It’s nearly impossible not to fall in love with Laurel, Mississippi! The type of small town you thought existed only in Hallmark movies, it’s brimming with charm. And its surreal appeal hasn’t been lost on others. Laurel is the setting of a hit TV show, giving it even more street cred. Between its classic small-town charm and its unique attributes, it’s one of the state's best small towns, and you’ll definitely want to plan a visit.
So what's so special about this place anyway?
Nicknamed "The City Beautiful," Laurel, Mississippi is a lovely little town, boasting oak-lined streets and colorful murals.
In recent years, it’s been completely revitalized, thanks in part to HGTV’s Home Town.
The show follows locals Erin and Ben Napier as they revamp homes and businesses throughout Laurel.. They’ve even opened their own flagship store – the Laurel Mercantile Co. and Scotsman Co.
Over the years, the town has received numerous accolades.
Among them is being named one of the 10 best small towns in the U.S. That's quite an endorsement for a of a little over 18,000 people!
There’s so much to love about what has been called a unique little corner of the South.”
One of these places to love is the historic district called Landrum’s Country Homestead and Village. It features the largest intact contiguous collection of turn-of-the-century craftsman and bungalow-style housing.
There are lots of things to do in Laurel, MS, making it an ideal weekend escape,
Brimming with great sites to explore, some of the town's key attractions include the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, which is the state’s oldest art museum. Here you'll also find the abandoned South Mississippi State Hospital, one of the creepiest places in Mississippi.
It’s also got lots of great eateries.
From bakeries stocked with homemade sweets to diners known for authentic Southern eats, there’s something for everyone’s tastes. And if you're in the mood for barbecue (and who wouldn't be in Mississippi?), head on over to The Smokehouse of Laurel, serving finger lickin' que so good that both locals and visitors alike say it is to die for!
There's just nowhere else like Laurel, Mississippi.
Boasting the charm and slower pace of a small town, but perks comparable to a larger city, there’s no denying that Laurel truly is one of the best small towns in the U.S.
Well, what do you think? Are you ready to plan a visit to one of the best towns in the U.S.? To learn more, visit the Laurel website.
So, do you agree? Is Laurel one of the best small towns in Mississippi? What about the U.S.? Ever visited? If so, what'd you think? Or, maybe you know of another great small town in the state? Tell us!
Laurel is just one of Mississippi's small towns you've got to visit. Check out these other seven that make for a perfect weekend escape.
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