Sarah Grace Meyn

What started as a mysterious journey in Switzerland for Vicki Taylor and her husband Rick, who serves as Executive Director, Hattiesburg Convention Commission Executive Director of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission, transformed into a unique and beloved attraction in downtown Hattiesburg: the Pocket Museum. Conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic, the museum’s playful, interactive exhibits have made it a favorite for locals and tourists alike.
During a trip to Switzerland in December 2019, the Taylors stumbled upon an alley window filled with miniature figures, sparking the idea for their own small-scale museum back home. This chance discovery led to the creation of the Hattiesburg Pocket Museum, which now features a variety of miniature exhibits, treasure hunts, and interactive elements throughout a downtown alley.
Upon their return to Hattiesburg, the couple faced the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which made traditional indoor spaces less feasible. By August 1, 2020, the Pocket Museum debuted in an alley downtown, offering fresh air and ample space for visitors to explore safely. The museum’s discreet location initially added to its charm, with visitors needing to follow clues to uncover its exact spot.
“We’re across the street from where the mayor works,” said Taylor. "Which is City Hall; you could mail a letter on the other side of the street (post office)."
Though the museum has since been pinned on Google Maps, Apple Maps continues to send visitors to the nearby Saenger Theatre instead of the museum. This adds to the air of mystery, which remains central to its appeal.
Among its quirky offerings, visitors can find miniature construction workers atop buildings, hidden mini weddings, and 14 mysterious cats scattered throughout the alley. This concept was inspired by an art contest in Denver, where an alley was filled with 300 hidden cats.
“It was a very scary alley, and it smelled,” Taylor recalled. “But I go there every year, and I love it.”
Taylor, who plans exhibits a year in advance, also collaborates with artists and other museums to keep the displays fresh and intriguing.
“If it’s weird or unusual enough, we’ll take it,” she said, referencing submissions from the public.
Since its debut, the Hattiesburg Pocket Museum has drawn more than 300,000 visitors, far exceeding expectations. Its rise in popularity has even captured the attention of Forbes, The Washington Post, and Lonely Planet Guides, among others. Whether for a themed exhibition or simply to discover the alley’s whimsical treasures, the Pocket Museum has become a must-see destination for the Hattiesburg and Southern Miss communities.
“The Pocket Museum is easily one of my favorite spots in downtown Hattiesburg,” said USM student Leah Cacioppo. “I love to visit it at different times throughout the years. The décor and interactive pieces are always changing. It’s definitely a special place in Hattiesburg.”
Fellow Southern Miss student Susanna Collins echoed similar sentiments.
“I love the Pocket Museum,” she said. “It’s a gorgeous alley full of surprises, and it’s constantly changing.”
The Hattiesburg Pocket Museum is honoring legendary writer Edgar Allan Poe during the month of January. In honor of Poe’s birthday, the museum is featuring 15 portraits of Poe and other items. The exhibit will be up until Jan. 31.