Summer is a wonderful time to visit Oxford or, for those who already reside in this beautiful city, to take a staycation. If getting away, or just getting out, with your family sounds like just what you all need, then consider adding some of these fun, kid-friendly places and events to your itinerary.
Oxford City Pool
Open between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the facilities include newly updated changing rooms, showers, and restrooms. Day passes are available, as well as family and individual memberships. For more information, you can visit the Oxford Park Commission’s Facilities page.
Story Time at Square Books, Jr.
Every Wednesday and Saturday at 10AM, children gather for Story Time with a guest reader and often enjoy crafts and music afterwards. Square Books, Jr. also hosts special signing events for both children and teen books. To find out more, stop by their website or drop by in person. Square Books has three locations about the square, each catering to a different audience.
City Movie Nights, Festivals, Tours, and more
The city of Oxford hosts a variety of free or inexpensive events throughout the year, from music gatherings to movie nights. A variety of tours are also offered, from walking tours to the double decker bus tours. Check out the events calendar at www.visitoxfordms.com for complete details. In addition, you could schedule a fun art night at Studio Whimzy.
Camping and Fishing
There are several places to camp and fish just outside of Oxford, whether a true wilderness experience is your thing or an RV that’s as close to your home on wheels as you can get. Rebel RV Park features mini golf, paint ball, and a community environment. Sardis Lake features the largest fishing area in north Mississippi, among other attractions. www.visitoxfordms.com has a very comprehensive collection of great places to camp, fish, and participate in other outdoor activities, like disc golf at Wall Doxey State Park.
Oxford City Parks
Oxford has invested in quite a few city parks that are all popular for family and community activities. From walking trails, covered pavilions, playgrounds, and more, any of these parks would be a great place to have a picnic or a simple summer fun day with your kiddos. For older kids who skateboard, be sure to look at the Oxford Skatepark. Both www.visitoxfordms.com and www.oxfordparkcommission.com have extensive information on the attractions at each park.
While this list is a great place to start, it is certainly not exhaustive. There are many other sources of summer fun around Oxford, such as historical sites, art museums, sweet treats, bike trails, and shops. Be sure to peruse www.visitoxfordms.com for more ideas. You could also get additional inspiration from stopping by the visitor center at 1013 Jackson Avenue East, Oxford, MS 38655.