Public Square
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
The Public Square in the state of Mississippi is a historic and cultural hub that is worth visiting.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Located in the center of Oxford, Mississippi, the square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops. The square is also the site of many community events, such as concerts, festivals, and farmers' markets.
One of the main attractions in the Public Square is the iconic Lafayette County Courthouse, which was built in 1872 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can take a guided tour of the courthouse and learn about its history and significance. Another notable landmark is the Square Books, which is a famous independent bookstore that has been in business since 1979.
Other points of interest include the Oxford City Hall, the University of Mississippi Museum, and the Ventress Hall, which is a Greek Revival-style building that houses the university's School of Journalism and New Media.
Interesting facts about the Public Square include its role as a setting in William Faulkner's novels, such as "The Sound and the Fury" and "As I Lay Dying". Faulkner also lived in Oxford for many years and is buried in the nearby St. Peter's Cemetery.
The best time of year to visit the Public Square is during the spring and fall seasons, when the weather is mild and many outdoor events are held. The Square is also decorated beautifully during the holiday season, making it a great destination for a winter getaway.
In conclusion, the Public Square in Mississippi is a charming and historic destination that offers something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy its rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and vibrant community spirit.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Colburn Park
Auburn Youth Baseball and Softball Fields
Virden Baseball Park