Oxford, MS holds a special place in any heart that has been able to visit or live there allowing it to often be referred to as the Velvet Ditch. This means Oxford is easy to fall in love with and even harder to leave because of the simple yet unique lifestyle the city has to offer. If you are ever lucky enough to stumble into Oxford’s welcoming arms this summer, here are 8 things you MUST do:

1. Shopping at the Square
The Square is the heart of Oxford and has a wide variety of shopping. It’s selection ranges from clothes for all genders and ages to one of my favorites, Square Books. You can find casual clothes at JCG or something a little edgier at Hemline or Frock. Whether you're looking for a new outfit to take on the night’s events, a cute t-shirt as a souvenir, or your next read, the Square has you covered.

2. Eating at the Square
Not only does the Square offer tons of shops, but also tons of places to eat. Start your day at Bottle Tree Bakery with options that range from bagels to cinnamon rolls to soups and salads. Lunch and dinner may be a harder decision because of the multitude of options. Fine dining can be done at Boure or grab a casual meal at our local pizza place, Soulshine. Whatever you’re craving can be found within a restaurant in the square.

3. Nightlife at the Square
It’s safe to say the Square has plenty to offer. When the sun goes down, you’re going to want to stick around. All of the bars open their doors to all who want to enjoy the unique nightlife experience of Oxford. There are plenty of bars to hangout at depending on your mood. Grab a frozen drink at Funky’s, hangout on the balcony of Rooster’s, or liven up your night at Rowdy Rebs.

4. Lamar Park
Looking for something outdoors? Lamar park is a great place to have a picnic or just go for a walk. Centered around Lake Patsy, enjoy the beautiful water, walking paths, and local artists work that is on display around the park.

5. Lake Sardis
Another great place to get some fresh air is Lake Sardis. It’s just a short drive from Oxford and a great way to enjoy your day in the sun. Camp, fish, or swim there!

6. Rowan Oak
Visit William Faulkner’s home, Rowan Oak. Faulkner is a historic author who won both a Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize for Literature. Journey back in time to see where the renowned author spent his days.

7. University of Mississippi
Tour the most beautiful campus in America. Ole Miss has been awarded by many prestigious news journals for its immaculate campus. Fresh flowers can be found in front of any of the marvelous brick buildings and nothing compares to the glamour of the grove. Don’t forget to snap a picture underneath the Walk of Champions sign, a trademark to Ole Miss.

8. Blues Festival
Oxford hosts tons of festivals year round. One of the bigger ones in the summer is the Blues Festival that will be held on Sunday, July 16 this year. Located at the Grove stage in the middle of Ole Miss, marvel in the sounds of several different Blue’s bands and check out the local booths.

Stop what you’re doing and schedule a summer trip to the great city of Oxford. With plenty to do and see, you’re sure to never encounter a dull moment. This velvet ditch is one to capture your heart and make you never want to leave.

LafayettePlace has it all – just steps from the beautiful University of Mississippi campus and right around the corner from local shops and restaurants! LafayettePlace has amazing amenities from the resort-style salt water pool, 24-hour fitness center, to rentable carports and being pet friendly. Our fully furnished apartment homes offer individual lease options, roommate matching and everyone has their own private bathroom and walk-in closet! With one-, two-, and four-bedroom units, you’re sure to find the right fit for your lifestyle. Take a look yourself, and see all that we have to offer. http://livelafayetteplace.com/ (662) 513-5222 1711 Anderson Road, Oxford, MS 38655