From the rolling hills of the north to the Gulf Coast shoreline, Mississippi is redefining what it means to host a sporting event. Competition mixes with food, music, and history that make the state one of the south’s most unique destinations.  

By Kristen Cerney 

Whether it’s cheering on the Bulldogs in Starkville, biking the Natchez Trace in Ridgeland, or soaking up Gulf Coast sunsets after a tournament, Mississippi ensures that every event is more than just a game—it’s an experience. 

North Mississippi 

Northern Mississippi is brimming with diverse traditions, exciting sporting events and a welcoming atmosphere. In Starkville, sports hold a special place in the hearts of the students of Mississippi State (MSU). This college town thrives during football season, packed with tailgating, cheering on the Bulldogs with cowbells, and wearing branded attire of their mascot “Bully”.  

Head to The Cotton District to find charming accommodations, such as beautiful boutiques and savory dining. Grab a post-game bite at Bulldog Burger Co, where they serve the fan favorite “The Lauren,” a burger topped with bacon, sharp cheddar, fried avocado, crispy onions, bibb lettuce, and barbeque ranch.  

Located in the Mississippi Hills region in the northeast, Tupelo is best known for being the birthplace of the iconic Elvis Presley. The city’s culture is centered around a deep appreciation for the arts and the rural scenery. With the Natchez Trace Parkway running diagonally through the Mississippi Hills region, cyclists, hikers and roadtrippers can pay tribute to 10,000 years of North American history while appreciating the views. Tupelo ensures their facilities are diverse and supportive of an array of sporting events, including lacrosse, fencing and swimming.  

Head west to the beloved city of Oxford, also well known for having a deep appreciation of the arts. Home to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), a bustling university with the impressive Vaught Hemingway Stadium, residents’ love of college sports is clear. Undergoing countless upgrades, the venue is constantly improving to make each Rebels game one for the books.  

Just alongside the Tennessee border, DeSoto County has endless opportunities for sporting events. The Mississippi Blues Trail runs straight through the growing suburban areas, anchoring the county in its deep musical roots. During downtime, explore the historical markers that recognize blues greats like Memphis Minnie. The sporting facilities support everything from basketball and hockey at Landers Center, to baseball and soccer at Snowden Grove Park in Southaven.  

“With Snowden Grove Park in Southaven, we feature a 17-field baseball complex with all turf infields, a tennis complex home to the only USTA pro event in Mississippi, and the best soccer fields in the region,” said Jon Frost, director of Visit DeSoto County.  

A visit to Mississippi isn’t complete without a visit to Greenwood, a city that takes pride in its Delta tradition. The blues play a crucial role in the region’s culture, its culture is deeply ingrained in its soulful past; this can be tasted in the bold flavors of the cuisine. With reimagined regional favorites–such as cheese fritters and slow-smoked ribs–Greenwood will have you feeling satisfied and ready for a fitness-filled trip. Families love attending ballgames at Stribling Park, a spacious venue perfect for thriving youth sports in the community. With a family-focused attitude, the city welcomes visitors with open arms and redefined southern hospitality.  

Turning northeast, Grenada’s Kirk Auto Group Sports Complex is a mecca for young baseball and softball players. “Its six all-weather turf fields and modern amenities draw competitive play, but what really enhances the value for event organizers is how easily they can pair the complex with Grenada’s other attractions,” said Madison Haley, destination marketing manager at Visit Grenada. 

Grenada’s beauty is never clearer than at Grenada Lake, a 90-thousand acre body of water where visitors can fish, boat, hike and bike in serenity. End the day with a shake at Spencer’s Dairy Kream for a quintessential diner experience, or enjoy smoked barbeque while listening to live music at Magnolia Smokehouse at their outdoor picnic tables. Grenada’s small-town atmosphere draws in outdoor enthusiasts ready for a peaceful trip to their home away from home.  

Jackson Metropolitan Area 

The Jackson metropolitan area is defined by its rich history, its role in the Civil Rights Movement, and its passion for creative expression in the arts and cuisine. Fondly thought of as “The City With Soul,” the city of Jackson is shaped by its vibrant music scene in Southern soul, blues and jazz. What the city lacks in a major professional sports team, they make up for in vibrant college rivalries and high school athletics. The athletic scene is largely focused on the historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and high school programs, with a special love for football and basketball. Jackson is proudly home to the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, which displays legends like Jake Gibbs, Bailey Howell, Walter Payton and more in a hands-on format children can interact with and learn from.  

Just north of Jackson, Ridgeland is steadily approaching their 27th year of holding the annual Natchez Trace Century Ride. Visitors from all over the country come to celebrate a weekend full of bike riding, dining and shopping. The city offers the best of central Mississippi, guaranteeing big-city luxury and a small-town feel. Recognized as Mississippi’s Healthiest Hometown and a Bicycle Friendly Community, Ridgeland is a prime example of a community that prioritizes active lifestyles. 

“When you come here for an event, you’re also stepping into a city built around wellness, outdoor recreation and a standard of living that makes every experience richer,” said Gene McGee, mayor of Ridgeland, and an avid cyclist. 

To the east, Flowood offers vibrant outdoor recreation with miles of winding trails for hiking and biking and the beautiful Crystal Lake for fishing and kayaking. Outdoor enthusiasts love the award-winning 40-acre sports complex, Flowood Liberty Park, which offers an array of amenities for an unforgettable experience. 

“Flowood Liberty Park is a diversified complex for year-round use including four regulation sized grass soccer fields, eight well maintained and lighted baseball/softball fields with durable turf infields and lush grass outfields, the largest pickleball complex in Mississippi with 18 new courts which is completely free to play, and a new children’s playground for all ages,” said Danial Lang, director of economic development and tourism for Flowood. 

Central Mississippi  

For central Mississippi, destinations focus on creating experiences rooted in their rich histories, while providing guests with modern amenities. In Meridian, athletes travel from all over the state to participate in the State Games of Mississippi, where competition seamlessly blends with culture. To kick off the event, the opening ceremonies bring live music inspired by Meridian’s rhythm and blues roots, invigorating performances from local artists and a demonstration of the community’s passion and support to the games. 

“By weaving music, art, food and hospitality into the State Games, Meridian ensures the annual event is not only a showcase of athletic excellence but also a powerful reminder of Meridian and Lauderdale County’s unique cultural heartbeat,” said Laura Carmichael, executive director of Visit Meridian. 

Cradled by the curve of the Mississippi River, Vicksburg is best known for being the site of the key Civil War battle, the Siege of Vicksburg. Through this, the city has adopted a profound admiration to honor the past while incorporating modern elements. Outside of attending monuments and memorials, visitors can enjoy a vibrant tourist scene with a focus on attracting athletes and fans to sports fields and facilities. At Key City Park, visitors can attend tournaments for baseball, softball and soccer.  

South Mississippi 

The south Mississippi region is home to more beautiful cities and sporting facilities. Hattiesburg, also known as “Hub City,” has everything you need for an outstanding sporting event. With state-of-the-art facilities, family-friendly hotels and a year-round climate, this city stands out as the perfect sports hub in the Gulf South.  

“Team sports meet thriving arts and entertainment, along with a local foodie scene that’s second to none,” said Marlo Dorsey, executive director & CEO of Visit Hattiesburg. 

When visiting Coastal Mississippi, dip into the Gulf Coast culture while enjoying 62 miles worth of scenic shoreline. The beautiful surroundings create an ideal location for outdoor sports, eco-tours, or just relaxing. Being so close to the water, boating, kayaking and fishing are among the locals’ favorite activities, but there are endless opportunities for experiences on land as well. Ranked as the fourth best golfing destination by USA Today 10Best, Coastal Mississippi boasts courses for pros, beginners and everything in between. Feeling hungry? Indulge in mouthwatering seafood with a southern flare, always fresh and paired with delicious drinks and breathtaking views. 

Across every corner of Mississippi, sports tourism is about more than competition, it’s about community. By blending local culture with athletics, the Magnolia State transforms tournaments into memories, ensuring visitors leave with more than just a final score.