Best of Mississippi 2006: readers pick the top spots to dine, shop, and have fun in the Magnolia State this year.Anyone who says there's nothing to do around here has obviously never talked to Mississippi Magazine's readers. For our second annual "Best of Mississippi" survey, we asked you to share the names of your favorite restaurants, shops, and attractions around Mississippi, and the results reveal an amazing array of interesting activities and locations. Readers wrote in their choices in 76 categories for everything from hamburger to homegrown band, from music store to museum, and when the votes were tallied, they only affirmed that you clearly know and love every corner of this state. Armed with this list in the coming year, we promise that you won't be bored again! dining out BEST NEW RESTAURANT: Seasons, Hattiesburg Unique sandwiches, rich seafood pastas and entrees, and the popular "Big Salad" elevate this eatery above the competition. Newpointe Shopping Center shopping center, a concentration of retail, service, and entertainment enterprises designed to serve the surrounding region. The modern shopping center differs from its antecedents—bazaars and marketplaces—in that the shops are usually amalgamated into , 6555 U.S. Hwy. 98 W., Ste. 1, Hattiesburg; 601/450-4090; www.seasonshattiesburg.com BEST SEAFOOD: AJ's Seafood Grille, Ridgeland Gulf-fresh fish topped with decadent sauces are the main event at this "casual fine dining" establishment. North Regency Shopping Center, 900 E. County Line Rd., Ridgeland; 601/956-2588; www.ajsgrille.com BEST STEAK: Shapley's, Ridgeland A 20-year tradition of serving impossibly tender cuts of beef along with sides like creamed spinach au gratin au gra·tin adj. Covered with bread crumbs and sometimes butter and grated cheese, and then browned in an oven: potatoes au gratin. and Gruyere scalloped scal·lop also scol·lop or es·cal·lop n. 1. a. Any of various free-swimming marine mollusks of the family Pectinidae, having fan-shaped bivalve shells with a radiating fluted pattern. b. potatoes. 868 Centre St., Ridgeland; 601/957-3753; www.shapleys.ms BEST HAMBURGER: Lonnie & Pat's, Meridian Old-fashioned diner-style burgers in a cozy atmosphere make patrons feel like they've stepped back in time to 1955. 5525 Poplar Springs Dr., Meridian; 601/693-6576 BEST PIZZA: Old Venice Pizza Company, Oxford, Starkville, and Jackson Fans can't resist pies piled high with pesto and pine nuts, gyro meat and feta fet·a n. A white semisoft cheese usually made of goat's or ewe's milk and often preserved in brine. [Modern Greek (turi) pheta, (cheese) slice, from Italian fetta, slice , or blackened black·en v. black·ened, black·en·ing, black·ens v.tr. 1. To make black. 2. To sully or defame: a scandal that blackened the mayor's name. 3. chicken and peppers. 1112 Van Buren Ave., Oxford, 662/236-OVPC; 110 E. Main St., Starkville, 662/320-OVPC; 1428 Old Square Rd., Jackson, 601/366-OVPC; www.ovpc.com BEST FRIED CHICKEN Fried chicken is chicken which is dipped in a breading mixture and then deep fried, pan fried or pressure fried. The breading seals in the juices but also absorbs the fat of the fryer, which is sometimes seen as unhealthy. : Carriage House, Natchez The golden-crusted bird has a worldwide reputation, as do the restaurant's silver-dollar-sized biscuits and tomato aspic. Stanton Hall, 401 High St., Natchez; 601/445-5153; www.stantonhall.com/carriage.htm BEST SALAD: Newk's Express Cafe, Oxford and Flowood "Newk's Favorite" is ours, too--spring greens with grilled chicken, gorgonzola, dried cranberries, artichoke hearts, and pecans. 1309 University Ave., Oxford, 662/513-5303; Lakeland Commons, Flowood, 601/919-8303; www.newkscafe.com BEST BREAD: Broad Street Baking Company & Cafe, Jackson Handmade artisanal breads including ciabatta ciabatta Noun a type of bread made with olive oil [Italian: slipper] , country French, and Scottish struan are baked fresh daily from traditional European recipes. Banner Hall, 4465 I-55 N., Ste. 101, Jackson; 601/362-2900; www.broadstbakery.com BEST DESSERT: Mammy's Cupboard, Natchez Hit-the-spot hummingbird cake and banana-caramel pie, along with tasty lunch specials, served inside a towering lady's red brick skirt. 555 Hwy. 61, Natchez; 601/445-8957 BEST ITALIAN FOOD: Amerigo, Ridgeland Classic old-world dishes plus new favorites including smoked chicken ravioli and cedar-roasted pork loin loin (loin) the part of the back between the thorax and pelvis. loin n. The part of the body on either side of the spinal column between the ribs and the pelvis. chops. 6592 Old Canton Rd., Ridgeland; 601/977-0563; www.amerigo.net BEST MEXICAN FOOD: TIE: Papito's Mexican Grill, Madison; Mi Toro Toro may refer to:
Buttery hand-rolled tortillas are the stars of the south-of-the-border show at Papito's, while Mi Toro lures diners with creamy queso dip and award-winning fajitas fajitas Noun, pl a Mexican dish of soft tortillas wrapped around fried strips of meat or vegetables [Mexican Spanish] . Papito's, 111 Colony Crossing, Madison; 601/605-0275. Mi Toro, 101 Hwy. 72 E., Corinth, 662/286-5495; 2600 S. Harper Rd., Corinth, 662/287-9740 BEST ASIAN FOOD: Pan-Asia, Ridgeland Wok this way for spicy noodle and stir-fry dishes and unusual Eastern entrees like Tandoori tan·door·i adj. Cooked in a tandoor. [Hindi tand  ri, from tand roasted lobster and cumin-seared tuna.
Promenade Shopping Center, 862 Avery Blvd., Ridgeland; 601/956-2958;
www.pan-asia.com
BEST ETHNIC FOOD: Keifer's, Jackson Try to save room for the gyros This article is about the food dish. For other uses, see Gyro. Gyros or gyro (Greek: γύρος, "turning") (IPA: [ˈjɪːɹəʊ] and cottage fries after noshing on such appealing Greek appetizers as "pita mozz" and homemade hummus hum·mus also hum·us or hom·mos n. A smooth thick mixture of mashed chickpeas, tahini, oil, lemon juice, and garlic, used especially as a dip for pita. . 705 Poplar Blvd., Jackson, 601/355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., Jackson, 601/353-4976 BEST DOWNHOME/SOUL FOOD: Hamil's, Madison Hickory-smoked ribs, yeast rolls, turnip turnip, garden vegetable of the same genus of the family Cruciferae (mustard family) as the cabbage; native to Europe, where it has been long cultivated. The two principal kinds are the white (Brassica rapa) and the yellow (B. greens, banana pudding Banana pudding is a dessert common in the Southern United States, generally consisting of repeated layers of sweet custard, cookies (usually Vanilla Wafers) and sliced bananas placed in a dish, baked and served, sometimes with whipped cream or meringue on top. , and oh so much more served buffet-style in a pine log cabin log cabin or log house, style of home typical of the American pioneer on the Western frontier of the United States in the great westward expansion after 1765. It was constructed with few tools, usually an axe or an adz and an auger. . 751 Hwy. 51, Madison; 601/856-4407; www.hamils.com BEST CONTEMPORARY CUISINE: 206 Front, Hattiesburg Downtown dining highlighted by sage-infused squash ravioli, green chile-stuffed portobellos, and lamb tenderloin in apple-currant sauce. 206 W. Front St., Hattiesburg; 601/545-5677; www.206front.net BEST BUFFET: Movie Star Restaurant, Purvis This former clothing factory now has its designs on pleasing patrons with stellar macaroni macaroni: see pasta. and cheese, fried pork chops, and pecan pie. 5772 U.S. Hwy. 11, Purvis; 601/794-8007 BEST DELI: McAlister's Deli, several locations There's nothing deep-fried here, where it's all about the S's: soups, sandwiches, salads, spuds, and sweets. For locations, see www.mcalistersdeli.com BEST LUNCH SPOT: Bon Ami, Jackson Salad samplers, light sandwiches, and the famous caramel brownie/ coffee ice cream combo are hits among ladies who lunch Ladies who lunch is a phrase to describe well-off women who meet for lunch socially, normally during the working week. Typically, the women involved are married and non-working. Normally the lunch is in a restaurant, perhaps in a department store during shopping. . Maywood Mart, 1220 E. Northside Dr., Ste. 230, Jackson; 601/982-0405 BEST OUTDOOR DINING: Keifer's, Jackson The wrap-around deck under shady trees is one of Jackson's favorite summer dining destinations. 705 Poplar Blvd., Jackson, 601/355-6825 BEST RESTAURANT WITH A VIEW: Cock of the Walk, Natchez and Ridgeland The riverside Natchez location of this fried-fish eatery was the company's first in 1977, while the Ridgeland site offers its own waterfront scenery at the Ross Barnett Reservoir The Ross R. Barnett Reservoir (colloquially known as "The Rez") is a reservoir on the Pearl River in the U.S. state of Mississippi. Named for Ross R. Barnett, the 52nd Governor of Mississippi, it was created by impounding the Pearl between Madison and Rankin Counties. . 200 N. Broadway St., Natchez, 601/446-8920; 141 Madison Landing Cir., Ridgeland, 601/856-5500, www.cockofthewalk.biz BEST PLACE FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION: Nick's, Jackson Leather banquettes and dark wood accoutrements ac·cou·ter·ment or ac·cou·tre·ment n. 1. An accessory item of equipment or dress. Often used in the plural. 2. Military equipment other than uniforms and weapons. Often used in the plural. 3. , plus inspired seafood and steak dishes, set the perfect mood for a big night out. 1501 Lakeland Dr., Jackson; 601/981-8017; www.nicksrestaurant.com BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT: Cock of the Walk, Natchez and Ridgeland From the riverboat-themed decor to the hands-on fare like catfish and hushpuppies, there's nothing here a kid won't love. 200 N. Broadway St., Natchez, 601/446-8920; 141 Madison Landing Cir., Ridgeland, 601/856-5500, www.cockofthewalk.biz BEST PLACE TO RUIN YOUR DIET: Crescent City Grill, Hattiesburg and Meridian As indulgent as New Orleans itself, this eatery widens waistlines with Creole crabmeat crab·meat n. The edible flesh of a crab. Noun 1. crabmeat - the edible flesh of any of various crabs crab crab cocktail - a cocktail of cold cooked crabmeat and a sauce wontons, pasta jambalaya jam·ba·lay·a n. A Creole dish consisting of rice that has been cooked with shrimp, oysters, ham, or chicken and seasoned with spices and herbs. [Louisiana French, from Provençal jambalaia. , and spicy shrimp etouffee é·touf·fée n. pl. é·touf·fées A spicy Cajun stew of vegetables and seafood, especially crayfish. [Louisiana French, from French (à l')étouffée, stewed . 3810 Hardy St., Hattiesburg, 601/264-0657; 519 Azalea azalea (əzāl`yə) [Gr.,=dry], any species of the genus Rhododendron, North American and Asian shrubs of the family Ericaceae (heath family) that are distinguished by the usually deciduous leaves. Dr., Meridian, 601/553-3656; www.nsrg.com/crescent_city.php BEST RESTAURANT DECOR: Walnut Circle Grill, Hattiesburg The cornerstone of a once-blighted street, Walnut Circle features brick walls, beamed ceilings, a cozy fireplace, and an arboretum arboretum: see botanical garden. arboretum Place where trees, shrubs, and sometimes herbaceous plants are cultivated for scientific and educational purposes. An arboretum may be a collection in its own right or a part of a botanical garden. courtyard. 115 Walnut St., Hattiesburg; 601/544-2202; www.walnutcirclegrill.com BEST CHEF: TIE: Mike McElroy and Hoyt Tanner, Walnut Circle Grill, Hattiesburg; Robert St. John, Crescent City Grill, Purple Parrot Cafe, and Mahogany Bar, Hattiesburg McElroy and Tanner combine their considerable talents at Walnut Circle Grill on a menu filled with hearty New York-style Italian and Continental cuisine. St. John takes a multimedia approach to the culinary scene, commanding several restaurants while hosting a television show and writing newspaper columns and books. Walnut Circle Grill, 115 Walnut St., Hattiesburg; 601/544-2202; walnutcirclegrill.com. Crescent City Grill (601/264-0657), Purple Parrot Cafe (601/264-0656), Mahogany Bar (601/264-0658), all at 3810 Hardy St., Hattiesburg; www.robertstjohn.com BEST WAIT STAFF: Bravo, Jackson The well-trained servers at this Italian hotspot are committed to providing a "warm, efficient, and genuine dining experience," owners say. Highland Village, 4500 I-55 N., Jackson; 601/982-8111; www.bravobuzz.com BEST BAKERY: TIE: Jody's Bakery, Hattiesburg; Broad Street Baking Company, Jackson King cakes, wedding cakes, and pretty pastries for every day are on the menu at Jody's. In addition to Broad Street's signature breads, the Jackson shop's customers clamor for "Morning Glory morning glory, common name for members of the Convolvulaceae, a family of herbs, shrubs, and small trees (many of them climbing forms) inhabiting warm regions, especially the tropics of America and Asia. The family is characterized by milky sap. " muffins and specialty cookies and cakes. Jody's, 6058 Hwy. 49, Hattiesburg, 601/545-7593; 5266 Old Hwy. 11, Hattiesburg, 601/296-0144; www.jodysbakery.com. Broad Street, Banner Hall, 4465 I-55 N., Ste. 101, Jackson; 601/362-2900; www.broadstbakery.com BEST SPOT FOR TEA: McAlister's, several locations Secret-recipe sweet iced tea can be ordered by the glass or the gallon. See www.mcalistersdeli.com for locations BEST CAFE OR COFFEE SHOP: TIE: KC's Espresso, Corinth; Cups Espresso Cafe, Jackson and Madison North Mississippi java junkies get their jolt at KC's, while Cups is king with the capital city crowd. KC's, 415 N. Filmore St., Corinth; 662/287-5360. Cups, see www.cupsespressocafe.com for locations BEST BARBECUE: Leatha's Bar-B-Que Inn, Hattiesburg Leatha Jackson has her secrets. Walk into her "bar-b-que inn," and you'll feel right at home among rickety rick·et·y adj. rick·et·i·er, rick·et·i·est 1. Likely to break or fall apart; shaky. 2. Feeble with age; infirm. 3. Of, having, or resembling rickets. tables and chairs and mismatched plates and cups. Leatha herself will greet you with a hug as she passes out her pecan pie. But she'll never tell you her secret sauce recipes. Thick steaks, tender chicken, and "to-die-for" ribs are standard at Leatha's. Only Leatha knows the ingredients in her barbecue sauces, which have attracted fans from across the world. Though she won't share her recipes, Leatha does share her story. Born on a cotton farm some 70 years ago, Leatha left home with a baby (her daughter Myrtis) and two dollars. She learned to cook at her aunt's cafe in Bogalusa, Louisiana, and moved back to Mississippi to open her own place. Her motto is the restaurant's creed. "If the customers are pleased, I'm pleased," Leatha says. "If the customers are not pleased, I want to know so I can please you!" And of the thousands of pleased customers at Leatha's place, not one of them knows the secret sauce recipes. Leatha won't tell.--Ann Shivers 6374 U.S. Hwy 98 W., Hattiesburg; 601/271-6003; www.leathas.com BEST FINE DINING, BEST ROMANTIC SPOT: The Castle Restaurant, Natchez Love is in the air "Love is in the Air" is the 14th episode of the ABC television series, Desperate Housewives. The episode was the 14th episode for the show's first season. The episode was written by Tom Spezialy and was directed by Jeff Melman. at this culinary landmark. The sentimental scene is set as soon as you hear the crunch of gravel under tires on the tree-lined driveway that leads from Natchez's Dunleith Plantation to the on-site Castle Restaurant. A spirit of romance emanates from every brick and fiber of this place, with its elegant blend of nouveau cuisine and historic setting inside the inn's 1790s carriage house. The magic continues once you begin to pore over chef Brad Seyfarth's Southern-inspired menu, which features memorable dishes like the Godchaux Salad, crabmeat-topped fried eggplant slices, and pan-seared duck breast complemented by roasted apple compote. After lingering over a dessert like warm molten chocolate cake Molten chocolate cake is a popular dessert that combines the elements of a flourless chocolate cake (sometimes called a "chocolate decadence cake") and a soufflé. History The U.S. or Bananas Foster, you might just be ready to pop the question: When can we eat here again?--Kelli Bozeman Dunleith Plantation, 84 Homochitto St., Natchez; 601/446-8500; www.dunleith.com/castlerestaurant.php BEST BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH SPOT: Julep julep (j  lĭp) or mint julep, alcoholic beverage of the S United States. Restaurant, Jackson
For a restaurant that claims it's "what Southern cooking was 'mint' to be," Julep doesn't pretend to be conventional. Just glance at the brunch menu, and you'll see why. Julep puts an unusual twist on Southern staples from shrimp toast to portobello por·to·bel·lo or por·ta·bel·la or por·to·bel·la n. pl. por·to·bel·los or por·ta·bel·las A mature, very large cremini mushroom. [Origin unknown.] fries. Creativity, combined with a passion for food, is key at Julep, where too much of a good thing can be wonderful. The restaurant prides itself on using only the freshest and finest ingredients to create unexpected dishes like the catfish taco on the lunch and dinner menus. For brunch, served on Saturday and Sunday, Julep offers something for every taste, from New Orleans beignets to Fried Green Tomato Benedict. Be adventurous and have eggplant fries with your breakfast sandwich, or stick to quiche quiche n. A rich unsweetened custard pie, often containing ingredients such as vegetables, cheese, or seafood. [French, from German dialectal Küche, diminutive of German Kuchen, cake or pancakes or fruit. But true to Julep's creed of unconventionality, even the fruit plate is drizzled with a sweet mint sauce. Want shrimp in your grits grits coarsely ground hominy served in traditional Southern breakfast. [Am. Culture: Misc.] See : Southern States ? Julep says you can have it.--A.S. Highland Village, 4500 I-55 N., Suite 105, Jackson; 601/362-1411; www..juleprestaurant.com seeking out BEST TRUCK STOP: Flying J Travel Plaza, Pearl The Country Market restaurant here offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner 24/7 and is known as a pretty fine place to enjoy Thanksgiving turkey. 685 Hwy. 80 E., Pearl; 601/936-0190; www.flyingj.com BEST PLACE TO FIND GREAT ANTIQUES: Natchez Antiques, Natchez In the heart of "Antiques Row," this downtown gem boasts an outstanding collection of French and American rosewood furniture. 701 Franklin St., Natchez; 601/442-9555 BEST PLACE TO FIND NEW COLLECTIBLES: TIE: Darby's, Natchez; The Pine Cone, Madison and Jackson Fill the curio cu·ri·o n. pl. cu·ri·os A curious or unusual object of art or piece of bric-a-brac. [Short for curiosity. cabinet or the Christmas hearth with whimsical pieces from these two well-stocked shops. Darby's, 410 Main St., Natchez; 601/446-9737. The Pine Cone, 111 Colony Crossing, Madison, 601/607-7846; Maywood Mart, 1220 E. Northside Dr., Ste. 220, Jackson, 601/713-1421 BEST PLACE TO FIND AN ART TREASURE: TIE: Corinth Artist Guild, Corinth; Southern Breeze Gallery, Jackson Exploring and exposing the works of local and regional artists is the common goal of both of these colorful galleries. Corinth Artist Guild, 507 Cruise St., Corinth; 662/665-0520. Southern Breeze, Highland Village, 4500 I-55 N., Ste. 160, Jackson; 601/982-4222; www.southernbreeze.net BEST PLACE TO FIND A FLORAL ARRANGEMENT: Petals & Pails, Ridgeland Bursting with beautiful blooms in the most unexpected and striking combinations. Trace Station, 500 Hwy. 51, Ste. H, Ridgeland; 601/856-4314 BEST PLACE TO FIND THE PERFECT GIFT: Persnickety, Madison Equal parts bridal bonanza and eclectic home accents in an unmistakable green and purple building. 2078 Main St., Madison; 601/853-9595 BEST PLACE TO FIND A GREAT BOOK: Lemuria, Jackson Big-name author signings, scores of first editions, and staffers who love books as much as the customers do. Banner Hall, 4465 I-55 N., Ste. 202, Jackson; 601/366-7619; www.lemuriabooks.com BEST SOURCE FOR THE WELL-DRESSED MAN: The Rogue & Good Company, Jackson Natty threads from well-established designers in a club atmosphere take the pain out of shopping for men. 4450 I-55 N., Jackson; 601/362-6383 BEST SOURCE FOR THE WELL-DRESSED WOMAN: Maison Weiss, Jackson Thirty years of personal attention and top designer labels including St. John, Escada, Nanette Lepore, and Jimmy Choo. Highland Village, 4500 I-55 N., Ste. 109, Jackson; 601/981-4621; www.maisonweiss.com BEST PLACE TO FIND GREAT SHOES: Pampered pam·per tr.v. pam·pered, pam·per·ing, pam·pers 1. To treat with excessive indulgence: pampered their child. 2. Sole, Natchez Shoe fanatics jump feet first into the diverse selection at this downtown shop. 506 Franklin St., Natchez; 601/445-5192 BEST PLACE TO FIND GREAT JEWELRY: Juniker Jewelry Co., Jackson Choose a sparkling sample of Art Deco elegance from the exclusive Mississippi Heritage Collection of antique platinum reproductions. Highland Village, 4500 I-55 N., Ste. 116, Jackson; 601/366-3754; www.junikerjewelry.com BEST PLACE TO FIND PARTY ACCESSORIES: Cahoots ca·hoots pl.n. Informal Questionable collaboration; secret partnership: an accountant in cahoots with organized crime. Party World, Madison and Flowood Invitations and decorations for every imaginable event from baby's first birthday to a celebration of retirement. 101-D Village Blvd., Madison, 601/853-3654; 1000 Lakeland Square Ext., Ste. 200, Flowood, 601/420-7033; www.cahootspartyworld.com BEST PLACE TO HAVE YOUR PET GROOMED: Dog Wash, Jackson Look for the giant "doggie in the window" at this preferred beauty salon for pampered pups. 5410 I-55 N., Jackson; 601/991-1700; www.thedogwashinc.com BEST PLACE TO FIND A BARGAIN: Hudson's/Hudsons, several locations Whether it's Dirt Cheap, Treasure Hunt, or the Salvage Center, these Mississippi-born discount stores are havens for fabulous hidden finds. Hudson's Dirt Cheap and Treasure Hunt, www.hudsonsalvageinc.com; Hudsons Salvage Center, www.hudsonsalvage.com BEST PLACE TO FIND GREAT MUSIC: Music Emporium, Meridian Meridian almost lost a landmark five years ago. Owner and founder Art Matthews considered closing Music Emporium when he moved into the radio business, but the community protested. Matthews' daughter Aislinn Webb took over, and the store continues to thrive as a neighborhood establishment. Much of Music Emporium is the same as it was in 1979, when Art Matthews first hung posters on the wood and burlap walls and ceiling of the corner building. Those posters are still there, as are the old wooden CD bins that once held record albums. And people still sign their names on the counters. In fact, people who signed the counters as children now bring their children back to add a new generation to the signatures. The store is a "throwback throwback see atavism. to the '60s," according to Aislinn. In addition to CDs, the shop also sells clothes, posters, oils, and incense. "We sell more clothes now that I've taken over," she explains. Another "woman's touch" is a new paint color on the cement wall. "Other than that, it's pretty much the same as it was almost 33 years ago, and the people here really love and support it," she says. Each month, Music Emporium hosts a music swap, where music enthusiasts can trade recorded concerts and other live recordings. "It's a party," Aislinn says. Thanks to Aislinn and the Meridian community, the Music Emporium is here to stay.--A.S. 3100 23rd Ave., Meridian; 601/483-5991 BEST SALON OR SPA: Barnette's Salon/Aqua the Day Spa, Jackson When the stress and aches of daily life are overwhelming, it's time for a trip to the spa. And with packages called "Relax and Rejuvenate re·ju·ve·nate tr.v. re·ju·ve·nat·ed, re·ju·ve·nat·ing, re·ju·ve·nates 1. To restore to youthful vigor or appearance; make young again. 2. ," "Stress Buster," and "A Little Peace and Quiet "A Little Peace and Quiet" is the second segment of the first episode of the television series The New Twilight Zone. Details
Located in Banner Hall, a unique shopping area in Jackson, Aqua the Day Spa is partnered with companion beauty facility Barnette's Salon. Aqua is an Aveda Concept Spa, intimate and professionally designed to be a one-stop, whole-person rejuvenation Rejuvenation Aeson in extreme old age, restored to youth by Medea. [Rom. Myth.: LLEI, I: 322] apples of perpetual youth by tasting the golden apples kept by Idhunn, the gods preserved their youth. [Scand. Myth. facility. From facials to pedicures, Aqua offers treatments for the entire body, including massages, body masks, body wraps, aromatherapy, scalp treatments, and waxing services. Visitors to the spa receive personalized care that best suits their bodies and wishes, and Aqua insists on etiquette. And the spa isn't just for women; Aqua offers spa packages for men, including "Total Transformation" and sports manicures and pedicures.--A.S. Banner Hall, 4465 I-55 N., Jackson; 601/362-9550; www.aquathedayspa.com getting out BEST PERFORMING ARTS VENUE: Bologna Performing Arts Center A performing arts center, often abbreviated PAC, is a multi-use performance space that can be adapted for use by various types of the performing arts, including dance, music and theatre. , Cleveland This contemporary-style 1,182-seat theater at Delta State University History Established in 1924 by an act of the Mississippi Legislature, Delta State Teachers College first opened its doors to students in 1925. The name was later changed to Delta State College (1955) and then Delta State University (1974). draws acts from Shakespeare to blues to international ballet. DSU 1. (communications) DSU - Data Service Unit. 2. DSU - Disk Subsystem Unit (Artecon). 3. (humour) DSU - Dwarf Storage Unit. , Hwy. 8, Cleveland; 662/846-4626; www.bolognapac.com BEST LIVE THEATER: Meridian Little Theatre, Meridian One of the South's oldest subscription-based community theaters and now Mississippi's largest, Meridian Little Theatre welcomes 22,000 patrons each season. 4334 Hwy. 39 N., Meridian; 601/482-6371; www.meridianlittletheatre.com BEST FAIR OR FESTIVAL: Double Decker Arts Festival, Oxford This daylong celebration of music, food, and performing and visual arts is held each spring at the historic courthouse square. 662/234-4680; www.doubledeckerfestival.com BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE: Thirsty Hippo, Hattiesburg A full calendar of performances from top regional bands in a laid-back music lover's atmosphere. 211 S. Main St., Hattiesburg; 601/583-9188; www.thirstyhippo.com BEST ATTRACTION FOR KIDS: Geyser Falls Water Theme Park Geyser Falls Water Theme Park is a water park located in the Choctaw area of central Mississippi, near Philadelphia. Attractions Geyser Falls- Clearwater Key contains over 8 acres of white sand beaches, (the most in Mississippi) as well as many other attractions. , Choctaw More than 23 acres of fun, including a "river" for floating, tandem water slides, an interactive water factory, and a special area for "lil' squirts." Pearl River Resort, Choctaw; 601/389-3100; www.geyserfalls.com BEST CAMPGROUND: Roosevelt State Park Roosevelt State Park is a U.S. state park in Mississippi. It is located off I-20 near Morton, between Jackson and Meridian. The park is located at GR3 See also Lakeside log cabins, tents, and RV spots are all available at this well-tended rural getaway. 2149 Hwy. 13 S., Morton; 601/732-6316; www.mdwfp.com BEST WATERFRONT DESTINATION: Mississippi Gulf Coast The Mississippi Gulf Coast refers to the three Mississippi counties which lie on the Gulf of Mexico: Hancock County, Mississippi, Harrison County, Mississippi, and Jackson County, Mississippi. Natural beauty still abounds in this hurricane-battered region. Gulf Coast CVB CVB Convention and Visitors Bureau CVB College Van Bestuur (Dutch: Managing Council) CVB Camper Van Beethoven (band) CVB Common Vision Blox CVB Center for Veterinary Biologics , 228/575-4297; www.gulfcoast.org BEST RIVER VIEW: Vicksburg waterfront The Warren County Welcome Center is situated on the same tree-shaded Mississippi River bluff under which steamboats once docked. 4210 Washington St., Vicksburg; 601/638-4269 BEST HIKING DESTINATION: TIE: Tishomingo State Park Tishomingo State Park is located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Tishomingo, Mississippi, north of Tupelo, Mississippi. Activities in the park including canoeing, rock climbing, fishing and hiking. , Tishomingo; Clark Creek Natural Area Clark Creek Natural Area is a state park in the U.S. state of Mississippi. It is located off Mississippi Highway 24 west of Woodville. The Clark Creek Natural Area is set in southwestern Mississippi. , Pond Explore 13 miles of paths forged by Native Americans at Tishomingo and see rock formations and fern crevices found nowhere else in the state. At Clark Creek, the 50 waterfalls and steeply sloping hills are the main attractions. Tishomingo State Park, Natchez Trace Parkway Natchez Trace Parkway: see National Parks and Monuments (table). , Milepost 304, Tishomingo; 662/438-6914; www.mdwfp.com. Clark Creek Natural Area, 366 Ft. Adams Pond Rd., Pond (13 miles west of Woodville); 601/888-6040 BEST PLACE TO EXERCISE: TIE: Bonita Bonita (Spanish and Portuguese for "beautiful") is the name of:
Jog, walk, bike, or even ride horses on the tracks and trails at the 3,300-acre Bonita Lakes park. If you really want to go the distance, try traveling some or all of the 41-mile converted railroad line that is now the scenic Longleaf Trace. Bonita Lakes, Hwy, 19 S., Meridian; 601/485-1920. Longleaf Trace, entrances in Hattiesburg, Sumrall, Bassfield, Carson, and Prentiss; www.longleaftrace.org BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE SUNSET: Pass Christian waterfront No storm could erase the picture-perfect sight of waves crashing on the wide, sandy shore at dusk. www.ci.pass-christian.ms.us BEST SPOT FOR SWIMMING: Pickwick Lake, north of Iuka This popular summer waterway shared with Alabama and Tennessee is also tops for fishing and sailing. J.P. Coleman State Park, 613 C.R. 321, Iuka, 662/423-6515; www.mdwfp.com BEST PLACE TO GET MARRIED: Dunleith Plantation, Natchez This columned 1856 home poses pretty for pictures and offers the added incentive of party-perfect food from the Castle Restaurant. 84 Homochitto St., Natchez; 800/433-2445; www.dunleithplantation.com BEST SPOT FOR TAILGATING Tailgating The action of a broker or advisor purchasing or selling a security for his or her client(s) and then immediately making the same transaction in his or her own account. : The Grove, Oxford See and be seen before the Ole Miss games in one of the country's top tailgating locales, a 10-acre park in the center of campus. www.olemiss.edu/gameday BEST GARDEN OR PARK: Mynelle Gardens, Jackson This colorful seven-acre Southern garden collage offers plenty of backyard inspiration. 4736 Clinton Blvd., Jackson; 601/960-1894 BEST HISTORIC SITE: Vicksburg National Military Park Vicksburg National Military Park preserves the site of the American Civil War Battle of Vicksburg, waged from May 18 to July 4, 1863. The park, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and Delta, Louisiana, also commemorates the greater Vicksburg Campaign, which preceded the battle. , Vicksburg You can almost feel the roar of the cannons at this 1,800-acre reminder of one of the most decisive battles of 1863. 3201 Clay St., Vicksburg; 601/636-0583; www.nps.gov/vick BEST MUSEUM: Mississippi Museum of Natural Science The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is the largest museum in state of Mississippi. Description Located in Jackson, in Lefleur's Bluff State Park, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science features aquariums, habitat exhibits, and nature trails specializing in the , Jackson Learning about biology is fun, thanks to greenhouse and aquarium habitats, swampland trails, and larger-than-life special exhibits. 2148 Riverside Dr., Jackson; 601/354-7303; www.mdwfp.com/museum BEST BED AND BREAKFAST: Monmouth Plantation, Natchez Visitors from around the world enjoy memorable meals and guest rooms filled with original antiques in a restored 1818 Federal-style brick mansion. 36 Melrose Ave., Natchez; 800/828-4531; www.monmouthplantation.com BEST SMALL TOWN: Madison Once a sleepy suburban farming community, this charming city north of Jackson is now one of the fastest-growing areas in the state. Madison City Hall, 601/856-7116; www.madisonthecity.com BEST DAY TRIP: Natchez Seemingly untouched by time, Natchez offers a taste of life in the old South. Natchez CVB, 800/647-6724; www.natchez.ms.us BEST WEEKEND TRIP: Oxford It's hip to be on the square in this culture-rich college town. Oxford Tourism Council, 800-758-9177; www.touroxfordms.com BEST FREE ACTIVITY: Picnicking on the banks of the Ross Barnett Reservoir, central Mississippi Preferred picnic sites include Old Trace Park and overlooks off the Natchez Trace Parkway. www.rossbarnettreservoir.org BEST OFFBEAT off·beat n. Music An unaccented beat in a measure. adj. Slang Not conforming to an ordinary type or pattern; unconventional: offbeat humor. DESTINATION: Canoe trip on the Okatoma Creek, near Seminary Hold onto your paddles on Mississippi's only Class 1 whitewater river. Okatoma Outdoor Post, Sanford; 601/722-4297; www.okatoma.com BEST GOLF COURSE: Dancing Rabbit Golf Club, Choctaw "If you don't enjoy Dancing Rabbit, you probably won't enjoy heaven, either," said former NFL NFL abbr. National Football League NFL (US) n abbr (= National Football League) → Fußball-Nationalliga coach Mike Ditka after a visit to this breathtaking pair of courses at the Pearl River Resort in east-central Mississippi. Built on what is considered sacred ground by both the Choctaw Indians who lived here for generations and the players who experience the awe of teeing off amid blooming flowers and spring-fed streams, Dancing Rabbit's par-72 courses offer five sets of tees for players of every skill level. The courses, appropriately called the Azaleas and the Oaks, were designed by golf visionary Tom Fazio and PGA (1) (Professional Graphics Adapter) An early IBM PC display standard for 3D processing with 640x480x256 resolution. It was not widely used. (2) (Programmable Gate Array) See gate array and FPGA. star Jerry Pate. Thinking of making a weekend of it? The historical-replica clubhouse, manned by what Ditka called "the most efficient and cordial staff I have ever met," features eight lavishly decorated guest rooms with verandas overlooking the course. Resort guests can also take advantage of complimentary daily golf clinics to brush up to paint, or make clean or bright with a brush; to cleanse or improve; to renew. See also: Brush on their backswings.--K.B. Pearl River Resort, Choctaw; 601/663-0011; www.dancingrabbitgolf.com BEST ANNUAL EVENT: Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, Natchez Grab a picnic blanket and head to Natchez this October for a weekend of unequaled entertainment. The antebellum homes of Natchez and the Mississippi River itself are the backdrops for the annual Great Mississippi River Balloon Race, a festival that includes "all-star" entertainment and fun for all ages. The festival has become a staple October event, and not just for natives of Natchez or even of Mississippi. The event is featured annually in Balloon Life Magazine and attracts visitors and balloon pilots from several surrounding states. This year, the festival begins on Friday, October 20, and continues through Sunday, October 22. Festival participants can watch pilots compete in races like "Hare and Hounds hare and hounds n. A game in which one group of players leaves a trail of paper scraps for a pursuing group to follow. Noun 1. " and "The Barge Drop" during morning and afternoon balloon flights. Meanwhile, musicians such as Irma Thomas, "Soul Queen of New Orleans;" The Dirty Dozen Brass Band The Dirty Dozen Brass Band is a New Orleans, Louisiana, brass band. The ensemble was established in 1977 by Benny Jones together with members of the Tornado Brass Band. The Dirty Dozen revolutionized the New Orleans brass band style by incorporating funk and bebop into the ; guitarist Will Kimbrough; and local blues artist Maggie Brown take the stage to provide nonstop entertainment. Kids can enjoy carnival rides and booths and plenty of sweet refreshments.--A.S. 601/445-4611; www.natchezballoonrace.com BEST HOTEL/RESORT: The Alluvian, Greenwood Imagine a hotel with all the eclectic modernity and high fashion of a metropolitan establishment. Now situate sit·u·ate tr.v. sit·u·at·ed, sit·u·at·ing, sit·u·ates 1. To place in a certain spot or position; locate. 2. To place under particular circumstances or in a given condition. adj. that hotel in the Mississippi Delta, the heart of the deep South, and you have the Alluvian. Named for the Delta itself, which is considered an alluvial plain, and Tennessee William's legendary term for the people living on that land, the Alluvian combines metropolitan chic with Southern flair. With a modern design by world-renowned architects, state-of-the-art amenities like fully equipped business and fitness centers, and a plush lobby and bar, the Alluvian has every mark of a luxurious 21st-century boutique hotel. But glance in the rooms, and you'll notice, among the stainless steel stainless steel: see steel. stainless steel Any of a family of alloy steels usually containing 10–30% chromium. The presence of chromium, together with low carbon content, gives remarkable resistance to corrosion and heat. fireplaces and chenille che·nille n. 1. A soft tufted cord of silk, cotton, or worsted used in embroidery or for fringing. 2. Fabric made of this cord, commonly used for bedspreads or rugs. blankets, commissioned works by Mississippi artists and fresh flowers--that undeniably Southern attention to detail, both in aesthetics and in hospitality. The Alluvian is, after all, a merging of Delta culture and chic modern style.--A.S. 318 Howard St., Greenwood; 866/600-5201; www.thealluvian.com BEST HOMEGROWN BAND: 3 Doors Down When Escatawpa natives Brad Arnold, Matt Roberts, Todd Harrell, and Chris Henderson debuted in 2000, they struck gold. Beginning with "Kryptonite," the band has had six No. 1 singles and has sold 12 million albums. In 2003, 3 Doors Down was named "Best Pop/Rock Group" at the Billboard Music Awards. Last February, the band released their third studio album, "Seventeen Days," recorded in Nashville and featuring the hit single "Let Me Go." 3 Doors Down tours nationwide and worldwide, from California to Germany. But this Magnolia State band hasn't forgotten its Mississippi roots. After Hurricane Katrina devastated dev·as·tate tr.v. dev·as·tat·ed, dev·as·tat·ing, dev·as·tates 1. To lay waste; destroy. 2. To overwhelm; confound; stun: was devastated by the rude remark. the Gulf Coast, 3 Doors Down asked fans to bring food, water, and supplies to shows for the American Red Cross American Red Cross: see Red Cross. and Salvation Army to distribute to storm victims. 3 Doors Down also performed in a television special to promote volunteerism and to benefit Katrina-relief organizations. On July 22, the rock band returns home for a much-anticipated show in Biloxi.--A.S. 3doorsdown.com Thanks to everyone who participated in our Best of Mississippi survey. The randomly drawn winners of our Artist Series prints are Kelly Gudde of Madison, Britton Gammill of Natchez, Karen Baylis of Hattiesburg, Diana Nutter of Natchez, and Christina Glover of Madison. |
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