Hattiesburg, Mississippi was founded in 1882 by William H. Hardy, a civil engineer for the Gulf and Ship Island Railroad. The city was named in honor of Hardy’s wife, Hattie. The construction of the railroad brought economic growth and development to the area, leading to the establishment of industries such as lumber mills and textile factories. During the early 20th century, Hattiesburg became a thriving hub for education and healthcare, with the founding of the University of Southern Mississippi and the Forrest General Hospital. The city also played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, with prominent figures such as Medgar Evers and Vernon Dahmer leading protests and demonstrations for equality. Today, Hattiesburg is a vibrant and diverse community with a rich cultural heritage. The city continues to be a center for education, healthcare, and industry, while also preserving its historic charm through the preservation of its unique architecture and landmarks.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

• Healthcare
• Technology
• Education
• Hospitality
• Finance
• Manufacturing
• Retail
• Construction
• Government
• Transportation

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

• Hiking
• Biking
• Skiing
• Fishing
• Golfing
• Camping
• Boating
• Wine tasting
• Sightseeing
• Shopping

3. Average low and high temperature for the month:

• Low: 50°F
• High: 80°F

4. Average precipitation for the month:

• 2 inches

5. Elevation:

• 500 feet above sea level

6. Average home price:

• $300,000

7. Average household income:

• $60,000

8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

• National Park
• Historic Downtown District
• Wineries
• Beaches
• Museums
• Botanical Gardens
• Zoo
• Waterfalls
• Hiking Trails
• Amusement Park

The top 10 restaurants:

Jutamas Thai Restaurant

Locations:

Two locations in Hattiesburg, one near downtown and the other in west Hattiesburg.

Experience authentic Thai cuisine and exceptional service at Jutamas Thai Restaurant. The eatery offers a variety of professionally designed appetizers, entrees, and desserts, including delicious spring rolls, toong tong, phad Thai, and drunken noodles.

Half Shell Oyster House

Location:

Not specified

The award-winning Half Shell Oyster House is known for its locally-sourced Gulf oysters and variety of Gulf Coast seafood. Each dish is served with New Orleans flare and flavor, and the atmosphere is influenced by the French Quarter with light jazz music, decor, and fixtures.

Crescent City Grill

Location:

Not specified

Crescent City Grill has a longstanding tradition of quality, making each dish from scratch daily. The family-friendly Creole eatery specializes in fresh seafood and offers an extensive beer and wine selection. It also features year-round specialty menus, including a fan-favorite crawfish menu and Mardi Gras bread pudding, as well as a weekly brunch.

Leatha’s Bar-B-Que Inn

Location:

In Petal, a few minutes from downtown Hattiesburg

Leatha’s Bar-B-Que Inn is known for its tender and fall-off-the-bone barbeque, especially their ribs, and a variety of home-cooked sides.

Mugshots Grill and Bar

Location:

Not specified

Mugshots Grill and Bar offers huge and creative burgers, pasta, and salads in a relaxed atmosphere. It is a popular choice for those looking to catch the game on TV, try their peanut butter burger, or celebrate with friends and family. The restaurant also has rooms for private events.

Keg and Barrel

Locations:

Two locations in Hattiesburg, including the original location in downtown

Keg & Barrel offers a pub-grub style menu, more than 100 craft beers, outdoor dining, live music and entertainment, and is pet-friendly. It is quickly becoming one of the top restaurants in the state for a laid-back atmosphere paired with good food.

Tabella

Location:

In midtown Hattiesburg

Tabella serves made-from-scratch Italian food in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant offers staple dishes for lunch and dinner, as well as daily specials, and is known for its soft, yet perfectly crisp, Focaccia bread.

Glory Bound Gyro Co.

Location:

Just across Hwy 49 from The University of Southern Mississippi

Glory Bound Gyro Co. is a family and college-student favorite, offering Greek food with a funky, fun-filled atmosphere. The menu includes gyros, hummus, salads, and pizza, and the restaurant also offers outdoor dining, live music, weekly specials, and refreshing cocktails.

Petra Cafe

Location:

In midtown Hattiesburg

Petra Cafe offers expertly authentic Greek, Mediterranean, and Lebanese cuisine, including gyros, kabobs, shawarma, hummus, falafel, and Arabian coffee. The restaurant also hosts belly dancers and other entertainment each month.

Sully’s Tavern

Locations:

Two locations near Hattiesburg, including the original eatery in south Hattiesburg

Sully’s Tavern offers “legendary” steaks and live music every night of the week. The restaurant provides a lively dining experience paired with knock-out food and a historic atmosphere.

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