Things To Do in Laurel, Mississippi: A Charming Southern Getaway

If you’re looking for a small-town escape with charm, character, and plenty of Southern hospitality, let me introduce you to Laurel, Mississippi. Known as the filming location for HGTV’s Hometown, Laurel has become a beloved destination for fans of the show — but you don’t have to be a viewer to fall in love with this culturally rich, diverse town. I spent a weekend soaking up the beauty, history, and down-home goodness Laurel has to offer, and I’m already planning my next trip back!

A Brief History of Laurel

Laurel’s story starts with brick streets, streetcars, and Southern industry. Once a booming lumber town, it became home to some of the wealthiest families in Mississippi in the early 20th century. That prosperity helped shape the historic homes, charming downtown, and leafy avenues that still captivate visitors today.

One of the first things I noticed — and you will too — is the trees. Y’all, Fifth Avenue is lined with trees to die for, offering a shady, picturesque drive that feels like something out of a movie.

Laurel Today: Where Southern Charm Meets Small-Town Cool

Laurel might be small, but it’s packed with things to do, places to eat, and shops you’ll want to explore. Whether you’re there for a weekend or just passing through, here are my top recommendations for making the most of your time in this delightful Mississippi town:

Take a Hometown Golf Cart Tour

One of the best ways to see Laurel is on a guided golf cart tour. I booked a Saturday afternoon tour with Bolton Home Town Tour. Our guide, DJ, made the experience fun and informative — plus, he showed us several homes featured on Hometown. It’s a relaxed way to see the neighborhoods, hear behind-the-scenes tidbits, and enjoy the architecture that’s made the town famous.

Visit the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art

The Lauren Rogers Museum of Art is a hidden gem, and the best part? Admission is free. The museum was established in memory of Lauren Rogers, the son of one of Laurel’s founding families, and it houses an impressive collection ranging from American art to Native American artifacts and Japanese woodblock prints for a town of this size. It’s a quiet, peaceful place to cool off and take in some beautiful artwork.

Where to Eat in Laurel

Pearl’s Diner

Pearl’s Diner is a must-visit for lunch. It’s a cozy spot with friendly employees, generous portions, and Southern favorites like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens. Be sure to check their hours — they’re not open late — but it’s absolutely worth working into your lunch plans.

I ordered chicken fingers with three sides – this girl likes having options, know what I mean? Also, since this was my first time at Pearl’s, I ordered banana pudding. Want to know how much this deliciousness cost? Well, the chicken plate was $17.99, the mac n cheese and coleslaw were both premium sides so they were each an additional $1, the pudding was $4.99, and my cup of water was fifty cents. Sales tax was 9%, so my total – not including the tip – was $25.59. That’s not cheap, but it was nearly enough food to feed a small army.

Los Primos Tacos

And since no trip is complete without tacos (this is TSA and Tacos, after all), I followed a local tip and headed to Los Primos. Let me tell you—those double corn tortilla tacos? Chef’s kiss. Just enough spice, lots of flavor, and the perfect break from all the fried deliciousness.

Wilson’s Commissary

Open on Sundays (a rarity in small towns!), Wilson’s Commissary is another spot for affordable, hearty Southern cooking. If you’re craving something comforting after a day of exploring, this is the place to go.

Stay at Jenny’s  Bed & Breakfast

Skip the chain hotels and stay at a bed and breakfast for the full Laurel experience. I stayed at Jenny’s Downtown Hideaway, and it felt like home. There were clean sheets and fluffy towels, the temperature was perfect (no wrestling with confusing thermostats here!), and the homemade breakfast was the cherry on top. Jennifer and her husband are the perfect hosts – Southern hospitality is alive and well here. Another bonus of staying at a bed and breakfast is that you just might meet some of the coolest people – here’s looking at you, Gary and Becky!

Coming soon to Laurel – The Heirloom, a hotel that will occupy the old Kress building downtown. It’s being renovated by the Napiers.

Shop Local in Downtown Laurel

Downtown Laurel is filled with shops that are as charming as the town itself. I love to shop local and support businesses that sell items made in America. When in Laurel, you have to check out the following:

• The Mercantile – owned by Erin and Ben Napier of Hometown, it’s filled with curated gifts, home goods, and Laurel-themed treasures.
• The Scotsman General Store – another Napier gem, packed with local goods, nostalgic candy, and handmade items.
• The Scent Library – a beautifully designed space with candles, soaps, and gifts inspired by Southern life.

What’s On in Laurel

Planning your visit around a local event is one of the best ways to experience the heart and soul of Laurel. This little town knows how to throw a party—and whether you’re into live music, handmade goods, or wine with a side of small-town charm, there’s something for you.

• Loblolly Festival (October) – Laurel’s biggest event of the year celebrates its timber roots with arts and crafts vendors, live music, classic cars, and all the fair food your heart desires. If you’re only going to plan one trip to Laurel, this might be the time to do it. Learn more →
• Christmas in Laurel (late November–December) – Think holiday lights, festive storefronts, and seasonal events like the annual tree lighting and pancake breakfast with Santa. It’s pure Hallmark-movie magic. Explore holiday events →
• Wine Down Downtown (monthly, select Fridays) – This fun, walkable event invites you to sip wine while you shop local. Participating businesses stay open late, and you can enjoy live music, community vibes, and a glass (or two) as you explore downtown Laurel. Get the latest dates here →

💡 Tip: Before your trip, check the Laurel Main Street Signature Events page to see what’s happening when you’re in town.

FAQs

Is Laurel worth visiting even if I don’t watch Home Town?

Absolutely. While the show put Laurel on the map, the town’s friendly vibe, history, and local flavor make it a memorable destination on its own.

What’s the best time to visit Laurel, MS?

Spring and fall offer ideal weather for walking around downtown and enjoying outdoor tours and events.

Can you visit Laurel as a day trip from Jackson or Mobile?

Absolutely — Laurel makes a great day trip from both Jackson, Mississippi and Mobile, Alabama!

From Jackson, you’re looking at about a 1 hour and 45 minute drive (just over 90 miles), making it an easy option for a spontaneous getaway or a planned day of exploring. Whether you’re craving some Southern cooking or want to stroll downtown and pop into The Mercantile, it’s doable without an overnight stay.

From Mobile, the drive is slightly longer at around 2 hours and 15 minutes (roughly 115 miles), but still very manageable for a day trip — especially if you’re an early riser or want to pair it with a scenic route through Hattiesburg.

Laurel’s compact downtown, walkability, and cluster of attractions — like the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, charming shops, and great food — make it ideal for a one-day visit. You can soak up the charm, grab lunch at Pearl’s or Wilson’s Commissary, do a little shopping, and be home by dinner.

If you love Laurel, you might also enjoy Savannah, Georgia, another southern gem full of character.

Whether you’re chasing down HGTV-famous homes, craving a perfectly crisp fried chicken thigh, or just want to stroll under moss-draped oaks with a coffee in hand, Laurel delivers the small-town Southern getaway you didn’t know you needed. Pack a bag, bring your appetite (and stretchy pants), and come see for yourself why this little Mississippi gem deserves a spot on your travel list.

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