Neutral color palettes will always be in style, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for a little drama here and there. Embrace the dark side with rich walls and bold materials. Incorporating brighter textiles and artwork maximizes impact and keeps the overall design balanced. Explore some of our favorite dark and moody rooms by local designers for inspiration.
Photo by Jean Allsopp
A curated gallery wall and neutral furnishings pop against dark walls (painted Urbane Bronze by Sherwin-Williams) in this room designed by Stock & Trade Design Co. in the 2021 BH&G Inspiration Home.
Cotton Woodworks crafted ‘his’ and ‘her’ pecky cypress vanities that nestle at opposite ends of the primary bathroom, divided by a soaking tub. Thibaut’s Tobago Weave Wallpaper in Charcoal creates a rich backdrop for contemporary mirrors in acrylic and brass by Mirror Image Home.
“I love the contrast of light and dark,” designer Liz Hand Woods says of this study that includes charcoal-gray lacquered walls and white wing chairs. A vintage marble coffee table anchors the seating group.
Every hour is happy at this built-in bar, which features custom black-plaster walls, sleek black cabinetry, and brass appointments, including the brass-wrapped shelf and gleaming hardware.
The walls, ceiling and trim in this dining space are all painted Black Fox by Sherwin-Williams, while furnishings and fabrics take on a lighter tone creating big drama with contrasts.
Lacquered black wallpaper from Phillip Jeffries puts the focus on the black-and-gold-leaf sink and graphic vanity from Ferguson in this design by Alison Baker.
Photography for Wonderbird Distillery by Houston Cofield
Taylor, Mississippi, a short jaunt from downtown Oxford is home to Wonderbird Spirits, a remarkable distillery where owners are crafting award-winning gin in the “grain-to-glass” style.
There are only three gin-makers in the world using rice as their base and the other two are in Japan. Wonderbird uses rice from the Mississippi Delta and infuses their blends with botanicals, including red clover and loblolly pine from right on their property. Be sure to plan a tour and a tasting.
Wonderbird Distillery Exterior
While in Taylor, check out the food scene. If you are up for a short drive, head out of town to nearby Taylor Grocery for their famous catfish, steaks, fried oysters, and shrimp. “It’s brown-bag BYOB, and there’s often a wait, but the parking lot tailgating scene is all part of the experience, says Thomas Alexander, founder of Wonderbird Spirits. The Ro-Tel Cheese Fries are a late-night favorite. Elegantly riffing on Southern classics is what the owners of GRIT (also in Taylor) do best. Think Smoky Panko-Fried Spareribs and Gulf Shrimp and Peas served with a johnnycake. Save room for the Affogato e Cannoli.
Explore the charm of nearby Oxford, Mississippi, this fall with our guide to the best places to explore, dine, and relax. Discover local attractions, culinary delights, and hidden gems that make this town a perfect getaway. Read more about your next adventure here.
Nashville, Tennessee, isn’t just the heart of country music; it’s a city where the boundary between stage and audience blurs, where stars and fans mingle in an atmosphere pulsing with energy. The celebrity-owned bars lining Broadway and beyond are among the city’s many draws. These spots aren’t just about star power—they offer a unique experience where visitors can soak in Nashville’s legendary hospitality, music, and often, a chance to catch an impromptu performance by the stars themselves. Here’s a look at some of the most famous ones.
1. Ole Red – Blake Shelton
Blake Shelton’s Ole Red, located on Lower Broadway, is a love letter to the country lifestyle that Shelton epitomizes. Named after his hit song “Ol’ Red,” the bar captures the spirit of honky-tonk with its modern flair. Spread across four stories, it features live music daily, a rooftop with a stunning view of the Nashville skyline, and a Southern-inspired menu. Ole Red isn’t just a place to grab a drink—it’s an immersive experience where the line between fan and artist blurs, especially during one of Shelton’s surprise appearances.
2. Casa Rosa – Miranda Lambert
Just a few steps from Ole Red, you’ll find Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa, a unique blend of Nashville honky-tonk and Tex-Mex flair. Casa Rosa, which translates to “Pink House,” stands out with its vibrant decor reflecting Lambert’s fiery personality. The four-level bar and restaurant boast a rooftop with sweeping views of Broadway, multiple bars, and plenty of space to dance the night away. It’s the perfect spot to sip on a handcrafted cocktail or indulge in tacos while enjoying live music from some of Nashville’s up-and-coming artists.
3. FGL House – Florida Georgia Line
FGL House, owned by Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line, is another Broadway hotspot that perfectly encapsulates the duo’s party vibe. The multi-level venue includes the “Little Red Corvette” basement lounge, the main floor with a giant video wall, and a spacious rooftop bar called “Cruise.” Known for its eclectic menu and lively atmosphere, FGL House is a favorite for those who want to experience Nashville nightlife with a modern twist.
4. Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar
Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar is the go-to place for fans of the country superstar. Its Southern-inspired menu and rustic decor reflect Aldean’s down-home style. The four-story bar features a rooftop patio that offers some of the best views of downtown Nashville. Live music is a staple here, and the atmosphere is always buzzing, whether you’re enjoying a meal or just stopping by for drinks.
5. AJ’s Good Time Bar – Alan Jackson
For a classic Nashville honky-tonk experience, AJ’s Good Time Bar, owned by country legend Alan Jackson, is a must-visit. Housed in a historic building on Broadway, the bar is spread over three floors, each with its distinct vibe. The ground floor offers traditional honky-tonk with live country music, the second floor is a cozy sports bar, and the rooftop provides a panoramic view of the city. The bar is a tribute to Jackson’s love for traditional country music and a place where visitors can experience the genre in its purest form.
6. Redneck Riviera – John Rich
John Rich’s Redneck Riviera is a celebration of America’s blue-collar spirit. Located on Broadway, the bar is decked out in patriotic decor and offers a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. The two-story venue features live music, an upstairs “Heroes Bar” dedicated to veterans, and a rooftop deck perfect for people-watching. Rich is known to pop in for performances, making this a spot where you might just catch a surprise show.
7. Luke’s 32 Bridge – Luke Bryan
Luke Bryan’s 32 Bridge is a sprawling venue that reflects the star’s love for music, friends, and good times. Located on Broadway, the six-level entertainment complex includes eight bars, four stages for live music, and a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the Cumberland River. The menu is Southern-inspired, and the atmosphere is lively, making it a perfect spot to experience the vibrant nightlife of Nashville.
8. Chief’s – Eric Church
Eric Church’s Chief’s, one of the newest additions to Nashville’s star-owned bars, is a six-story, multi-purpose venue named after Church’s fan-favorite album. The bar reflects Church’s bold, rebellious spirit, offering live music, a rooftop with a view, and an extensive menu that includes both Southern and more adventurous fare. A standout feature is the intimate music venue within the bar, where fans can experience up-close performances in a setting that feels almost like a private show.
9. Whiskey Row – Dierks Bentley and Thompson Square
Dierks Bentley teamed up with country duo Thompson Square to bring Whiskey Row to Nashville, and it’s quickly become a must-visit on Broadway. This bar, with its rugged and industrial design, offers a high-energy environment with great food, craft cocktails, and an extensive selection of whiskey. Whiskey Row’s multiple levels include a bustling main floor, a rooftop with amazing views, and plenty of space to dance along to live music or a DJ. The partnership with Thompson Square adds an extra layer of star appeal, making it a spot where you might just find yourself rubbing shoulders with Nashville’s elite.
Nashville’s celebrity-owned bars offer more than just a brush with fame; they provide an authentic taste of Music City’s culture, where music and good times reign supreme. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or just someone looking for a great night out, these bars promise an unforgettable experience that could only happen in Nashville. So grab your boots, hit Broadway, and immerse yourself in the places where the stars of country music come out to play.
Discover Nashville’s vibrant nightlife and culinary delights in our guide to the city’s top activities, dining spots, and places to hear live music. Dive into the full story here.
Grape Creek Vineyards / Photo Credit Blake Mistich
Fredericksburg, Texas – This hamlet in the Hill Country area is buzzy enough to be exciting but chill enough for a great long weekend. Founded in 1846 by German immigrants under the Society for the Protection of German Immigrants in Texas, the town is nestled between two creeks and is just north of the Pedernales River.
The German influence is still there today in places like the downtown Marktplatz, a city park that bustles on weekends and holidays, as well as in storied buildings that now house the kitchen shop Der Küchen Laden and the Kuckuck’s Nest, a German import store.
Getting to Fredericksburg, Texas
Hop a flight to San Antonio, rent a car, and drive just over an hour north to Fredericksburg. That blacktop ribbon of highway passes through mesquite-rich ranchland that will have you rolling down the windows to take in the breeze. Stop at the Luckenbach Outpost before you get to town, where live music and cold beer are the order of the day.
Former US Post Office but also a Music Hall and a general store.
Where to stay in Fredericksburg, Texas
In town, Hoffman Haus and The TrueHeart Hotel feature spacious quarters to unwind and relax before or after a downtown stroll. TrueHeart’s cozy cottages feature porches and a community fireplace. Hoffman Haus Bed & Breakfast features whole homes, rooms, and suites. In both, the décor is classic Hill Country with stone walls and rough-hewn wood. Just outside of town, you’ll find HoneyTree. Their treehouses and hideaways offer roll-up garage-style doors and large soaking tubs.
What to do in Fredericksburg, Texas
Fredericksburg boasts 150 shops, galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms downtown alone. Create your own itinerary:
Visit Wildseed Farms, one of the nation’s largest growers of commercially-raised wildflowers. Their retail shop has seed varieties to bring home.
Das Peach Haus in Fredericksburg, TX
Places to Eat in Fredericksburg, Texas
The German culinary scene offers modern twists on classic fare. Lunch at Hill & Vine, indoors or in their backyard. Have a drink at Dietz Distillery at Das Peach Haus. Their custom mixers (think orange-serrano, peach-jalapeño, or passionfruit-mango) pair perfectly with their gin, vodka, and peach or pear eau de vie. Stroll to Otto’s German Bistro where the chefs craft heritage German cuisine with local and seasonal ingredients. If your visit coincides with one of Vaudeville’s V Supper Clubs, try to snag a spot for a culinary journey. They go quickly.
Powder rooms may be small in size, but they can still be big on style. Wallpaper is one of the easiest ways to add color and personality to the space. Don’t be afraid to embrace bold colors and big patterns – a larger print will actually make the space look bigger. Here are 10 of our favorite powder room wallpaper patterns for a little inspiration.
Photography by Mary Margaret Smith | Styling and Florals by Kathleen Varner
Nashville, the heart of country music, offers visitors historic landmarks, a vibrant creative scene, and a gracious Southern style. Whatever vibe you seek, you’ll surely find it here. Plan a weekend or longer to explore all that is uniquely Nashville.
Where to stay in Nashville
Rising above the Nashville skyline, the JW Marriott’s towering structure offers panoramic views of the city, from the iconic Music City Center to the rolling hills beyond. Rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, plush bedding, and contemporary furnishings. Guests can unwind in the expansive spa, enjoy a cocktail at the rooftop bar with a stunning view of the city, or dine at Bourbon Steak, a critically acclaimed restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Michael Mina. The hotel’s proximity to attractions like the Ryman Auditorium and Bridgestone Arena makes it an ideal base for exploring the best of Nashville.
For those seeking a more intimate and artistic stay, the Kimpton Aertson Hotel offers a boutique experience in Midtown, a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, and live music venues. The city’s creative energy inspires the hotel’s interiors, featuring local artwork and bespoke furnishings that reflect Nashville’s rich cultural heritage. The hotel’s rooftop pool and lounge offer guests a place to relax while enjoying the city views.
Tune in for live music in Nashville
If country music is what you have come for, you’ll find it in the honky tonks along Broadway, as well as the singer-songwriter venues such as the Bluebird Cafe and The Listening Room. But no trip to Nashville is complete without experiencing the Grand Ole Opry, the longest-running radio broadcast in American history.
A show here is a rite of passage for both legends and up-and-coming stars. Try to score a ticket to the pre-show for a meet-and-greet with the stars before the show. The Ryman Auditorium, known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” has hosted countless legendary performances, and the building’s history is as rich as the music that fills its walls.
Music & Museums
Any music lover will appreciate the Country Music Hall of Fame. In the permanent collection, highlights include memorabilia with everything from Elvis Presley’s car to Kacey Musgraves’s performance costumes. Be sure to stop in Hatch Show Print, one of America’s oldest working letterpress print shops that has been creating iconic posters for concerts and events since 1879. You can watch the printmakers at work and even create your custom print as a memento.
The National Museum of African American Music takes you back to the soul, jazz, and pop artists that make you want to clap your hands and stomp your feet. For a hands-on experience, guitar enthusiasts and music lovers can experience the world of Gibson guitars at Carter Vintage Guitars. Take a tour, watch live performances, and check your own sound in the interactive spaces.
A taste of Nashville: Places to eat and drink in Nashville
Known for hot chicken, regional cuisine, breweries, and distilleries, Nashville offers plenty of tasty treats. For lunch, order a sandwich at the original Hattie B’s, or indulge in a smash burger at Joyland. For a sugary pick-me-up, stop in the GooGoo Shop and Dessert Bar to sample creative takes on the classic confection and even make your own. For dinner, Deacon’s New South offers an updated, creative take on regional, traditional cuisine, as well as Gulf seafood. But their specialty is their in-house dry-aged steaks.
Fall weather has officially arrived, and we are beyond ready for cozy fall nights around a warm fire. Whether indoors or out, fireplaces often serve as the go-to gathering spot for family and guests while entertaining. Browse some of our favorite fireplace design ideas to use as inspiration when styling your own home. Bookmark these for your next refresh or renovation!
Photo by Jean Allsopp
A wall of wood paneling surrounds a sleek, modern fireplace design in this new Homewood cottage. “The homeowner was ready for a fresh, updated look, but she didn’t want to leave tradition behind. We struck a nice balance,” says designer Julie Terrell. See More of this Home
Photo by Emily Followill
This Lake Martin home designed by Ashley Gilbreath features a floor-to-ceiling rustic stone fireplace design that brings elements of the outdoors in. “The house slips seamlessly and respectfully into the landscape and incorporates the surroundings into the living space,” says Ashley. See More of this Home
Photo by Kerry Kirk
The centerpiece of this study is a dual-sided fireplace that separates the cozy space from a lofty great room on the other side. Coupled with the Wellon Bridgers abstract landscape and the brass chandelier, the pecky cypress paneled ceiling warms up the gray-blue paneled walls and trim. See More of this Home
Photo by Heather Durham
This screened outdoor living area in Homewood is anchored with a limestone fireplace complete with firewood storage and a mounted TV for football-watching parties. See More of this Home
Photo by Jean Allsopp
Interior designer Alison Baker celebrates her clients’ love of bright, bold, playful color and pattern in their Homewood condo. Hanging above the minimal concrete fireplace is a piece from the couple’s pop art collection that serves as the inspiration for the home’s adventurous palette. See More of this Home
Photo by Jean Allsopp
Architectural designers Richard and Lynielle Long created a new home in Auburn that references European traditions and brims with antiques. The living room’s pecky cypress paneling was painstakingly installed with highly detailed moldings. The marble surround and antique gold mirror mounted above the mantel give this fireplace design a classic, sophisticated feel. See More of this Home
Photo by Kerry Kirk
This open-air gazebo, complete with gas lanterns and a stone outdoor fireplace, is designed for year-round use. The zero-edge pool spills out to the terraced lawn planned by landscape architect Dave Eyrich of Environmental Design Studio. See More of this Home
Photo by Jean Allsopp
Designer Fran Keenan styled this 1950s Hollywood rancher to be cozy and collected with a blend of antiques and modern touches. Above the classic marble fireplace, an obelisk rests on a stack of antique books next to an abstract painting by William McLure. Peacock-shaped andirons are an example of perfectly-picked accessories that give the home a collected feel. See More of this Home
Photo by Jean Allsopp
A dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace serves as the focal point of this cozy den designed by Christopher Collection. The herringbone firebrick by FireRock serves as the perfect visual complement to the grid pattern of the stone. Specialty Wood Products provided the materials for the walls and vaulted ceiling with wood beams. See More of this Home
Photo by Jean Allsopp
Landscape designer Todd Dorlon created this backyard escape with distinct areas for enjoying outdoor living at its finest. The fireplace, surrounded by an intimate seating area, makes the garden usable year-round. “We love this space,” says homeowner Lois Bankston. “We even have a television on wheels in the garage that we roll out so we can watch football by the fire.” See More of this Home Garden
I really love the approachability of the home. The front porch welcomes you in off the street, and the large windows and gas lanterns give off a nice glow in the evenings.
– Richard Long, architect
Sometimes, a simple request can transform into an elaborate project. Mindy and Chris Strickland wanted to add a screened porch to their home. That was it—just another gathering place for friends and family to enjoy. That single appeal turned into a few more, and as one innovation idea morphed into another, the scope of the project completely changed, and they made the decision to embark on a full-blown rebuild. “After a few pricing exercises, we realized it would be better to start new,” says architect Richard Long of Long & Long Design.
“Once we decided it would be a teardown, we had more freedom to add the spaces they truly wanted.” Richard joined forces with Nikolaus Mimikakis of Mimikakis Construction and interior designer Missy Kohls (also Mindy’s sister) to design a new modern cottage concept.
With the addition of a few more carefully thought-out rooms, along with an expanded footprint—including the original plan for a screened porch—this house would be a place the family could grow into and continue to enjoy without leaving their beloved Homewood neighborhood.“It has Europe-meets-modern-style interiors that are fresh and inspiring thanks to the artful inclusion of found items, reclaimed architectural elements, and chippy painted pieces,” says Missy. “There is an interesting interplay of materials, including weathered wood, limestone, hand-forged iron, and soft linens. Casual and charming details with an abundance of light add the finishing touches that make the house feel like home”.
Age Defying Home Renovation
“Because this is a new house, we wanted to make sure it had plenty of character,” designer Missy Kohls says. Outside, the home features modern cottage detailing such as the round, diamond-paned window, hipped and gabled roof, dormer windows, tall chimney, and columned front porch. Inside, the limestone fireplace surround and the beams in the vaulted family room add distinction. “All of these elements play a part in making the space an excellent canvas for decorating with one-of-a-kind pieces to add even more interest,” Missy says.
“Some antiques have been around for hundreds of years and are still functioning, so any pieces your family uses just add to their story and patina.”
—Missy Kohls, interior designer
Room to Grow
The second story suits the two daughters’ bedrooms. The primary suite is on the main level, along with living spaces, a kitchen, a screened porch, a home office, a powder room, and a walk-in pantry. On the lowerlevel, there’s a guest suite, laundry room, carport, and media room.
Porch Party
“Mindy and Chris really love to entertain, so the screened porch acts as an extension of their family room,” Missy says. Seeking comfort first, she added club chairs and a sofa from Macy’s Home that cozy up to a wood-burning fireplace. The rug is from At Home in Homewood. The coffee table is an antique crate used to transport chickens. “We added casters and a glass top to make it a charming and casual addition to the porch,” says Missy.
Cottage Appeal
“When the neighborhood kids are outside playing, parents will gather on the front porches to watch over the children and socialize,” Missy says. “Creating a space that would continue that tradition was important.” The Stricklands’ house is especially inviting thanks to its architectural charms such as the custom white oak front door and shutters designed by Richard Long.
Collected Comforts
Shopping high and low, as well as antique, vintage, and new, Missy and Mindy scoured local shops, Scott Antique Markets, and online sites for their finds while also mixing in a few family pieces. Neutral upholstery features traditional lines in performance fabrics. Tables and accessories are mostly antique. The custom, 10-foot trestle dining table is from Ed Grier (The Moses Table Company in Homewood). Windsor chairs and host chairs are antique. Floral draperies are custom. “I like to call the style of this house European Collected,” Missy says. “It feels fresh and casual like it was effortlessly pulled together with nothing too formal or precious.”
Artistic Impressions
For art, Missy and Mindy chose landscapes. “If it had a cow or sheep in it, it was even better,” Missy says. In the family room, an oil painting that belonged to their great-grandparents hangs atop a French architectural panel. In the living room, a gallery wall strikes a defining note.
Easy Flow
“We love the challenge of balancing an efficient plan for everyday needs with a spacious layout,” Richard Long says. “This home has a good sense of that. Some rooms are nice and cozy, and others are set up for larger gatherings— but they all work well together.” The kitchen stays neat thanks to the ample butler’s pantry (painted Benjamin Moore Gloucester Sage) accessed through an antique door (Preservation Company, Huntsville). “The pantry had to be practical but pretty,” says Missy. There are storage areas and open spaces to display pretty china and silver collections.
Quiet Comforts
The primary bedroom (above) is a peaceful retreat thanks to the soothing green-and-white palette with art by Wellon Bridgers. “My sister loves looking out the windows at the trees, so I pulled the outside in with the green touches and leafy linen duvet,” Missy says. One daughter’s room showcases vintage style with an iron bed topped with a floral print duvet, gingham shams, and a reproduction chandelier. “This combination creates the perfect retreat from the rigors of school,” says Missy.
Have a fabulous art collection? Or a number of family photographs you want to display in a big way? A gallery wall is a great way to infuse your space with personal style. Whether in a bedroom, living room, hallway or stairwell – with just a little planning, a well curated gallery wall can add a fun burst of color and character to your space. Take a look at these inspiring examples that illustrate some great ways to get that cohesive, collected look.
Photo by Jean Allsopp
Mix and Match
Twin Construction interior designer Lydia Smith gave these Edgewood homeowners the collected look they desired with a mix of frames in various shapes, sizes and colors. “They wanted color and an eclectic vibe, which fits their personalities perfectly,” she says. TOUR THE HOME
Photo by Jean Allsopp
Balance Old and New
Designer Ware Porter adorned this living room wall with a collection of oil paintings in gold frames. Ware balances the classic art display with edgier pieces such as the contemporary coffee table. “I don’t think rooms should be too serious, ” says Ware. “I’m not a stuffy person and need some aspect of whimsy in my rooms.” TOUR THE HOME
Photo by Jean Allsopp
Play with Scale
Interior designer Melissa Salem allows her colorful art collection to tell a story. The variety of scales and mixture of mediums and subjects complement each other rather than compete. TOUR THE HOME
Photo by Jean Allsopp
Be Playful
Finding a way to display your children’s artwork can be a challenge. Here, designer Paige Schnell of Tracery Interiors, created organized chaos off the kitchen with a haphazard arrangement that is equal parts playful and imaginative. TOUR THE HOME
Photo by Sarah Arrington
Showcase your Interests
Designers Annie Goldberg and Ginny Maguire of AG Interior Design kept the atmosphere fun in this den/family room with a wall of eclectic artwork. The collection features a velvet Elvis purchased at a yard sale years ago, a giant pink donut indicating the family’s love for The Simpsons television show, and a Widespread Panic painting by Frenchy that the couple received as a wedding present. TOUR THE HOME
Photo by Jean Allsopp
Create a Story
So So Spiffy owner Barbara Cooney’s expansive gallery wall features a variety of styles and pieces by local artists and artwork purchased during travels. “The portraits are fun,” she says. “I don’t know the people in them, but I am so curious about their stories. I like to conjure up a narrative behind the faces, and it makes the art come more alive for me.” TOUR THE HOME
Click here for interior designer Melissa Salem’s tips for curating a meaningful art collection
Whether you’re an Ole Miss Rebels fan or not, a visit to Oxford, Mississippi, is always a good idea. On game weekends, the downtown square and campus are packed with students and alumni donning red and blue, but when the Rebels are on the road, you can enjoy this quaint, sophisticated town like a local. Pepper your itinerary with equal parts history, literature, fine dining, music, and time exploring outdoors.
Lyric TheatreStrip of shops & restaurants near town
Where to stay in Oxford, MS
The Graduate and The Inn at Ole Miss are easy choices, but the new Oliver Hotel, just off The Square, is a true gem. The former Chancellor’s House Hotel has been completely updated (modeled after their downtown Knoxville, Tennessee location) and features light-filled rooms with tall ceilings, bespoke bathroom amenities, and the cozy Kingswood restaurant. Enjoy cocktails or dining on the outdoor patio—a great place to begin an evening. Chef Joel Miller’s menus play off the seasons and ingredients from local purveyors. Enjoy a nightcap at the Oliver’s Nightbird speakeasy, just off the lobby. Follow them on Instagram @NightbirdParlour for clues on how to enter this ‘secret’ spot.
The Oliver Hotel. Photo courtesy of visitoxfordms.com
What to do in Oxford, MS
Whether you’ve never been to Oxford or have been making the trip for years, the go-to favorites and hotspots still stand the test of time.
Rowan Oak, William Faulkner’s Greek Revival home, is open to the public year-round from dawn to dusk. Visitors can take the Bailey Woods Trail to the adjacent University of Mississippi Museum. There is an old moss-laden labyrinth before you reach the oaks; spend a minute there (barefoot, if you like) to connect with this famous Southern author. Tour the home and imagine it back in its day, without the roar of a college town just outside.
Everyone has their favorite spots on the famous square that anchors downtown Oxford. Of course, Square Books cannot be missed. Look for first editions and signed copies from writers who helped put Oxford on the literary map: William Faulkner, John Grisham, Larry Brown, Barry Hannah, and Willie Morris to list a few. Billed as the “South’s Oldest Store,” Neilson’s has been an Oxford staple since 1839, outfitting locals and visitors alike. Located just off The Square is Blue Delta Jeans where you can be custom- fitted for your next pair of these bespoke britches. Call ahead to make an appointment.
Follow the Mississippi Blues Trail where physical markers around town document important contributors to the Blues. Keep that music vibe alive with a visit to Proud Larry’s; pop in to The End of All Music, Oxford’s independent record shop; and check the concert schedule at The Lyric.
Take a walk through the Ole Miss campus and admire the Greek Revival buildings, and The Grove—the center of the tailgate scene and the landscape originally designed in the mid 1800s by Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr.
Rowan Oak (William Faulkner’s Home)
Dining Out in Oxford, MS
Oxford has a long-tradition of being a great eating town. From James Beard Award-winning Chef John Currence’s outposts (Big Bad Breakfast, City Grocery, Bouré) to Saint Leo, Tarasque Cucina, and Snackbar, there is no shortage of great food. The biggest challenge might be finding a table on game weekends. Aside from his own spots, Currence recommends Mama Jo’s Country Cookin. Owned and helmed by the matriarch and namesake, always dressed in her Sunday best, she serves up an old school meat-and-three as good as you’ll find anywhere.
Cocktail options are plentiful in this college town. Students gravitate to The Library, Rooster’s, and Harrison’s, but for a more intimate spot, John T. Edge, author of The Potlikker Papers: A Food History of the Modern South and host of “TrueSouth” on ESPN and the SEC Network, says, “If you haven’t been to Bar Muse, go there for cocktails. It’s elegant, delicious, and offers great service.” Located inside the Lyric Theatre, Bar Muse offers craft cocktails curated by James-Beard nominee Joseph Stinchcomb.
If Big Bad Breakfast is too crowded in the mornings, stop in Bottletree Bakery or go for a Sunday bagel at The Luv Shak. Owner Dennis van Oostendorp has a cult-like following at this funky dive. He serves Italian fare during the week, but go early for the Sunday bagels because when they’re gone, they’re gone.
Discover the unique charm of nearby Taylor, Mississippi, home to Wonderbird Spirits, where award-winning gin is crafted using local ingredients and innovative techniques. Learn more about your next adventure in this vibrant town here.
