How to Spend an Afternoon in Laurel and Jones County

Although we want you for the whole weekend, if you only have a few hours to spend in our hometown, we’ll make every second count!

Begin your afternoon adventure with a stroll or golf cart ride through our historic district. The tree-lined streets and beautifully preserved architecture provide a glimpse into Laurel’s rich history. Speaking of history and architecture, the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art and Caron Gallery South are great places to explore Mississippi’s culture and art heritage. 

 

After diving into Jones County’s hub of history and arts, take a break and enjoy a flavorful lunch at one of our many restaurants. No matter what you are in the mood for, seafood, pizza, or even a juicy burger, we’ve got a spot that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. 

 

An afternoon out of town is never complete without a little (or a lot) shopping. Wander through the charming storefronts of our local boutiques and gift shops to partake in some retail therapy. We have something for everybody, from kids’ and women’s apparel to home goods and unique antiques!

 

Finally, you must indulge in something sweet to add a cheery on top of your afternoon in Laurel and Jones County.  And not to brag, but we have some of the most delicious bakeries in the South. Or if you need a little caffeine pick-me-up before you get back on the road, stop by one of our quant cafes or coffee shops for a boost of energy! 

 

Every corner tells a story here! Whether you’re drawn to history, shopping, or culinary delights, spending an afternoon in Laurel and Jones County promises a charming and enriching Southern experience.

 

If one afternoon simply isn’t enough, check out our 6 Things to Do in Laurel & Jones County in 2024 blog!

Plan a Budget-Friendly Vacation to Laurel and Jones County

They say the best things in life are free, and that can definitely be said of a vacation to Laurel and Jones County! Our small town is packed with free and budget-friendly events, activities, and dining options. Here are plenty of family-friendly things to do without breaking the bank. 

Lauren Rogers Museum of Art

Free and Cheap Things to Do in Laurel and Jones County 

One of Laurel’s most frequented attractions is the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Visited for the architecture, exhibits, and events, the always-free museum is a perfect family-friendly activity for rain or shine. For a unique way to view the museum, stop by the front desk and grab an artBINGO card for an interactive exploration of the exhibits! Kids and adults alike enjoy this interactive scavenger hunt.

Whether you’re a fan of HGTV’s Home Town or just a lover of beautiful locations, be sure to visit Scotsman General Store. Here, you’ll find the Scotsman Snowball Stand, Food Truck Park, and Scotsman Woodshop. You’ll also find Laurel and Jones County’s newest mural. It’s a great place to spend as little or as much as your budget allows, plus relax and enjoy the beauty of our small town life. 

Speaking of beauty, Laurel’s Historic Downtown is a must-see. Every Friday through November 18th, take a free tour of Laurel’s HIstoric District led by the art director of the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art! Tours depart from the museum lobby at 10:30 and last approximately one hour. 

If tours aren’t available during your visit, take a free, self-guided Walking Tour of Historic Laurel Homes which features 23 stops taken at your own pace.

For even more ideas of free and cheap things to do in Laurel and Jones County, Mississippi, check out these 19+ historic sites, plus all of the ways to spend the day in the Great Outdoors without breaking out your wallet! 

Bosun Joes in Ellisville Mississippi | Budget Friendly Dining in Laurel MS

Affordable Dining Options: 4 Lunches under $10

When it comes to pleasing your palate, there’s no need to sacrifice staying on budget. Our restaurants offer plenty of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for every budget. These four lunches under $10 are mouth-watering and utterly craveable. 

Note: prices and offerings are subject to change. Be sure to check with the individual restaurants for the most current menu prices

Comfort food-lovers searching for familiar Southern flavors will enjoy The Humble Place in Ellisville where you can find menu options such as The Big Daddy Chicken Sandwich with fries and a drink for $10.00. For even more Southern cuisine, try the Blue Plate Lunch Specials at Bosun Joe’s where you can find classic country entrees served with fries and a roll for $8.29. 

What next? After you’ve dined (deliciously!), stay in Downtown Ellisville to shop at Carpenter Bros Emporium of Wonderful Whatnots for a blast from the past. Explore the store to find unique, vintage treasures that are sure to bring back memories for the folks in your group. 

If burgers and fries are on your mind, be sure to check out the iconic PDI / Phillips Drive-In in Laurel, MS. The vibes and eats are nostalgic, and everything on the menu is under $10.00. If dessert is in your budget, don’t skimp on the milkshakes and malts. 

What next? After your meal, walk across the street to Hellfighters USA for a truly distinctive shopping experience. At Hellfighters, find everything from clothes, accessories, Christian books and decor, plus Mike’s Almost Every Day Swap Meet for thousands of priceless motorcycle parts. Even if you don’t spend a dime, Hellflighter’s USA is a must-see spot! 

Budget-Friendly Events in Laurel MS | Free EventsThe Knight Butcher is always serving up fresh cuisine, so head to downtown Laurel for decadent sandwiches and burgers. Grab steak kabobs, cold deli sandwiches, and unique burgers (hello, brisket!) served with chips and a drink for $8.50 or less. 

What next? While you’re downtown, wander around to shop local boutiques and antique shops or take a free, self-guided mural tour.

 

Free Events 

You don’t need to reach for your wallet to get your fill of fun things to do in Laurel and Jones County! Throughout the year, free events take place in the form of Downtown Movie Nights, parades, music festivals, and more! Be sure to check out our calendar of events to see what’s happening during your visit. 

 

 

A Homeschool Field Trip to Laurel & Jones County, Mississippi

Whether you’re virtual schooling, homeschooling, or just looking for an educational road trip, Laurel and Jones County is ready for your little learners! From history to art, these fun and informative activities are sure to entertain your whole family!

 

Landrum’s Homestead & Village Educational Field Trip Laurel MS | Landrums Homestead and Village

History comes to life at Landrum’s Homestead and Village here in Laurel, MS. With a step back in time, your family is in for a uniquely educational experience! The homestead – which is a recreation of an 1800s settlement – spans more than 30-acres and has more than 85 buildings, display, and exhibits. When you’re at Landrum’s, you’ll find an 1863 log house and corn crib, barn and farm animals, blacksmith shop, restored houses, village chapel, one-room school house, antique farm and tool equipment, a barber shop, watermill gristmill, and so much more!

Bonus Idea: Events at Landrum’s such as Old Tyme Fall Festival, Christmas at the Homestead, and Christmas Candlelight Tours offer even more homestead excitement with fun activities for all ages!

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Unique History: Must-See Historic Spots in Jones County

From Civil War history to beautiful stately homes and even haunted tales, these landmarks are must-see spots for any history-buff. Start planning your historical tour of Laurel and Jones County, Mississippi!

 

Lauren Rogers Museum of Art

Located in the heart of Laurel, the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art is known as one of the must-see spots in Jones County, but it also serves as one of the most historic spots to visit! Erected in 1923, the museum was built upon the foundation of Lauren Rogers’s house, which was incomplete at the time of its namesake’s death. Walking into the lobby of the museum, visitors will find the main structure is reminiscent of a stroll through some of the most beautiful historic homes found across the South. The Georgian Revival structure features quarter-sawn golden oak paneling and cork floors, double-hung sash windows, handwrought iron gates, railings, and hardware, and many other beautiful design features. Building additions and renovations were completed in 1925, 1983, and 2013, bringing the Museum to its present size of 27,500 square feet – an absolute must-see when you’re in Laurel, MS!

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