Discover Laurel USA: The Charming Mississippi Town Everyone's Talking About

Have you ever thought about visiting a place that truly feels like home, even if it's your first time there? Well, Laurel, USA, specifically the one in Mississippi, very much offers just that kind of warm welcome. This pretty little city, you know, it’s tucked away in Jones County, and it actually gets its name from the mountain laurel plants that grow all around the area. It's a place with a real story, something quite special.

For quite some time now, people have really started noticing Laurel, Mississippi, thanks to its starring role on a very popular television show. You might have seen it, HGTV's "Home Town," where Erin and Ben Napier show off the city's unique appeal. It’s almost like the whole country has suddenly found out about this charming spot, and honestly, that’s a good thing for everyone who loves a bit of Southern hospitality.

So, what exactly makes this particular Laurel, USA, so captivating? From its fascinating past as a major lumber hub to its current status as a magnet for visitors seeking a genuine, friendly experience, there's quite a lot to uncover. We're going to take a closer look at what makes Laurel, Mississippi, such a delightful place to explore, perhaps even for a quick weekend getaway.

Table of Contents

The Heart of Mississippi: Laurel's Unique Appeal

Laurel, Mississippi, truly captures the spirit of a welcoming Southern city. It’s a place that, you know, has a certain kind of magnetism, drawing folks from all over the country and even from beyond its borders. This is a city that, quite simply, makes people feel good, offering a special mix of friendliness, charm, and a distinct personality. The way it just seems to invite you in is part of its magic, really.

Situated in Jones County, this small city has a population of about 17,161 people, according to the 2020 U.S. Census. It covers a total area of 16.24 square miles, so it's not overly large, which some might say adds to its intimate feel. It’s a rather comfortable size, allowing you to get to know the place without feeling overwhelmed, you know.

While there is a Laurel in northern Prince George's County, Maryland, which is located between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, the focus here is very much on Laurel, Mississippi. The Mississippi city has, you know, really come into its own as a popular travel destination, largely due to its prominent role on television. That's a pretty big deal for a small city, apparently.

A Glimpse into Laurel's Past

From Lumber to Lifestyles

The story of Laurel, Mississippi, goes back a good ways, to 1882, when it was first established as a lumber town. This was, you know, a very important time for the city, as it became a major center for the lumber business in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The trees in the area, particularly the mountain laurel, played a big part in shaping its early identity and growth. It’s quite interesting how a natural resource can really shape a community, isn't it?

The city's location, about two hours from larger places like Jackson, Biloxi, New Orleans, and Mobile, was actually quite convenient for its early industries. This positioning, you know, helped with transporting goods and connecting with other areas. It's a small city in the inland part of Mississippi's Gulf Coast region, which gives it a slightly different feel from coastal towns. That geographical detail is pretty important, actually.

Cultural Gems and Community Spirit

Beyond its industrial beginnings, Laurel has also grown to be a place with a rich cultural side. It's home to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, which is a rather significant institution for a city of its size. This museum, you know, offers a chance to experience some beautiful art right there in Laurel, adding a layer of sophistication to the city's charm.

The Laurel Historical Society, incorporated, also plays a big part in preserving the city's story. Their mission is to encourage people to understand and keep alive the history and cultural heritage of Laurel. They often have displays that tell tales of the past, so you can really get a sense of the community's journey. It’s a good way to connect with the roots of the place, you know.

There's also a strong sense of community involvement here. Volunteering, for instance, is something that many people find rewarding. It offers chances to pick up new skills, use what you already know, find new interests, and meet other people. It's a way to get involved in making social change happen, and that's pretty inspiring, actually.

Laurel, MS: The "Home Town" Experience

For many, Laurel, Mississippi, is now pretty much synonymous with HGTV's "Home Town." The show, starring Erin and Ben Napier, has really put this charming little Southern city on the map for a lot of people. It’s where they live and work, and their efforts to revitalize homes in the area have, you know, drawn a lot of attention to the city's unique character. It's truly become a destination all its own, you know, thanks to the show.

Exploring the Filming Locations

If you're a fan of "Home Town," visiting Laurel feels a bit like stepping right into the television screen. You can, you know, walk the same streets and see the very buildings that have been featured. The city itself becomes a kind of living set, which is quite a cool experience for viewers. It's rather interesting how a TV show can transform a place like that.

People come from all over, wanting to see the spots they've watched being transformed. It's more or less a pilgrimage for some, eager to feel the same charm that Erin and Ben talk about. The city has, you know, really embraced this new role, making it easy for visitors to find their way around the places they've seen on screen.

Where to Eat, Shop, and Stay

When you visit Laurel, Mississippi, you’ll find plenty of places to eat, shop, and find a comfortable spot to stay. The city has, you know, developed a nice selection of local businesses that cater to both residents and the increasing number of tourists. From cozy eateries serving up Southern comfort food to unique boutiques offering handmade goods, there’s a little something for everyone.

Finding a place to eat is, you know, usually high on a visitor's list. Laurel offers a range of options, from casual diners to places that are a bit more upscale. Shopping is also a big draw, with many small shops that reflect the city's creative spirit. And for staying, there are various accommodations, from quaint bed and breakfasts to more standard hotels, making it pretty easy to find something that suits your needs.

Erin and Ben Napier's Favorite Spots

Many visitors are especially curious about where Erin and Ben Napier themselves like to spend their time in Laurel. They often talk about their favorite local spots, and these places, you know, naturally become popular with fans. It's like getting a personal recommendation from the people who know the city best, which is pretty neat.

While specific spots might change, generally speaking, they highlight places that embody the city's character. These could be, you know, a particular coffee shop, a hardware store, or a local restaurant where they enjoy a meal. Following their suggestions is a good way to get a feel for the authentic Laurel experience, actually, and see the city through their eyes.

Living in Laurel, Mississippi

Real Estate Insights

For those who might be thinking about more than just a visit, Laurel, Mississippi, also presents some interesting real estate possibilities. Realtor.com®, for instance, shows that there are quite a few homes for sale in the city. As of a recent check, there were 234 homes listed, which is a fairly good number for a city of its size, you know.

The median listing price for homes in Laurel is around $145,000. This price point, you know, can make home ownership seem quite achievable for many people, especially when compared to larger cities. It offers a chance to find a dream home in a place that has a strong sense of community and a growing appeal. It's something to consider, really, if you're looking for a change of pace.

Community and Connection

Laurel is a city where connections matter. The spirit of Southern hospitality is very much alive here, meaning people are generally warm and welcoming. This creates a rather pleasant atmosphere for both residents and newcomers. The local community, you know, seems to genuinely care about its city and its people.

Being a smaller city, it's often easier to get involved and feel like you belong. Whether it's through local events, community groups, or just daily interactions, there's a strong sense of togetherness. This feeling of connection is, you know, one of the things that makes Laurel a truly special place to live, not just visit.

Famous Faces from Laurel

Laurel, Mississippi, has been home to several people who have made a name for themselves in various fields. It's pretty cool to think about the talent that has come from this small city. For example, James Street, an author known for books like "Tap Roots" and "Goodbye My Lady," had his roots here. His stories often captured the essence of Southern life, which is, you know, pretty fitting for someone from Laurel.

The entertainment world also saw some familiar faces from Laurel. Tom Lester, who played "Eb" on the popular sitcom "Green Acres," was from this city. And then there’s actor Ray Walston, known for his role as "Uncle Martin" in "My Favorite Martian." It’s quite something to have two actors from the same small city making it big, isn't it?

Beyond arts and entertainment, Laurel also produced an Olympic gold medalist, Ralph Boston. He was a track and field athlete who achieved great success, bringing pride to his hometown. These individuals, you know, show that even a smaller city can foster remarkable talent and contribute significantly to the wider world.

Visiting Laurel: Practical Details

Getting There

Laurel, Mississippi, is conveniently situated for travelers. It’s approximately two hours away from several larger cities, which makes it a fairly accessible destination. You can, you know, easily drive from places like Jackson, Mississippi, or even New Orleans, Louisiana. Biloxi and Mobile are also within a couple of hours' drive, offering different starting points for a trip.

This central location in the inland Gulf Coast region of Mississippi means it's a good stop if you're exploring the wider Southern area. It’s not too far off the beaten path, but it still feels like a peaceful escape. That's a pretty good balance, actually, for a travel spot.

Visitor Information

When you're ready to plan your trip, Laurel has resources to help you out. The visitor's center is a good place to start for local information. You can call them at 601.399.6644 to get details about what to see and do. It's located at 601 Leontyne Price Blvd, which is, you know, easy enough to find.

The visitor's center is open on Saturdays starting at 9 a.m., but it's closed on Sundays. So, you know, it's good to plan your visit around those hours to make sure you can pop in and get some helpful tips. They can point you towards all the charming spots, places to eat, and where to shop, ensuring you have a really enjoyable time in Laurel.

Frequently Asked Questions About Laurel, MS

What is Laurel, Mississippi, most known for?

Laurel, Mississippi, is, you know, most widely known these days for being the filming location of HGTV's popular show "Home Town," starring Erin and Ben Napier. Before that, it was a major center for the lumber industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and it's also home to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. It's got quite a bit of history, you see.

What can visitors do in Laurel, MS?

Visitors to Laurel, MS, can, you know, explore the historic downtown area, which is featured on "Home Town," and discover local shops and eateries. You can also visit the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, learn about the city's past at the Laurel Historical Society, and simply enjoy the Southern hospitality. There are, you know, plenty of charming spots to discover, actually.

How big is Laurel, Mississippi?

According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Laurel, Mississippi, has a population of 17,161 people. The city covers a total area of 16.24 square miles. It’s, you know, a relatively small city, which many people find adds to its welcoming and friendly atmosphere. It's not too big, not too small, really.

Learn more about Laurel's charm on our site, and perhaps plan your next trip to this page Laurel, Mississippi's official visitor information.

Laurel | Evergreen, Aromatic, Mediterranean | Britannica

Laurel | Evergreen, Aromatic, Mediterranean | Britannica

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Laurel - EcuRed

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