Quick Guide to Oxford for Orientation Visitors

Looking for activities to get to know your new home away from home? We’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re a regular or a newcomer, Oxford welcomes its new students & Ole Miss parents with open arms!

Orientation season is the perfect opportunity to not only get to know your future college campus but also to discover the vibrant community that will be your home. With its rich history, charming local shops, and stunning scenery, Oxford is truly the place to be.

Shopping on the Square

Located in the heart and excitement of Oxford, The Square is your perfect stop to shop! You can’t leave Oxford empty-handed, so come take a walk around and see all the Square has to offer. The Square is home to a large variety of shops, food, and entertainment. You will never fail to find a place for you to enjoy. Check out our list of retailers!

University Museum

On University Avenue, the University Museum is just a few steps from the Ford Center. It is an excellent destination for visitors of all ages, including kids, students, adults, and grandparents. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. Guests can look forward to seeing Greek and Roman antiquities, 19th-century scientific instruments, Theora Hamblett paintings, and American art. The museum also features several temporary exhibitions.

Trails and Rowan Oak

Walk like William Faulkner on the Bailey Woods trail, located behind the University Museum. It is a twenty-minute walk to the historic house of William Faulkner. Rowan Oak is open to visitors year round and the grounds and surrounding property are open from dusk to dawn each day. William Faulker’s house is a must visit and a prominent historical sight in Oxford. Be sure to check the website for updated summer hours.

Rebel Rags

Step into Rebel Rags, The #1 fan store for die-hard fans and supporters. With endless jerseys and souvenirs, Rebel Rags is the place to help showcase your love for the Rebels. Located on Jackson Avenue, this store offers a great atmosphere to get you styled up in some gear. Whether you’re a student, fan, or just a visitor, Rebel Rags has the red and blue for you!

Square Books

Discover the literary gem of Oxford at Square Books. The popular bookstore is located in the town’s famous Square, and has three other locations as well: Square Books Jr., OFF Square Books, and Rare Square Books. With its inviting atmosphere and wide variety of books, Square Books is a must for readers and writers. From bestsellers to hidden gems, every shelf is filled with great stories waiting to be uncovered. Along with the great atmosphere and books, Square Books is more than just a normal bookstore, it also hosts well-known author events and book signings. Stop by and get a great look to see what it has to offer!

Grab a Local Lunch

If you’re in Oxford, Mississippi and looking to grab a quick bite that still captures the soul of the town, you’ve got two can’t-miss spots: Ajax Diner and Volta Taverna.

Ajax Diner is the quintessential Oxford lunch experience. Nestled right on the Square, it’s a place where locals, students, and visiting authors all rub elbows over plates of hearty Southern comfort food. Their country-fried steak, mac and cheese, and legendary squash casserole aren’t just delicious; they’re practically part of the town’s cultural identity. It’s fast, filling, and full of flavor, with that classic Oxford charm.

On the flip side, Volta Taverna offers a chill Mediterranean vibe just a short walk off the Square. It’s a favorite among locals for a reason. Think gyros, feta fries, and fresh, flavorful wraps, all served up with a laid-back porch scene perfect for people-watching. It’s a great spot when you want something a little lighter but still want that local flavor, both on your plate and in the atmosphere.

Whether you’re craving down-home Southern or a Mediterranean twist, Ajax and Volta are the quick lunch go-tos that truly taste like Oxford.

Grab a Coffee

Oxford might be best known for its literary roots and Southern charm, but it also knows how to do coffee right. Whether you’re a student powering through a study session, a local on a morning stroll, or just passing through, two standout spots will make sure your caffeine fix comes with a dose of Oxford personality: Heartbreak Coffee and Caffecitos.

Heartbreak Coffee is the kind of place that feels like a secret you want to share. Tucked away near the Powerhouse, it’s got a cool, minimalist vibe and some of the best coffee in town. They roast their own beans, take their craft seriously, and somehow still manage to keep the atmosphere relaxed and unpretentious. It’s a go-to for pour-overs, strong cold brew, and lattes that are as smooth as the playlist playing in the background. Whether you’re popping in for a quick shot of espresso or camping out with your laptop, Heartbreak delivers that calm, creative energy Oxford is known for.

Caffecitos – If you’re wandering around Oxford and spot a bright yellow truck parked near campus or the Square, do yourself a favor—stop. That’s Caffecitos, a tiny mobile coffee spot with a huge personality and some of the most unique drinks in town.

Run by two friendly locals who clearly love what they do, this little yellow truck is all about bold flavors and warm vibes. From the first sip to the last, you’ll find something different here.

But it’s not just the coffee that keeps people coming back. The two guys behind the counter have turned this truck into more than just a caffeine stop. With every order comes a smile, a story, or a quick chat that reminds you what Southern hospitality really looks like. It’s casual, welcoming, and full of character—just like Oxford itself.

Chicory Market

Visit Chicorky Market for fresh, local snacks and meals. Chicory’s motto is “local, regional, and organic,” ensuring customers always know the source of their food. The market offers a variety of options, including a coffee bar, fresh meats, ready-made meals to go, and locally sourced produce from nearby farmers. They are open seven days a week: Monday through Friday from 8 am to 7 pm, Saturday from 8 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.

Picture-Perfect Stops

Oxford is full of charm, and a few spots around the Square are perfect for snapping a quick photo. The Faulkner statue, seated on a bench outside City Hall, is a favorite. Grab a seat next to the literary legend for a classic Oxford shot. Just around the corner, you’ll find the red telephone booth, a quirky and unexpected pop of color that makes for a fun, vintage-style pic. And don’t miss the “Greetings from Oxford” mural tucked behind Visit Oxford, where bold colors and local flair come together for a picture-perfect backdrop. All three are just a short walk from each other, making it easy to capture a little Oxford magic in a few quick stops.

Inside Discount

If you’re an incoming freshman in Oxford, Inside Discount is your go-to spot for everything you need to outfit your dorm room. From bedding and storage solutions to fun colors and trinkets, this store has it all. What really sets Inside Discount apart is its stunning selection of home decor—beautiful pieces that make it easy to get lost browsing. Whether you want to create a cozy study nook or just add some style to your new space, Inside Discount is packed with unique finds that help you customize your room and make your dorm truly feel like home.

The Grove

Last but certainly not least, spending time in the Grove is a great way to envision your upcoming year. Summer Sunset Series, taking place every Sunday night in June at 6pm, feature a new artist each week and are the perfect outdoor activity before your orientation kicks off. You will spend some time in the Grove during orientation, but feel free to walk around some more and enjoy your new go to study and tailgate spot. Be sure to snap a photo at the Walk of Champions!

Grab Dinner in Oxford

When it comes to dinner in Oxford, Saint Leo and Bouré are two spots you don’t want to miss.

Saint Leo has a fun, cozy vibe with a menu that goes from delicious pizzas and pasta to amazing appetizers. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a great meal in Oxford. Just down the street, Bouré brings bold flavors and a lively atmosphere with its modern take on Southern cuisine and craft cocktails. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back night or something a little more vibrant, both places deliver an authentic taste of Oxford’s dining scene.

For More: Check Out Our Video on How To Make the Most of Oxford During your Orientation Visit!

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