A Fun Weekend in Hattiesburg, Mississippi: Your Ultimate Getaway Itinerary

Are you looking for the perfect weekend escape filled with art, culture, history, and delectable cuisine? A weekend in Hattiesburg, Mississippi is the perfect place for families, couples, or even a friend’s getaway! 

Nestled in the heart of the Magnolia State, Hattiesburg offers a delightful blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a memorable weekend. Let’s dive into the ultimate weekend itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this charming Southern city.

A Weekend in Hattiesburg, Mississippi Itinerary:

Friday Night:

Kickstart your weekend in Hattiesburg by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Hattiesburg. Explore the city and marvel at all of the public art. Hattiesburg aims to adorn their city with 100 murals. Each year they  add murals until they reach their goal. As you drive around the city you will see tons of public art, from large murals to small-scale electric boxes or cement bridge rails all colorfully painted. If you’re an artist, appreciate art, or just love decorated cities, then you will love exploring Hattiesburg, Mississippi. 

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, indulge in a mouthwatering dinner paired with refreshing drinks at Southern Prohibition Brewing (SoPro). Renowned for its upscale pub fare and in-house brewed beers, SoPro promises a culinary experience you won’t soon forget. The Totino’s Pizza Roll Nachos are a funny favorite with the claim that they are locally sourced from Sam’s Club then embellished with the chef’s personal flair.

Saturday:

Start your first full day on your weekend in Hattiesburg with a hearty breakfast at The Midtowner, where you’ll be transported back to the 1960s with its retro decor, music, and ambiance. The walls are decorated with photos from Hattiesburg in the 60’s. Everything from the painted lettering on the windows to the newspapers plastered to the bathroom walls will make you feel like you stepped into a time machine. The cheesy grits and praline bacon make this a great spot to indulge in genuine Southern food. 

After fueling up, venture to the Lucky Rabbit, a treasure trove for art enthusiasts and vintage shoppers in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Browse through an eclectic array of funky art pieces and unique finds. This elaborately decorated artsy space is perfect for exploring or taking photos. The Lucky Rabbit is filled with booths filled by local vendors. It is open on weekends. There is a bar where you can get a drink to sip while you shop. A weekend in Hattiesburg isn’t complete without a stop at the Lucky Rabbit!

Next up, embark on an outdoor adventure by renting a bike at the university and hitting the Longleaf Trace Trail. Spanning 44 miles through picturesque landscapes, this scenic paved trail offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hattiesburg while enjoying a leisurely ride. There are tall pines along the trail as well as a few hidden geocaches. Keep your eyes peeled for a tunnel covered in one of Hattiesburg’s most iconic murals.

As lunchtime approaches, treat your taste buds to a culinary delight at Depot Kitchen and Market. Nestled in a charming courtyard setting with ivy growing up the walls like a hidden garden, this hidden gem is known for its delectable smoked gouda grits and Southern comfort cuisine and a must-try on your weekend in Hattiesburg.

After lunch, explore the captivating collection at Art in the Alley, home to the Hattiesburg Pocket Museum, the smallest museum in Mississippi. This alley is filled with quirky art, a list of fun things you can find, miniature statues, murals on the walls and floor, and a geocache. If you like funky places, you will love this spot in the heart of Hattiesburg.

Next, delve into the rich history of African American service members at the African American Military History Museum. This museum showcases the importance of African Americans in our military, highlights heroes, and draws attention to the injustices of history. 

Conclude your day of exploration with dinner at Big Trouble, where you’ll savor the tantalizing flavors of some of the best Asian-inspired cuisine in town. I loved the fried rice, chicken wings, and cocktails. The food was flavorful and unique- a hybrid between Asian food and creativity making each dish uniquely its own.

Sunday:

On your final day on your weekend in Hattiesburg, start your morning with a satisfying breakfast at Birdie’s. Birdie’s serves delicious whole foods to nourish your body and spirit. She adds a personal touch to her restaurant by naming her dishes from people and experiences from her life and works to build up her employees and the community through healthy and delicious food.

Then, embark on a scavenger hunt adventure through the city with the Hattiesburg GeoTour. There are 40 unique geocaches hidden around the city waiting to be discovered. My favorite caches were at Lucky Rabbit and Longleaf Piney Resort. 

Before hitting the road, make a pit stop at T-Bones for some coffee, a lemonade, or a snack, and perhaps pick up a few records to commemorate your weekend in Hattiesburg. Don’t forget to take a photo at the mural on the side of the building and find the geocache there!

Where to stay:

For the perfect weekend in Hattiesburg, finding the right accommodation is essential to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience. 

Longleaf Piney Resort is nestled amidst the serene beauty of nature. This idyllic retreat offers cozy cabins and cottages, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can rent bikes for free or e-bikes for a fee and bike 9-miles into Hattiesburg. There is a beautiful lake with canoes and kayaks you can use as a guest, as well as hiking trails, and private and communal fire pits. 

Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a family-friendly retreat, Longleaf Piney Resort offers the perfect blend of comfort and tranquility for an unforgettable stay in Hattiesburg.

If you’re looking for accommodations closer to town, the Holiday Inn Express was close to the highway, clean, and modern. The staff was friendly and the facilities were updated.

Book a trip to Hattiesburg, Mississippi!

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, a weekend in Hattiesburg has something to offer everyone. With the southern hospitality and the big city amenities but small town charm, Hattiesburg is a great place for families, couples, or friend groups. So, add it to your travel plans and use this itinerary to create a weekend you won’t soon forget!

If you’d like to check out another beautiful southern spot, check out my post about Things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.