• 1. Where to Stay
• 2. Where to Eat
• 3. What to Do
• 4. Insider’s Tip
• 5. An Oddball Day

William Faulkner's Rowan Oak estate and Square Books in Oxford's downtown.   (Photo: From left, courtesy of Rowan Oak, Square Books)

En route to Greenwood, detour to Oxford, Mississippi, home of Ole Miss and—according to Hugh Hefner—the most beautiful women in the world. Take a tour of Rowan Oak, William Faulkner’s home from 1930 until his death in 1962, and check out the writer’s muddied boots, typewriter, and other personal effects. Stop by Square Books, an independent bookstore on the main square, known for its collection of southern literature. City Grocery (152 Courthouse Sq.; 662-232-8080) is the place to go for new southern cuisine and spotting literary locals, including John Grisham and Barry Hannah. Pack up some coffee (imported from Portland, owner Cynthia Gerlach’s hometown) and homemade scones from Bottletree Bakery, (923 Van Buren Ave.; 662-236-5000) for the road.

Published on April 25, 2007 as a web exclusive.