Reviewed by: Sarah Morgan Freeman
Why you need a fall escape in Oxford MS—free music events, great brunch dives + more
Reading time: 5 minutes
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Daydreaming about crisp autumn air and pumpkin-flavored treats? We have the perfect place for a weekend escape—Oxford, Mississippi.
Read on for free live music events, must-try foodie spots, charming B&Bs and more. Psst—it’s less than three hours from Birmingham.
Fall events in Oxford, MS
3rd Thursdays live music
I love pocket parks, especially when they’re buzzing with people and entertainment.
On the 3rd Thursday of each month, you can hear live music at the green space next to Oxford City Hall.
Located in the historic Square, the downtown area is filled with unique stores, tantalizing restaurants and free live music. It makes for the perfect pit stop while shopping or heading to dinner.
Headlining musicians include Alphonso Sanders on September 19 and The Doo Vays on October 17.
- When: 3rd Thursday each month | 5-7PM
- Where: North Lamar Pocket Park, Courthouse Square, Oxford, MS 38655
- Cost: Free admission
Square Jam Session
Nothing says fall in the South like football, food and live performances.
On Friday, October 25, Visit Oxford will kick off Ole Miss-Oklahoma football weekend with bands, food and fun in The Square. Food trucks will be located behind City Hall/the Pocket Park.
You may not be cheering on the Birmingham Blazers or Samford Bulldogs, but it will still be a blast.
- When: Friday, October 25 | 5PM
- Cost: Free admission
- Where: Parking bay in front of City Hall/Neilson’s Department Store, 119 Courthouse Square, Oxford, MS 38655
Chilling Oxford Ghost Tours
My favorite thing about fall is Halloween, from carving pumpkins and clever costumes.
Get into the spooky spirit by going on a spine-tingling ghost tour.
The tours offer a historic and paranormal experience into some of Oxford’s most tragic and supernatural tales.
Some of the stories covered on the tours include:
- The burning of Oxford in 1864
- The lynching of Lawson Patton
- The murder of Leonard Burt
- The trials of Mathis and Lester
- The lynching at the railroad depot
Warning: You may need to sleep with the lights on after the tour.
- When: Thursdays + Fridays every month | 8PM
- Cost: $15 per person
- More info
Oxford’s restaurant scene
Patio sitting with delicious food and drinks is what gorgeous fall weather was made for.
We know Birmingham is a pro at outdoor dining. But, it’s also fun to expand your love of mealtime when traveling to a new city, like Oxford.
Here are some restaurants with incredible menus, vibes and patios to visit this fall:
Good Day Cafe
This hidden gem is the perfect place to start or end your day.
Their menu is small but rich in brunch, lunch and recently added alcohol and weekend dinner menus.
The fried sandwich caught my attention with your choice of ham or bacon, American cheese and spiced ketchup on brioche. Add on a Mexican Coke and you have the perfect meal.
- Where: 766 N Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655
- Hours:
- Wednesday + Thursday 11AM-2:30PM
- Friday 11AM-2:30PM, 5-9:30PM
- Saturday 10AM-2PM, 5-9:30PM
- Sunday 10AM-2PM
- Monday + Tuesday Closed
Circle + Square Brewing
Grab a brewski at Circle + Square. (Visit Oxford MS)
Birminghamians enjoy a lively brewery and Circle + Square Brewing is worth a visit while in Oxford.
The newly-opened taproom serves up in-house brewed craft beers and specialty cocktails. Plus, they offer a tasty menu with brew-house favorites like salty pretzels and hot dogs.
- Where: 100 Depot St, Oxford, MS 38655
- Hours: Monday-Wednesday 7AM-9PM | Thursday-Saturday 7AM-10PM | Sunday 9AM-7PM
Tarasque Cucina
Craving Italian? You will be when I fill you in on this must-try restaurant.
Tarasque Cucina is situated just off The Square on busy Jackson Avenue.
The menu offers daily specials like classic pastas and Southern favorites, with indoor and outdoor seating available.
BONUS: Taraque Cucina is BYOB! Just swing by the nearest liquor store to grab your fave bottle of wine to enjoy during your meal.
*There is a glass fee of $2 per person for any beer, wine or alcohol brought in.
- Where: 1611 Jackson Ave W, Oxford, MS 38655
- Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 5-9PM | Sunday 5-8:30PM
Stay in Oxford, MS
Before you can book your trip to Oxford this fall, you’ll need a place to stay.
Here are a few to to consider:
The South Lamar B&B—1003 S Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655
Why you’ll love it:
- It’s one of the oldest homes in the city’s downtown.
- In 2022, it was renovated in into a bed and breakfast.
- Guests receive a daily complimentary breakfast.
The Inn at Ole Miss—120 Alumni Dr, University, MS 38677
Why you’ll love it:
- It’s located on the University of Mississippi gorgeous campus.
- It’s home to McCormick’s restaurant + bar.
- It offers a complimentary nightly shuttle to The Square.
The Graduate—400 N Lamar Blvd, Oxford, MS 38655
Why you’ll love it:
- It’s located on The Square and close to the University of Mississippi campus.
- It features a rooftop bar.
- It offers bike rentals .
- It’s pet-friendly.
Spend the holidays in Oxford MS—light displays, local shops + more
Are you ready to book your fall escape? Check out Visit Oxford MS’s website for everything you need to plan.
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