Hattiesburg has once again captured the hearts and attention of readers across the South, earning a prestigious accolade from Southern Living magazine. In the highly anticipated April 2024 issue, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, shines bright as it secures a spot among the South's Best 25 cities on the rise within 16 states.

During the annual meeting of the membership, Southeast Tourism Society approved its slate of members to the Executive Committee for a one-year term and the Board of Directors for a two-year term. Marlo Dorsey, CEO of VisitHATTIESBURG, has been appointed as an at-large member to the regional board.

This fall, this premier city in the Gulf South will come alive with spooky attractions, movie showings, local culinary events and more. Visitors and locals are encouraged to enjoy seasonal festivities in Hattiesburg this October, including many special events, shopping, and dining. 

Food lovers should mark their calendars! VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce the sixth annual Hattiesburg Restaurant Week, scheduled for Oct. 8 - 14, 2023. This year’s mouthwatering theme is 'Get Cheesy,' and local restaurants are already crafting dishes to delight the palates of this ultimate foodie destination. Attracting both residents and visitors, Hattiesburg boasts nearly 200 local restaurants and stands as Mississippi's ultimate foodie hub. 

Members of the Mississippi Main Street Association are in the Pine Belt for their annual retreat.

As the official marketing and management organization for Hattiesburg, the staff of Visit Hattiesburg has placed significant focus on regional and media outreach.

 

Leaders with Visit Hattiesburg announced the return of the organization’s Tourism Grant Program.

VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce the return of its Tourism Grant Program (TGP), a dedicated fund for sponsorship of local events, festivals, and other community programs that enhance tourism promotion efforts in Hattiesburg. 

More than 22 youth baseball teams from 12 states are in the heat of competition, hoping to be the last team standing and crowned champion of the Dixie Youth World Series.

Some of those specialty beers are crafted at breweries across the country, including breweries right here in Mississippi. WJTV 12 News compiled a list of some of the breweries you can visit in Mississippi on your next trip.

 

The city is set to host the Dixie Youth Baseball World Series at the end of this month.

 

Just two years ago, Marlo Dorsey, who serves as executive director of Visit Hattiesburg, was elected as treasurer of the Mississippi Main Street Association, where she was able to use her experience leading tourism and destination marketing efforts.

The executive director of VisitHATTIESBURG recently was elected as board president of the Mississippi Main Street Association for 2023-2024.

 

Whether you are looking to enjoy a romantic getaway or a girl's trip, Mississippi is chock full of destinations for a three-day vacation that fits your needs, from exciting scenic drives along the Natchez Trace Parkway to a rejuvenating trip to a day spa in Gulfport. Whatever it may be, discover your next adventure in Mississippi.

Let's help you create the perfect itinerary with our list of the top-rated 5 amazing places to visit in Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Mississippi Main Street Association (MMSA) celebrated the achievements of Mississippi Main Street communities yesterday during its annual meeting and awards luncheon, where Hattiesburg was recognized with two statewide awards. 

In this guide, we will unveil ten remarkable destinations that will captivate the hearts of art aficionados, fashion-forward individuals, and passionate music enthusiasts from around the globe

On Tuesday, the Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art with Downtown Hattiesburg, the city of Hattiesburg and Compadres Market owners Alfredo and Myra Sandoval welcomed the city's 45th mural, "Noche de Encanto," by Hattiesburg artist Hector Boldo.

The City of Hattiesburg saw a large economic boost during the 2023 Super Regional.

Hotels, restaurants and shops across the Hub City got an economic boost this weekend as the Hattiesburg Super Regional drew baseball fans from across the area to Pete Taylor Park.

 

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is known as The Hub City because when the city was first founded in 1882, it was a “hub” of a transportation network for the booming lumber and railroad industries. As the city and the interstate system grew, The Hub City was known as a “hub” that would get you somewhere quickly, given it is only a two hour drive to New Orleans, an hour drive to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and just over an hour and a half to Mobile. So for any Southern road trip, from the bay to the beach or beyond, Hattiesburg is a popular spot to stop and stretch your legs. 

The Mississippi city's Mayor Toby Barker recalls the highs and lows of navigating COVID-19's delta and omicron waves.

A downtown Hattiesburg business that’s become a regional tourist attraction has just gotten a lot bigger.

Whether in a small town or big city, book lovers know where to find both new fiction and literary camaraderie. Our readers voted on their favorite bookstores in Mississippi, and these ten shops rose to the top of the list.

A fun zoo day trip in Mississippi awaits you at the Hattiesburg Zoo, where you can enjoy an unforgettable experience without spending a fortune. This budget-friendly destination offers a day filled with animal encounters, educational exhibits, and fun for the whole family. Don’t let the smaller size fool you – the Hattiesburg Zoo is packed with excitement and adventure, making it the perfect day trip destination.

The American South is a mecca of delectable, comforting, and enduring cuisines from an array of cultures. Ranging from Creole to soul, and from Appalachian to Zimbabwean, our multi-state guide offers a unique tasting adventure that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

A beloved community event is heading into its 15th year. Hattiesburg’s “Live at 5″ has delivered music for a decade and a half for the people of the Pine Belt.

The Magnolia State has everything a traveler could want in 2023, from a cutting-edge culinary scene to buzzing small towns to incredible natural beauty.

Mississippi is a state rich in music, food, history, and culture. It’s the birthplace of American blues and home to many talented musicians. Its seafood trail is a culinary treat, and its fertile soil powers the booming agricultural industry that grows some of the country’s best food. With so much flavor, it makes sense that the Magnolia State is home to over 22 local craft breweries, each with its own unique blend and flavors.

The City of Hattiesburg officially has a music park at Hattiesburg Community Arts Center.

There’s something undeniably liberating about a beach vacation and disconnecting, even briefly, from desks and offices and schools and everyday life.

The Mississippi Main Street Association (MMSA) hosted its first Main Street Legislative Day at the Mississippi State Capitol. Special guests included Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and Speaker of the House Philip Gunn, who made remarks as the organization shared its economic impact on the state economy and highlighted ongoing downtown revitalization efforts.

Excited fans and businesses get ready to kick off the USM Baseball Season!

Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker spent Wednesday with Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs and leadership counterparts to share practices for providing residents with services and quality of place opportunities.

Now kicking off the spring festival season, the Hattiesburg Craft Beer Festival is set for Saturday, March 4 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Town Square Park. Presented by the Downtown Hattiesburg Association in partnership with Corner Market, the festival promises craft beer enthusiasts cooler weather, tastings, and fun.

 

VisitHATTIESBURG has established a new trail to highlight the dozens of painted utility boxes in the Hub City.

The 37th annual University of Southern Mississippi/Coca-Cola Rodeo will be riding into town this weekend, set for Friday and Saturday shows at the James Lynn Cartlidge Forrest County Multi-Purpose Center

With 45 original paintings on utility boxes, Visit Hattiesburg has launched the HBURG Public Art Trail: Utility Box Edition, featuring artwork that connects the Hub City’s neighborhoods, main thoroughfares, and several points of interest.

The Krewe of Saint Catherine will celebrate the Carnival season with an inaugural walking parade and block party on Friday, Feb.10 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in downtown Hattiesburg.

VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce the launch of its newest attraction, the HBURG Public Art Trail: Utility Box Edition. Celebrating the diversity of creative art found in the community and the artists behind the works, the trail features original paintings on utility boxes located throughout Hattiesburg.

VisitHATTIESBURG recently announced the release of the HBURG Public Art Trail: Utility Box Edition, featuring 44 utility boxes with original paintings from local and national artists.

For the fifth year in a row, the Downtown Hattiesburg Association will feature another nationally-recognized Main Street expert at its annual meeting set for Thursday, February 9, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Historic Train Depot. Storyville’s Phil Eich will headline the event with “Your Story is Written in Dust.” Tickets are available to purchase, and the public is invited to attend.

 

It’s been more than two decades since the Hub City hosted the Dixie Youth World Series, but Hattiesburg has once again been selected as a site for 2023 baseball championship play. Champion baseball teams from 11 southeastern states will travel to Hattiesburg July 27 through Aug. 1 to vie for the Dixie Youth World Series Division I and II 8U AA titles.

In late 2019, officials from Visit Hattiesburg adopted a five-year strategic plan that focuses on efforts to help the Hub City grow into a year-round, outdoor destination, as part of its long-term goal of becoming a premier city in the Gulf South.

Forrest General Hospital and Hancock Whitney Bank proudly invite the public to ‘Be Our Guest’ this summer at “Beauty and the Beast,” the most enchanted musical of all time.

Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art (HAPA) unveiled its second in a series of large-scale art projects in the Hawkins neighborhood today. Titled “Nature’s Way”, this is HAPA’s final mural of the year and the eleventh to be completed as part of the HBURG Public Art Trail in 2022.

Residents and visitors alike are in for a treat with an early confetti countdown for children, two live musical acts, vendors and a street party during Midnight on Front Street, Hattiesburg’s New Year’s Eve Celebration on December 31.

Hiram and Melissa Kelly-Hill of Petal gifted a wind phone to the Lake Terrace Convention Center in memory of their only child, Nikolai Hill. Though not connected to a phone line or WiFi, a vintage, repurposed “Wind Phone” was recently placed in a quiet location along the walking path, beckoning visitors to make a call.

Hattiesburg’s FestivalSouth, a multi-week festival of the arts, will present its production of “Beauty and the Beast” in the summer of 2023.

A new outdoor attraction is now available in Hattiesburg, as VisitHATTIESBURG launched Mississippi’s first official GeoTour

Both Hattiesburg and Laurel are hoping to give holiday shopping a boost by rail.

VISITHattiesburg and Hub City Cache combined with their sponsors to make this GeoTour possible. The goal is to explore places you wouldn’t normally go to while still seeing the sights that Hattiesburg has to offe

Firefighters from across the Magnolia State gathered at the Lake Terrace Convention Center to discuss topics on fire safety at the Fire Chiefs Association’s Mid-Winter Conference .

The Glenn Miller Orchestra, the most popular and sought-after big band in the world today with its unique jazz sound will perform January 28, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. at Hattiesburg’s Historic Saenger Theater.

Jesse LeRoy Brown and his family, along with the cast and crew of “Devotion,” were on hand December 3 for a private reception at the African-American Military History Museum in Hattiesburg, followed by a screening of the film at the Saenger Theater

Get ready to experience a Hub City animal favorite in 2023 with the Hattiesburg Zoo’s new Sloth Experience.

On Friday, Dec. 2 and Saturday, Dec. 3, the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) will bring the North and South football champions from all six classifications to compete in the 2022 Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Gridiron Classic to The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) Hattiesburg campus.

The champions on the gridiron in Hattiesburg this weekend aren’t the only winners. VisitHattiesburg says the entire city of Hattiesburg is a winner, too.

Hattiesburg is looking to become more competitive on the esports scene.

The City of Hattiesburg was recently recognized at the 2022 Conference for Alabama- Mississippi Chapters of the American Planning Association for its Pocket Museum.

Take in the great outdoors this Thanksgiving season at these five outdoor places where you can get some fresh air and take in the state's natural wonders — for free. 

Over the last several years, Hub City officials – particularly those from the Downtown Hattiesburg Association – have worked to create a resurgence in the downtown area to bring more amenities and offerings, as well as fill some of the buildings that have sat vacant for quite some time.

 

An iconic section of campus at The University of Southern Mississippi is now home to Hattiesburg’s newest piece of public art, titled ‘Soar and Score.’

Landlubbers beware! The undead pirates of the Black Pearl have landed in the alley of the Hattiesburg Pocket Museum.

The annual Pine Belt Pride Week brings a time of celebration of being one's best self. The Spectrum Center in Hattiesburg with other organizations host daily events around the city that bring people together.

VisitHATTIESBURG is celebrating the local culinary scene during the city’s fifth annual Restaurant Week, scheduled for Oct. 2 - 8, 2022. With more than 40 participating restaurants, foodies from near and far will find something to satisfy their cravings.

Hattiesburg will be full of activity this weekend as events like Oktoberfest and the Mobile Street Renaissance Festival get rolling.

 

The City of Hattiesburg is getting ready to kick off its 32nd year of celebrating National Night Out by joining Live at Five Friday.

White hardhats and shiny new shovels with red bows were part of the groundbreaking for a more than $40 million investment in the city of Hattiesburg that will become the new headquarters of Jones Capital.

Owners of low-speed vehicles, such as golf carts, who wish to ride the roads in the City of Hattiesburg began registering to do so Thursday.

Hattiesburg City Council members recently took the next step toward the implementation of the upcoming Gordon’s Creek Commons development, approving the location of that project’s food trucks and the organization that will manage that endeavor.

Grab a magnifying glass and peer into his tiny world where (on the desktop version) Milo, the museum curator, appears from his mouse hole to serve you wine and cheese.

 

Downtown Hattiesburg is gearing up for its second Brews and Bites. Food trucks will serve craft beer paired with favorite foods like shrimp and grits or tacos and jambalaya.

Ever since taking office in 2017, Mayor Toby Barker and his administration has made it one of their missions to maintain the “Hattiesburg way” of going after big projects – and getting them.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WHLT) – How much money did the recent baseball tournaments at Pete Taylor Park bring in for the City of Hattiesburg? Tourism leaders believe about $20 million.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - If you are looking for something to do this Saturday, the Hattiesburg Craft Beer Festival will be taking place at Town Square Park.

Hattiesburg is a winner when it comes to the economic impact of hosting baseball tournaments three weekends in a row.

 

Hattiesburg has earned the triple crown of hosting postseason baseball for the first time- a feat that has brought unexpected economic benefits to the city and Southern Miss Athletics.

The City of Hattiesburg will be filled with art, music and other family-friendly fun starting Thursday, June 2, when FestivalSouth returns for its opening weekend.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - It’s been the talk of the town since Monday night when the University of Southern Mississippi found out it’s hosting an NCAA Regional Tournament, and not only will there be several big games... there will also be a big economic impact.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WHLT) – The City of Hattiesburg is preparing for thousands of people who are expected to flood the city for the NCAA baseball tournament on Friday, June 3.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - It’s been the talk of the town since Monday night when the University of Southern Mississippi found out it’s hosting an NCAA Regional Tournament, and not only will there be several big games... there will also be a big economic impact.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - May 1 through May 7 marks National Tourism Week, and Hattiesburg is showing appreciation to its workers.

Hattiesburg has no shortage of things to do, but for those on a budget, there are also plenty of free activities in the Hub City. Here are a few things to check out if you are looking for something to do that won't break the bank.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - The Conference-USA baseball tournament is underway at the University of Southern Mississippi, and the staff at VisitHattiesburg say it’ll be a big boost to the local economy.

HATTIESBURG Miss. (WDAM) - Over 1,000 people are expected to arrive in Hattiesburg this weekend to take part in a cycling and running race.

In Hattiesburg, Mississippi, art is everywhere.

Madison Rux lives just outside Hattiesburg, Mississippi, but she finds herself in the city often. Sometimes it’s for work, sometimes for her social life. Sometimes it’s to get a moment to herself to think clearly, alone, while she strolls the city until she runs into one of her favorite works of public art.

 

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - An artist who is trying to paint a mural in all 50 states chose Hattiesburg for her Mississippi location.

While most destinations throughout the country are still reeling from COVID-19’s devastating economic impact on the travel industry, few locales have successfully pivoted and adapted as quickly as the state of Mississippi. 

Record breaking crowds poured into the downtown Hattiesburg streets last saturday, March 26, to celebrate the 35th Annual HUBFEST. 

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - COVID-19 impacted several sectors including the tourism industry.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - One Pine Belt city is making a name for itself globally thanks to its abundance of public art.

Paris. New York. Berlin. Hattiesburg. These four cities have something in common. Each is on a list of 11 cities in the world recognized as leaders in public art. 

 

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - The tourism group, VisitHATTIESBURG, is asking the state legislature to consider funding the Mississippi Tourism Recovery Fund at the amount received in 2021.

HATTIESBURG, MISS. (Oct. 26, 2021) – VisitHATTIESBURG was honored with three statewide awards at the Mississippi Governor’s Conference on Tourism last week, hosted by the Mississippi Tourism Association in Jackson. These awards include Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) of the Year for budgets $500,000 to $999,000, the Tourism Promotion of the Year Award and the newly established Tourism Resiliency Award.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - Tourism is the fourth largest industry in Mississippi and of course, the pandemic impacted its revenue.

With the weather cooling as Hattiesburg eases into fall, residents are heading outside to take advantage of the city and surrounding area's numerous parks for some outdoor recreation.

GULF SHORES, Ala. (Oct. 5, 2021)—It is with honor that the publishers and editors of ConventionSouth, the
national multimedia resource for planning events in the South, present VisitHATTIESBURG with a 2021 Readers’
Choice Award.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - Dozens of Hattiesburg restaurants have teamed up with VisitHATTIESBURG to celebrate culinary tourism during the fourth annual Hattiesburg Restaurant Week.

HATTIESBURG (Sept. 30, 2021) — VisitHATTIESBURG is celebrating the local culinary scene during the city’s fourth annual Restaurant Week, scheduled for Oct. 2 - 9, 2021. With more than 40 participating restaurants, this year’s restaurant offerings are bigger and tastier than ever.

Hattiesburg, MS (Sept. 16, 2021) - Downtown Hattiesburg is excited to introduce its new event series, First Saturday, happening monthly and featuring different themes, activities, and specials from local merchants. Visitors and locals are invited to explore downtown during October’s First Saturday on Oct. 2 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

 

HATTIESBURG (AUG. 27, 2021) — The 10^th annual Hattiesburg Half Marathon • 10k • 5k is set for Saturday, April 2, 2022. The race provides fundraising opportunities for participating Pinebelt nonprofits, while also attracting runners to the Hub City from numerous states. Online registration is officially open for all three race routes. 

HATTIESBURG (August 26, 2021) — VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce the return of its Tourism Grant Program (TGP), a dedicated fund for sponsorship of local events, festivals, and other community programs that increase overnight travel to Hattiesburg. Applications for the Tourism Grant Program are now being accepted for consideration.

HATTIESBURG — Hattiesburg, a charming Gulf South city that offers something for all ages, recently welcomed two giraffes, hyenas and Colobus monkeys in an expanded Africa exhibit at the Hattiesburg Zoo. The new expansions at the zoo, along with the city’s museums, expansive public art, outdoor recreation and diverse culinary scene, make now the perfect time to book a summer family getaway to Hattiesburg.

 

The number of paddling trails for kayakers and canoers is continuing to increase in Mississippi as the interest in outdoor activities grows.

National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), an annual recognition of the contributions of the U.S. travel industry, spotlights the Power of Travel and its collective strength and impact on economic recovery.

 

Hattiesburg has a longstanding tradition of supporting public art with many murals and sculptures on display throughout the city. The Hattiesburg Tourism Commission has made it easier to find them all with its new Public Art Trail.

VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce the launch of its newest attraction, the HBURG Public Art Trail. Celebrating the diversity of art found in the community and the artists behind the works, the trail features more than 40 sculptures and murals.

VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce the launch of its newest attraction, the HBURG Public Art Trail. Celebrating the diversity of art found in the community and the artists behind the works, the trail features more than 40 sculptures and murals.

Titled “Courage”, the newest design highlights people, industries, and organizations whose service and leadership have greatly contributed to the advancement and growth of community and country. The piece is dedicated in honor of the many acts of courage exhibited throughout Hattiesburg’s history.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - For Black History Month, VisitHattiesburg is bringing attention to the many virtual opportunities people can be a part of for February.

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) - A new mural is being created in Hattiesburg to celebrate a local native as a part of Black History Month.

 

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is a great destination for food lovers. With over 200 local restaurants, there are an endless variety of dishes to eat there.  After spending 48 hours in the Hub City, here is my personal list of 11 things to eat in Hattiesburg.

 A new hotel is coming to Hattiesburg.

Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art (HAPA) is pleased to announce the unveiling of its newest mural, “Your Life Matters”, adding to the extensive art collection found throughout the city.

The Mississippi Tourism Association (MTA) recognized the impact and accomplishments of the state’s tourism industry at the Governor’s Conference on Tourism held at the IP Casino Resort and Spa in Biloxi, Miss. this week. As a top honor, Marlo Dorsey, Executive Director of VisitHATTIESBURG, was awarded MTA Member of the Year.

Hub City Service Dogs (HCSD) will be hosting its first Annual Christmas Advent Calendar event titled the “Jolly Jamboree”. 

Here's all you'll get in the way of an address for a new museum in Hattiesburg, Mississippi: It's in an alley downtown.

Get ready for some spooky tales from beyond the grave.

Officials from the Downtown Hattiesburg Association will continue their beautification project of installing hanging baskets and planters throughout the downtown area with the help of a $1,500 Community Development Grant from the Mississippi Main Street Association.

To kick off the Hub City’s third annual Restaurant Week, officials from Visit Hattiesburg recently launched a new Hatties[burger] Trail that allows visitors and residents to experience a variety of hamburger offerings at 33 restaurants around the city.

 

NEW HATTIES[BURGER] TRAIL LAUNCH TO KICKOFF LOCAL RESTAURANT WEEK HATTIESBURG

Downtown Hattiesburg Association has officially launched a fun challenge for the last quarter of 2020 called “Get Out and Get Downtown”. 

VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce the city’s third annual Restaurant Week, scheduled for Oct. 12-18, 2020.

As part of the City of Hattiesburg’s agenda to get more public artwork in the community, officials recently unveiled the Hub City’s newest mural – “Let There Be Light,” a tribute to “the Hattiesburg spirit” and the iconic Hub Sign that once sat on top of the Ross Building on Front Street.

The African-American Military History Museum reopened to the public Thursday, seven months after it closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The University of Southern Mississippi Foundation is honoring the life and legacy of Oseola McCarty. In recognition of the 25th anniversary of McCarty’s unexpected planned gift to USM, a virtual celebration features interviews with special guests and the unveiling of a timeless addition to the Hattiesburg campus. Viewers learn stories of her life and the impact of her incredible generosity. To view the video, visit usmfoundation.com/mccarty.

Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art is pleased to announce its newest mural project, featuring the work of internationally-renowned street mural artist Kelsey Montague. Located in Downtown Hattiesburg, the newest piece is a part of the worldwide #WhatLiftsYou collection and is the seventh mural to be unveiled by HAPA so far this year.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic contributing to a more than 30 percent decrease in travel throughout America since 2019, a new report from seoClarity – a search engine optimization and content optimization platform – shows that Hattiesburg drivers are taking 25.3 percent more road trips in 2020.

The Top 10 finalists for the 71st Mississippi Miss Hospitality Competition were announced via Facebook Live

McKay Lee Bray of Greene County was crowned 2020’s Mississippi Miss Hospitality

Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art (HAPA) is pleased to announce its newest mural joining the growing public arts collection found around the community. 

Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art (HAPA) is pleased to announce its newest mural joining the extensive public arts collection found around the city.

Marking its 71st competition, the Mississippi Miss Hospitality program will once again be held in Hattiesburg, Miss on Saturday, July 18.

VisitHATTIESBURG introduces National Travel and Tourism Week 2020. Marlo Dorsey, executive director, highlights this year’s theme, Spirit of Travel, as well as the impacts of COVID-19 to the tourism industry.

Welcome to Hattiesburg - Head to this diverse community this summer for a mix of culture, cuisine, music and the outdoors.

With the five-day average of new positive COVID-19 cases in the Hattiesburg metro area beginning to decline, Mayor Toby Barker has announced the formation of a 40-member community working group that will help identify challenges and solutions in re-opening Hattiesburg after the current shelter in place order ends.

Medical professionals in the Pine Belt who are treating patients with COVID-19 gained access to 250 respirator masks and counting over the weekend, thanks to a University of Southern Mississippi (USM) mathematics professor.

According to the website of VisitHattiesburg – formally known as the Hattiesburg Tourism Commission – more than 1.8 million visitors spent $278 million in Hattiesburg’s economy in 2017, making the Hub City Mississippi’s third-most visited municipality.

The Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art is working on a mural project to continue to raise the artistic level of excellence in Hattiesburg.

Several new murals are now underway in Hattiesburg for locals and visitors to enjoy. Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art (HAPA) is pleased to announce its next series of art projects, which includes murals welcoming guests as they enter the Avenues and Downtown Hattiesburg. The projects are expected to be completed in early March with official ribbon cuttings to follow.

The City of Hattiesburg and community partners are bringing Mississippi Musicians Day to the Hub City on Saturday, March 7. 

Presented by Forrest General Hospital and the Pinebelt Foundation, the 9th Annual Hattiesburg Half Marathon, 10k, and 5k, is officially set for Saturday, April 4, 2020. The 2020 race is expected to be the biggest to date, benefitting 14 Pinebelt nonprofit organizations and drawing in runners from across the Southeastern U.S.

Hundreds of people gathered today at the Forrest County Courthouse in downtown Hattiesburg to witness the historic dedication of a bronze statue honoring the life and legacy of Civil Rights leader and Forrest County native Vernon F. Dahmer, Sr.

Hundreds of people gathered today at the Forrest County Courthouse in downtown Hattiesburg to witness the historic dedication of a bronze statue honoring the life and legacy of Civil Rights leader and Forrest County native Vernon F. Dahmer, Sr.

The new decade is quickly approaching, and you should plan to join in the fun as Hattiesburg takes New Year’s Eve to the next level. With exciting entertainment, stay and play hotel packages, and a night filled with special events, the Hub City is YOUR New Year’s Eve destination.

The new decade is quickly approaching, and you should plan to join in the fun as Hattiesburg takes New Year’s Eve to the next level. With exciting entertainment, stay and play hotel packages, and a night filled with special events, the Hub City is YOUR New Year’s Eve destination.

The Hattiesburg Zoo launched its first ever Lights of the Wild event on Friday.

On Tuesday, December 31, 2019, the City of Hattiesburg will join VisitHATTIESBURG and the Hattiesburg Downtown Association to present the city’s 2nd Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration - Midnight on Front Street.

Spend your visit to Hattiesburg discovering what’s new and getting to know this premier city in the Gulf South.

VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce the city’s second annual Restaurant Week, scheduled for Oct. 6 – 13, 2019. 

The Downtown Hattiesburg Association and the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce are partnering again to offer a family-friendly Fourth of July experience.

VisitHATTIESBURG will celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week May 5-11, highlighting this year’s theme “Travel Matters”. Weeklong events will showcase tourism’s important role in Hattiesburg’s economic growth, while also recognizing outstanding local individuals in the hospitality industry.

The Longleaf Trace unveiled its new look today after months of strategic designing and planning. The updated brand portfolio was made possible by a $10,000 grant provided by VisitHATTIESBURG.

VisitHATTIESBURG, in partnership with the City of Hattiesburg, unveiled new wayfinding signage at Tatum Park today ahead of the Hattiesburg Futbol Club’s Raising Cane’s Spring Classic. The annual soccer tournament is projected to have a $1.85 million economic impact on Hattiesburg this weekend.

Mississippi has its place in the history of civil rights, and Hattiesburg plays a role in that history that shouldn't be forgotten, local leaders say.

VisitHATTIESBURG is kicking off Black History Month with the relaunch of an updated 1964 Freedom Summer Trail and its accompanying audio tour. The 16-stop Hattiesburg tour begins at the Visitors Center, winds through downtown, the Palmer’s Crossing community, and ends at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Outdoor enthusiasts now have another recreational option for canoeing, kayaking, or tubing in Forrest and Jones Counties.

Mississippi Tourism Association presented VisitHATTIESBURG with the 2018 Tourism Achievement Award this week at the Mississippi Governor’s Conference on Tourism held in Oxford, Miss. on Sept. 23-25, 2018.

VisitHATTIESBURG is excited to announce #CulinaryCrawl as the kickoff event for the city’s first Restaurant Week, scheduled for Oct. 7-14, 2018.  The #CulinaryCrawl is a ticketed progressive dinner featuring stops at four Hattiesburg hotels.

VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce its new Tourism Grant Program (TGP), a dedicated fund for sponsorship of local events, festivals, and other community programs aimed to increase overnight travel to Hattiesburg.

VisitHATTIESBURG is pleased to announce the city’s first Restaurant Week, scheduled for October 7 – 14, 2018. By partnering with local restaurants and hotels to highlight culinary offerings to visitors, VisitHATTIESBURG expects this event to attract foodies from throughout the southeastern U.S.  

The 7^th Annual Downtown BBQ Showdown, presented by The Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood Association, along with Brown Bottling Group- Pepsi will take place on Saturday, August 18, at Town Square Park in Hattiesburg.  Participating BBQ Teams will set up on Friday, August 17, with the public event on Friday from 5:30 - 9:00 p.m. continuing until Saturday from 10:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Americana music enthusiasts have another concert option in Hattiesburg as singer-songwriter Gillian Welch takes the stage at the historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater for the second installment of the summer series on Friday, August 17 at 8 p.m.

The Mississippi Tourism Association recently held elections for their Executive Board positions. VisitHATTIESBURG Executive Director Marlo Dorsey was voted by her peers to serve as Secretary / Treasurer for fiscal year 2018 – 2019.

Anna McDaniel was crowned the 2018 Mississippi Miss Hospitality Saturday evening at the Historic Saenger Theater in Downtown Hattiesburg. With 31 contestants competing for the title, McDaniel was selected following the week of competition, which included one-on-one and panel interviews, speeches, on-stage interviews, and an evening gown component.

You’ll find Hotel Indigos in metropolitan cities around the world – New York, Bali, Hong Kong, Warsaw – but since its 2004 inception, the hotel has lacked a presence in Mississippi.

Until now.

For the first time, the Downtown Hattiesburg Association and the Petal Area Chamber of Commerce are partnering to offer a family-friendly Fourth of July experience. The Star-Spangled Celebration on the River will take place Tuesday, July 3 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. in Hattiesburg’s Chain Park and Petal River Park, complete with a 9 p.m. fireworks display over the Leaf River.

Americana music enthusiasts now have two more summer concert options in Hattiesburg as singer-songwriter Robert Earl Keen takes the stage at the historic Hattiesburg Saenger Theater on Thursday, June 28 at 8 p.m., followed by Gillian Welch on August 17.

The TownePlace Suites hotel in Hattiesburg, Mississippi has been officially recognized by Marriott, earning two prestigious awards for the McNeill Hotel Company property. 

During the 17^th annual Tourism Partners Luncheon yesterday at the Historic Train Depot, VisitHATTIESBURG recognized thirty-two tourism industry workers as Shining Stars as part of its National Travel and Tourism Week celebrations.

VisitHATTIESBURG is hosting a variety of community events focusing on “Travel: Then and Now” May 6-12 in celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week 2018. The events will highlight Hattiesburg’s tourism economy growth over the last decade, while also recognizing individuals who exemplify excellent service in the hospitality industry.

We are thrilled the Area Development Partnership featured us on the spring issue of The Navigator. Read below to find out how the VisitHattiesburg team is promoting tourism!

The Hattiesburg Tourism Commission is pleased to announce the addition of experienced tourism professional Kristen Brock as its new Programs and Promotions Manager. Brock brings extensive knowledge of Hattiesburg’s tourism industry and a strong community outreach network to the team in this community liaison role.

A new marker on the Mississippi Freedom Trail memorializes Clyde Kennard, the first African-American student known to apply for admission to The University of Southern Mississippi.

The Hattiesburg Tourism Commission is pleased to announce the addition of experienced tourism professional Paige Hunt as its new director of sales and visitor services. Hunt brings extensive knowledge and proficiency to the leadership role having worked in both local and state tourism during her fifteen-year career.   

Join two of Mississippi’s favorites – chef Robert St. John and artist Wyatt Waters – as they visit six Mississippi cities, including Hattiesburg, creating scrumptious dishes and beautiful watercolor paintings in their new television series Palate to Palette on Mississippi Public Broadcasting Television. The Hattiesburg episode airs at 7 p.m. Nov. 9, with an encore presentation at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 12.

The Hattiesburg Tourism Commission is pleased to announce the addition of Paige Crane to the team as director of communications and digital strategies.  In this role, Crane will focus on growing and strengthening Hattiesburg’s digital marketing efforts and serve as the media relations contact for VisitHattiesburg.  

After an executive search process with nationally recognized firm Searchwide, the Hattiesburg Tourism Commission has selected Marlo Dorsey as its new executive director effective October 1.

VISITHATTIESBURG™ officially launched its new website today, which features a comprehensive listing of Hattiesburg’s restaurants, attractions, places to stay, and meeting facilities.

During the 16^th annual Tourism Partners Luncheon yesterday at the Historic Train Depot, VISITHATTIESBURG^TM recognized twenty-two tourism industry workers as Shining Stars.

Hattiesburg’s tourism economy has continued to show impressive growth in the last decade. In celebration, VISITHATTIESBURG^TM is recognizing the champions of local tourism during National Tourism and Travel Week 2017 on May 7-13 with a spread of events throughout the city that focus on the “Faces of Travel.”

Starting today, Feb. 13, the Hattiesburg Tourism and Convention Commissions are selling HBURG branded items in order to raise tornado relief funds. 

 

Rick Taylor was honored with the Hub Award during a gala dinner and program at Lake Terrace Convention Center.

VISITHATTIESBURG's Executive Director Rick Taylor was awarded a leadership award at a 12-state tourism conference. 

The Hattiesburg Zoo unveiled its new Tigger the Tiger monument, which was donated by the Hattiesburg Tourism Commission. 

 

VisitHattiesburg and the Hattiesburg Convention Commission have named Marlo Dorsey as Director of Marketing and Communications. With more than 20 years of marketing experience, Dorsey will lead public relations, advertising, communications and sales for both commissions.