Introduction

Starkville might be Mississippi’s most famous college town—it is home to Mississippi State University—but it packs a punch beyond Bulldogs athletics. This 24,000-person city also contains some of the finest athletic facilities in the South and a bevy of cultural attractions that visitors will not want to miss.

One of the highlights of a trip to Starkville is the Cotton District Arts Festival & Taste of Starkville, a lively celebration of local art, food, and music that draws visitors from all over the region. This event, set in the charming Cotton District, offers an immersive experience into the town’s creative spirit. Another can’t-miss to-do is Downtown at Sundown, where jubilant people gather in Starkville’s picturesque downtown for live music, food vendors, and a relaxed, community atmosphere.

For those with an appreciation for history and culture, the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library contains 15,000 linear feet of correspondence, research notes, published monographs, artifacts, photographs, scrapbooks, and memorabilia, by and about the United States’ 18th president.

The Dunn-Seiler Geology Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the geological wonders of the region, featuring impressive fossil displays and interactive exhibits—plus a triceratops skull. The King Cotton Crawfish Boil is another beloved event, where attendees can indulge in mouthwatering crawfish while enjoying live music. Finally, the International Fiesta highlights Starkville’s diverse community with a day of global cuisine, performances, and cultural displays. Together, these events and attractions paint a picture of a town rich in tradition, creativity, and communal spirit.