University of Mississippi

About

The University of Mississippi, known affectionately as Ole Miss, sits in the charming town of Oxford, Mississippi. Founded in 1848, the campus blends Southern architectural beauty with a rich literary and cultural heritage. At its heart lies The Grove, a shaded gathering place that's become iconic in college culture. The Lyceum, the oldest building on campus, anchors the historic core with its stately columns and Civil War history.

Just south of campus, Rowan Oak stands as one of Mississippi's most treasured literary landmarks. This antebellum home was purchased by William Faulkner in 1930 and served as his residence for over three decades. Visitors can walk the grounds where the Nobel Prize-winning author found inspiration, peek into his study where he famously outlined "A Fable" on the walls, and wander the cedar-lined approach that gives the property its distinctive character. The 29-acre grounds include wooded trails and open fields that capture the rural Mississippi atmosphere Faulkner loved.

The Ole Miss campus also offers the University Museum, which houses collections of Southern folk art, Greek and Roman antiquities, and rotating exhibitions. The Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts hosts concerts, theater, and lectures throughout the academic year.

Oxford's town square, just a short distance from campus, is a destination in itself. Independent bookstores, restaurants, and shops surround the Lafayette County Courthouse. Square Books, one of America's most celebrated independent bookstores, draws literary visitors from across the country.

Whether you're a literature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to experience a beautiful Southern college town, the combination of Ole Miss and Rowan Oak offers a full day of exploration. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather, and visiting during the academic year means you'll catch the campus at its liveliest. The town's walkable layout makes it easy to combine campus sightseeing with downtown dining and shopping.

Accessibility

The University of Mississippi provides several accessibility features across its campus. All Oxford-University Transit (OUT) shuttles are wheelchair accessible, equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps. The university also offers paratransit transportation services through the OUT system for riders with disabilities, though door-to-door transportation is not provided for permanent or temporary disabilities.

The main campus includes paved pathways connecting major buildings, and many facilities have been updated with accessible entrances. The university maintains an ADA compliance office that can address specific accessibility questions before your visit.

Rowan Oak presents more challenges for visitors with mobility limitations. The historic home has original flooring and stairs typical of an 1840s structure, which may limit interior access. The grounds include both paved and unpaved paths, with the main cedar-lined approach being relatively level. The wooded trail areas have natural terrain that may be difficult for wheelchair users.

For the town square area, sidewalks connect most shops and restaurants, though some historic buildings may have stepped entrances. Accessible parking is available in designated spots around the square and on campus.

Contact the University of Mississippi's ADA office or Rowan Oak directly for current details about specific accommodations, including restroom accessibility, sensory accommodations, and any recent facility updates. Visitors with specific needs should plan ahead, especially for the Rowan Oak house tour, to confirm what areas are currently accessible.

More accessible places in Mississippi

• Rowan Oak (Oxford)
• Square Books (Oxford)
• Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site (Baldwyn)
• Gulf Islands National Seashore - Mississippi District (Ocean Springs)
• Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument (Jackson)
• Natchez National Historical Park (Natchez)