Planning a trip to Jones County means looking past standard tourist brochures and zeroing in on what makes this Pine Belt hub unique. If you want a real breakdown of things to do in Laurel Mississippi, you aren't just visiting a dot on the map; you're stepping into the epicenter of the HGTV series Home Town. This historic city blends 19th-century architecture, independent retail, and classic Southern cooking into a walkable downtown core. Whether you're coming for a weekend getaway or a quick day trip from Jackson, here is how to experience the town without falling for tourist traps.
The core search intent for visitors here centers around navigating the downtown revitalization, finding the actual shops featured on television, and securing great local food. Most generic guides miss the practical details, like store operating hours and parking logistics. Let's fix that right now so you can map out an efficient, memorable itinerary.
The Essential Downtown Shopping Circuit
Downtown Laurel is remarkably compact, making it easy to park once and walk everywhere. The retail revival centers around blocks of historic storefronts that sat empty for decades before being restored.
Start your morning at Laurel Mercantile Co. This is the flagship retail space opened by Ben and Erin Napier. You will find American-made goods, apparel, and durable home decor items built to last. Expect crowds on Saturday mornings, so arrive right when the doors open if you want to browse without bumping elbows.
Just a short walk away, stop into these key stops:
- Scotsman General Store: Ben Napier's shop features nostalgic treats, vintage toys, and a peek right into his working woodshop in the back.
- The Scent Library: A sensory-focused boutique specializing in custom candles, soaps, and home fragrances inspired by Southern memories.
- Southern Antiques: A massive two-story space packed with vintage furniture, architectural salvage, and local artwork curated by regional dealers.
Don't rush these blocks. Store owners are usually working the counters, and they'll happily point you toward residential streets with the best historic homes.
Architectural Walking Tour and Historic Landmarks
Beyond the commercial district, Laurel boasts some of the finest residential architecture in Mississippi. Wealthy lumber barons built grand estate homes here in the early 1900s, and many survive in pristine condition.
Head toward Fifth Avenue and Sixth Avenue to see stunning Craftsman bungalows, Victorian mansions, and Georgian Revival properties. Many of these houses received historic facelifts featured on television, but their century-old oak trees and wrap-around porches remain entirely authentic.
For indoor culture, visit the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Opened in 1923 as the state's first art museum, it holds an impressive permanent collection ranging from American art to European paintings and Native American baskets. The building itself sits amid manicured gardens that make for a quiet afternoon stroll.
Where to Eat Real Southern Food
You won't find national chain restaurants dominating the historic center. Instead, local diners and bakeries define the food scene.
For lunch, make your way to Pearl's Diner. The atmosphere is casual, and the portions are massive. Order the fried chicken, turnip greens, and a side of cornbread. If you're looking for a midday coffee or a light sandwich, Lee's Coffee and Tea serves as the unofficial community living room for downtown regulars.
When your sweet tooth kicks in later in the afternoon, stop by Shug's Cookie Dough and Candy Bar. They serve edible cookie dough, specialty ice cream, and nostalgic sweets that keep families lined up on the sidewalk.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Travelers often stumble into a few avoidable traps when visiting Laurel for the first time. Keep these practical tips in mind:
- Ignoring Store Hours: Many independent boutiques and artisan shops close on Sundays and Mondays, or operate on shorter hours like Thursday through Saturday. Check schedules before booking a trip.
- Rushing the Weekend: Trying to fit shopping, dining, and home tours into a single afternoon leaves you exhausted. Give yourself at least a full day and a half to take things at a slower pace.
- Skipping the Residential Streets: Visitors who only stick to the main retail strip miss the actual historic district where the true character of the town lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to watch Home Town to enjoy Laurel?
Not at all. While the show sparked a major economic revival, the town stands on its own as a charming historic Mississippi community with deep roots, great food, and friendly locals.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for walking the historic districts. Events like the Loblolly Festival in autumn bring extra energy to the streets, though weekends are busier.
Where should I park downtown?
Free street parking is widely available throughout the downtown core. On exceptionally busy festival weekends, look for designated public lots within a short walking distance of Magnolia Street.
How much time do I need to see everything?
A full weekend allows you to explore the shops, tour the art museum, drive through the historic neighborhoods, and sample local restaurants without feeling rushed.
