The best time to visit Philadelphia is in July during the annual Choctaw Indian Fair. This iconic event has been held for nearly 70 years in nearby Choctaw, Mississippi, and encourages members of the Choctaw Nation to come together to celebrate their heritage and vibrant culture with friends and neighbors. The fair's schedule includes Choctaw social dancing, an Indian Princess Pageant, gospel singing, and a stickball tournament. The Choctaw Indian Fair switches up its theme each year, so even if you've attended before, you can still enjoy something new each time you visit.
Another July event worth attending is the Neshoba County Fair, also known as Mississippi's Giant House Party. The event is the nation's largest campground fair and has been in existence since 1889. It typically kicks off at the end of July and lasts for about a week into August. Spread out over 60 acres, the fair is gigantic, serving as a self-contained city for one week out of the year. Enjoy the flea market, rodeo, horse racing, political rhetoric, lemonade stands, and live jam sessions.
Keep in mind, however, that hotel rates are higher during the summer, especially for events like these, so plan your trip several weeks in advance to score the best deals.
Since Philadelphia experiences relatively mild winters, anytime is a great time to visit. Just be sure to check the forecast ahead of your trip and pack accordingly, as winter lows can dip into the chilly 30s. If you prefer cooler weather, avoid Mississippi's long, hot summers and visit in the spring and fall shoulder seasons.
If you know where to stay, you can take advantage of money-saving discounts in the Philadelphia area.
AAA members can save up to 10 percent off area hotels like Econo Lodge in nearby Kosciusko. Located on Veterans Memorial Drive, this pet-friendly Econo Lodge offers large-vehicle parking for RVs, buses, and trucks, free continental breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi, guest laundry services, and a seasonal outdoor pool. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs, microwaves, refrigerators, coffee makers, hair dryers, and ironing facilities.
Other local hotels extend special rates to seniors, military families, and government employees. Simply book your preferred rate when making your reservation and provide proof of eligibility, such as a membership card or ID, at check-in.
Philadelphia and nearby communities offer numerous mid-range hotels that give you the best value for your dollar.
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites in Philadelphia is conveniently located near the Silver Star Casino, the Dancing Rabbit Golf Club, and the Depot Family Fun Center. Guest amenities include free coffee in the lobby, copy, print, and fax services, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property, and a free continental breakfast. Guest rooms are warm and inviting with comfortable beds, mini-fridges, microwaves, hair dryers, coffee makers, and TVs, while some rooms boast whirlpools for the ultimate relaxation.
Quality Inn in Louisville is 15 miles from Philadelphia, but it offers a nice blend of affordability and creature comforts that might be worth the extra drive. Conveniently located off Highway 15 and 25, this Quality Inn offers a seasonal outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi access, a free deluxe continental breakfast, and guest laundry facilities. Each relaxing guest room boasts a microwave, refrigerator, work desk, ironing facilities, hair dryer, and coffee maker.
Another mid-range hotel located outside Philadelphia is Holiday Inn Express & Suites Forest. This highly-rated accommodation is conveniently located off Interstate-20 in the Bienville National Forest, making it the perfect choice for travelers headed to Philadelphia via the interstate. The property includes a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor pool, free hot breakfast, and triple-sheeted beds in every room.
Philadelphia serves as a springboard for many area attractions your family won't want to miss.
Geyser Falls Water Theme Park in Choctaw is Mississippi's top amusement park, offering fun for all ages. The park opens around the middle of May and operates on a daily schedule through the first week of August. Then, it switches over to weekend-only operations through the first week of September. Notable attractions include Mt. Everwet, which consists of three six-story speed slides; Lil' Squirts Hollow, an interactive children's water feature fun zone; and the lazy Roundabout River. There's also an 8-acre stretch of white sand beach and crystal-clear pool called Clearwater Key, which is a guest favorite.
If you want to learn more about the area's history, head to the Neshoba County-Philadelphia Historical Museum. Established in 1992, this museum housed inside a 19th-century home explores and preserves local history on land obtained through the 1830 Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek. Exhibits include antique furnishings, an old-fashioned kitchen, an antique sewing machine, personal items, quilts, agricultural equipment, and a citizens' memorial walkway.
Between glitzy casinos and down-home charm, Philadelphia runs the gamut of interests. No matter your reasons for visiting, you'll find a beautiful Southern city brimming with tasty food, lively entertainment, and history. Whether you're looking for an upscale experience or you prefer a more budget-friendly roadside hotel, the Philadelphia area has you covered. With a little research and planning, you can find the perfect hotel to meet both your needs and budget.
Below are reviews of the city of Philadelphia, MS from an actual visitor's perspective.
There were plenty of restaurants and casinos.
Front desk lady was awesome-very helpful and friendly.
Front desk lady was awesome-very helpful and friendly.
Good golfing!
Philadelphia, Mississippi is a good time!
The room was comfortable and clean. I love it
Friendly staff.
We enjoyed the water park Geyser Fall that we visited with our church group.