Belhaven

Belhaven Historic District offers nothing short of charm with its tree-lined streets, 1900s-era craftsmen homes, and unique businesses.

Comprised of two neighborhoods, Belhaven and Belhaven Heights, the area was first established after residents sought refuge north of the city center post-Civil War. As the community grew, so did liberal arts centers like Belhaven University (c. 1883) and Millsaps College (c. 1890) that remain top academic choices. Several notable Mississippians have called Belhaven their home, including late author and photographer Eudora Welty, whose home and gardens remain open to the public for tours, classes, and events.

A typewriter once used by writer Eudora Welty on a table
The Royal Signet typewriter once used by writer Eudora Welty, on display at the Eudora Welty House and Gardens in Belhaven.

Flash forward to today, and the neighborhood is experiencing more growth and interest than ever before. With nationally-touted restaurants, theaters, eclectic shops, and seasonal events, Belhaven is a go-to spot for experiencing the creative energy of Jackson. One of the most well-known and well-loved happenings is the annual Bright Lights, Belhaven Nights, an end-of-summer street festival that features local artisans and food vendors, a children's area, and multiple stages of live music from blues musicians to indie artists.

Belhaven Town Center features many of the area's notable foodie hotspots, including French and Southern-inspired Elvie's - named to the 2022 New York Times Restaurant List, New Orleans' favorite District Donuts Sliders Brew, craft brewery and beer garden Fertile Ground Beer Company and Spectrum Sip shakes, loaded teas, and workout drinks. New to the center is open-air bar, Good Bar, and ice cream shop, Mayday.

At the family-owned and operated Urban Foxes, you can find small-batch and handmade savory and sweet pies paired with craft coffee and brews. Just opened, the community-concious, health-in-mind, rustic artisan bakery, Sunflower Oven, adds a fresh new flavor to Belhaven Heights. Native Coffee serves up seriously good custom and seasonal blends, and Shoe Bird Cafe at Belhaven University proudly serves locally-roasted Northshore Coffee. For dinner, you can't miss out on the dishes at The Manship and Lou's Full-Serv before heading over to the Historic Fairview Inn for an author-inspired cocktail at their Library Lounge.

New Stage Theatre is a Belhaven staple. Image: New Stage

Belhaven contains four parks to relax outdoors, including Belhaven Park, Laurel Street Park, Woodrow Wilson Park, and Belhaven Heights Park. At New Stage Theatre, a rotating calendar showcases the best in local arts and culture.

Eat, Drink, Play and Stay

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