This Mississippi Coast city is the best small town in the US for shopping, USA Today says

Ocean Springs is the best small town for shopping in the country. That’s what a new USA Today 10Best list reported.

Each year, a panel of editors nominate small towns they visited and found noteworthy. That list is narrowed down to the top 10 by a poll and the “Readers’ Choice” is recognized.

The newspaper said art plays a big part in Ocean Springs’ charm and selection as 2023’s Best Small Town for Shopping.

“... the shopping is so interesting here, as the place is packed with over 200 galleries and artist’s studios where beautiful pieces are to be found,” according to USA Today. “Plus, there are antique shops, kitschy mercantile stores and more — all with a local flavor and unique mementos to purchase.”

Learn more about the shops and restaurants at dowtownoceansprings.com.

Ocean Springs was one of three Southern towns on the list, beating out Fairhope, Alabama and Highlands, North Carolina for the top spot.

Here’s the 10 Best Small Towns for Shopping list from USA TODAY

1. Ocean Springs, Mississippi

2. Rhinebeck, New York

3. Cape May, New Jersey

4. Chagrin Falls, Ohio

5. Highlands, North Carolina

6. Taos, New Mexico

7. Ashland, Oregon

8. Bath, Maine

9. Fairhope, Alabama

10. Northfield, Minnesota

This story was originally published March 14, 2023 at 12:40 PM.

Mona Moore

Sun Herald

Mona Moore was a Service Journalism Desk Editor for the Sun Herald in Mississippi; Mahoning Matters in Ohio; and the Ledger-Enquirer and Telegraph in Georgia. Originally from West Covina, California, she holds a bachelor’s and master’s in corporate and public communication from the University of South Alabama. Mona’s writing and photography have been recognized by press associations in Mississippi, North Carolina and Florida.