Leland, MS

Set in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Leland is a quiet, welcoming community with around 4,000 residents. Deer Creek winds right through the middle of town, giving the area a relaxed, scenic feel under the shade of mature cypress and pecan trees. Surrounding farmland and the agricultural research center in nearby Stoneville anchor the local economy, creating a peaceful, down-to-earth setting for small-town Delta living.

ATTRDorothea Lange / Public domain

Leland also has plenty of personality for a small town. Jim Henson spent his childhood exploring Deer Creek, which famously inspired his creation of Kermit the Frog. Today, you can visit the local museum celebrating his work, check out downtown murals, or explore the Highway 61 Blues Museum. Neighbors regularly gather along the water for local events, from spring crawfish boils to the annual Christmas on Deer Creek celebration, when decorated holiday floats drift down the creek.