Meridian delivers a walkable, culture-rich getaway in the heart of the South
Meridian, Mississippi brims with culture, history, and charm, making it an ideal locale for families and explorers alike. This vibrant city seamlessly blends its rich heritage with a forward-thinking spirit, offering attractions that entertain and educate. It’s not just hands-on activities for children, but also attractions for adults, like historic landmarks and celebrated cuisine. Meridian invites visitors to discover its unique stories and traditions, through soaking in the arts, savoring a meal steeped in history, and nostalgic rides through an unforgettable town.
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Location Matters
And Meridian has that. Meridian is halfway between everywhere in the heart of the southeast.
Centrally located on Interstates 59 and 20, it’s an easy overnight stop or weekend escape for families, creatives, and curious travelers alike.
A historic railroad town, Meridian’s Golden Age (1890–1930) left behind striking architecture and a lasting arts legacy. Today, downtown buzzes with boutique shops, locally owned restaurants like Weidmann’s—Mississippi’s oldest—and even a 1920s bank turned brewery, Threefoot Brewing Company.
At the center of Meridian’s creative heartbeat is Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX). This immersive, state-of-the-art museum celebrates Mississippi’s legendary artists, musicians, writers, and entertainers through interactive exhibits, galleries, and live programming for all ages.
Nearby, the restored MSU Riley Center hosts nationally acclaimed performances inside an 1889 Grand Opera House, while the Art Deco Threefoot Hotel offers rooftop views and walkable access to downtown nightlife.
Meridian’s musical roots run deep, from the annual Jimmie Rodgers Festival to hands-on fun for kids at the Mississippi Children’s Museum—Meridian, home to the world’s first permanent Goodnight Moon exhibit.
Home of creative legends
Celebrate the uninhibited spirit. William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, Jimmie Rodgers, Leontyne Price, Sam Cooke, Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Marty Stuart, Jim Henson, Oprah Winfrey – how did Mississippi nourish so many creative legends? Visit the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX, as locals affectionally call it) to find out. Is it a museum? An arts center? An entertainment venue? It’s all that and more. You’ll meet geniuses of literature, music, and other arts, including visual and even culinary. Try your virtual hand at creating your own masterpieces. And walk away inspired to follow your own muse. Fair warning: creativity is contagious.
As not to leave out the small kiddos, the newly opened Mississippi Children’s Museum – Meridian boasts the nation’s first permanent Goodnight Moon exhibit, a whimsical 25,000 square foot garden, and special events throughout the year.
Start planning unforgettable trips—read the February edition and subscribe for future updates.
Contact:
- VISIT MERIDIAN
- Laura Carmichael
- (601) 482-8001
- lcarmichael@lauderdalecounty.org, www.visitmeridian.com
