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About MeridianIn the early 1830s a wealthy plantation owner began offering free land to settlers he thought would make good neighbors. Plans were made to have the state's two major railroads intersect on the plantation, which was subsequently sold to two railroad developers. A town was incorporated in 1860 by the developers and named Meridian, which they thought meant “junction.”
A division headquarters for the Confederate Army during the Civil War, Meridian was leveled in 1864 when approximately 10,000 Union troops blazed through. Manufacturing, trade, timber and cattle industries were later established, despite such setbacks as a yellow fever epidemic in 1878 and a hurricane in 1906.
The MSU Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts, 2200 5th St., features the Grand Opera House of Mississippi, a 1,000-seat theater built in 1890. The ornate venue closed in 1927 and remained closed for decades, its lavish interior woodwork, wall coverings and fixtures left intact for later restoration. The beautifully renovated facility is operated by Mississippi State University and presents a varied schedule of music and dance performances; phone (601) 696-2200 for the box office.
The Hamasa Shrine Temple Theater, 2320 8th St., is a Moorish Revival-style building designed by architect Emile Weil in the mid-1920s. Adding additional visual appeal in Meridian's historic downtown area are more than 100 colorful carousel horses created by local and regional artists.
Jimmie Rodgers, also known as “The Singing Brakeman,” was born in Meridian on Sept. 8, 1897. Held in May, the Jimmie Rodgers Memorial Festival honors the passing of the “Father of Country Music.” Rodgers is buried in Oak Grove Cemetery on Oak Grove Drive. Rose Hill Cemetery on 40th Avenue is the burial place of Emil and Kelly Mitchell, early 20th-century King and Queen of the Gypsies in the United States.
Visitor Centers Meridian/Lauderdale County Tourism Bureau 212 Constitution Ave. Meridian, MS 39302. Phone:(601)482-8001 or (888)868-7720
ShoppingUptown Meridian on Bonita Lakes Circle has 80 stores, including Belk and Dillard's.
Things to Do Dentzel Carousel
Meridian, MS
AAA’s in-person hotel evaluations are unscheduled to ensure the inspector has an experience similar to that of members. To pass inspection, all hotels must meet the same rigorous standards for cleanliness, comfort and hospitality. These hotels receive a AAA Diamond designation that tells members what type of experience to expect.
Members save up to 10% and earn Honors points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Hampton Inn by Hilton Meridian, MS103 US Hwy 11 & 80. Meridian, MS 39301
Book NowMembers save 5% or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
The Threefoot Hotel Meridian, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel601 22nd Ave. Meridian, MS 39301
Book NowMembers save 5% or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Meridian148 Hwy 11 & 80. Meridian, MS 39301
Book NowMembers save up to 10% and earn Honors points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Tru by Hilton Meridian, MS519 Azalea Dr. Meridian, MS 39301
Book NowAs a AAA member, you'll save even more. Your AAA Travel Agent will check to see if AAA Vacations is combinable with other AAA member benefits, plus cruise and tour past passenger discounts and benefits.
