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?
Brent Moore/Flickr
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.
laurelmercantile.com
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.
laurelmercantile.com
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!

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There’s so much to love about what has been called a unique little corner of the South.”
Landrum’s Homestead & Village Facebook Page
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,
Jones County Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
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.
Erik Johansen/Google
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.
The Knight Butcher/Google
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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Laurel, Mississippi

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | September 23, 2022

Where exactly is Laurel, Mississippi located?

Laurel is approximately a 36-minute drive north of the city of Hattiesburg via Interstate 59, and about an hour and 35 minutes southeast of the capital, Jackson, via Interstate 49. This makes it an easy drive from either locale, as well as from other parts of the state.

I’m looking for a romantic getaway in Mississippi.

Ah yes, love is always in the air in The Magnolia State, and you’ll find plenty of romantic places for a lovey-dovey getaway. Among them is The White House Hotel in Biloxi, the Bonne Terre Country Inn & Café in Nesbit, and the Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens in Natchez, just to name a few.

Where can I find the best burger in Mississippi?

Well as you might imagine, that really depends on whom you ask! Folks in Mississippi are adamant about their burgers, and you'll get a different favorite every time whether from a local or a visitor. Nevertheless, one joint in Pascagoula which has remained at the top of the best of lists for years is Edd’s Drive-In. Although they serve your typical burgers, hot dogs, fries, and ice cream cones, one of the specialties here is their chili cheeseburgers!

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Laurel, MS, USA