Laurel, Mississippi: 10 Unforgettable Things to Do Near This Historic Hub

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Laurel, Mississippi (Jones County Guide)

If you’re a fan of small Southern towns, front porches, and that slow, easy pace of life, Laurel, Mississippi in Jones County deserves a spot on your travel list. Whether you discovered Laurel from HGTV’s Home Town or you’re just looking for a laid-back weekend road trip, this little city packs in a surprising number of things to do. Below you’ll find 10 fun things to do in and around Laurel, MS, all written with first-time visitors in mind. Think charming downtown streets, local art, Southern food, and quiet country drives.

1. Stroll Through Historic Downtown Laurel

Downtown Laurel is the heart of the city, and it’s probably the first place you’ll want to explore. You’ll find:
  • Beautiful early 1900s brick buildings
  • Colorful murals and public art
  • Tree-lined streets with benches and planters
  • Locally owned shops and cafes
It’s a very walkable area, just a few blocks across, so you can easily park once and wander. I like to just grab a coffee and see where my feet take me. If you enjoy photography, this is your spot. The old storefronts, painted signs, and restored homes nearby give you that classic “Southern town” feel that people now associate with Laurel, Mississippi tourism.

2. Visit the Laurel Mercantile Co. & the Scotsman General Store

Fans of HGTV’s Home Town will recognize these names right away. Even if you’ve never seen the show, they’re still worth a visit. Laurel Mercantile Co. is set in a historic building and focuses on American-made goods:
  • Home decor
  • Candles and kitchen items
  • Local artwork and gifts
Just a short walk or quick drive away, the Scotsman General Store has:
  • Old-school candies and snacks
  • T-shirts and souvenirs
  • A great view of the Scotsman woodshop through big windows
If you’re looking for Laurel, MS souvenirs, these two shops are your best bet. Tip: Weekends can get busy, especially when the show is airing new episodes, so try to come early in the day.

3. Explore the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art

Laurel might be a small city, but it’s home to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, which is surprisingly impressive for a town of this size. Inside this stately brick building, you’ll find:
  • American paintings and decorative arts
  • Native American baskets
  • European art
  • Rotating exhibits that change throughout the year
The museum sits on a shady street lined with big old homes and oak trees, so the walk to and from your car is part of the charm. If you’re traveling with kids or you just need a quiet break from the sun and humidity, this is a great stop. It doesn’t take all day, but it adds a nice cultural piece to your Laurel itinerary.

4. Shop and Sip Along Central Avenue

Central Avenue runs right through the middle of downtown Laurel and is lined with shops and cafes. This is the area where you’ll really get a feel for the local community. You might:
  • Browse local boutiques for clothing and home goods
  • Pop into a bookstore or antique shop
  • Grab a latte, sweet tea, or iced coffee
  • Sit outside and people-watch
What I love most here is the pace. People are friendly, but not in a rushed way. If you’re used to big-city life, it can feel like someone hit the “slow motion” button—in a good way. If you’re planning a weekend in Laurel, Mississippi, set aside at least a couple of hours just to drift in and out of the storefronts downtown.

5. Take a Self-Guided “Home Town” House Tour

If you enjoy seeing older homes and quiet streets, this is one of the best things to do in Laurel. While there isn’t always an official tour running, you can easily create your own self-guided driving tour around the historic neighborhoods. Many of the houses seen on HGTV’s Home Town are located in or near the downtown area and in older parts of town. Here’s how to enjoy it:
  • Drive slowly through the tree-lined streets near downtown
  • Look for restored Craftsman and bungalow homes
  • Notice the front porches, swing chairs, and landscaping
Of course, remember these are private homes, so be respectful:
  • Don’t block driveways
  • Stay in your car or on the public sidewalk
  • Keep noise down, especially early or late
Even if you’ve never seen the show, the architecture and old neighborhoods make this a very pleasant drive.

6. Enjoy Southern Comfort Food at Local Restaurants

You can’t talk about travel in the South without talking about food. Laurel has several locally owned spots where you can dig into classic Southern dishes. Depending on where you go, you might find:
  • Fried catfish and hushpuppies
  • Biscuits and gravy
  • Chicken and waffles
  • BBQ plates with baked beans and coleslaw
  • Homemade pies and cobblers
If you’re visiting from out of state, don’t be afraid to ask your server, “What do you recommend?” or “What’s the most popular dish?” Locals usually love to share their favorites. Plan at least one sit-down meal when you’re building your Laurel, MS travel itinerary. It’s not just about the food—it’s a chance to soak in the local vibe.

7. Relax in Mason Park or One of Laurel’s Green Spaces

When you’re done shopping and eating, you might want some fresh air. Laurel and the wider Jones County area offer several parks where you can stretch your legs. Mason Park is one of the better-known options around town, and you’ll often find:
  • Walking paths
  • Open grassy areas
  • Playgrounds for kids
  • Shaded spots to sit and relax
If you’re on a road trip and have been sitting in the car for hours, a 20–30 minute walk in a local park can feel amazing. It’s also a budget-friendly option—perfect if you’re trying to keep your Laurel, Mississippi vacation affordable.

8. Take a Scenic Drive Through Jones County

Laurel is the hub of Jones County, Mississippi, and the countryside around it is peaceful and pretty in that quiet, understated Southern way. Consider:
  • Driving the back roads in the late afternoon or early evening
  • Looking for old barns, fields, and church steeples
  • Rolling down your window to smell pine trees after a rain
The drive doesn’t need to be long. Even a 20–40 minute loop outside of town can be relaxing. If you’re used to busy highways and traffic, these slower country roads can feel like a complete reset. Just keep an eye out for deer, farm vehicles, and slower drivers.

9. Visit Local Events, Festivals, or the Farmer’s Market

Depending on the time of year, you may catch one of Laurel’s local events or seasonal activities. Small-town festivals tend to be simple but very charming. You might find:
  • Live music in or near downtown
  • Holiday events and Christmas decorations in winter
  • A local farmer’s market with produce, honey, and baked goods
  • Craft fairs featuring local makers
If you can, check local event calendars online before your trip. Even one small event—like a Saturday market—can give your visit a more “local” feel, instead of just checking off tourist spots.

10. Use Laurel as a Base to Explore Nearby South Mississippi

Laurel sits in a handy spot in South Mississippi, making it a nice home base for day trips around the region. If you’re willing to drive 30–90 minutes, you can see even more of the state. Some ideas include:
  • Exploring other small towns in Jones County and nearby counties
  • Taking a longer drive toward Hattiesburg for more dining and shopping
  • Planning a multi-day road trip that includes Laurel, coastal Mississippi, and maybe even New Orleans
Think of Laurel as the “cozy home base” of your trip—quiet evenings, walkable downtown, then daytime adventures out on the road.

Tips for Planning Your Laurel, Mississippi Getaway

To make your trip smoother, keep these simple tips in mind:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall usually bring comfortable temperatures and pretty scenery.
  • How long to stay: A weekend (2–3 days) is perfect for most people.
  • Getting around: You’ll want a car. Downtown is walkable, but attractions are spread out across Laurel and Jones County.
  • Budget-friendly: Many activities—parks, walks, scenic drives—are free or low-cost.
If you enjoy small-town charm, front porches, and slower days, you’ll likely feel right at home here.

Ready to Plan Your Trip to Laurel, Mississippi?

Laurel may not be a big city, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Between the restored downtown, the Home Town connections, the local food, and the relaxed Southern atmosphere, it’s an easy place to fall in love with. If you’re putting together your own Laurel, MS travel guide, use this list of 10 things to do as a starting point, then add your own discoveries as you go. Have you visited Laurel or Jones County before? What was your favorite thing to do, see, or eat?
  • Share your experiences in the comments so other travelers can learn from you.
  • If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who loves small-town road trips and Southern charm.
Your stories and tips help keep this little corner of Mississippi on the map for future visitors!
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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