Going to college in USA Today’s Best Small Town in the South means that students have a variety of home-grown options for food and fun. From the bustle of the Cotton District to the peace of Mississippi State University’s North Farm, there is truly something for everyone in Starkville.
Scooter’s Records
One popular haunt is Scooter’s Records, located in downtown Starkville. Scooter’s offers a variety of records, from locals to oldies and everything else in between. Students can peruse the stacks of both new and old releases while listening to music selected by Scooter himself. Offering an eclectic feel and affordable prices, Scooter’s just cannot be beat.
Record Store Day, a worldwide annual celebration of records that will be held on April 18 next year, is always fun at Scooter’s. On Record Store Day, students and locals line the block eager for new music, but people visit the store throughout the year as well. Scooter often orders special releases upon request, so that Starkville residents can get the latest and greatest locally.
The Older Brother
The Older Brother, located in the Cotton District, is an upscale bistro offering burgers, sandwiches and cocktails. Jonah Holland, staff photographer for Mississippi State and administrator of Jonah’s Burger Blog, @burgersbyjonah on Instagram, highly recommends The Older Brother for food aficionados.
“The older brother has the best burger and Caesar salad in town,” Holland said. “I am very passionate about that burger.”
Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, The Older Brother is a good lunch or dinner spot for those looking for good food, good vibes and good cheer.
Dolce
Another of Holland’s favorites is Dolce, a shop which offers coffee, bagels and gelato. Located on University Drive, it is a favorite both for its sweet treats and its breakfasts.
“They have incredible breakfast sandwiches and lattes,” Holland said.
When walking University Drive, people often stop by Dolce looking for gelato or an iced latte as a reprieve from the Mississippi heat. Friendly staff and fun treats await.
Oktibbeha County Humane Society
For students missing their furry friends back home, the Humane Society is a wonderful volunteer opportunity. Kamree Moore, a junior psychology major at Mississippi State University, speaks highly of the society.
Moore said, “If anyone is feeling lonely or just loves animals in general, taking some time to volunteer at the Oktibbeha County Humane Society is a great way to not only give back, but to brighten your day with some furry friends.”
Interested students can find out more about volunteering, donating or adopting at their website: https://ochsms.org/.
North Farm
North Farm at Mississippi State University is a research center comprised of over 700 acres. North Farm has gravel pathways, perfect for walking or biking, and is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle.
According to the official Starkville website, North Farm is also a great spot for those interested in birdwatching, with over 161 bird species reported. Take some binoculars, sit back and enjoy nature.
Starkville is welcoming to new arrivals. Grace Cockrell, a Mississippi State University photographer, perfectly captured the welcoming atmosphere.
“Starkville is truly the best friend I never knew I needed. When I moved here to work at MSU, I moved alone. I embraced that, and it embraced me. Outside of the university, Starkville offered me a place to just exist comfortably. I love just walking around the Cotton District with a camera, completely surrounded by the sense of home and originality that Starkvegas brings and knowing it belongs to me too,” Cockrell said. “I have a life here that I know I will always cherish. This chapter has been my favorite.”
Whether you are just moving to Starkville or are a seasoned veteran, Starkville always has new hidden gems for its residents. There is truly something for everyone in the Best Small Town in the South.
While moving away from home can be scary, Starkville opens its arms to new arrivals. Starkville truly provides a space for students and residents to find community and to find their place.
