 stops, making it the largest of its kind in the Southeastern U.S. Each stop on the trail has its own oral history audio component, featuring reflections from those who were directly involved in Freedom Summer activities.

PicturedFreedom Summer Trail | Credit: Rob Walker

where music happens

The “Roots of Rock n’ Roll” can be traced to Hattiesburg with the first recordings of the Graves Brothers’ famous guitar riffs recorded in the 1920’s as the “Mississippi Jook Band.” Live music continues to be a vibrant and integral part of local culture, where tunes can be found every night of the week at intimate bars, historic venues, and grand stages. Visitors can enjoy a mix of genres including blues, country, rock, and jazz, the city also hosts music festivals and outdoor concerts throughout the year.

Credit: JJ 2024

getting here and getting around

Located at the crossroads of two major US Highways and one Interstate Hattiesburg is not called the Hub City for no reason. It's central location makes it the perfect place to come and go, and stay and play!

Driving Times:
MS Gulf Coast - 1 hour • Jackson - 1.5 hours
Mobile - 1.5 hours • New Orleans - 1.5 hours
Natchez - 3 hours

Average Temps: Winter 48° / Summer 80°

Dining: More than 500 eateries (200 local dining options)

Check out our trip planning resources for information on flights, rental cars, and getting around town once you've reached the hub city!