This Small Mississippi Town Is Becoming The Hippest In The State
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published June 21, 2018
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for the past 25 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships, working for The Royal Obsession and Anatomie clothing. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as Parents & Kids Magazine and Girl Meets Strong. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
Mississippi is full of must-visit small towns. However, according to a recent article in the Mississippi Business Journal, if you’re looking for one of the hippest in the state, you’ll have to head to Laurel. Worthy of its new label, the hip little town is brimming with lots to see and do, making it the perfect road trip destination. Take a look:
A charming small town about 30 minutes from Hattiesburg, Laurel was founded in 1882 as a lumber town.
Since the show’s debut, the town has been featured in countless publications, including Mississippi Business Journal, Southern Living, and The Voice. And in each feature, the sentiment is the same – Laurel is one charming town with a lot to offer.
In the recent years, Laurel has grown into a bustling destination, complete with shops, restaurants, and community-wide events. But even with its increasing popularity, it hasn’t lost its small town charm, and that’s part of what makes it such a great visit.
Walk along the streets of downtown Laurel, and you’ll find delightful shops, like Laurel Mercantile Co and The Laurel Leaf that pay tribute to the town.
When it comes to great eateries, Laurel has plenty. One of the town’s most popular spots is Lee’s Coffee and Tea. The local favorite is considered the town’s very own Cheers – a place where everybody knows your name.
In addition to an amazing menu that includes a variety of coffee, soups, sandwiches, and desserts, the eatery features live music and a second floor art gallery.
Plan your visit to Laurel just right, and you can experience one of the town’s many events. With farmers markets, movie nights, and a whole slew of festivals, there’s something for everyone.
As if a bustling downtown, fantastic shops, and brag worthy eateries wasn’t enough, Laurel is also home to the state’s oldest art museum – the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art.
