Let’s face it: there’s just something so charming about the idea of Main Street. These quaint downtown areas are often brimming with shops and eateries. Attracting both locals and tourists, main streets are the centerpiece of many small towns – and Mississippi is no exception. In fact, according to the website Top Value Reviews, the Magnolia State is home to one of the best main streets in America. Take a look:
Columbus, Mississippi took the 22nd spot on the website’s list, which was officially titled “50 Best Small Town Main Streets in America.”
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But this wasn’t the first time Columbus’ Main Street garnered national recognition.
Jeff Baldock’s Creative Visions In 2010, it received the “Great American Main Street Award” and in 2012, Travel and Leisure included it in their listing of “America’s Greatest Main Streets.”
Columbus was established in 1821 as survivors of a flood flocked to the area in search of higher ground.
Visit Columbus/Facebook
Since those early days, Columbus’ Main Street, which is technically named Fifth Street, remains a focal point of the town.
Main Street Columbus, Inc./Facebook
The picturesque street is lined with shops, restaurants, and more.
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Apartments and condos are located directly above Main Street businesses, only adding to the area’s popularity.
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One of the most recognizable buildings on Main Street is the former home of Columbus native and renowned writer Tennessee Williams.
Visit Columbus/Facebook It was relocated to its present location in the early 1990s and now serves as a Welcome Center, making it a great place to start your visit.
The Princess Theater is also a Main Street must-visit.
Jeff Baldock’s Creative Visions Please note, Princess Theater has permanently closed. In addition to serving some amazing pizza, this local favorite features a bar, pool tables, darts, karaoke, and live music.
You’ll definitely want to do a bit of shopping at Holly Hocks.
Jeff Baldock’s Creative Visions The one-of-a-kind shop is filled with a huge assortment of merchandise, ranging from gifts and seasonal items to home decor.
Just outside of Holly Hocks, you’ll find a shaded area with benches, making it a great spot to stop and soak up your delightful surroundings.
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In addition to permanent fixtures on Main Street, you’ll also find plenty of seasonal ones.
Main Street Columbus, Inc./Facebook The Hitching Lot Farmers’ Market is held on Main Street from April through October. During the summer months, festivals and contests are the norm.
Practically overflowing with charm, even the alleys on Main Street seem too good to be true.
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Aside from being one of the best main streets in America, Columbus also boasts some impressive architecture from yesteryear.
Visit Columbus/Facebook The town’s historic district has one of the largest collections of antebellum homes in the state, coming in second only to Natchez.
Historic home tours are conducted daily. For more information, stop by the Tennessee Williams Welcome Center, call (662) 329-1191, or visit the Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau website.
Visit Columbus/Facebook
Ready to plan your visit to Columbus?
Jeff Baldock’s Creative Visions Click here for a list of bed and breakfasts, including A Painted Lady (pictured), which is located directly on Fifth Street.
Have you ever visited Columbus and its charming downtown? Did you know the town had such a delightful Main Street? We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments section.
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In 2010, it received the “Great American Main Street Award” and in 2012, Travel and Leisure included it in their listing of “America’s Greatest Main Streets.”
Visit Columbus/Facebook
Main Street Columbus, Inc./Facebook
It was relocated to its present location in the early 1990s and now serves as a Welcome Center, making it a great place to start your visit.
Please note, Princess Theater has permanently closed. In addition to serving some amazing pizza, this local favorite features a bar, pool tables, darts, karaoke, and live music.
The one-of-a-kind shop is filled with a huge assortment of merchandise, ranging from gifts and seasonal items to home decor.
The Hitching Lot Farmers’ Market is held on Main Street from April through October. During the summer months, festivals and contests are the norm.
The town’s historic district has one of the largest collections of antebellum homes in the state, coming in second only to Natchez.
Click here for a list of bed and breakfasts, including A Painted Lady (pictured), which is located directly on Fifth Street.
Looking for more must-visit main streets? Check out “These 10 Towns In Mississippi Have The Best Main Streets You Gotta Visit.“
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