Roaming Around Laurel, MS

There are some trips you meticulously plan for months, and then there are the ones that happen completely by accident. My first visit to Laurel, Mississippi, definitely fell into the second category.

Living in New Orleans, I'm always looking for easy weekend escapes or day trips within driving distance. I love stumbling upon towns with pizzazz.: the kind where you can spend a couple of days wandering antique stores or boutiques with locally made items, chatting with shop owners, and slowing life down for a just a little while.

Originally, Laurel wasn't even on my itinerary. I had booked an Airbnb tucked away in rural Mississippi because the thought of being "away from it all" sounded wonderful. Unfortunately, I quickly realized that I don't do Airbnb for multiple reasons, and I'm not a country girl. From gum smashed into the couch to garage-sale sheets and a bed that squeaked with every time I turned to my side, I knew within moments that this wasn't where I wanted to spend one more second, much less my weekend.

Unable to sleep, I started searching for another place to stay. Around eight o'clock that morning, I called a bed and breakfast in Laurel. The owner answered, told me I could check in early, and within an hour we were driving away from what would forever be remembered as one of my worst Airbnb experiences (though most for me have been the worst). Sometimes the best trips begin when the original plans fall apart.

By the time we crossed into Jones County, I began to exhale. The streets were nice and clean and tree-lined, the neighborhoods felt welcoming, and I had a feeling I'd accidentally discovered somewhere special. As it turns out, I had.

The Grandiflora in Laurel, MS

Finding the right place to stay ended up making the entire trip. If you're wondering where to stay in Laurel, MS, I don't think you can do much better than the Grandiflora. I'd bet on it.

Grandiflora (Better Than the Plaza!)

As we pulled up to the beautiful white mansion, I knew I'd made the right decision. The Grandiflora is located in Laurel's historic district, surrounded by stately homes and tree-lined streets that immediately make you want to slow down and stay awhile.

A note on the front door instructed me to call Hugh, the owner. Within moments he appeared, welcomed us inside like old friends, and gave us a tour of the home before showing us to the Thomas Room. It was everything I had hoped for after the previous night's disaster.

The room featured a king-size bed, plenty of space to unpack, and a large bathroom complete with a shower that had showerheads on both sides, a small luxury that felt absolutely heavenly after the cabin fiasco.

When I returned to Laurel a second time (this time on a solo trip in the midst of my divorce) I booked the exact same room. Some places simply feel like coming home, and this is definitely one of them.

Why Grandiflora Is Such a Special Bed & Breakfast

The accommodations are lovely, but what truly makes the Grandiflora memorable is Hugh, the owner. Rather than treating guests like customers, he treats everyone as if they've been invited into his own home and encourages you to poke around, make friends with other guests, and relax anywhere in the house.

During my solo visit, evenings naturally unfolded in the living room with other guests gathered around glasses of wine, swapping travel stories and laughing together. Complete strangers became friends for a night, which is something that rarely happens in hotels. That sense of hospitality perfectly captures Laurel itself. If you're looking for a polished luxury resort, this isn't it. If you're looking for genuine Southern hospitality, meaningful conversations, and a place that immediately makes you feel welcome, you'll understand why I continue recommending it years later.

Other Places to Stay in Laurel, MS

If the Grandiflora is booked, or you'd simply prefer another style of accommodation, there are several other great options.

The Wisteria Bed & Breakfast – Another historic property with beautifully decorated rooms and a peaceful atmosphere close to downtown.
The Lauren Rogers Inn – A comfortable option within easy reach of Laurel's shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Hampton Inn & Suites Laurel – A dependable chain hotel offering modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, and an easy drive to the historic district.

Greetings from Laurel, MS!

Laurel may be best known today because of HGTV, but its story started long before television cameras arrived. Understanding a little of the town's history makes walking its streets even more enjoyable.

The History of Laurel

One of my favorite parts of staying at the Grandiflora was getting to know Hugh. Besides being a gracious host, he's also an incredible storyteller and amateur historian. Listening to him explain Laurel's past made me appreciate the town in an entirely different way.

Laurel was founded as a timber town, and for decades the lumber industry fueled its economy. John Lindsey helped revolutionize the timber business by designing wagons capable of hauling lumber through muddy roads year-round instead of only during favorable conditions. What sounds like a simple innovation today dramatically changed the local economy.

Another major contribution came from William Mason, whose invention of Masonite transformed leftover wood fibers into durable hardboard. That innovation eventually grew into an international company with roots right here in Laurel.

Today, many of those beautifully restored historic buildings remain, serving as reminders of the town's prosperous past while housing boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and small businesses.

Laurel and HGTV's Home Town

I'll admit something. Before my first visit, I had absolutely no idea why everyone kept mentioning Ben and Erin. I don't watch much television, so when locals started talking about Home Town, I realized I'd somehow missed one of HGTV's biggest success stories.

Ben and Erin Napier have become synonymous with Laurel. Through Home Town, they've spent years restoring historic homes, celebrating small-town life, and showcasing the charm that residents have known all along. Their influence extends well beyond television. The couple's businesses, including Laurel Mercantile and Scotsman General Store, have helped spark renewed interest in downtown Laurel. Local business owners proudly told me that the show's popularity has brought dozens of new businesses to the area and introduced thousands of visitors to a town they might never have considered visiting.

You can still browse the Mercantile, explore the historic downtown featured throughout the show, and recognize many familiar streets if you're a fan. Even if you've never watched a single episode (like me on my first trip), Laurel's appeal extends far beyond its television fame.

Laurel Is a Relaxed Southern Town

What struck me most wasn't the TV connection. It was the pace. Laurel doesn't feel rushed. People stop and chat with one another. Shop owners genuinely ask where you're visiting from. No one seems eager to hurry you out the door.

Coming from New Orleans, where we are always finding something to get into and very active, the slower rhythm felt refreshing. Downtown is remarkably clean, easy to walk, and full of locally owned businesses whose owners clearly care about the community they've built. Everywhere I went, there was an unmistakable sense of pride. Residents are genuinely excited that people are discovering their hometown, and they're eager to share it with visitors. By the end of my first afternoon, I understood why so many people who come to Laurel end up returning, as I ended up doing.

Pearl's Diner in Laurel, MS

One of my favorite things about Laurel is that you don't need a packed itinerary to enjoy yourself. This isn't the kind of destination where you're rushing from attraction to attraction trying to check everything off a list. Instead, Laurel invites you to slow down. Spend the morning with a good cup of coffee, browse locally owned boutiques, linger over lunch, and chat with the people behind the counters. That's where the magic of this little Mississippi town really shines.

If you're looking for things to do in Laurel, MS, here are the places that stood out most during my visits.

Enjoy Laurel's Restaurants and Coffee Shops

Food always ends up becoming part of my travel memories, and Laurel offered several spots I'd happily return to.

Lee's Coffee & Tea

Lee's quickly became one of my favorite stops. Their soups and sandwiches were fresh, simple, and exactly what I wanted after a morning of shopping downtown. On one visit, I even grabbed takeout so I could enjoy lunch back on the balcony of the Grandiflora. Sometimes those quiet meals become your favorite travel moments.

Pearl's Diner

Although I haven't personally eaten at Pearl's yet, nearly everyone I spoke with recommended it. If you're craving classic Southern comfort food, this is the place locals repeatedly pointed me toward. Fried chicken, vegetables, homemade sides, and generous portions have made it something of a Laurel institution. It's always a good sign when residents recommend the same restaurant over and over again.

Mimmo's Ristorante

One evening we had dinner at Mimmo's, one of Laurel's most popular restaurants. I'll be honest...I may not have been the ideal reviewer because Italian food has never been my first choice. The restaurant itself was much more casual than I expected. Instead of candlelight and white tablecloths, it has a bright, open atmosphere that's welcoming and relaxed. While it wasn't necessarily my favorite style of Italian cuisine, it's clearly beloved by locals and consistently recommended for visitors.

The Loft

The Loft ended up being one of my favorite dinners. Not only because of the food, but because of the company. We met another couple staying at the Grandiflora and decided to have dinner together. One of my favorite parts of travel is how easily conversations begin when everyone is away from home. By the end of the evening, we were laughing like old friends. Good food has a way of bringing people together, but travel does too.

Café La Fleur

You'll probably hear Café La Fleur described as serving New Orleans-inspired cuisine. As someone who actually lives in New Orleans, I'd say that's a bit of a stretch. The food is fine, but I wouldn't go expecting authentic New Orleans flavors. Instead, enjoy it for what it is: a comfortable local café with a varied menu and friendly service.

J Parker in downtown Laurel

Shop Local in Downtown Laurel

If shopping is your love language, you'll have no trouble filling an afternoon in Laurel. One thing I appreciated immediately was that so many businesses are locally owned. Every store felt personal, and nearly every owner took time to chat. It never felt rushed.

Laurel Mercantile

Whether you're a fan of Home Town or not, Laurel Mercantile is worth visiting. The store feels bright, thoughtfully curated, and filled with quality products that reflect the town's style. You'll find everything from home décor and candles to artwork, children's gifts, books, kitchen items, and apparel. Even if you leave empty-handed, it's a fun place to browse.

J Parker

If I had to choose one favorite shop in Laurel, this would be it. Jacqueline, the owner of J Parker, has the kind of personality that immediately makes you feel welcome. Shopping there felt less like walking through a store and more like spending time with a friend who happens to have impeccable taste. She also introduced us to the fascinating story of artist Mark Landis, whose life later inspired me to watch the documentary about him. Those unexpected conversations are exactly why I love visiting small towns.

The Cotton Boll

The Cotton Boll quickly became another favorite. The boutique has a wonderful mix of clothing, gifts, accessories, and home décor that makes it difficult to leave without buying something. It's one of those stores where every corner offers another little treasure.

Patina

Patina carries beautiful pottery, artwork, gifts, and home accessories. It also holds a special memory for me because my husband surprised me with a vase during our visit. Even though life has changed since then, that vase still reminds me of Laurel and the kindness we experienced throughout the town.

Southern Antiques

Despite the name, Southern Antiques felt more like an eclectic vintage marketplace than a traditional antique store. There was an interesting mix of handcrafted items, collectibles, décor, and unique finds that made browsing fun. You never quite know what you'll discover. It actually felt like a few stores in New Orleans.

Lauren Rogers Museum of Art in Laurel, MS

Visit the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art

One attraction that often surprises visitors is the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Located just steps from the Grandiflora, it's an easy addition to your itinerary and, best of all, admission is free.

Don't let the size fool you. Inside you'll find rotating exhibitions, American art, European works, Native American baskets, and beautiful galleries that feel much larger than you might expect from a small-town museum. One of my favorite spaces was the original wood-paneled library.

Walking inside felt like stepping back in time. I immediately thought of The Music Man and had to resist the urge to start singing "Marian the Librarian." It's peaceful, beautifully maintained, and well worth an hour or two of your visit.

Simply Wander the Historic Downtown

If I'm being honest, one of the best things to do in Laurel doesn't require a ticket at all. Just walk. The historic downtown is compact enough to explore on foot, and that's really the best way to experience it. Peek inside boutiques. Stop for coffee. Admire the beautifully restored buildings. Take photos of the charming storefronts. Strike up conversations with shop owners.

You'll notice something that has become increasingly rare in many places: people genuinely enjoy talking to visitors. That friendliness is part of Laurel's charm. It isn't manufactured for tourism. It simply feels authentic. And for me, that's what transforms a nice weekend into one I'll remember for years.

Tree-lined Street in Laurel, MS

After spending time in Laurel on two separate trips, here are a few things I think are helpful to know before you go.

Is Laurel, MS Safe?

This is one of the most common questions people ask before visiting any new city or town, and I completely understand why. From my personal experience, I felt very comfortable in Laurel. During both of my visits, I spent hours walking through the historic downtown, browsing local shops, grabbing coffee, and exploring on foot. Shop owners were incredibly welcoming, locals were happy to chat, and I never felt uneasy while visiting the areas that most travelers come to see.

Like anywhere, it's smart to use common sense. Lock your car, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid unfamiliar areas late at night. I found Laurel to be a relaxed, friendly destination that was easy to explore as both part of a couple and as a solo traveler. As someone who frequently travels alone, I wouldn't hesitate to return.

When Is the Fair in Laurel, MS?

If you're hoping to visit during one of Laurel's biggest community events, plan your trip around the Cannon Motors Loblolly Festival, which takes place on the first Saturday in October each year in historic downtown Laurel. The festival celebrates Laurel's lumber heritage with local artisans, live music, food vendors, family activities, and hundreds of craft booths. It's one of the busiest and most festive times of the year to experience downtown Laurel. If festivals aren't your thing, I'd recommend visiting on a quieter weekend when you can browse the shops and restaurants at a slower pace.

How to Get to Laurel, MS

One of the reasons I've returned to Laurel is because it's such an easy weekend getaway from New Orleans. The drive takes about 2½ hours, making it perfect for a spontaneous escape when you need a change of scenery. You'll definitely want your own vehicle once you arrive. While the historic downtown is very walkable, having a car makes it easy to reach restaurants, your hotel, and other attractions around town.

If you're flying in, the closest larger airports are in Jackson, Mississippi, and Mobile, Alabama, although most visitors simply make Laurel part of a Southern road trip.

The Best Time to Visit Laurel, MS

Personally, I think Laurel shines in both the spring and fall. Spring brings comfortable temperatures, blooming flowers, and perfect weather for strolling downtown.

Fall offers cooler days and seasonal events like the Loblolly Festival, making it one of the most popular times to visit. Summers can be quite hot and humid, as they are throughout much of the South, while winter tends to be mild and pleasantly uncrowded. Christmastime at the Grandiflora was absolutely lovely.

No matter when you visit, give yourself at least a full weekend. Laurel isn't a place to rush through. Its charm comes from slowing down.

Absolutely. I've now visited Laurel twice, and I can honestly say it left me feeling more refreshed than many destinations much farther from home.

What makes Laurel special isn't one single attraction. It's the feeling you get while you're there. It's lingering over coffee without feeling hurried. Chatting with a shop owner who genuinely wants to know where you're from. Sitting on the porch of a historic bed and breakfast with people who were strangers just hours earlier. It's walking streets where beautifully restored homes sit beneath towering trees, knowing an entire community has rallied together to preserve what makes their town unique.

Of course, HGTV's Home Town has introduced millions of people to Laurel, but I don't think television alone explains why visitors keep coming back. The show may get people there, but the hospitality is what convinces them to return. Ben and Erin Napier continue to spotlight Laurel through Home Town and newer projects like Home Town: Inn This Together, but the town's appeal extends far beyond what you see on TV.

For me, Laurel is proof that some of the best trips don't involve checking famous landmarks off a bucket list. Sometimes they're simply about finding a place that makes you slow down, breathe a little deeper, and remember why you love traveling in the first place. If you're looking for things to do in Laurel, MS, wondering where to stay in Laurel, MS, or simply asking yourself is Laurel, MS worth visiting, my answer is an easy yes. I have a feeling it won't be my last visit.

If you found this guide helpful, you may also want to read about day trips from New Orleans or two days in Ocean Springs, MS.

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