To Hattiesburg locals, it is evident that high schools and universities are back in action. Morning traffic is heavy, businesses are booming and new faces are appearing around town. Black and gold can be seen at almost every corner of the Hub City – home of the Golden Eagles.
As they settle in, newcomers and returners to Hattiesburg will likely look for recreations to keep them busy. With its subtropical climate, Hattiesburg has many outdoor activities to offer such as biking or jogging on the 39-mile Longleaf Trace. The Hattiesburg Zoo and Paul B. Johnson State Park are among the local spots for
outdoor ventures.
Nightlife in Hattiesburg is also lively. Places like Roper’s, Brewsky’s, Club Memories, Benny’s Boom Boom
Room, The Thirsty Hippo, Shenanigan’s Bar and Grill, Marlins Bar and Grill and La Fiesta Brava offer food, drink and opportunities to socialize.
Hattiesburg gained its status as the Hub City for multiple reasons – one among them is that it is generously peppered with restaurants, businesses and neighborhoods that provide people young and
old with pleasure, leisure and entertainment. As of now, the Pine Belt is experiencing a surge in new restaurants and renovations meant to suit locals and attract visitors.
Freshman kinesiology major Payton Conner’s favorite restaurant in town is Newk’s Eatery, which boasts a fast- casual dining experience featuring low-cost salads, sandwiches and pizzas.
“A good place to eat would be Mugshots, a nice sports bar with good food
and sports,” said freshman forensic science major John Valadie. “Buffalo Wild Wings is also a good place to eat and relax, especially with the renovations. I’ve been hearing about Ed’s Burger Joint.”
Chain restaurants are not students’ only options. The Hub City is home to a diverse pastiche of ethnic restaurants such as Mexican, Middle Eastern, Thai, Chinese, Japanese and more.
Hattiesburg additionally offers games and entertainment not typically associated with a small town. Lazer Mania, Hub Bowling Lanes, Extreme Skate Zone and Updown Trampoline Park, which is set to open this month, can be labeled as such.
For the social scene and students’ favorite picks, the Keg & Barrel tops the list. The restaurant features a New Orleans chef, live music, hundreds of different craft beers and now an added back patio with string lights stretched above. Compadre’s Taqueria & Mexican grill is an authentic Mexican restaurant on Hardy Street that recently went through renovations to improve its interior. Its signature tacos and
fried ice cream offer students in the area a filling dinner or a quick snack.
Hattiesburg has no shortage of food, entertainment or drink. It is no wonder Livability rated Hattiesburg one of the top 10 best college towns.
