Travel - Tips and Advice: Brandon, Mississippi Earns a Plus
by Shawnee Bowlin
FeedTheVillage.com - Tips and Advice: Brandon, Mississippi Earns a Plus
My daughter and I were blessed to be able to accompany my husband on a work trip to Brandon, Mississippi recently. It was not our first trip there, but I feel compelled to give a positive report for this little southern town. The town's layout struck me first. It's a pretty town to me. The layout is convenient. The important places are easy to reach. The navigation is simple. I often have a fear of traveling to new places because I tend to become disoriented easily. Brandon was not a problem at all for me, so if you want to gain some confidence in your own navigational abilities this is the place to practice! The library in Brandon is quite appealing. They have a beautiful display of artwork that should be commended. There is an Oriental display and a display of different paintings done by everyday people rather than ancient artists who have already gained their share of acclaim and importance in the public eye. The library has high ceilings, so if you have claustrophobia---no problems there. The architecture is simple, yet interesting. There is a great genealogical section for enthusiasts of family history. The library isn't a large one, but it does have a modern, yet inviting feel to it. Brandon also got us out of the bigger city traffic, another of my fears, yet was close enough that we could venture into Jackson for field trips. Since we homeschool, this was a huge plus. We dared to sneak into Jackson for some mini-adventures, and I'm quite proud that I was able to handle it without panic. But it was great to return to the motel in Brandon for relaxation and familiar direction. If you venture to Brandon, I can recommend the Red Roof Inn motel for anyone on less-forgiving budgets. Although it is one of the more moderately priced motels and offers mostly basic necessities, the staff is very friendly and helpful. There's no Continental breakfast. There is a swimming pool, outdoors, open during the warmer season only. There is a great little cappucino machine in the lobby, which I was thrilled to see because of my love of cappucino. The bigger suites there are comfortable and cozy and are perfect for parents who want a bit of space to themselves. The motel is close enough to allow perfect access into Brandon, yet tucked into a neat little corner just off the freeway. There are gas stations and fast food within walking distance of the motel. The post office is only a few blocks away. Of course, there is a Wal Mart on the other end of town. But the town is small; it's not a long drive to get to the Wal Mart. There's a park for the kiddos, plenty of pharmacies, lower priced--yet appealing--discount stores. Most all the regular fast food places can be found. I recommend a trip to Flowood, which is right next to Brandon, for the weekend flea market enthusiasts. Garage sale addicts should have no problem finding the sales in Brandon or the nearby small towns. This is a great way to get a tour of the area, have some fun, and get some great bargains! There is a little restaurant in a nearby Pelahatchie which deserves mention. It is a small mom and pop establishment which has a great southern flavored buffet and is quite popular. They still had a smoking/non-smoking option for seating. The tea was good, too. (Getting tea when traveling is risky. Some places seem to think it's ok to serve tea that has a distinct soured flavor. I've found this to be true in fast food restaurants especially. Fresh iced tea is a big plus to us southereners.) This little place is called Duke's, so look it up if you go there.
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