Welcome to Starkville, home of the Mississippi State Bulldogs! If you’re heading to town to catch a game, here’s what you need to know about where to stay, eat, drink, and tailgate. First, a few key facts:
- SEC Team: Mississippi State Bulldogs
- Coach: Zach Arnett
- Stadium: Davis Wade Stadium
- Fun Fact: Fans bring cowbells to home games each Saturday to up the noise.
WHERE TO STAY IN STARKVILLE
For game day weekends, location is key! Here are two super-convenient accommodation options for Bulldogs games — and one boutique experience if you’re interested in a quieter space.
Courtyard Starkville MSU at The Mill Conference Center
100 Mercantile St., Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 338-3116
Serving as the closest hotel to campus, Courtyard Marriott is popular among Bulldog fans.
Hampton Inn
700 MS-12, Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 324-1333
Recently renovated, the Hampton Inn is situated right by campus, so it’s another conveniently located option for game weekends at Mississippi State.
Hotel Chester
101 N. Jackson St., Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 323-5005
If you’re looking for more of a luxury boutique experience, Hotel Chester offers modern amenities in a historic setting. If you prefer to be a bit removed from the hustle and bustle of the campus area, this may be the place for you!
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WHERE TO EAT & DRINK IN STARKVILLE
If you’re looking for a bite to eat ahead of the game, or you want to grab a few for your tailgate (including adult beverages, of course), here are some of your best bets located near campus.
Bin 612
612 University Dr. Ste. 3, Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 324-6126
More of a late-night spot, you can’t leave Starkville without trying Bin 612’s cheese fries. So make plans to stop by after the game!
Bulldog Burger Co.
702 University Dr., Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 324-4040
A staple in Starkville, Bulldog Burger Co. is known for its beers on tap and “The Bryant,” a signature burger complete with Jack Daniels Bourbon glaze, bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fried onion straws.
TASTE Italian Kitchen
208 Lincoln Green, Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 270-0700
For a taste of authentic Italian cuisine, head to TASTE. Offering everything from salads to flatbread pizzas, pasta, and more, you’re sure to get fueled up before the big game. You can also make reservations online to ensure you get a table!
The Little Dooey
100 Fellowship St., Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 323-6094
Serving Starkville for over 25 years, The Little Dooey is the perfect joint to get your fix of comforting Southern fare. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, from barbecue, catfish, and po’boys, to their signature spin on nachos.
Two Brothers Smoked Meats
621 University Dr., Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 617-8095
As the name would suggest, Two Brothers Smoked Meats serves up some of the best smoked meats in town. They also have a lineup of street tacos that are drool-worthy.
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BARS IN STARKVILLE
If you’re in the market for a pre- or post-game drink, here are a few hotspots to check out — equally well-suited to celebrating or drowning your sorrows.
Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern
410 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr. E., Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 324-7001
A five-minute drive from the stadium, Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern has been a Starkville staple since 1995. In addition to delicious pizza and cold beer, the outpost also offers televisions if you don’t have tickets to the game.
Hobie’s on Main
217 E. Main St., Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 769-1715
Located above the State Theatre in downtown Starkville, Hobie’s on Main is the perfect spot to get your fix of live music, beer on tap, and beachy delicacies.
Mugshots Grill & Bar
550 Russell St., Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 324-3965
With locations across the South, Mugshots Bar & Grill is known for serving ice-cold beer in a sports-themed atmosphere. It’s the ideal hangout if you’re looking for a place with a more laid-back vibe.
The Guest Room
100 E. Main St., Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 324-8422
From hand-crafted cocktails to top-shelf liquor, The Guest Room is described as “Starkville’s best-kept secret.” Paying attention to every small detail, the bar makes its own bitters, shrubs, ginger beer, and more.
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WHERE TO TAILGATE IN STARKVILLE
Casual
The Junction, located just outside the stadium, is the most popular tailgating location in Starkville. Set up a tent, then walk around.
Southern Tradition
If you want the all-inclusive tailgating experience, go through Southern Tradition. They do it all for you, so all you have to do is show up.
SB TIP:
Talk to the people. Mississippi State is home to passionate fans who love talking about their team, so meet the people around you. Also, don’t be surprised if you’re offered some good food — this is the South, after all.
Go Bulldogs!
Click HERE for the complete SEC City Guide!
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