Before You Go

Coordinates  32.6126° N, 90.0368° W
Baton Rouge to Canton  198.8 miles
Driving Time  3 hours, 5 minutes

Why Canton?

Canton, Mississippi, is known for its bright, beautiful Christmas festival and exciting downtown area. The quaint town in Madison County has a rich history and has recently been the chosen location for major films, advertising agencies, and documentaries. The city’s beautiful Historic District and unique feel make it a place you must see for yourself.

Where to Eat

Culinary Cowboy  |  116 Commercial Parkway, Canton, MS 39046  |  (601) 859-9953
Try the homemade bread and daily specials, and soak in the friendly atmosphere. This local favorite is only open during lunch hours, so plan ahead to make sure you don’t miss it! You never know what you will get because every day, the Culinary Cowboy serves up something different from fried chicken with turnip greens to meatloaf with mashed potatoes.

Two Rivers Restaurant  |  1537 West Peace Street  |  Canton, MS 39046  |  (601) 859-9999
Two Rivers is great for those who want a laid back feel with upscale steak and seafood. The family-owned restaurant is open for dinner only and offers a variety of delicious BBQ and catering services. ■ tworiversrestaurant.letseat.at

Mrs. Bar-B-Que  |  3421 N Liberty Street  |  Canton, MS 39046  |  (601) 859-9186
This local BBQ restaurant is known for “the best hamburger in Canton,” fantastic prices, and charming character. This is a place you must stop while staying in the town or driving through for a work trip.

What to Do

Join in the small town Christmas spirit at the annual City of Lights in the Historic Courthouse Square. The Victorian Festival, carousel rides, museum representations, and over 200,000 glittering lights attract visitors from across the United States as well as other countries. City of Lights also received an honorable mention in the Arts & Entertainment Network’s 2003 “Best Small Town Christmas Spirit” contest.

Let out your inner movie geek at the Canton Movie Museums. Canton is known as the film capital of Mississippi, so you can expect this to be a unique museum. Two popular movies filmed here are A Time to Kill and My Dog Skip. Revisit scenes from the films and learn all about set pieces and behind-the-scenes planning. ■ (601) 859-1307

All aboard for the Historic Train Depot and Museum! The depot was built in 1890 and restored in 1999. Trains were so important for the social and economic growth and development of the area, and Canton wants to share that slice of history with visitors. Railroad enthusiasts from all over like to come witness the history that is still there today.

Jam out at two locations in Canton that are on the Mississippi Blues Trail. Hickory Street, or “The Hollow,” and Club Desire were central to the music and social life of the 50s, 60s, and 70s and can be found in Canton today. The Mississippi Blues Trail is a journey through important blues locations throughout Mississippi.

Celebrate diversity and culture at the Multicultural Center and Museum. The permanent exhibit focuses on African American history, family life, and business and community life, with a focus on Civil Rights. There are also special exhibits, video kiosks, and graphics displays for visitors. ■ (601) 859-1307

Appreciate every kind of art, jewelry, and craft possible at the bi-annual Flea Market Arts and Crafts Show, held the second Thursday of May and October. The one-day show features quality art, live plants, and the beautiful backdrop of Canton’s historic streets.

Marvel at the Historic Homes and Architecture, especially the Greek Revival Courthouse found at the heart of town. The Courthouse Square District just around it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and was declared one of three best examples in the state of Mississippi. Many preservation efforts have been implemented throughout the years, so be sure to take the time to appreciate the beautiful buildings of the city. ■