International

Journey through the heart of Mississippi, straight to Hattiesburg. A southern university town, Hattiesburg holds a rich history and progressive mindset that reflects the state’s unique spirit. An ideal stop on your road trip between Memphis to New Orleans – Hattiesburg is a place where you can immerse yourself in the authentic sites, sounds, and flavors of Mississippi.

While here, savor the delicious taste of our thriving culinary scene, embrace the compelling stories of the Civil Rights Movement, explore activated public art spaces, and let the rhythmic sounds of local music keep your feet moving. Discover the vibrant culture and warm embrace of Hattiesburg.

International Travel Guide

Where Indulgence Happens

From 100-year-old staples like Coney Island Café to Sully’s Tavern – a legendary steakhouse 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.

PicturedBourbon on Front | Credit: JJ 2024

Where Creativity 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 to superb local talent, HBURG is on its way to becoming “The City of 100 Murals” with 60+ large-scale designs currently in its repertoire. With hand-painted utility boxes and more than a dozen sculptures, you’ll find diversity in style, concepts, cultures, and artists.

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 the nation. Hattiesburg’s 1964 Freedom Summer Trail honors locals and volunteers who championed the cause and consists of 16 stops, making it the biggest of its kind in the Southeast U.S. Each stop on the trail has its own oral history audio component, featuring reflections from those who were directly involved in this demonstrative change in America.

PicturedFreedom Summer Trail | Credit: Rob Walker

where rhythm 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 an 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.

International Travel to Hattiesburg

Details

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!