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Laurel, MS: Where Fun & Adventure Meet – Best Things To Do & Places To Visit!

Are you planning a trip to Laurel, Mississippi? You are in for a treat. This charming town carries a lot, from working through downtown to getting at the art and culture scene. Serious eater or outdoor enthusiast, Laurel covers both.

If you want to work through downtown Laurel, be sure to check out the Laurel Main Street Experience. This quintessential Southern town is filled with close-knit charm and a strong sense of community. You will find unusual shopping, good food and drink, and plenty of special events to keep you occupied.

Art and culture enthusiasts will not want to miss the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, which runs an outstanding collection of artwork in a small town setting. And if you want outdoor activities, Laurel runs plenty of options, including Daphne Park and Lake Bogue Homa. No matter what you are after, Laurel, Mississippi belongs on the list.

Key Takeaways

• Laurel, Mississippi is a charming town with a strong sense of community.
• Visitors can explore downtown Laurel, experience the art and culture scene, and enjoy outdoor activities.
• The town offers unique shopping experiences, delicious food and drink, and plenty of special events to keep you entertained.

Exploring Downtown Laurel

Laurel is cheap to visit if you let it be. Downtown is free to walk and the historic district tour costs nothing beyond picking up a map at the Laurel Main Street office. Mason Park and Lake Bogue Homa charge you nothing either, though the lake wants a fishing license. The Art Walk is free by definition. Put the money into the Lauren Rogers Museum, a meal at Pearl’s Diner, and whatever the Mercantile talks you into.

If you want a fun and unusual stretch in Laurel, Mississippi, Downtown Laurel answers that. This charming area is full of shops, restaurants and attractions that will keep you occupied for hours. Here are the spots in Downtown Laurel worth your time:

The Laurel Mercantile Co.

The Laurel Mercantile Co. belongs on the list for anyone working through Downtown Laurel. This charming store is owned by Ben and Erin Napier, the stars of HGTV’s hit show Home Town. Here, you will find a deep bench of home goods, including furniture, decor and more. The Laurel Mercantile Co. is a strong place to find unusual souvenirs to take home with you.

Scotsman General Store

No visit to Downtown Laurel is complete without a stop at the Scotsman General Store. This iconic store has been a fixture in the area for over 60 years, and it is easy to see why. Here, you will find everything from snacks and drinks to clothing and souvenirs. Be sure to try one of their famous snowballs while you are there.

Shopping at Downtown Shops

Downtown Laurel is home to a spread of charming shops and boutiques, each with its own style. Clothing, jewelry or home goods, you are sure to find something you like here. Some of the ones we come back to include The Cotton Boll, Lott Furniture Co., and Adam Trest Home.

So what are you waiting for? Head on down to Downtown Laurel and work through everything this charming area runs. Shopping for souvenirs, trying new food, or just taking in the sights, you are in for a strong day. And do not forget to support the efforts of Revitalize Downtown Laurel and Laurel Main Street to preserve and promote the historic downtown area.

Art and Culture in Laurel

Laurel, Mississippi is a hub of art and culture, with plenty of places to work through. Art museums, local galleries or live performance, Laurel covers all three. Here are the places to check out:

Lauren Rogers Museum of Art

No trip to Laurel would be complete without a visit to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. This fantastic museum runs a serious collection of silver, American art, European art and Japanese woodblock prints. Not only that, but the museum also hosts seasonal festivals and children’s pottery classes, which makes it a strong destination for the whole family. You will be caught off guard to find such an outstanding art museum in such a small town, but that is part of the charm of Laurel.

Local Art Galleries

If you want to work through local art, Laurel runs plenty of galleries to choose from. Visit the Laurel Arts League, where you can see work from local artists and even buy pieces to take home with you. The Lott Gallery is another strong option, with rotating exhibits and a focus on contemporary art. And do not forget to check out the Laurel Main Street Art Walk, where you can work through galleries, shops and restaurants while taking in the local art scene.

Laurel Little Theatre

For live theatre, the Laurel Little Theatre is the place to be. This community theatre offers a range of plays and musicals throughout the year, with productions that are sure to entertain. From classic dramas to modern comedies, there’s always something new to see at the Laurel Little Theatre. Plus, with affordable ticket prices and a friendly atmosphere, it’s a great way to experience the local arts scene.

In Laurel, art and culture are everywhere you look. With museums, galleries and live performance, there is always something new to work through. So why not plan a trip to Laurel today and take it all in for yourself?

Food and Drink in Laurel

If you eat seriously, you will like Laurel, Mississippi. This small town runs a surprisingly varied food scene, with options ranging from classic diners to trendy cafes. Here are the places to eat and drink in Laurel:

Pearl’s Diner

Pearl’s Diner is a classic diner that has been a fixture in Laurel for over 50 years. This place serves all the classic diner fare you could want, from burgers and fries to milkshakes and pie. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. It is a strong spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

Cafe La Fleur

Cafe La Fleur is a cozy little cafe that suits a leisurely brunch or lunch. The menu features a mix of classic and modern dishes, with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The coffee is excellent, and the pastries hold up. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with plenty of natural light and comfortable seating.

Bird Dog Cafe

Bird Dog Cafe is a trendy spot that draws the younger crowd. The menu features a mix of Southern and international dishes, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The cocktails are creative and well-crafted, and the coffee is excellent. The decor is stylish and modern, with plenty of reclaimed wood and artwork.

Lee’s Coffee and Tea

Lee’s Coffee and Tea is a charming little coffee shop that suits a quick pick-me-up. The coffee is excellent, and the tea selection is serious. The pastries hold up, and there are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with plenty of seating and natural light.

Overall, Laurel runs a food scene that is worth working through. Classic diner fare or trendy cafe dishes, the town covers both. So grab your friends or family and head out to one of these strong spots for a meal or a drink.

Outdoor Activities in Laurel

Looking for some outdoor fun in Laurel? You are in luck. This charming Southern town runs plenty of options for being outdoors. Here are the outdoor activities in Laurel that you will not want to miss.

Day in the Park at Mason Park

Mason Park is a strong spot for a slow day in the sun. Pack a picnic, grab a frisbee, and head to this park for some proper time with friends and family. With plenty of open space, playgrounds and walking trails, Mason Park covers most tastes. Plus, the park hosts a spread of events through the year, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.

Fishing at Lake Bogue Homa

If you follow fishing, you will not want to miss Lake Bogue Homa. This 1,200-acre lake is home to a spread of fish, including bass, crappie and catfish. Experienced angler or somebody casting a line for the first time, Lake Bogue Homa suits both. Just be sure to bring your fishing license and follow all local regulations.

Walking Tour of Historic District

Take a step back in time with a walking tour of Laurel’s historic district. This charming neighborhood is home to some of the town’s finest and most carefully kept homes, as well as a spread of local shops and restaurants. Pick up a map at the Laurel Main Street office and work through the area at your own pace. You will like the architecture and the small-town charm of this historic district.

No matter what your outdoor interests are, Laurel carries something for them. So grab your sunscreen, lace up your sneakers, and get ready for some fun in the sun.

Special Events in Laurel

Laurel, Mississippi is a small town that knows how to party. There are plenty of special events through the year that you will not want to miss. Here are the ones we come back to:

Loblolly Festival

If you want a good time, you cannot go wrong with the Loblolly Festival. This annual event takes place every October and is a strong way to celebrate the fall season. You will find plenty of food, music and arts and crafts vendors lining the streets of downtown Laurel. And do not forget to check out the Loblolly Parade, where you will see some seriously inventive floats.

Chili Cook-Off

If you follow spicy food, you will not want to miss the Chili Cook-Off. This event takes place every July and is a strong way to beat the summer heat. You will find plenty of chili vendors competing for the title, as well as live music and other entertainment. And if you are feeling brave, you can even enter the chili eating contest.

Local or just passing through, Laurel’s special events are not to be missed. So mark your calendar and get ready for some serious fun.

This is not a town coasting on the back of a television show. Revitalize Downtown Laurel and Laurel Main Street were doing the work long before the cameras ever arrived, and they are still doing it now. The Scotsman General Store has held its corner for over 60 years. Pearl’s Diner has been feeding people for over 50 of them. The Lauren Rogers Museum was here long before any of the rest of it. The Napiers are the visible part rather than the reason.

Stay in Laurel

Looking for a place to stay in Laurel, Mississippi? You have plenty of options to choose from, whether you want a cozy cottage or a modern hotel room. Here are some ideas to help you decide where to rest your head during your visit:

The Laurel Cottages

If you want an unusual and charming place to stay, check out The Laurel Cottages. These cozy cottages are located in the heart of downtown Laurel and run all the comforts of home. Each cottage is carefully decorated and comes with a fully equipped kitchen, comfy beds and a private porch. Plus, you will be just steps away from some of the strongest shops and restaurants in town.

Hampton Inn & Suites Laurel

For a more traditional hotel, consider staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites Laurel. This modern hotel runs comfortable rooms and suites, a fitness center and a complimentary breakfast each morning. Plus, it is located just a short drive from downtown Laurel, which makes it easy to work through everything the city runs.

Airbnb Options

If you want a more budget-friendly option, consider booking an Airbnb. There are plenty of unusual and affordable options available in Laurel, from cozy apartments to spacious homes. Plus, staying in an Airbnb gives you the chance to live like a local and see Laurel from the inside.

No matter where you choose to stay in Laurel, you are in for a strong stretch in this charming and welcoming city. So pack your bags and get ready for a weekend destination that is full of fun and adventure.

The People of Laurel

Laurel, Mississippi is known for its friendly and welcoming locals who will make you feel right at home. In this section, we will introduce you to some of the people who make Laurel what it is.

Erin and Ben Napier

You cannot talk about Laurel without mentioning Erin and Ben Napier. This charming couple is the star of the hit HGTV show Home Town, where they renovate old homes and revitalize their community.

Ben is a skilled woodworker and craftsman, while Erin is an artist and designer. Together, they make a dynamic duo that has caught the attention of viewers all over the world.

If you are lucky, you might even run into Erin and Ben while you are working through Laurel. They are known for their friendly and approachable personalities, and they are always happy to talk with fans.

Locals’ Stories

One of the strengths of Laurel is the sense of community that runs through the town. The locals are proud of their city and eager to share their stories with visitors.

Take a stroll down Main Street and you will likely run into somebody who is eager to tell you about the history of the town or point you toward a strong restaurant. Strike up a conversation and you might just make a new friend.

If you want to get a sense of what life is like in Laurel, check out the town’s social media pages. The locals are active on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, where they share photos and stories about their daily lives.

In Laurel, you will find a warm and welcoming community that is eager to show you what makes their town what it is. So come on down and say hello.

Unique Shopping Experiences in Laurel

When you are in Laurel, you cannot miss out on the unusual shopping that the city runs. From antique shops to boutiques, the range covers most tastes. Here are the places we come back to:

Southern Antiques

If you follow antiques, Southern Antiques belongs on the list. With over 20 antique shops, you are sure to find something that catches your eye. From vintage jewelry to collectibles, they have it all. And if you are lucky, you might even turn up something undervalued that is worth a fortune. So, grab your magnifying glass and get ready to hunt.

Peddlers’ Junktion

If you want unusual items, Peddlers’ Junktion is where to be. They have everything from candles to gifts to home decor. And the part that matters? Everything is one-of-a-kind. You will not find these items anywhere else. So, if you want to stand out from the crowd, head on over to Peddlers’ Junktion.

In conclusion, Laurel runs some of the strongest shopping in Mississippi. With its deep bench of shops and boutiques, you are sure to find something that suits your taste. So, put on your walking shoes and get ready to shop till you drop.

Laurel’s History and Heritage

If you read history, Laurel, Mississippi carries a lot. From the Civil War to the present day, this town is steeped in heritage and culture. Here are the places you will not want to miss.

Veterans Memorial Museum

If you are interested in military history, you will like the Veterans Memorial Museum. This museum is dedicated to the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. You will find exhibits on everything from World War I to the present day, as well as displays on individual soldiers and units.

Landrum’s Homestead and Village

For a taste of life in the 1800s, head to Landrum’s Homestead and Village. This living history museum features historic buildings and artifacts from the 19th century. You can work through a blacksmith shop, a general store and even a one-room schoolhouse.

But the real strength of Landrum’s Homestead and Village is the people. The staff and volunteers are dressed in period clothing and are more than happy to share their knowledge of life in the 1800s with you. If you are lucky, you might even get to see a demonstration of a historic craft or trade.

Architecture, cultural heritage, or just something new to learn, Laurel, Mississippi covers all three. So come on down and work through the town’s long history and heritage for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some Laurel, MS events that are worth checking out?

Well, let me tell you, Laurel knows how to throw a party. If you are lucky enough to be in town during the annual Laurel Main Street Festival, you are in for a treat. It is a full day of live music, local vendors and good food. Other events worth checking out include the Day in the Park Festival, the Loblolly Festival, and the Downtown Movie Night series.

What are some hidden gems for shopping in Laurel, MS?

You will not find any big-box stores here, but that is what makes Laurel’s shopping scene what it is. For one-of-a-kind finds, head to The Laurel Leaf, which features local artists and makers. If you are in the market for vintage, check out Southern Antiques and Accents. And if you want a little bit of everything, head to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art Gift Shop.

If I only have one day in Laurel, MS, what are the must-see attractions?

Only the day in Laurel? Challenge accepted. Start your day off with a cup of coffee at Lee’s Coffee and Tea, then head over to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art to take in some culture. Next, take a stroll down Main Street and pop into the local shops. For lunch, grab a burger at the Pearl Diner. After lunch, head to the Landrum’s Homestead & Village to see what life in Laurel looked like in the 1800s. Finish off your day with a cold beer at Slowboat Brewing Company.

What are some of the best local restaurants in Laurel, MS?

Oh boy, where do we start? For some of the strongest BBQ you will ever taste, head to Hog Heaven. If you are in the mood for Italian, check out Mimmo’s Ristorante Pizzeria. For a serious burger, head to The Pearl Diner. And if you want some good old Southern cooking, Pearl’s Diner is where to be.

What are some unique experiences to have in Laurel, MS?

Well, there is always the chance you will run into Ben and Erin Napier from Home Town, but we cannot guarantee that. For something genuinely different, check out the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. It is a quiet find that is worth a visit. And if you are feeling adventurous, take a trip to the DeSoto National Forest for some hiking and camping.

Is it true that Ben and Erin Napier from Home Town live in Laurel, MS?

Yes, it is true. Ben and Erin Napier are Laurel’s hometown heroes. They are the stars of the hit HGTV show Home Town, and they are proud to call Laurel their home. Who knows, you might even run into them at the local coffee shop.

Frequently asked questions about Laurel, Mississippi

Which museum in Laurel should you actually make time for, and where does it sit?

The Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Silver, American and European work, and Japanese woodblock prints, all of it sitting in a town of this size, which is the part that catches people out. It is close enough to downtown that you can fold it into a Main Street walk. Seasonal festivals and children’s pottery classes run alongside the collection. The Veterans Memorial Museum covers military history from World War I onward.

Which lake near Laurel is worth the trip, and what do you need to bring with you?

Lake Bogue Homa, running to 1,200 acres and holding bass, crappie and catfish somewhere in it. Bring a fishing license and check the local regulations before you cast anything at all. It suits a first-timer as readily as an experienced angler. Mason Park is the in-town alternative if you would rather not drive out. DeSoto National Forest is the bigger trip.

Which park in Laurel is the one to spend an afternoon in with family?

Mason Park. Open space, playgrounds and walking trails, with events running right through the year, so it is genuinely worth checking the schedule before you set out for it. Pack a picnic and a frisbee. Daphne Park is the other option in town. The historic district walk suits anyone who would rather look at houses than grass.

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