Meridian Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Mississippi, the city of Meridian is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its rich history and southern charm, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and natural beauty.

For history buffs, Meridian is a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered. The city played a significant role during the Civil War, and visitors can explore its past through the numerous historic sites and museums. The Meridian Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of artwork, while the Meridian Union Station offers a glimpse into the city's railroad history. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Temple Theater, a beautifully restored venue that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to see and do in Meridian. The city is surrounded by lush forests and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Visit Bonita Lakes Park, where you can hike along scenic trails, go fishing in the tranquil lakes, or have a picnic surrounded by nature's beauty. If you're looking for a more adrenaline-filled adventure, head to Chunky River Recreation Area, where you can go kayaking or canoeing down the river.

Meridian is also a haven for music lovers. Known as the "Birthplace of the Blues," the city has a rich musical heritage that can be experienced through its live music venues and festivals. Be sure to catch a show at the Mississippi State University Riley Center, a stunning performance venue that hosts a wide range of concerts and events throughout the year. And if you're lucky enough to visit during the Jimmie Rodgers Festival, you'll be treated to a celebration of the city's most famous son, the "Father of Country Music."

When it comes to dining, Meridian offers a delightful array of culinary experiences. From classic southern comfort food to international cuisines, there's something to satisfy every palate. Indulge in mouthwatering barbecue, savor fresh seafood, or treat yourself to a delicious homemade pie at one of the city's charming eateries.

Alternative names: Population: 39.7 thous.Area: 54.5 mi²Elevation: 341 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 32°21'52"N, 88°41'47"W

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MississippiUnited States

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Meridian Top Attractions

Meridian Attractions - What to See and Explore

Meridian offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Soulé Steam Feed Works, MSU Riley Center, Highland Park, Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

History museum • Museum • Science museum
Soulé Steam Feed Works
Soulé Steam Feed Works is a historic business founded in Meridian, Mississippi in 1891 by George Soulé. The complex was listed as a contributing property to Union Station Historic District, which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 under the Meridian Multiple Resource Area.
Music and shows • Theater • Concerts and shows
MSU Riley Center
The Riley Center, also known as the Grand Opera House and formally as the Mississippi State University Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts, is a performing arts and conference center in Meridian, Mississippi. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
Specialty museum • Museum • Park
Highland Park
Highland Park is a historic park in Meridian, Mississippi, United States. Home to a museum honoring Jimmie Rodgers, a Meridian native, the site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

Museum • Art museum
Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience
The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience is a museum that opened April 28, 2018 in downtown Meridian, Mississippi, United States. The 50 million dollar museum highlights Mississippi artists and celebrates the contributions of arts and entertainment enterprisers in every artistic discipline.
Museum • Art museum
Meridian Museum of Art
Meridian Museum of Art is an art museum located at 628 25th Avenue, Meridian, Mississippi. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and declared a Mississippi Landmark in 1985.
Church
First Presbyterian Church of Meridian
First Presbyterian Church of Meridian is a historic church in Meridian, Mississippi, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The church was founded in 1856 by eight members including John T. Ball and Lewis A. Ragsdale, founders of the city of Meridian. The reverend at the time was William Curtis Emerson.
Historical place • Church • Sacred and religious sites
St. Patrick's Catholic Church
St. Patrick Catholic Church is a parish of the Catholic Church in Meridian, Mississippi, in the Diocese of Jackson. Its historic church, located at 2614 Davis Street, was designed by Alfred Zucker. Since 1995, St.
City hall
Meridian City Hall
City Hall in Meridian, Mississippi in the United States is located at 601 24th Avenue. Originally designed by architect P.J. Krouse in 1915, the building underwent several renovations during the 1950s that diminished the historic quality of the building.
32°21'53"N • 88°42'3"W
Threefoot Building
The Threefoot Building is a historic office building located in downtown Meridian, Mississippi named after the Threefoot family who owned an operated a business in downtown Meridian during the late 19th century and early 20th century.
Cemetery
McLemore Cemetery
McLemore Cemetery is a cemetery in Meridian, Mississippi. The cemetery was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on December 18, 1979, and is the oldest surviving historic site in the city.
Concerts and shows • Theater
Temple Theater
The Hamasa Shrine Temple Theater, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, is a historic theater located at 2320 8th Street in Meridian, Mississippi. The Temple Theater was constructed in the Moorish Revival style and began screening silent films in 1928.
32°21'59"N • 88°41'60"W
United States Post Office and Courthouse
The United States Post Office and Courthouse in Meridian, Mississippi was built in 1933. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
Museum • History museum
Merrehope
Merrehope, a 26-room Victorian mansion that currently serves as a historic house museum, was originally built in 1858 by Richard McLemore for his daughter Juriah Jackson.
32°21'55"N • 88°41'57"W
Dement Printing Company
The Dement Printing Company is a historic printing company in Meridian, Mississippi established in 1875. The building in which the company currently operates was built in 1909 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
Synagogue
Congregation Beth Israel
Congregation Beth Israel in Meridian, Mississippi, is a Reform Jewish congregation founded in 1868 and a member of the Union for Reform Judaism. The congregation's first permanent house of worship was a Middle Eastern-style building constructed in 1879.
32°15'22"N • 88°33'39"W
Causeyville Baptist Church
Church
Theme park
Highland Park Dentzel Carousel and Shelter Building
The Highland Park Dentzel Carousel and Shelter Building is a carousel and building in Highland Park in Meridian, Mississippi. Manufactured about 1896 for the 1904 St. Louis Exposition by the Dentzel Carousel Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the carousel was sold and shipped to Meridian.
Reportedly haunted
Pigford Building
The Pigford Building, also known as Pythian Castle Hall, is a three-story red brick building in downtown Meridian, Mississippi. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on December 18, 1979.
32°22'9"N • 88°42'1"W
Porter-Crawford House
The Porter-Crawford House, at 1208 22nd Ave. in Meridian, Mississippi, is a historic Queen Anne style house that was built in 1912. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 as part of a Multiple Property Submission.

Day trips

Meridian – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Meridian, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Alamuchee-Bellamy Covered Bridge (Livingston), Pearl River Resort (Philadelphia), Cedarlawn Cemetery (Philadelphia).

34 milesNE
Bridge
Alamuchee-Bellamy Covered Bridge, Livingston
The Alamuchee-Bellamy Covered Bridge is a county-owned wooden covered bridge that spans the northeast corner of Duck Pond in Sumter County, Alabama, United States.
41 milesNW
Casino, Gambling, Hotel casino
Pearl River Resort, Philadelphia
Pearl River Resort is a gaming resort located in Choctaw, Neshoba County, Mississippi. It is owned and operated by the federally recognized Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.
37 milesNW
Cemetery
Cedarlawn Cemetery, Philadelphia
Cedarlawn Cemetery is a cemetery located in Philadelphia, Mississippi. It is also sometimes spelled Cedar Lawn Cemetery. Multiple people of note are interred at Cedarlawn Cemetery: Adam M. Byrd, US Congressman Florence Mars, Author Bubba Phillips, MLB player W.
36 milesSW
Church
Montrose Presbyterian Church, Bienville National Forest
Montrose Presbyterian Church is a historic church on County Road 20 in Montrose, Mississippi. It was built circa 1910 and added to the National Register in 2003. Mississippi historian Cyril Edward Cain is buried in Montrose Presbyterian Church Cemetery.
43 milesW
Natural attraction, Protected area
Harrell Prairie Botanical Area, Bienville National Forest
Harrell Prairie Botanical Area or Harrell Prairie Hill is a 160-acre tallgrass prairie nature preserve located within Bienville National Forest near Forest, Mississippi. It is a rare remaining example of the Jackson Prairie Belt in Mississippi.

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Best Time To Visit Meridian

Learn when is the best time to travel to Meridian weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Meridian?

The top attractions to visit in Meridian are: