Day 1
- Arrive mid-morning to hit the ground running in downtown Laurel. Visit a coffee shop first to be properly caffeinated, and then set out to shop at numerous boutiques, antique stores and specialty gift stores that are calling your name.
- Grab a casual lunch between shops. You can choose to dine in, or you may order it to go and enjoy your lunch at a shady spot in one of the parks downtown.
- Don’t forget to visit all the photo spots and murals around downtown to learn more about Laurel’s culture and capture an Instagram-worthy shot.
- For a mid-afternoon treat, try one of downtown’s many ice cream or sweet shops before heading to your next stop.
- Take a short stroll down oak-lined Fifth Avenue to arrive at Mississippi’s oldest art museum, the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Watch the introductory video in the lobby before exploring the exhibits of American and European masterpieces.
- After a full day of shopping and sightseeing, it’s time for happy hour downtown before checking in your hotel or short-term rental. The cocktail menu at the Buzzard’s Roost is incredible, or you can enjoy the outdoor patio at 320 Fifth Street.
- There are many eateries in downtown Laurel that offer exquisite menus and ambiance, but you can also enjoy a wider variety of cuisine or locals’ favorites by exploring other options throughout Jones County. Edgar’s Steakhouse, Charlie’s Catfish or Barry’s Burgers are just a few options within a short drive of downtown Laurel.
- Check out the events calendar on visitjones.com to see what’s happening downtown following dinner. Live music, open mic nights, trivia are all regularly scheduled and can provide a great way to unwind following your first day in the City Beautiful.
Day 2
- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel or at one of the local restaurants serving hot, Southern breakfast fare.
- Visit Renew Medi-Spa for a facial or massage to set the tone for a relaxing day.
- Your choice for lunch before strolling through the oak-lined streets of the Historic District. A self-guided walking tour is available so that you can soak up even more Laurel history.
- Your afternoon can be filled with more shopping at stores you may have missed, including searching for art and home décor at the Caron Gallery, Rubies Home Furnishings or the Carpenter Brothers Emporium. Or you could schedule a DIY crafts session at Hand + Made.
- It is very possible you had a hard time choosing a dinner spot the night before, so plan to try out your other top choice tonight.
- End your day at Bok Homa Casino in Sandersville before returning to your accommodation.
Day 3
- Accommodation check out and grab a biscuit from Vic’s on your way to your next destination. What’s one more guilty pleasure, right?
