A PLACE TO ESCAPE
FOR A WEEKEND TRIP TO MERIDIAN, EXPLORE TENNESSEE WILLIAM’S VISUAL ART IN A TOWN FULL OF HISTORY, SHOPPING AND MORE
Despite being the curator for The MAX, Mississippi’s premiere arts and entertainment museum, Stacy Wilson had no idea the famous, Columbus-born playwright Tennessee Williams had tried his hand at painting as well.
Wilson came across Williams’ art at a show in Saint Louis and knew she had to bring it back to Williams’ birth state, at The MAX in downtown Meridian. Organized by the Key West Art and Historical Society, the exhibition “Tennessee Williams: The Painter and the Playwright” will be on display there through April 11.
Filling his canvas with images of actors, his lovers and characters from his plays, Williams traded writing lessons for art lessons from artistic friends, Wilson said. Like her, visitors to the exhibition largely have no idea the playwright famous for penning “A Streetcar Named Desire” also dabbled in visual arts.
“Everyone is surprised,” she said. “They just never knew.”
The MAX, which opened in 2018, celebrates famous artistic Mississippians, from William Faulkner to Oprah Winfrey - and including Golden Triangle natives like Eudora Welty, Howlin’ Wolf and Williams.
From the “Hall of Fame,” which adds five new Mississippians a year, to its upstairs exhibitions that showcase the importance of Mississippi’s landscape and culture, The MAX also offers movie showings, live music and classes, depending on the day. Wilson said the museum wants to promote all of Mississippi and encourages visitors to explore other parts of the state.
“We want people to see this as a place to escape,” she said.
Grave of Kelly Mitchell, “Queen of the Gypsies” and admired leader in the Romani community in the early 20th Century. Visitors leave coins, beads, bottled drinks and other knick knacks on her grave at Rose Hill Cemetary
Around Town Carousels, strategically placed outside local businesses, parks and other attractions all over the city in honor of the Dentzel Carousel at Highland Park
But The MAX and its temporary tribute to Williams is just one stop on the traveler’s “escape” to Meridian, which features a plethora of boutiques, antique stores and flea markets for the savvy shoppers; Bonita Lakes Park for the outdoors-y types; and plenty of museums and historical sites for those wanting to experience Mississippi’s past.
Just down the street from The MAX is Visit Meridian Welcome Center, where guests can find recommendations for restaurants, lodging and attractions for “vintage junk lovers” or “girls getaways.” The center features guides for Meridian’s Civil Rights and Civil War trails, the Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum and walking trails like the Around Town Carousels, which features more than carousel horses placed around the city.
Across from The MAX is Crooked Letter, a shop selling only Mississippi-made products, from food and cutlery to wood carvings to clothing and jewelry. Crooked Letter is just one shop in the easily-walkable downtown area, which also features elite dress shop Faulkenbery’s, Weidmann’s restaurant and the historic Temple Theatre and Ballroom.
Once you’ve explored downtown, drive across town to Bonita Lakes Park. Visitors can walk the track that circles one of the park’s lakes, or take in the site from a bench or gazebo while kids play on the park’s playground. Campers can also park their RVs at Bonita Lakes RV Park.
Other stays include the Lion and Harp Bed and Breakfast or Century House Bed and Breakfast, for special occasions.
RECOMMENDED EATS
WEIDMANN’S - This Meridian staple in easy walking distance of downtown attractions is famous for its atmosphere and delicious food. Try its World Famous Black Bottom Pie!
THE RUSTLER - Though a little on the pricier side, this steakhouse on Old Highway 80 is consistently rated one of the top restaurants in Meridian.
HARVEST GRILL - Offering outdoor dining and an array of “cross country” menu items no matter your palette (or allergies), this downtown restaurant is within easy walking distance from The MAX, Visit Meridian Welcome Center and an array boutiques, museums and other sights.
BRICKHAUS BAR AND GRILL - More bar than grill, “Brickhaus Brewtique” offers an array of beers and ales from all over the South, which guests can enjoy while listening to live music in its outdoor seating area.
JEAN’S RESTAURANT - Also located in the walkable downtown, Jean’s offers a more Southern menu. If you don’t mind a drive, order to go and head to Bonita Lakes Park for a picnic if you don’t want to eat indoors during the pandemic.
For more information on Meridian’s attractions, go to www.VisitMeridian.com.
STORY BY ISABELLE ALTMAN
PHOTOS BY TYLER JONES
