The city of Oxford has been recognized as one of the most hospitable cities in the state and one of the best weekend getaways in the South by the travel website WorldAtlas.com.

In a list of the eleven most hospitable towns in Alabama, the website denotes several of the city’s sites that bring people together on a regular basis. 

Oxford is cited as a “major arts hub in Alabama” for the Oxford Performing Arts Center and has developed Oxford Lake Park, which features fishing piers, the historic 1850 Coldwater covered bridge, a splash pad, pickleball and tennis courts, ball fields, and a playground. 

The city also offers a wide variety of dining and shopping experiences downtown and at the Oxford Exchange.

Oxford was also included in the website’s list of eleven ideal southern United States destinations for a 3-day weekend with “a walkable main street, a good kitchen, and a mountain” and sites “centered around the great outdoors.”

Historic Main Street Oxford meets that standard, with a revived downtown featuring renovated landmarks that have become robust businesses, shops, and eateries.

Oxford Parks and Recreation continues as the outdoors gateway for many, with Oxford Lake Park and Choccolocco Park providing areas for walking, fishing, bird watching, cycling, exercising, kayaking, and team sports.

The recognition also notes the city’s proximity to Cheaha State Park, Talladega National Forest, Talladega Scenic Drive, and “ample opportunities for mountain hiking and wilderness trails.”