Cocktail Bars in Mississippi by Vibe
Bars and nightclubs have long been popular destinations, but modern drinkers also have the option to enjoy handcrafted drinks at cocktail bars. When traveling to the Magnolia State, you’ll have plenty of options if you’re looking to imbibe. Here, the team at Visit Mississippi discusses some of the best cocktail bars in Mississippi, their vibes, and their signature drinks.
Key Takeaways
- Patrons in Mississippi have more options than ever as cocktail bars rise in popularity.
- Each cocktail bar provides its own atmosphere, so you’ll be able to find something up your alley.
- The team at Visit Mississippi can assist you in finding your new favorite cocktail spot.
- We can help plan other aspects of your trip, offering information about restaurants, attractions, and more throughout the state.
How to Find a Mississippi Cocktail Bar for You
Not all cocktail bars are created equal, which is good because different nights call for different vibes. Whether you’re heading out to celebrate a big life event or just want to start the weekend off right, choosing the right spot for drinks is key. Some atmospheres you might consider are:
- Speakeasy: These cocktail bars are typically dimly lit and offer an “underground” feel that is representative of bars during the Prohibition Era in the 1920s.
- Lounge: Lounge-style bars provide a look of elegance, typically featuring plush or leather seats, luxurious-looking countertops, and carpeting.
- Tiki: These eclectic spots bring a touch of the tropics, with Polynesian décor, Caribbean music, and drinks that come in themed glasses.
- Dive bar: If you want a more laid-back vibe, dive bars are a great option, as they usually feature TVs, good food, and a few house cocktails to choose from.
- Rooftop: Modern and sophisticated, rooftop cocktail bars are great for those who want to enjoy the fresh air while sipping.
What Are Some Popular Cocktail Bars in Mississippi?
Those traveling to Mississippi are in luck, because the state offers plenty of must-visit destinations for drinks. Cocktail bars to visit include:
The Apothecary at Brent’s Drugs
The Apothecary at Brent’s Drugs is in the historic Fondren neighborhood in Jackson and has been in business since 2013. The location used to be a pharmacy storeroom, giving it an old-timey drugstore feel, which is reflected in its drink menu. For example, its “prescriptions” include the North of Eden, which contains apple brandy, Fernet Menta, vanilla demerara, tobacco bitters, and mint.
The Boxcar
Located on the eastern side of the state in Meridian, The Boxcar is all about the views. Its rooftop setting provides great nighttime atmosphere as it overlooks the city’s skyline, and it has heaters and firepits to keep you comfortable on cool nights. The menu includes the 86 Rooftop, which is made with Plantation Dark Rum, house ginger syrup, lime juice, demerara syrup, and club soda.
The Guest Room
The Guest Room is an intimate, Northern Mississippi cocktail bar in Starkville. The copper bar and brick facade combine to offer an industrial feel. This spot boasts one of the largest selections of bourbon in the state. Its signature cocktails list contains unique options, like the Bacon Old Fashioned, which is made with bacon-infused bourbon, Vermont maple syrup, and New Orleans coffee pecan bitters.
The Coop
If you’re headed to the state’s northwest region, stop by this chic rooftop bar. The Coop is mere minutes from the Ole Miss campus, so you can also catch a sporting event while you’re in town. The bar is designed to mimic the look of a chicken coop (hence the name), and its list of cocktails has taken inspiration from the surrounding city, including the Ms. Ole Miss, which contains gin, St. Germaine elderflower liqueur, grapefruit juice, and soda.
Visit Mississippi Can Help You Plan Your Trip
When you’re looking for unique and intriguing cocktail bars in Mississippi, you won’t be disappointed with the options. At Visit Mississippi, we’re happy to assist you in any way we can to make your time here special. If you’re looking to fill out your schedule, check out the state’s attractions and upcoming events, or contact us to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cocktail Bars in Mississippi
What cocktails are special to the state?
The mixologists in Mississippi have created many delightfully delicious cocktails over the years. These include:
- Mississippi Punch, which features a blend of bourbon, brandy, rum, and citrus flavors
- Broken Julep, which is a play on the famous mint julep that contains ginger and citrus
- Mississippi Mule, which is a Southern twist on the popular Moscow Mule
What if I want food along with my drink?
Many of the cocktail bars in Mississippi offer finger foods or full menus, but there are plenty of other dining options worth checking out.
What breweries would you recommend?
The state features an array of breweries, including Key City Brewing, Southern Prohibition Brewing, Natchez Brewing Company, and Nine Toes Brewing Company.

