Mississippi's Quaint Town Is Packed With Antebellum Charm, Classic American Eats, And Historic Churches

Sometimes called the Magnolia State for its abundance of flowering trees, Mississippi is a fantastically overlooked destination. Many don't know that the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley, was born here (in Tupelo, an underrated city with small-town American charm). The hills and valleys of the countryside are etched with poignant Civil War battlefields waiting to be explored. And, not far from the Louisiana border, only an hour's drive from Baton Rouge, you'll find Woodville — one of Mississippi's oldest towns. Spread across the rolling meadowlands of Wilkinson County, this delightful town is brimming with timeless Southern architecture, friendly locals, and a good meal with a side of classic Americana charm.

Founded in the early 1800s, Woodville developed from the cotton and timber industries, attracting wealthy merchants and railroads. Jefferson Davis, the only president of the Confederate States, spent his childhood here, and famed naturalist John James Audubon discovered exotic birds in its lush woodlands. Woodville also sits along the iconic Route 61, considered one of the most scenic road trips in the country, which shaped the formation of American music and influenced the works of local musicians like composer William Grant Still and saxophonist Lester "Press" Young. This rich heritage can still be felt in the atmosphere today.

The town's historic district — which includes remnants of the original 19th-century village — is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll the shaded streets to admire the preserved Federalist and antebellum architecture, including historic churches and the county courthouse. Outdoor enthusiasts can bask in the pastoral landscapes and serene lakes nearby. And, just 40 minutes north along Route 61, is Natchez, the oldest city on the Mississippi River where you can spend the day touring museums and mansions before returning to spend the night in Woodville.

Nostalgic architecture from a bygone era is Woodville's main charm. Hit the streets of the historic district and you'll find St. Paul's Episcopal Church, dating to the 1820s. Just off Main Street is the Woodville Presbyterian Church, a quaint barn-like structure built in 1893. Across the street you'll find the Historic Planters Building, a red-brick warehouse from the early 1900s converted into a lively event space. You'll also find the Wilkinson County Courthouse, an impressive Beaux-Arts-style edifice adorned with pediments and a dome. Built in 1903, it replaced the older Federalist version dating to the 1820s.

A roughly three-minute drive out of town brings you to the charming façade of Rosemont Plantation, the family home of Confederate president Jefferson Davis. Built in 1810, the mansion's appearance has barely changed in 200 years. Tour the rooms and grounds to discover the vast collections of artifacts and furniture, a fascinating time capsule of the American South's heritage. The dining room is particularly stunning, with displays of silver candelabras and porcelain tableware, while the kitchen boasts an antique stove piled with skillets.

To soak up some fresh air, head up Route 61 to Wilkinson County Park, boasting a small lake with a walking trail, plus a playground and basketball courts. Alternatively, you could also drive to Lake Mary, about 30 minutes away, where anglers can reel in a few big fish and bask in the sunset glow through the trees. Lastly, there's also the Clark Creek Natural Area roughly 20 minutes westward, a 700-acre expanse of forested trails dotted with hidden waterfalls. Hike through scenic woodlands and babbling streams while watching out for birds, wildlife, and dramatic rock formations. Whatever your fancy, Woodville has fun for all.

Back on Woodville's charming Main Street, you can explore the array of fantastic dining options. For a classic Americana vibe, try Jackie's Hamburger Shop just opposite the Presbyterian Church. This unassuming cabin is a family-run watering hole where locals love to meet, chat, and fill up on hearty burgers. Next door is the Woodville Café, set in similarly quaint surrounds that evoke the heartwarming nostalgia of small-town America. For a dose of spice, order trays of mouthwatering tamales at M&M Hot Tamales down the street, or stop at Community Grocery, a cozy diner serving Southern comforts like shrimp salad and barbecue chicken sandwiches with your choice of cocktails, whiskey, and beer.

A trip to Woodville wouldn't be complete without an overnight stay, and delightful accommodations aren't hard to find. Just off Main Street is Martens Manor, a historic home dating to the late 1880s that now offers travelers a bed for the night. With comfortable rooms and welcoming hosts, this stunning mansion feels like a home away from home. Or, book an overnight stay at the Rosemont Plantation, where a cozy log cabin amidst tranquil wooded surroundings invites you on an adventure back through time.

Over at Lake Mary, rustic cabins are available for rent at an affordable price, placing you within minutes of lakeside excitement. The cabins are simple, but include amenities like a kitchen, cooking utensils, and satellite TV. Another option is The Sanctuary Lodge, a log farmhouse about 30 minutes away. In your room you'll find exposed beams and rustic furniture, while the lounge area offers a billiard table, cocktail bar, and a dining table beneath an impressive antler chandelier. With so much to see and do, a trip to Woodville is guaranteed to be memorable.