I will admit that I may be slightly bias when I say that Laurel, Mississippi is one of the most adorable little towns. My name was inspired by it anyway. But, this quaint town in Mississippi is a hidden gem and a must visit if you are in Mississippi. Start planning your trip with this Guide to a Weekend in Laurel, Mississippi.
Updated: November 2022
I have family that grew up around Laurel and they tell me stories about how much it has changed in the years gone by. How the abandoned building used to be a busy garment factory that my grandma worked at for a while.
The movie theatre in the Sawmill Mall where my parents had their first date watching E.T. And then about all the new places that have popped up.
Then, there are places that have not changed a bit.
Like most old towns, Laurel has had its ups and downs, but is currently on its ride up. There have been new renovations and an overall renewal of the city. With it has come new people, businesses, and experiences.
Experiencing both the new and old is part of the beautiful features of Laurel, Mississippi.
Table of Contents
Things to Do in Laurel, Mississippi:
Laurel, Mississippi is the perfect little town to visit on a weekend when you are searching for a slower pace of life and the charm of the south. There are several fun things to do on your trip, especially for the fans of the HGTV show Home Town.
Ride Around to Look at the Home Town Homes
In the past few years, a show called Home Town was aired on HGTV that features Laurel. A couple named Erin and Ben Napier are redesigning and refurbishing old homes in downtown Laurel.
A drive around the historic district is a must on your list. Keep an eye out of Erin and Ben! They are a sweet couple and often seen out and about. (Try 4th-7th Avenues)
Shop at the Laurel Mercantile
The Napiers also have a shop called the Laurel Mercantile. It is an adorable shop with goodies and trinkets lining the walls all from local vendors and entrepreneurs around Laurel.
This is a great place to find a souvenir or just some fun must-haves for your house. I will admit that I got a magnet and t-shirt with my name on it, how could I not?
They also have a little community park beside it where you can relax in some chairs. Make sure to get a picture with the popular Laurel Mercantile mural on the side of the building.
There is parking infront of the store and along the streets.
Website: https://www.laurelmercantile.com/ ; Instagram: @laurelmercantile
Visit the Scotsman’s General Store and Woodhsop
Ending our tour of the Home Town sites is the Scotsman’s General Store. You can shop Ben Napier’s handmade goodies and often see him at work in the general store.
Instagram: @scotsman.co
Discover Hidden Gems in the Historic District
There are many shops located in the historic district that are fun to stroll through. Park along the street, stroll around and see what all you can discover.
Throughout the year, there are events held in the historic district. Check the calendar to see if anything if happening when you travel to Laurel.
Website: http://www.laurelms.com/
Search for the Downtown Laurel Murals
All around the historic downtown area of Laurel, Mississippi, you will find beautiful murals on the walls of buildings. Go on a mural hunt around the historic area and get those classic Instragram-worthy shots.
A trip to Laurel is not complete without taking a picture in front of the classic “Historic Downtown Laurel” sign. It is hard to miss!
Recommended: Murals in Birmingham Alabama
Catch a Play at the Little Laurel Theatre
During certain times of the year, this local community theatre hosts plays that you can attend. Although this may not be the reason to visit Laurel, it is the perfect way to experience the small town feel and meet locals if a play is showing while you are in town.
Check their schedule and buy tickets at their website below!
Website: https://www.laurellittletheatre.com/
Stroll Around the Lauren Roger’s Museum of Art
View some of Mississippi’s golden artwork as you stroll through this unique museum. Admission is free and they are open everyday except Monday’s.
Website: https://www.lrma.org/
Are you wanting a full Laurel Travel Guide? CLICK HERE to purchase my newly published guide!
Get Styled at The Pink Anchor
The Pink Anchor is probably one of my all-time favorite places to go shopping. Located in the Sawmill Mall, just a short drive around the corner from the historic area, you would never think a treasure like this would exist. They have the most affordable prices, great sales, and fashionable, up to date clothing.
Website: https://thepinkanchor.commentsold.com/store ; Instagram: @shopthepinkanchor
Find Treasure at The Rusty Chandelier
Another gem is The Rusty Chandelier. This is a huge treasure trove of goodies that is only open the third Thursday weekend of every month.
I get giddy just thinking about being able to go shopping around at the rusty chandelier. There are rows and rows of booths that locals have set up with all sorts of amazing deals. All booths are located inside the building.
Refurbished furniture, flipped antiques, handmade crafts, clothes, basically everything you could ever think of at amazing prices.
They have started bumping up their prices as the popularity has risen, but there are still great deals and it is a blast just strolling round and getting inspired with ideas if nothing else.
It is hard to plan around when they will be open, but if you are in Laurel in the third weekend of a month, it is a place you must check out!
Website: https://www.facebook.com/therustychandelierlaurel/
Take a Limo Tour in Style
If you are looking for something really unique to do on your trip, then hop into a limo and take in the sights. Better yet, you can ride in a hot pink stretch Hummer, I mean does it get better than that?!
Laurel Home Tours offers 40 minute tours to see Laurel’s new and remodeled homes and historic sights for only $25 per person.
Call to book your tour: 601-319-3210
Relax in a Local Park
There are several small little local parks both in the Historic Laurel area and about town. I like to take some time to relax and enjoy the nice (hopefully) weather. We will often get coffee or PDI’s and then eat and sit a spell in one of the parks downtown. Most of the time, Laurel puts on a pretty light display during Christmas time in one of the local parks as well, and it is fun to drive to see it.
Places to Eat in Laurel, Mississippi:
Also around Historic Downtown Laurel are several places to eat that all my foodies must visit on your trip to Laurel. Check them out below!
Sweet Somethings Bakery
Sweet Somethings is a decadent bakery with sweets that could make you float to the ceiling. They have nice indoor and outdoor seating areas for you to relax in as you enjoy a sweet treat.
Featured on Home Town, this family based and locally owned and operated bakery is famous for its sticky buns. Perfect for a snack or breakfast.
Note: They are closed on Sunday’s.
Website: https://www.sweetsomethingsbakery.com/
Phillip’s Drive-In (PDI’s)
Phillip’s Drive-In is the perfect, picturesque, movie-like dairy bar I have ever seen in my life. It has been in Laurel for years and is a staple of the community. If you eat at no where else in Laurel, go here.
My grandparents have told me stories as we munched on their onion rings about meeting at PDI’s when they were just starting to date 50 plus years ago. My grandma worked at the garment factory right behind it and they shared memories of walking over on her lunch break for a burger.
Literally everything here is so good, but their burgers and onion rings are mouth-watering.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/pdi1948/
Recommended: The Perfect Southern Honeymoon or Romantic Getaway Destinations
Pearl’s Diner
This quickly became my mom’s favorite restaurant last time we were in Laurel. The owner, Ms. Pearl, came over and talked with her for a while. There is nothing like some good southern hospitality to leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
Ms. Pearl is the nicest lady you will meet and her food is amazing, southern classics. Located in the heart of the historic area, this is the perfect place to relax for a slow meal.
Website: https://pearls-diner.business.site/
Lee’s Coffee and Tea House
Lee’s Coffee and Tea House is the most adorable place you will ever go to. If you are like me, finding local coffee shops when traveling is like a hobby.
They have plenty of comfortable seating, wonderful food (try the omelets), and great coffee. I could sit in there all day, but limited myself to an hour, so I could see other places.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and you see an array of customers stopping by the shop on their way to work, to meet a friend, or to sit a while.
Website: https://leescoffeetea.com/
McAlister’s Deli
Although this is a chain restaurant, I could not write this article without including it. When visiting my family in Laurel, this is our go-to place, because it is reliable and has something everyone likes to eat.
This is a great place for when you do not want to worry about the hours they are open and want something quick, reliable, tasty, and healthy. Their sweet tea, chocolate chip cookies, and chicken tortilla soup are to die for.
Website: https://www.mcalistersdeli.com/
Charlie’s Catfish House
I almost did not want to tell you about this one, because I love it and how much of a hole-in-the-wall it is, but here we go. If you are will to drive a little bit further, you will get a taste of the most amazing catfish (or shrimp) you will ever put in your mouth.
Every time we are in Mississippi we make sure to stop by Charlie’s for some of their amazing whole fried catfish and tarter sauce. Served with coleslaw, hushpuppies, and fries, there is truly nothing like it.
I have so many fond memories here of my entire family taking up several tables as we chow down and catch up. It is where my grandmother met my current husband before she passed and we got married. It is where I ran around with my siblings as a kid. Where we chatted for hours in the dirt parking lot before driving back home.
Wow, just went WAY down memory road with you. Sorry!
ANWAY… My point is, you should go.
Website: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g43766-d4829045-Reviews-Charlie_s_Catfish_House-Ellisville_Mississippi.html (they do not have a website so here is their trip advisor page)
Sweet Magnolia’s Bakery Café
Sweet Magnolia’s Bakery Café is somewhere that I just discovered in my last trip to the area. It has existed for a while, but was just renamed and rebranded as the owners daughter took over the café.
We tried the Turtle Cookies, Red Velvet Cupcakes, and Chocolate Cupcakes. All were amazing, but the Red Velvet was my favorite and after eating one, I was already looking forward to eating one later!
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Sweet-Magnolias-Bakery-Cafe
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Places to Stay in Laurel, Mississippi:
There are several cute and quaint places to stay, along with a few hotels on your trip to Laurel. Check them out below!
Hotels:
If you are looking for something with a name you know and a reliable reputation, here are the two hotels I recommend. Both close to the interstate and historic district with affordable prices.
Hampton Inn and Suites Laurel, MS
I can personally attest to the quality of this hotel. When we visit my grandparents, we always stay in a hotel so that we are not a burden on them. This is where we stay. It is reliable, affordable, clean, and has a free breakfast.
Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/lrljfhx-hampton-suites-laurel-ms/?SEO_id=GMB-HP-LRLJFHX
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Laurel, MS
I have also stayed at this hotel on a trip to Laurel and it is also a reliable, adorable, clean option. I do prefer the Hampton Inn, but if it is booked, this is our back up and a quality option.
Local Accommodations:
If you are wanting a more local and unique experience, here are a few more options.
Sweet Somethings Bed and Breakfast
Located above the Sweet Something’s Bakery, this B&B was created by renovating an old building into a chic and upscale studio.
Website: https://sweetsomethingsbednbreakfast.vistaprintdigital.com/
Grandiflora Luxury Bed and Breakfast
This absolutely dreamy B&B is located in the heart of historic downtown Laurel, Mississippi. Built in 1907 and renovated to be a southern masterpiece, your trip will be a dream staying here.
Website: https://grandiflorabnb.com/
The Laurel Cottages
For all my Home Town fans, do you remember Mallorie? She owns these!
The perfect Air BnB stays are decorated to a T by Mallorie Rasberry, one of the stars of the HGTV show Home Town. She has both an Air Stream and Cottages for very affordable prices.
New to AirBnB? CLICK HERE to create an account, book your stay, and get $20 off!
Along with all of these things to do, foods to eat, and places to stay, there are also many events that happen throughout the year in Laurel.
Main Street Laurel is a great website to check out for any local events that are happening in Laurel. This is a website and division committed to breathing life back into Laurel.
Check their calendar for any events that might be going on during your visit. I hope that you get a chance to explore the sights, tastes, and people of Laurel and that you enjoy your visit.
If you go to any of these places, let me know what you think! Also comment any places you love to visit in Laurel! It will always hold a special place in my heart.
Lots of Love, Laurel McDaniel
Plan on visiting Laurel, Mississippi? Pin this article to help plan your trip!
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I love little charming and historic towns like this! I never hear much about Mississipi, but this seems like a great spot to visit if I am ever in the area 🙂 I would love to visit all of those little shops and cafes!
Author
Mississippi often gets skipped over, but it has some really precious places!
Wow, this is really amazing guide to visit Mississippi! So much useful information! I never plan to visit this Mississippi, but after this article it’s seems like very charming place!
Author
Thank you, I am glad you found it helpful!
I’ve never been to Mississippi, so this was a great insight into a local town. Can’t wait to read more on your Mississippi trips!
Author
Thank you! MS often get’s skipped over but it has some really cute little towns!
I love MS I have been to Biloxi and Gulfport and traveled around small town while here. Hopefully this time we will stop in Laurel.
Author
How fun! I often frequent Gulfport and there are some great places in North MS too.
What a pretty town, with so many beautiful buildings. Omelete at Lee’s Coffee and Tea shop looks very delicious, I will probably walk around the town 2-3 times to justify overeating 😉
Author
THis basically describes me when we travel. We plan our food first haha
Oh, adorable! Love the article and have pinned for later 🙂 It’s really nice to see articles about smaller towns that might not be on the CN Traveler list, these are the places I love to go!
Author
I am glad you liked it! I love those unique and lesser known places too. Sometimes they hold the most treasures!
Such an exhaustive list of things to do in Laurel. Fantastic post! Saved for later as well. Thanks for sharing!
MagicandBliss | https://magicandbliss.com/
Author
I’m so glad you found it useful, thank you!
I’ve never been to Mississippi, but I like visiting historic towns! I’d love to check out the drive-in dairy bar + the woodshop!
Author
You would definitely love Laurel then and it is worth the trip to MS! I would also visit Jackson for a city and Ocean Springs for another small town!
Laurel looks like the kind of small and charming US town I imagine in my head when thinking about America!
From a souvenir shopping point of view, I like the idea of the Mercantile, where I can find products made locally all in one place. I’d also love The Rusty Chandelier!
Also keen on doing a little street art mural tour!
Author
Yes it is a great palce to visit to get the small town America experience!
Obviously, I’ve known the term Mississippi since my childhood : shoutout to Mark Twain! So on my very first trip to the US, I also went to Mississippi and really loved it – especially the smaller places. Unfortunately, I haven’t made it to Laurel, but what you are describing still reminds me of what I’ve seen on my trip. There is so much – obviously, also controversial – history there.
Author
I love to hear you have been to MS, I feel like it often gets looked over when people plan a trip to the states!
I’ve attended a few small theater’s performances and they’ve either been really great or super entertaining in how awkward they are! I love old towns that are trying to stay with it and bring in new life!
Author
Yes me too! I love the recent movements to revitalize older areas!
What a charming little town! That’s so sweet that your grandparents dated there!
Author
Yes, it makes it so special hearing stories about how it used to be!
WOW! I had no idea this cute & historic town even existed… and there’s just so much to see & do within it! I’m saving & pinning this post for when I visit Laurel, Miss.
Author
That makes me so happy! I love when I can help people discover new places!
I love hidden gems and I love weekend getaways so this is a perfect combo!
Author
Sounds like you need to plan a trip then!
Laurel sounds like such a charming southern town! I’ve never been to Mississippi, but I would love to visit one day. I will have to save this for when I finally check off Mississippi from my list!
Author
For sure! I also recommend visiting Madison and Ocean Springs when you go!
I’m driving 600+ miles just to see Laurel and I CANNOT WAIT. I’ll be there May 21 – 24 and hope to see Ben, Erin and everyone and everything show related.
Author
How fun! You are going to love it. Definitely look up the city calendar to see if there are any events those dates too!
What were your thoughts?
Your guide is so informative compared to some of the big city travel guides. My wife and I are planning a trip to Pensacola with a stop in Laurel.
We’ll only be there for one day. But the things you pointed out are really helpful. I’m sure we’ll enjoy our visit. Thanks so much.
We are going on June 2021 for a weekend so excited we booked at the Hampton also
So excited to visit Laurel. Sadly, Main Street is under construction. In addition, many businesses are closed Sunday and Monday.
We are going to visit Watumpka and Laurel and for our 44th anniversary the weekend of July 16th. We are so exited. Can’t wait to see the little towns we saw on TV that we fell in love with. Thank you for the guide. It has been very helpful.
Do you have a booklet to send out for tourism in laurel? I would love to have one.
Would love handouts about Laurel. We are coming from oldest town in Texas to visit Laurel for a couple of days.
Traveling thru Laurel, MS in a few days, thanks for the information!
Of course,we had to visit Laurel!
We walked around and was really impressed with the downtown area. I have great admiration for what is going on there in revitalizing the town and so on.
However the hype on the various shops and eating establishments was little overrated.
For starters, Pearl’s Diner was a bust!
The Laurel Mercantile store carried a lot of the same and over-priced to be sure.
We then visited the Scotsman store/ workshop.
I was hoping to find some guy stuff concerning woodwork and all I found was personalized coffee,mugs and jam!! Oh and an overpriced woodworkers apron!!
Our opinion of the Laurel? Tourist trap of note.
What would impress you more.
Thinking of possibly relocating.
Café possibly.
Why no mention of one of Laurel’s most celebrated natives, opera singer Leontyne Price?
wondering if you have any brocheres about things to do & see in Laurel .i am old school & still love my paper copies .
Author
I totally understand! I do not have any paper brochures, but most of the stores in the historic area have free maps and guides to Laurel that you can grab when you visit.
Hi! I would like a physical copy of a Laurel guide book to be mailed to a friend of mine. If you don’t have one, can you direct me where to find one? Thanks!
Hi! I’m unable to find any guide books to Laurel, Mississippi in paper form. Can you direct me where to find one or do u offer one? How big is Laurel? Is there a greater metropolitan area to Laurel that I can search for a guide book of? Thanks for your time.
Author
Thanks for your questions, Ryan. I do not have a physical guidebook for Laurel, but you will be glad to know I am working on one and hope to have it available in the next few months. In the meantime, search for Hattiesburg, MS which is the closest large city to Laurel.
We are planning a trip to Winfield Alabama for warranty work on our RV next week. Laurel will definitely be a stop on our way back home probably 04/06-07 or 04/07-08. We love watching Ben and Erin shows. Do you know if the bulk of construction downtown has been completed?
Author
That is a great stop! I hope you enjoyed your visit 🙂
Loved reading your review of Laurel.. Very informative. I feel like I know your town and some of the people from the TV show. Ben and Erin are such sweet and kind people. Your town sounds like a beautiful little place to visit. The neighborhoods are lovely.
We are fans of Home Town and are planning a trip this summer to LA and Mississippi. Our travels are going to take us within 20 minutes of Laurel, so we are planning to stop for a little bit. We are also heading to Gulfport. Looking forward to our trip!