Ocean Springs Recognized as a Top 10 “Best Small-Town Cultural Scene” by USA Today 10BEST
Ocean Springs, MS – April 9, 2026 — The Ocean Springs Chamber–Main Street is excited
to announce that Ocean Springs, Mississippi has been named as one of the top best in
the 2026 USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Small Town Cultural
Scene.
Following a nationwide vote, Ocean Springs earned a spot among the top small-town
cultural destinations in the country—an honor that reflects the vibrant arts community,
rich heritage, and creative spirit that define our city.
The top 10 communities are: Ruidoso, New Mexico, Bardstown, Kentucky, De Smet,
South Dakota, Cullman, Alabama, Corning, New York, Ashland, Oregon, New Hope,
Pennsylvania, Ephraim, Wisconsin, Bristol, Rhode Island, and Ocean Springs, Mississippi.
“This recognition truly belongs to the entire community,” said Cynthia Sutton, CEO of the
Ocean Springs Chamber–Main Street. “From our artists and small businesses to the
volunteers and partners who help bring our events to life year-round, it takes all of us
working together to create the kind of cultural experience people are drawn to. We’re
excited to continue promoting all that Ocean Springs has to offer.
For more information about Ocean Springs, event listings, or general tourist information,
please visit our website, www.oceanspringschamber.com, follow us on social media or give
us a call at our Visitors Center, 228-875-4424.
###
ABOUT OCEAN SPRINGS MAIN STREET
Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce-Main Street-Tourism Bureau is a three-tier, non-profit organization created in 1947 that promotes tourism, preservation, community vitality and local culture. In 1989, Ocean Springs became a national main street community. Today, the Ocean Springs Chamber– Main Street – Tourism Bureau located in the heart of downtown not only serves to promote and preserve, but also informs as the official town visitors center. Ocean Springs Main Street is a recipient of the 2013 Great American Main Street Award and voted as “One of America’s Most Charming Main Streets” for 2024.