Recreation and Attractions

From outdoor concerts and parades to art festivals and beautiful fireworks, Meridian, Mississippi residents also like to relax and have a good time. Meridian has a well-rounded Parks and Recreation Department with activities for all ages throughout the year. The department provides enjoyment, recreation, and relaxation to over a half million people annually.

There are a variety of sports complexes that support softball, baseball, soccer, tennis, and walking. Bonita Lakes features two large lakes and 3,300 acres of land making it the largest Urban Forest in the nation. Additionally, Meridian is home to Lake Okatibbee which offers 3,800 acres of boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing. Meridian makes available four golf courses including Lakeview Public Golf Course, Briarwood Country Club, Naval Air Station Meridian, and Northwood Country Club.

Meridian is home to a number of historic and cultural attractions. Among these is the Meridian Little Theatre. Established in 1932, it features a 400-seat theatre, making it one of the largest community theatres in the Southeast. In addition, the Meridian Museum of Art serves as the region's premier public museum. Housed in a nationally listed landmark building, the museum offers more than 30 exhibitions annually.

Another well-known attraction is the Jimmie Rodgers Museum. Known as the Father of Country Music, Jimmie Rodgers was born and raised in the Meridian area, and this museum displays memorabilia of his interesting life and career. In operation since 1909, the Dentzel Carousel is a National Historic Landmark and the world's only two-row, stationary Dentzel menagerie in existence. Located in Highland Park, the carousel house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

One of Meridian's newest and most exciting attractions is the MSU Riley Center for Education & Performing Arts. Operated by Mississippi State University, the MSU Riley Center hosts a variety of arts and entertainment presentations, educational programs, conferences, and meetings. It provides a special place for social interaction and enhances the enjoyment of the arts, as well as further individual growth and learning.