Landon Bryant, known as @landontalks, is a dynamic, rising presence on social media, with an audience of 400K+ on Instagram alone. With a knack for engaging storytelling and insightful commentary, he captivates audiences with his unique takes on everything Southern culture. Born and raised in Jones County, Bryant's charisma shines through in his videos, where he seamlessly blends humor with thought-provoking perspectives. Keep reading to learn more about Bryant’s vacation recommendations in Laurel and Jones County!
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So, you’re headed to the beach or New Orleans, or maybe you’re just looking for a weekend getaway. Well, I think Laurel and Jones County have the perfect spots to spend some quality time with your family and friends. Having lived here my whole life, I can confidently say this place is a treasure trove of experiences. Here’s what I’d do if I were visiting my neck of the woods!
If you’re arriving by train, you’ll disembark at our charming little train depot, which is perfectly located because downtown and the historic sections of Laurel are walkable from here. If you’re traveling by car, you’re probably coming down I-59 or maybe Highway 84. Either way, head over to the NEW visitor’s center where you’ll be warmly welcomed by the lovely folks there and see all the activities available. Park in the lot on Front Street across from the Train Depot (you’ll also find Laurel’s only Mississippi Blues Marker here), and we’ll start our adventure from there.
First, we’ll walk over to the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. Nestled between live oaks on 5th Avenue and surrounded by historic homes, this museum is brimming with incredible artworks, including a chandelier by Chihuly, a sculpture by Rodin, and one of the first En Plein Air paintings in our European Gallery. Don’t miss the tiny basket in the Choctaw section of the museum—we LOVE the tiny basket. While we’re focused on art, saunter over to the Caron Gallery on Magnolia Street. Owned by my friend Lily Trest, this gallery showcases amazing pieces by local artists, including sculptures by Jason Kimes, paintings by Lily’s husband Adam Trest, and texture-filled weavings by Kim Whitt.
Across the street and around the corner, you’ll find the newly opened Manuscript Coffee. Their espresso is top-notch, and after enjoying a cappuccino or latte made with their freshly roasted beans, you’ll have plenty of energy for the rest of your day. Next, head around the corner to the Laurel Plant Parlor. This quaint store is brimming with luscious foliage ready to go home with you. Then, head right across the street to Guild and Gentry for quality menswear, and if you’re feeling a little unkempt, spend some time in the barber’s chair. Next door is Merle Norman, where you’ll find all the makeup or skincare you could possibly need. Shannon Jordan, the owner, is my aunt, so tell her I sent you. Walk up and down the streets of downtown and you’ll the perfect outfit at one of the many boutiques.
Keep walking down Magnolia Street, and you’ll end up at Southern Antique Mall. This shopping extravaganza is full of housewares, furniture, clothes—both vintage and new—gifts, and other exciting items all brought together by Andrea and John Milham. After exploring the building and walking on the wonderfully creaky floors, head next door to Mimmo’s Gelato for a quick treat. If you prefer ice cream, you’re just a couple of blocks away from the Laurel Creamery. Grab your sweet treat and head to the Art Park, where you can enjoy the shade of the live oaks while your kids play on a hill made specifically for sliding down.
Spend some time in the Scent Library, the Laurel Mercantile, and the Scotsman General Store. If you’re a fan of the HGTV show "Hometown," you’ll love seeing familiar things. Even if you aren’t, you’ll adore the cozy, quaint vibes of these places, each offering something unique. The Scent Library is one of my favorite places to simply exist in—it’s lovely.
Now, let’s grab dinner. There are plenty of options: Pearl’s Diner and Wilson’s Commissary for soul food, The Loft for steaks, Lee’s for lighter fare, and Buzzard’s Roost for drinks, vibes, and their patty melt. Their menu, designed by my Napa Valley-trained chef friend Tyler Harper, is *chef’s kiss*. If you’re in the mood for Italian, Mimmo’s is one of my favorite restaurants, and I’m likely to be there myself, enjoying their chicken parmesan.
Many tours are offered of our historic little town and its craftsman-style homes lining the avenues. You can opt for a golf cart tour or, if you’re here on a Friday morning, join the walking tour put on by the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. These informative, fun tours will teach you so much about this beautiful place. Just remember, while these homes might be familiar from TV, they are also real homes where people live, so please be respectful.
We’ll make one last stop in downtown Laurel at The Knight Butcher. Here, you’ll want to grab some beef jerky, and if you’re planning to grill out, you’ll find everything you need. Chad Knight is the butcher, and everyone knows he’s the go-to guy for quality meats. Don’t forget to grab some of Terri Knight’s fudge for snacks!
Now, let’s hop in the car and head over to Daphne Park, where you’ll find charcoal grills perfect for a cookout and a skate park designed with input from Tony Hawk himself. If you’re a skateboarder or have one in your family, you’re going to love it here. I haven’t broken a single bone yet!
Next, let’s head west of town to the Laurel Sportsplex, where you’ll find an array of baseball, softball, and soccer fields, tennis courts, and a natatorium. There’s also a splash pad perfect for cooling off on a hot summer afternoon. After all that activity, head right across the highway to Barry’s Burgers. We love Barry’s—the food is top-notch, and there are games and a play area for the whole family. Keep going down Highway 84 to Carl’s Catfish and Ribs for a real Mississippi treat. My sister owns this catfish trailer, and she knows what she’s doing.
Continuing west, you’ll end up at Big Creek 10 Water Park. I grew up camping, fishing, and having great family times here. It’s beautiful, peaceful, and feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle. You can rent a cabin, bring your RV, or tent camp. There’s a nature trail and it’s a great place to ride bikes.
After a night or two at Big 10, head to Ellisville and visit Carol’s Market for the freshest produce around. They’ve got all the good stuff, and they’re great people, so you’ll enjoy a look-around. Carol’s is right next to downtown Ellisville, where you’ll find adorable little shops in beautiful old buildings. Bennie and Mae’s Ice Cream is right next door to Bennie Bloomer, so you can grab a cone and then go build a bouquet. If you’re lucky, once a month, Shirley’s Fabrics in downtown Ellisville opens. This is a fabric/craft store extravaganza, and people line up early to get in. You don’t need to do that unless you have a specific fabric you’re after, but if you do happen to be in town when it’s open, make sure to stop by!
Whether you’re looking for history, art, good food, or outdoor activities, Laurel and Jones County have it all. Come see for yourself why we all love calling this place home.
