It's hard to beat the slower pace and reassuring familiarity of a small town like McComb. With a Main Street pulled straight from an Americana painting and a population small enough that residents know one another, McComb offers a lifestyle that's increasingly difficult to find. And that's not bad for a town that was planned and created by railroad executives in the late 19th century specifically because it was far away from the temptations of nearby New Orleans.

Though McComb's roots were calculated rather than organic, that never stopped the town from developing its own character. Some of that early spirit remains on display at places like the McComb Railroad Museum and the Black History Gallery, while evidence of a more recent resurgence of local goods and farm-to-table food can be found at beloved Topisaw General. Whatever time of day you stop by, you'll be greeted by a bevy of can't-miss treats. And forget having to travel to Jackson to celebrate a special occasion—some classic Southern eats at the Caboose will rival anything you'd find in the big city, and a meal in town will still have you home by a reasonable hour.

In case you do stay out late or pack up for a weekend of camping at Percy Quin State Park, let an ADT monitored security system take care of your home for you while you're gone. A simple installation will go a long way towards helping preserve your sense of safety and security in McComb.