


The Hattiesburg Saenger Theater is a beautifully restored historic venue that brings the magic of live performance to families in Southern Mississippi. With Broadway shows, children's concerts, dance performances, and special cultural events throughout the year, this elegant theater offers an unforgettable introduction to the performing arts for kids of all ages in a classic setting complete with ornate architecture and vintage charm.
Matinee performances on weekends are ideal for families, offering earlier showtimes that work better with kids' schedules and bedtimes. The theater's performance calendar is most active during the school year (fall through spring), with family-friendly shows typically scheduled around holidays and school breaks.
Ticket prices vary by performance, typically ranging from $15-60 per person depending on the show and seating. Street parking and nearby public lots are available within easy walking distance of the theater, and the historic downtown location means restrooms and concessions are available inside the venue.
The theater operates year-round with performances scheduled throughout the season. Holiday shows (Nutcracker, Christmas concerts) are particularly popular in November-December. Summer programming may be lighter, with most family-friendly productions scheduled during the school year and around spring break.
Try Keg & Barrel downtown (just blocks away) for burgers and kid-friendly pub fare, or The Midtown Market for casual sandwiches and pizza that work well for pre-show dining with children.
Dewitt Sullivan Park offers a fantastic interactive splash pad that's a summertime lifesaver for Hattiesburg families. The water play area features multiple jets, sprays, and water features specifically designed for young children to run, jump, and cool off during those hot Mississippi summers. It's the perfect free outdoor activity for toddlers and elementary-aged kids to burn energy while staying refreshed.
The Longleaf Trace offers 40 miles of paved, car-free trail perfect for family biking adventures through Mississippi's beautiful pine forests. This former railroad corridor provides a safe, scenic environment where kids can ride bikes, scooter, or walk while spotting wildlife and enjoying the shade of towering trees. Multiple access points and trailheads make it easy to choose a distance that works for your family's skill level.
The Hattiesburg Pocket Museum is a delightful interactive children's museum in downtown Hattiesburg that brings learning to life through hands-on exhibits and imaginative play spaces. With an impressive 4.9-star rating from nearly 600 families, this engaging destination offers educational activities perfectly tailored for young learners, making it an ideal rainy-day activity or weekend adventure.
The Mississippi Children's Museum in Jackson brings world-class interactive learning experiences to life with hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 1,200 families, this museum offers rotating exhibits that keep each visit fresh and exciting, making it a top educational destination for families in the Hattiesburg and Jackson areas.