Get the Most Out of Summer in Mississippi County
Summer in the Land of Steel means something different for everyone. Maybe it’s an afternoon at the pool, a paddle down the Mississippi River or a stroll through the shops downtown. Whatever kind of summer you’re after, Mississippi County has a little bit of everything, and here’s a guide to what’s worth checking out this season.
Cool Off
When the heat sets in, Mississippi County has you covered. The brand-new Osceola Aquatics Center is the county’s newest hot spot, with a lazy river, winding water slides and a climbing wall outside, plus an indoor pool that keeps the fun going year-round.
If you’re in Blytheville, Walker Park is the easy option for a swim close to home, with a walking path and playground nearby to round out the visit. And if you’d rather be out on the water than in it, Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge near Manila is a great spot for boating and paddling among the cypress trees, while Sans Souci Landing in Osceola offers a peaceful, up-close view of the Mississippi River and free boat ramp access.
Get Outdoors
There’s plenty to do outside once you’ve had your fill of the water, too. Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge is also one of the best spots around for fishing and birdwatching, with largemouth bass, crappie and catfish among the catch.
Golfers also have their pick of courses across the county, from Osceola Municipal Golf Course to Blytheville’s Thunder Bayou Golf Links and the scenic Tin House Golf Club in Wilson.
And if you’re looking for a reason to take a stroll outside while also supporting local businesses, swing by a farmers market for fresh produce, baked goods and handmade finds. Osceola hosts on Thursdays, Leachville on Sundays and Blytheville on the first and third weekend of each month.
Step Into History
If you’re looking to get out of the heat, Mississippi County has plenty of history to explore indoors.
In Blytheville, the Delta Gateway Museum is right on Main Street, and its free exhibits on the Delta’s agriculture, railroads and steel industry make it an easy, air-conditioned stop for the whole family. Over in Osceola, the Mississippi County Historical Museum sits right on the square and is a great starting point if you want to walk the historic downtown afterward.
You can also drive down to Wilson and check out Hampson Archeological Museum State Park, home to one of the country’s most significant collections of Native American artifacts, with shaded picnic tables outside if you want to make a day of it.
And for a bit of hometown fame, Historic Dyess Colony offers tours of the farming community where Johnny Cash grew up, including his restored boyhood home.
Downtown & Community Fun
When the sun goes down, the fun doesn’t stop. The historic Ritz Civic Center in downtown Blytheville hosts movies, live performances and community events all summer long in a beautifully restored movie palace.
Both downtown Blytheville and downtown Osceola are worth a stroll any evening, with local boutiques, restaurants and events. Enjoy a rib-eye from McAdoo’s Steak and Lounge on Main Street in Blytheville or cool off with some refreshments at Copper Gardens in Osceola’s downtown.
Wilson is also worth a trip to grab brunch with your friends at the Wilson Cafe or stop into Staple at The Louis for happy hour.
However you like to spend your summer, the Land of Steel has a way to enjoy it, so get out and explore what Mississippi County has to offer this season.